Food Institute News

Michael Sansolo, of Sansolo Solutions was elected Vice Chairman, followed by Doug Fritsch, Senior Vice President Retail & Business Development of IGA USA who, at the same meeting, was elected Treasurer of the association.

Other members of the Board include: Bill Bishop, Chairman, Willard Bishop; Susan T. Borra, Senior Vice President, Communications, Food Marketing Institute; Paula K. Correy, Vice President, Western Region, Hy-Vee. Inc.; Frank DiPasquale, Chief Executive Officer, School Nutrition Association; Jamie Gronowski, President of Operations, Acosta; Peter Lavoy, former President of Foodtown; C. Winston (Win) Taylor, Saint Joseph's University, and Brian Todd, President of The Food Institute.

Cost of Thanksgiving Dinner 'Gobbles-Up' Savings

Upper Saddle River, NJ (November 14, 2011) -Wholesale prices for ingredients of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner are a mixed bag in 2011 when compared to prices in 2010, according to data compiled by The Food Institute. The percent change is wide, varying from a decrease of 29% for 2 ½ dozen packs of celery to an increase of 40% on 5/10-lb. bags of fresh potatoes from Idaho. The main component of dinner, the turkey, is looking at an increase of almost 10%.

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for all food is now projected to increase 3.5% to 4.5% in 2011, with food-at-home (retail) prices forecast to rise 4% to 5% but trending toward the upper end of that range, according to Food Institute projections, as noted in the Oct. 31, 2011 edition of the Food Institute Report. Center-of-the-plate items contributed significantly to the higher price projection for 2011, with meat, poultry and fish accounting for one-eighth of the entire food-at-home CPI figure and for which prices are seen climbing as much as 6.5% this year following almost no inflation the prior two years. Wholesale food price advances outpaced those at retail for the fourth straight month in September, as retailers continued to slowly pass along increases they began encountering back in early 2010. The Food Institute projects that retail food prices by the end of 2011 will be about 7% higher than a year earlier.

Price increases from feed corn, soybeans and fuel affected turkey prices in 2011. A bushel of feed corn stood at $6.45 as of Nov. 2, compared to $5.75 the same time last year, a 12.2% increase. The 2009, the price was $3.82. (The Food Institute tracks feed corn futures prices weekly - see page 24 of the Food Institute Report.) According to USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, preliminary October prices received for live turkeys was 77.2 cents per pound, compared to 73.4 cents in October 2010 - a 5.2% increase. However, turkeys raised in the U.S. during 2011 were 248 million, up 2% from the number raised during 2010, noted National Agricultural Statistics Service's Turkeys Raised September report. This indicates that while wholesale prices of the bird is up almost 10%, there continues to be strong demand.

With the exception of frozen carrots, traditionally-used processed fruit and vegetables all saw increased prices in 2011 as compared to 2010, according to prices exclusive to The Food Institute. Prices for canned sliced apples have been increasing since last year due to an expansion of the worldwide market for the item, as well as increased demand. Higher pecan prices, being seen up almost 20%, are being contributed to the drought in the Southern U.S. dropping yields, and also increased demand for the product. The market situation for frozen carrots is doing better than in 2010, but prices will be back on the rise towards the end of this year as production in 2011 was lackluster due to low yields.

Click here to view Wholesale Prices for Thanksgiving Staples - 2011 versus 2010

Food Industry Mergers And Acquisitions Up Sharply In 2011

Upper Saddle River, NJ (Oct. 14, 2011) -Mergers and acquisitions within the food industry were recorded by The Food Institute at 273 total deals through the first nine months of 2011, a 39.2% increase over the previous year's 196. Of the 273 transactions, 180 were completed and 93 remained unclosed or had fallen apart. In the third quarter of 2011, companies engaged in 77 mergers or acquisitions, or about 28.2% of the year-to-date total. At the same time, private equity deal volume fell 23% in the third quarter from the same period last year, according to Thomson Reuters data. The total number of third-quarter deals also declined by 9% from the second quarter.

M&A bankers stated that fears of a "double dip" recession, the European debt crisis and continued market volatility held up a lot of acquisition activity, and those problems are not anticipated to be resolved in the near future. Investment banks and investors showed particular interest in the retail industry, where the most significant acquisition was made by Beacon Holding Inc., an affiliate of Leonard Green & Partners, L.P., and funds advised by CVC Capital Partners, who purchased BJ's Wholesale Club in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $2.8 billion.

Other notable deals included the acquisition of Arby's Restaurant Group for $430 million by a Roark Capital Group in the third quarter. The Atlanta-based sandwich chain was divested by the Wendy's/Arby's Group, which will retain an 18.5% ownership interest in the Arby's business. On Oct. 3, Sara Lee Corp. also completed the sale of its North American Refrigerated Dough business to Ralcorp Frozen Bakery Products, Inc., a division of Ralcorp Holdings, Inc., for $545 million, a business that generated revenues in excess of $300 million in fiscal 2010. Finally, Diamond Foods, Inc. signed a definitive agreement to acquire the Pringles business from The Procter & Gamble Company (P&G) in the third quarter, a transaction valued at $2.35 billion. Under the terms of a split-merge agreement, P&G will establish a separate entity to hold the Pringles business, which will be distributed to electing P&G shareholders in a tax-efficient transaction with a simultaneous merger with Diamond.

For the remainder of 2011, and looking ahead to next year, any stability gained over the past year evaporated in the minds of private equity buyers and firms looking to spend cash to expand in markets that are becoming more and more competitive. Consumer attitudes, commodity prices and thinning profit margins are all contributing to larger trends within the mergers and acquisitions market, and the comprehensive research and analysis performed by The Food Institute provides insight into the micro- and macroeconomic factors that impact the food industry. The 83-year old organization reports on markets within the sphere of food processors as well as the infrastructure supporting the industry and capital from private equity. Specifically, the Food Institute offers a constantly updated merger database, consumer and producer food price tracking, market reports and multiple publications that include specific data as well as information relevant to any individual or firm with a business interest in one of the many segments of the food industry.

The Food Institute Partners with the IGA Coca-Cola Institute

Upper Saddle River, NJ (August 15, 2011) - The IGA Coca-Cola Institute, founded by IGA (Independent Grocers Alliance) with the support of The Coca-Cola Company, is dedicated to providing learning resources for food retailers worldwide. A recent commitment to form a strategic alliance with The Food Institute, one of the food industry's oldest and most respected news and information providers, will add a new venue for communication to the food industry.

Under the partnership, The Food Institute will promote IGA's portfolio of retail learning options via The Food Institute website at http://www.foodinstitute.com/strategic.cfm. This includes the unique International Supermarket Management Class slated for October 2-7, 2011 and the Retail Executive Leadership and Family Business Program scheduled for next year. Meanwhile, a bevy of Food Institute publications will be featured and available for purchase on the Institute's website at http://www.igainstitute.com/Community/FoodRetailArticles.aspx

"No single source of information is more respected in the food industry than The Food Institute," cited a recent quote from IGA. "Our members will now have access to the best, most up-to-date industry information available without leaving our website."

"The partnership between the IGA Coca-Cola Institute and The Food Institute will benefit members of both organizations," adds Food Institute President Brian Todd.

About the IGA Coca-Cola Institute
The IGA Coca-Cola Institute's mission is to increase the people performance and business effectiveness of a worldwide retail community through online learning, classroom training and a resources center. The Institute cultivates not only the improvement of work skills and job performance, but also the personal growth of individuals committed to life-long learning, ethical standards, and full participation in their communities.

For the last 20 years, the Institute has been dedicated to providing learning resources for food retailers worldwide. They recognize that to remain relevant, retailers need to improve their performance everyday. Currently, the Institute serves 5,000 stores and 41,000 students in six languages. This is why the Institute provides training programs that are customizable, easy, effective and specialized for the food retail industry. For more information, visit the Institute's website, email igainstitute@igainc.com, or call (773) 695-2611.

About the Food Institute
Founded in 1928, The Food Institute is a non-profit, membership-based information and reporting association. Membership includes more than 2,000 companies spanning the entire food distribution system. Benefits of membership include Today In Food, a daily e-mail update; weekly issues of the Food Institute Report, which covers breaking news, government news, and market news in addition to commodity pricing information; specialty reports and publications, including the comprehensive annual publication of the Food Industry Review; and access to http://www.foodinstitute.com. For more information visit their website or call (201) 791-5570.

Food Policy Issues Explored at National Food Policy Conference

Upper Saddle River, NJ (August 8, 2011) -The Food Institute is pleased to announce that it will partner with the Consumer Federation of America for the 34th Annual National Food Policy Conference, scheduled for October 3-4 in Washington, D.C. This conference is designed to focus on key food policy issues affecting consumers, the food industry and the government.

The conference will examine consumer food priorities and trends; analyze the impact of efforts to reduce federal spending on government food programs; and consider how our global food system must evolve to feed a growing world population. Speakers and panelists will examine reauthorization of the 2012 Farm Bill; explore key nutrition initiatives; and identify the next steps in food safety.

Collaboration between these trade organizations provides food industry personnel with vast resources. The Food Institute provides its membership with timely and relevant information about the food industry through a variety of media channels, as the Consumer Federation of America strives to advance consumer interest within the food industry through research, advocacy and education.

For additional information and to register for this event, please click here.

Private Equity Behind Bevy of Food Deals

Upper Saddle River, NJ (July 20, 2011) Merger and acquisition activity was heightened in the first half of 2011 compared to the previous year, with The Food Institute recording 196 announced and closed deals through June. These numbers represent an approximate 27% increase in total M&A over the same period in 2010 and about a 65% rise from 2009's 117 total mergers. "Investment firms and banks continue to play an influential role in food industry M&A activity, showing interest in devalued assets or in companies well-positioned to thrive in a down economy. A prime example is William Ackman's five million share investment in Family Dollar Stores Inc., making his Pershing Square Capital Management the retailer's largest shareholder," commented Brian Todd, President & CEO of the 83-year old trade association.

Private equity firms helped shape numerous deals within the food industry. Investment firms and banks participated in 39 acquisitions in the first half of 2011 versus 24 the prior year. A notable deal included BJ's Wholesale Club agreeing to be acquired by affiliates of Leonard Green & Partners, L.P. and funds advised by CVC Capital Partners in an all cash transaction valued at approximately $2.8 billion.

Deals among food processors increased as well, with 45 deals either announced or completed, a rise of about 32.4% from 2010 and 50% over 2009. Specialty food makers continue to be an attractive target for acquisitions. Meyer Natural Foods acquired organic beef brand Dakota Beef.

Sara Lee Corp. acquired Aidells Sausage Company for $87 million. Among gourmet and specialty sauce and condiment manufacturers, Beaverton Foods Inc. acquired Pacific Farms, making it the largest processor of wasabi products in North America.

Retailers were also involved in more acquisitions through mid 2011 vs. the prior year; 43 deals this year compared to just 23 in 2010. The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co. sold seven Super Fresh stores in Maryland and one Super Fresh location in Washington, DC to Mrs. Green's Natural Market. A&P received bids for 12 of the 25 Super Fresh stores put up for sale. The Lowe's grocery store chain purchased Super S Foods.

The Food Institute has the expertise to provide an informative view on the current merger environment as well as the regulatory burdens faced by dealmakers. Weekly publications from The Food Institute, coupled with a comprehensive merger database, allows The Food Institute to keep pace with timely industry happenings. A recent M&A webinar, "The Art of the Deal", featured legal and financial experts and is now available in a recorded version. And, the annual Food Business Mergers & Acquisitions publication offers proprietary information and a unique perspective to all who seek a thorough understanding of mergers and acquisitions. Please click here for additional information.

The Food Institute's "Top Ten" Facts about FSMA

Upper Saddle River, NJ (July 19, 2011) The Food Institute is pleased to present the Top Ten reasons that you need to attend the Food Safety Modernization Act Webinar Series.
10. FDA now has the authority to order recalls -- even if you refuse -- how can that be?
9. Is it possible? is there a chance? - that some food from your facility could cause serious health consequences? If so, your registration can be suspended!
8. FDA will soon be able to "sneak-a-peek" at many of your new records during an inspection - what will they find? What are they allowed to look for?
7. Domestic food facilities - Are you considered "high risk?" - If so, FDA will be watching more frequently - what made you "high risk" ... and, how can you remove that stigma?
6. Do you have a hazard analysis plan? How do you even begin to implement it? And when? FDA's required preventative controls coming very soon ........
5. Have you sold "reportable foods" that could pose a health risk? What's your plan? How will you notify your customers? Better find out - or your business could be compromised!
4. Fruits and vegetables - you must be safe too - new FDA standards coming - do you know what they are?
3. And, what exactly are Food Defense Mitigation Measures? Don't know - they will soon be required - and you will need to know!
2. How often do you need to re-register with the FDA? What happens if you don't? And, what are the re-registration rules?
And the #1 reason to attend the FSMA webinar Series ....... Fees and fines for re-inspections are looming! - Taking a chunk from your profits - Don't let that happen - Better safe than sorry!
For more information and to register, visit www.foodinstitute.com/FSMAwebinar.cfm

Changing Marketplace impacts Food Inflation and Shoppers

Upper Saddle River, NJ (June 17, 2011) According to Michael Sansolo, moderator of the recent Food Institute-sponsored webinar on the Future of Food Retailing, "some tumultuous changes are now impacting the food industry." The latest U.S. Dept. of Agriculture reports indicate that food inflation will stay with us, and, will be driven primarily by commodity pricing. Shoppers paid 4% more for their basket of groceries in recent months, according to a recent Dow Jones report. This webinar explored the increasing pressure on the food industry and shed much insight into the forces behind food inflation and unique ways to circumvent what is happening.

Jim Hertel, Managing Partner at Willard Bishop, suggested varying ways to target better pricing in what many consider a fairly dismal market. His three-step approach included getting smarter on cost structure, examining costs on profit & loss statements and leveraging "vendor resources." His associate, Craig Rosenblum, also of Willard Bishop echoed his thoughts, stating, "a good price image is about more than price."

Food inflation, coupled with variables such as unemployment, private label and commodity pricing, continues to impact traditional grocers, non-traditional grocers and convenience outlets. The Future of Food Retailing 2011 webinar explores this and offers a valuable resource to all who view it. The webinar has been recorded and is now available for viewing by registering at http://www.foodinstitute.com/foodretailing2011.cfm or by contacting Sue Antista via email or at 201-791-5570, ext. 212.

FDA's Enactment of FSMA Predicted to be On Time

Upper Saddle River, NJ (June 2, 2011) Passed on four months ago, provisions of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) are already being implemented by The Food & Drug Administration. "FDA is going to do everything humanly possible to meet these deadlines," commented John Bode, partner at OFW Law, at a webinar on implementing the FSMA, and sponsored by The Food Institute.

"There has been a fair amount of trade press that the appropriations are not going to be there, and therefore, the FSMA is going to be delayed because Congress won't appropriate the money that the act needs for implementation. I think that's rubbish. The FSMA has expansive new enforcement authorities, it has major new self-funded programs and it has an ambitious program for expansion of agency inspections. Only the third one, the FDA inspections, is highly dependent upon dramatic increases in agency funding. It doesn't really take much money to write regulations," added Mr. Bode in response to a question about possible delays in the regulatory process.

In the inaugural event of the of The Food Institute's 12-part webinar series, it was noted that there are numerous deadlines for FSMA implementation following the January 4, 2011 enactment of the legislation and these will discussed in future webinar segments. The Food Institute will hold the 12 one-hour webinars throughout the course of the next year. Our first segment, held on May 25th, kicked off the series and will be followed a second event on Tuesday, June 28th. These webinars will be offering information on topics including FDA rulemaking activity, proposed rules and extensions of comment periods, guidance document developments and FDA public meetings, speeches and other outreach activities. All sessions will be recorded for future access. For additional information, please visit http://www.foodinstitute.com/FSMAwebinar.cfm or contact Sue Antista at or 201- 791-5570, ext. 212.

Webinar Series addresses new Food Safety Modernization Act

Upper Saddle River, New Jersey (May 2, 2011) The Food Institute and Washington,D.C.-based law firm Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Bode Matz PC will offer a year-long webinar series on FDA implementation of the new Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA.) Twelve one-hour webinars will be offered throughout the year, offering information on the following topics -- FDA rulemaking activity -- Guidance Document Developments -- FDA public meetings, speeches and other outreach activities -- Significant studies, reports and notices mandated by FSMA -- Agreements between FDA and other government agencies regarding FSMA implementation -- Food traceability pilot programs -- FDA's use of new FSMA enforcement powers -- Upcoming deadlines -- Analysis, and so much more!

Each webinar will offer attendees a broad overview of step-by-step implementation of the Food Safety Modernization Act and how all pieces will fit together. Each registrant will also be provided with useful tools, including a calendar, detailing relevant statutory and regulatory deadlines. Don't miss out on this informative series. For more information and to register for this one-of-a-kind event, please visit www.foodinstitute.com/FSMAwebinar.cfm

Food Institute Announces April 2011 Webinar Schedule

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (March 14, 2011) - The Food Institute will host two informative webinars designed to address key issues impacting the food business. Each webinar is one hour in length and will offer those in attendance up-to-the-minute information, followed by a question & answer session.

Join us on Apr. 6th as we explore the role of Shopper Insights within the food industry. Shopper Insights have become a "must-have" decision-making tool for category managers, brand and retail marketers and merchandisers. Anyone intent on intensifying their efforts via more sophisticated segmentation channels and tighter collaboration with trade partners will benefit from the in-depth analysis of this market research study which will be shared with all registered attendees. For further information, or to register for this unique event, please visit http://www.foodinstitute.com/consumerinsights.cfm

And, on Apr. 12th, The Food Institute will examine Merger and Acquisition activity within the food sector. Two experts in the field will share their thoughts on past activity and offer strategies for the future. This webinar will explore key factors, which must be considered when determining whether a company is potentially appealing to buy, or sell. Analysis on expanding through acquisition, as well as economizing operations through consolidation, will be discussed. A legal expert will explain how the government - specifically the Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission - evaluates each potential union and why, they may or may not be considered favorably. As an added bonus, those registered for this event will have the opportunity to purchase an electronic version of the "just-published" Food Business Mergers and Acquisitions book for a discounted price! Registration and additional information for this webinar can be found at http://www.foodinstitute.com/mergers2011.cfm

New Food Safety Law Will Be A "Game Changer"

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (January 20, 2011) - Speaking at a recent Food Institute webinar, Dr. David Acheson, former Commissioner for Food Protection at FDA, described food safety legislation signed earlier this month into law by President Obama as "unquestionably...a game changer in the context of new food safety legislation and the impact on multiple sectors." The webinar, Understanding the New Food Safety Legislation, also featured John Bode, Principal Attorney at law firm Olsson, Frank Weeda Terman Bode Matz PC.

While the food safety act been covered extensively by the national media, particularly the law's granting of mandatory recall authority to the FDA, many issues most relevant to the food industry have been glossed over. The law will grant a more aggressive FDA with greater regulatory authority, including the responsibility for defining "high risk" foods, which will determine the frequency that facilities or food producers are inspected.

As a result, according to the webinar, a facility that processes or holds an article of food particularly susceptible to one type of contamination may result in that facility, regardless of compliance history, being inspected at a similar rate to a facility with a pattern of regulatory noncompliance. Additionally, when FDA believes that there exists a "reasonable belief" that an article of food may cause severe adverse health consequences, a firm must provide access to all records concerning that article. Any articles of food that may have come into contact with the potentially contaminated food, or that may have been impacted in a similar manner, are also subject to total records access by FDA. Essentially, the bar is lowered from the existence of "credible evidence" required to support FDA's claims to "reasonable belief" in accessing records.

Many of the webinar participants were particularly interested in the overwhelming task of establishing a third-party system of accreditation bodies and auditors that FDA was given responsibility for. To clear the target of 600 inspections of foreign facilities, which represents a six-fold increase over the 100 inspections last year, FDA will need to rely on third-party auditors to shoulder the burden. Despite an uncertain amount of resources to accomplish this task, the number of foreign inspections are to double every year, finally reaching 19,200 inspections in 2016, a goal that Dr. Acheson described as "frankly impossible."

Much uncertainty remains surrounding the legislation, as funding is certainly going to determine how successful the government will be in reaching the ambitious goals set in the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act. It is unlikely that the FDA will accomplish its targets for foreign inspections, and the agency will encounter resistance from states and local agencies in accepting a significant portion of the responsibility in domestic inspections. How the agency's budgetary restrictions will affect the initiatives remains to be seen, but many of the fiscal concerns that plagued the bill in its progression through Congress will continue to affect food safety efforts by the government both at home and internationally. Now that the work in passing the bill is concluded, the consequences of the law and its reach over industry remain cloudy, dependent on FDA's ability to accept its new responsibilities while balancing its limited funds.

To purchase of recording of the entire webinar, please visit http://www.foodinstitute.com/foodsafety2011.cfm

Webinar set for January 6, 2011- Understanding the New Food Safety Legislation

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (December 20, 2010) - The long-stalled Food Safety legislation passed through the Senate on Sunday evening and is slated for discussion and, most likely, a vote, on the House floor before the end of the week. The Food Institute has been following the developments alongside Washington-based law firm Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Bode Matz PC. Legislation is expected to pass through the House before Congress enters the holiday break.
The Food Institute will offer an informative 90-minute webinar on January 6, 2011, exploring and explaining the impact of this new Food Safety Legislation. Be amongst the first to know how this proposed bill would increase the FDA's regulatory authority over the food production system in order to prevent contamination and food-borne illness outbreaks. The proposed legislation would give the FDA mandatory recall authority, require food producers to have qualifying plans in place for identifying and addressing safety risks, require importers to verify the safety of all imported foods, and more.

Scheduled to speak at the webinar are two experts in the area of food safety legislation. Dr. David Acheson, currently Managing Director, Food & Import Safety Practice, at Leavitt Partners, has also held numerous executive level positions within the Food & Drug Administration in which he was afforded an agency-wide leadership role for all food & feed issues, including health promotion and nutrition. Mr. John Bode, a principal at Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Bode Matz PC, concentrates his practice in legislative and regulatory matters. He actively participated in the legislative efforts resulting in the enactment of the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act of 2010. Before joining the firm, Mr. Bode served in three Presidential appointments at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and was responsible for approximately half of the USDA budget.

This webinar is a MUST for anyone involved in the area of food safety legislation. Up-to-the-minute information from our expert panel will provide in-depth coverage of the changing laws and their impact on each and every sector of the food industry. A question and answer session will follow to reply to any remaining concerns. For more details on this webinar, please visit www.foodinstitute.com/foodsafety2011.cfm

A&P was a 'force to reckon with' notes The Food Institute

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (December 13, 2010) - "Looking back almost 60 years into the Food Institute archives, The Food Institute reported A&P as a force to reckon with, as the retailer accounted for some 13% of all food store sales back in 1951," said Food Institute President Brian Todd.

The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, Inc. - A&P - filed a voluntary petition under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code, to help facilitate A&P's financial and operational restructuring. The 395 A&P stores will continue to operate, according to the company's press release. Food Institute Report archives show A&P as an industry leader that operated upwards of 4,000 stores just 60 years ago.

In 1951, "A&P accounted for some 4,600 stores nationwide, and boasted $3.0 billion in sales. Nowadays Wal-Mart claims that position, with its nearly 3,000 stores ringing up an estimated $154 billion in food sales, accounting for about 18%-19% of all U.S. retail food sales," Brian Todd said.

A&P has gone through several configurations over the past 80 years or so, according to The Food Institute.

For example, the May 26, 1951 edition of The Food Institute Report sites signs of streamlining as a result of the growth of the traditional supermarket. "By 1930...A&P had 15,422 stores and was selling a billion dollars worth of foodstuffs per year. Six year's later [it] reluctantly read the handwriting, plumped for supermarkets." By 1951, its 4,600 stores did $3 billion in sales.

Press Only Invited to Preview 2010 Edition of Food Industry Review

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (November 10, 2010) - The Food Institute is pleased to present a FREE OF CHARGE one hour, PRESS ONLY WEBINAR EVENT. This event will feature the unveiling of the 2010 edition of the Food Institute's flagship publication, Food Industry Review, a proprietary book containing invaluable information for anyone with a connection to the food industry! Everyone in attendance will be offered a free CD of the newly published book to use when quoting statistics and highlighting trends throughout your media channels. All we ask is that anything you pull from the webinar or from the complimentary CD cite The Food Institute as your source of information.

"Putting the food industry together for you" marks the theme of this year's publication. Throughout the year, WE do the research, so you don't have to! The 2010 Edition is filled with comprehensive write-ups and detailed sales charts, and now includes chapters on social media, new concepts and sustainability. Other topics explored in-depth include retailing formats, private label, food business mergers and acquisitions, vending, restaurant and foodservice, new product launches, consumer trends, demographics of consumer food spending, organic, specialty and natural food and food processing.

Mergers & Acquisitions Continue to Set Record Pace within the Food Industry

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (November 8, 2010) - The Food Institute continues to explore merger and acquisition activity within the food sector as the record pace remains strong well into the 4th quarter of 2010. Several noteworthy trends have appeared as a result of this heightened activity. A strong increase in mergers within the Food Processors category as multi-product processors experienced the largest share in volume, and as fruit and vegetable processors doubled their totals. A commanding presence of investment firms and banks within the food industry has also been noted, as we have observed activity from these types of organizations in 14 transactions within the last three months. As investment firms and banks look to become a force in the food industry, we find that some companies may actually be better off as a privately held entity. Burger King Holdings, Inc. was recently acquired by 3G Capital. As Burger King Chairman John Chidsey indicated to investors, "We look forward to partnering with 3G Capital, whose proven track record as an investor, together with its financial and consumer brands experience, will serve to further strengthen the company, our restaurants and franchisees worldwide."

The recent purchase of American Italian Pasta Company by Ralcorp Holdings, Inc. marks a significant food processor acquisition. As stated by Ralcorp's Co-Chief Executive Officer & President, David P. Skarie, "through this acquisition, we have gained a complementary business and we intend to continue to invest in the combined businesses for sustainable and profitable growth." This trend continued into the snack segment with the July announcement that Lance, Inc, and Snyder's of Hanover, Inc. will merge their two leading snack food companies and emerge with a commanding presence in the salty snack field. "This historic transaction, based on initiatives that have been in the works for the past few years, have positioned us for this opportunity", declared Snyder's Chairman Michael A. Warehime. Many in the food industry echo thoughts of consolidating businesses and exploring opportunities, whenever available.

Food Institute members have the opportunity to explore all mergers and acquisitions through our members-only database on the Food Institute website. Additionally, the Food Institute markets an annual publication, Food Business Mergers & Acquisitions, which provides a comprehensive look into the significant deals of the year. This publication provides an analysis on the current deals and their anticipated effect on the food industry as a whole. For more information or to order the most recent version, please visit http://www.foodinstitute.com/manda.cfm

Thanksgiving Turkey Prices Alone May Result in More Expensive Holiday

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (November 4, 2010) - With Thanksgiving around the corner, consumers will soon be purchasing and preparing the holiday dinner, which, in all liklihood, will be slightly more expensive than in 2009, according to data from The Food Institute. Meanwhile, retail food prices have been outpaced by wholesale advances for the past year (for more on this, see Food Institute Report dated Oct. 25, page 1) and food-at-home prices are up 1.4% compared to a year ago, the largest increase this year so far, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (for more on this, see Food Institute Report dated Oct. 25, page 2.) Prices for tom turkeys thus far in 2010 are up over 30% compared to last year, averaging $1.05 per pound. The main reason for this large increase is the rising cost of feed for the birds, which is currently standing at $5.77 per bushel as of Oct. 27, compared to $3.70 in the same time period in 2009, a 56% increase. (The Food Institute tracks feed corn futures prices weekly - see Commodity Graphs, page 24.) Also, overall production of turkeys is down, according to USDA's NASS, with a 2% decrease to 242 million. In terms of the fruits, vegetables and nuts that are traditionally served, it seems to be a mixed bag compared to 2009. Canned pumpkin prices are up after two straight years of poor harvests and little carry-over from year-to-year. Pecan prices, meanwhile, are up over 40% from last year, attributed mostly to increased demand for the crop from China, leaving little for the domestic market. On the positive side, the other main canned vegetables are seeing a price decrease from 2009 due to last year's strong pricing across the board.

Click here for details on price fluctuations for Thanksgiving Commodities - 2009 versus 2010.

Food Institute Partners With Capital Roundtable On Seminar Series

Food Industry M&A's Up 30% In First Half

Contact: Henry Mollman
201 791-5570, ext. 215

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (July 23, 2010) - Following a relatively quiet year for mergers and acquisitions in 2009, the first half of 2010 demonstrated a marked uptick in deals across many segments in the food industry. The Food Institute published its merger and acquisition analysis through the first half of 2010, reporting a 29.9% increase in mergers over the previous year. Investment capital flowed a little more liberally, demonstrated by the 20% increase in mergers among investment firms and banks in the first half of 2010. (Click here for table http://www.foodinstitute.com/fi6mos.pdf) Venturing into numerous segments in the food industry, private investment flooded into restaurants such as the iconic CKE Restaurants, Inc. as well as rapidly expanding upstarts like Wingstop Restaurants, Inc. Additionally, the 165-year-old Pabst Brewing Company changed hands from the charitable foundation parent of The S&P Company to Metropoulos & Co. and chief investor C. Dean Metropoulos for about $250 million. The deal placed the value and cache of the brand in Mr. Metropoulos' experienced hands, generating interest in the press due to the investor's history of reviving major food brands such as Vlasic Pickles and Chef Boyardee.

Elsewhere in the industry, activity among food processors grew at a modest rate with the biggest increases occurring in the multi-product, snack food and fruit and vegetable processors. Kraft Foods acquisition of Cadbury PLC captured the attention of the mainstream media across the Atlantic, but the finer stipulations of the deal, including Kraft's required divestiture of its frozen pizza business to Nestle S.A., were glossed over by many.

Mergers and acquisition activity in the supermarket category remained lively in 2010, doubling the total number of deals in 2009's first half, with many acquisitions following bankruptcy filings and the divestiture of regional assets by larger retailers. The most significant deal of the year was the Tops Friendly Markets' successful bid for Penn Traffic's assets, following the latter's Chapter 11 filing in November 2009. Tops acquired 79 Penn Traffic locations on Jan. 29, and subsequently sold five locations in western Pennsylvania to Giant Eagle, Inc. The thinning pool of distressed supermarkets and grocers makes such blockbuster deals less likely than in the recent past, but opportunities still exist for retailers with capital and the distribution reach to supply stores in new markets.

Looking ahead to the second half of 2010, M&A activity almost assuredly will exceed 2009's totals and continue to widen the margin between the years, expects the Food Institute. Anticipation for the remaining year will only be marked by optimism when compared to the previous year's subdued activity, with many economic signifiers indicating growth failing to meet expectations. Discouraging economic expansion has consistently reduced hopes for a large-scale and speedy recovery, however buoyed by hope, as unemployment numbers remain stuck at around 10% and consumers continue to spend at a tempered rate with confidence rebounding slowly and at a lesser rate than predicted.

The Food Institute merger database, updated weekly, provides a comprehensive record of all the notable and marginal M&A activity occurring within the food industry. Deals that change the landscape of the industry as well as those that serve as bellwethers for larger trends are reported, granting a perspective that ranges from the macro to the micro. All of the information is located in one archive on the Food Institute website, and is available to all members. In a business as segmented and diverse as the food industry, novice investors and veteran dealmakers alike can take advantage of the resources offered by The Food Institute.

Food Institute hosts webinar entitled "The Future of Food Retailing - 2010"

UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ (June 8, 2010) -The Food Institute will partner with Willard Bishop to host a webinar entitled The Future of Food Retailing - 2010. This informative review will be held on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 at 12pm EST.

Food retailers are facing issues that leave many unanswered questions in today's economic environment. This webinar will address many queries concerning consumer-shopping behavior, such as when, and if, consumers will be buying more store brands as the economy improves. What is happening with food prices and what can retailers do to capitalize on current trends? And, what opportunities exist for grocery retailers with the abundance of empty storefronts?

The information gathered in this webinar will provide retailers with a solid way to explore opportunities in 2010 and beyond. The panel will investigate Walmart's Marketside exiting the market and uncovering the consequences, intended and unintended, of their actions. As the end of the current economic recession appears to be on the horizon, this webinar will provide critical information on the future of the food-retailing landscape.

A knowledgeable panel has been assembled which includes Jim Hertel and Craig Rosenblum, both of Willard Bishop, who will provide their unique and unparalleled insights into the Future of Food Retailing. Mr. Hertel sums it up best when he states "These have been turbulent times for food retailers. Most, but not all, have made it through and they wonder "now what?" Will shoppers return to buying premium products or has "value-seeking" become part of their DNA?" The panel will dig into retailer strategies, identify specific actions that retailers are taking and point out the winners and losers in today's ever-changing market. Michael Sansolo, the webinar moderator, has an excellent perspective of today's diverse shopper and how their habits impact the food industry.

This meeting is designed for food and beverage retailers, but should also appeal to manufacturers, restaurants, suppliers, distributors, consultants to the industry and the trade press. A copy of the report will be available to all participants. Sign up for this webinar at http://www.foodinstitute.com/retailfuture2010.cfm

Cracking The Code For "Eating In" To Be Topic Of New Webinar

Upper Saddle River, NJ (March 8, 2010) - The combination of food inflation and the recession has had predictable and well-documented consequences, such as growth in private label shares. However, some retailers, notably Wal-Mart, appear to be leveraging the economic down turn as they fundamentally change their shopper value propositions. If successful, these changes will alter supplier relationships as well as the landscape for competitive food retailers, in potentially seismic magnitude and with long-lasting dimensions. A new webinar from The Food Institute will delve into this topic which is detailed extensively in a new study called "Eating In," sponsored by the Coca-Cola Retailing and Research Council - North America.

This study brings together a powerful base of information from The NPD Group, sourced both from its ongoing work, as well as a custom survey done for the Council and this webinar featuring Joe Derochowski, Executive Director The NPD Group, Food and Beverage Services & Bill Bishop Chairman Willard Bishop will explore its findings in depth as well as give answer questions from attendees.

For years food retailers have tried to encourage customers to eat more meals at home, but only a few have "cracked the code." One reason is that up until now, food retailers did not have access to solid information such as this study provides on how customers were thinking about and approaching the planning, preparation, consumption, and even clean-up for meals.

This information gives retailers a solid platform to build a fact-based strategy. It also is translated into literally dozens of fresh insights and actions retailers can take as they focus on making it easier and more beneficial for their customers to eat more meals at home. Speakers will offer remarks focused on turning the new information and insights into action, providing a framework for retailers to use to develop their own strategies. There will also be opportunity for the audience to pose questions to the presenters.

The session is designed for retail executives, but should also be of interest and value to brokers, suppliers, and others with an interest in what will certainly be one of the big topics in food retailing in 2010 and beyond. A copy of the study is available for download when you sign up for the webinar at http://www.foodinstitute.com/eatingin.cfm

Hy-Vee Executive Joins Food Institute Board

Upper Saddle River, NJ (Sept. 8, 2009) - Paula Correy, vice president, western region, for Hy-Vee Inc. in West Des Moines, IA, has joined the Board of Trustees of the Food Institute, based here. Ms. Correy, a native of Iowa and long-time retailer, has been with Hy-Vee since 1999. Prior to that she managed department stores in the Midwest.

 Ms. Correy will join twelve other Trustees including Bill Bishop of Willard Bishop, Frank DiPasquale of the National Grocers Association, Mark Allen of the International Foodservice Distributors Association and Michael Sansolo of Sansolo Solutions LLC. Joseph Crocker of Crocker & Associates is current chairman, with Donna George of Schar USA Inc. being the incoming chair. Dean Erstad from Seneca Foods is currently treasurer. Other trustees include Pat Mulhern of Monarch Foods, Win Taylor, Peter Lavoy, and Nancy Glick of MS&L Worldwide.

 "Paula will bring a wealth of needed grocery retailing experience to our Board," says Brian Todd, Food Institute president. "We traditionally have at least one retail trustee, and now we have several. That's important due to all the activity now taking place at the retail level in the food industry. Paula, coming from one of the most progressive supermarket operators in the country, will provide us the high-quality retail input we really need to shape our informational and analytical products and services for the 21^st century. I and all the Trustees warmly welcome her on board."

 Ms. Correy began her career with Hy-Vee as a manager of store operations in unit in Urbandale, IA. She subsequently became store director for the Hy-Vee supermarket in Mankato, MN. In 2002, she was promoted to the position of the chain's director of operations, followed by the appointment to the position of assistant vice president of Hy-Vee's Cherokee division. Her next post was that of vice president of perishables, followed by elevation to vice president marketing. She assumed her present position in 2008.

 She has been elected into the Hy-Vee Hall of Fame and was voted the Department Director of the Year. She currently serves on several committees, including those for information technology, general merchandise, pharmacy and perishables. She has also been on the boards of Midwest Heritage Bank and FDI and is currently a board member of D&D Foods. She lives in the Des Moines area with here husband and three children, Hailey, Tanner and Tye. An avid sports fan, she finds time for running and biking.

About The Food Institute
The Food Institute is the food industry's premiere go-to informational resource. Its products and services include the weekly analytical Food Institute Report, Today In Food daily electronic newsletter, and its website, which provides a broad range of information relative to the food industry including mergers and acquisitions, economic statistics, and a back-article archive. In addition, the Food Institute publishes statistical reviews, including the Food Industry Review, as well as regulatory guides on such issues as food safety, recalls and other subjects. These are produced in conjunction with a prominent Washington law firm, Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Bose Matz PC. The Food Institute also produces webinars and seminars on food issues.

Economic Downturn Presents Opportunities And Challenges: Food Industry Review, 2008

Upper Saddle River, NJ (Feb. 18, 2009) - The food industry experienced many changes and upheavals in 2008. Companies have been looking for ways to stay ahead amidst the recession, which is becoming increasingly more difficult. Fortunately there is a go-to resource that caters to the oft overwhelmed professional who needs to stay abreast of the latest trends and news. Key information including demographics, CPI & PPI charts, as well as an overview of the year's mergers and acquisitions are revealed in the just released Food Industry Review publication, a 717-page compendium of important facts and figures that occurred in the food industry during 2008.

The Food Industry Review, 2008 ed., the Food Institute's flagship publication, has arrived to give all those in the industry a helping hand. No other publication offers such a comprehensive look at the food industry--from retail (including grocery stores, c-stores and warehouse clubs) to foodservice (including restaurants and vending). The review also examines consumer trends, new product trends, natural and organic foods, private label and economic trends.

"The Food Industry Review is a comprehensive resource guide to the food industry. It is a must for professionals looking to stay that important step ahead in the current unstable economic climate," noted Megan Myers, Publications Directory, at the Upper Saddle River, NJ-based trade association. Published annually by the Food Institute, Food Industry Review contains easy to read information that encapsulates an entire year and is available for purchase as a whole or by individual chapters.

For more information about Food Industry Review, 2008 or to order the publication, please visit http://www.foodindustryreview.com/buy.cfm.

About The Food Institute
The Food Institute is a nonprofit organization with a single purpose: providing information. The Food Institute strives to be the best "single source" for current, timely and relevant information about the food industry from "farm to fork." The association serves as a trusted source of information, providing balanced coverage of the issues. It delivers information through multiple media so that industry professionals worldwide can tap in when and how they choose. For more information, visit, www.foodinstitute.com.

Could Food Inflation Be Reignited This Year? Overall food prices are projected to rise less than 2008's 5.5% to a bit over 3%, but production cuts and a stronger U.S. dollar could impact.

Upper Saddle River, NJ (PRWEB) March 4, 2009 - While food inflation is projected to be under last year's 5.5% level it could be impacted by production cuts and a stronger U.S. dollar, according to Kenneth Zaslow, a senior analyst for BMO Capital Markets speaking at The Food Institute's webinar Where Are Food Prices Headed In 2009? (www.foodinstitute.com/foodprices.cfm) Reductions in production could "reignite inflationary pressures," noted Zaslow, pointing out that the recent slowdown in food inflation has been accelerated by declines in demand, and "trading down" by consumers.

Overall food prices are projected to rise 3% to 4.0%, noted Ephraim Leibtag, U.S. Department of Agriculture economist. Food-at-home prices however are seen rising between 2.5% and 3.5%, while food away-from-home is projected to rise between 3.5% and 4.5%. Center-of-the-plate protein items, such as beef pork and poultry are seen rising under 2008 levels, and dairy and egg prices are actually projected to decline this year after increasing at double-digit rates in 2008.

The Food Institute keeps industry professionals up to date on the latest economic and industry news. Find out about becoming a Food Institute member and joining thousands of other food industry professionals who have been doing so since 1928 at: www.foodinstitute.com.

About The Food Institute The Food Institute is a nonprofit organization with a single purpose: providing information. The Food Institute strives to be the best "single source" for current, timely and relevant information about the food industry from "farm to fork." The association serves as a trusted source of information, providing balanced coverage of the issues. It delivers information through multiple media so that industry professionals worldwide can tap in when and how they choose. For more information, visit www.foodinstitute.com.

Consumers Put Brakes On Food Spending Last Year

Upper Saddle River, NJ - (February 2009) - Americans spent an estimated $1.38 trillion on food last year according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis' most recent quarterly report- that's 2.47% less than food spending had been trending in the third quarter of 2008 and the largest quarterly adjustment since the government began tracking such data in 1947 despite soaring food price inflation. "It is safe to say the U.S. shopper reacted to the downturn in the economy more quickly than at any time in recent history and more vociferously than at anytime since immediately World War II when the government began tracking this data," commented Brian Todd, President of The Food Institute.

The behavior of the U.S. consumer changed significantly in the last half of 2008 as prices for food rose at the highest level in almost two decades. While no one can predict the future, The Food Institute will keep its members and the industry overall abreast of economic developments as it has since 1928. The Food Institute will hold a webinar on "What's Ahead For Food Prices," on Feb 24 at 1:00pm EST.

Following two years of accelerated food price inflation, what is the outlook for retail food prices in 2009? As the U.S. and global economies have fallen into a recession and commodity and energy prices have fallen 30% to 60% over the past few months, the food industry faces lower costs, but greater uncertainty.  Both the depth and
breadth of the current recession will have an impact on the food sector and ultimately affect the prices charged by retailers and paid by consumers.  This webinar will focus on the factors that led to the run up in inflation in 2007 and 2008, how these factors have changed over the past few months, and what that means for 2009 and beyond.

The event will feature USDA economist Ephraim Leibtag.  For more go to the Food Institute website at www.foodinstitute.com/foodprices.cfm

What Will The Obama Era Mean For The Food Industry?

Contact: Henry Mollman
201 791-5570, ext. 215

Upper Saddle River, NJ (Jan. 26, 2009) - It has only been a week since the inauguration, but changes are already being made by new appointees of President Obama, including USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack who listed child nutrition and improving food safety among his top priorities. Both of the issues and much more was discussed at the recent webinar The Obama Era: What Does It Mean For the Food Industry? Jan. 14, 2009. This event drew scores of attendees who received a look at the current administration and the challenges it will face in the coming years. A recording of the event can be download at www.foodinstitute.com/foodregs2009.cfm

The early hours of the Barack Obama administration proved very eventful, as the President wasted little time in addressing policy established over the previous eight years under the Bush administration. The immediate flurry of activity indicates that the what follows will bring profound and abundant change, and the group assembled by The Food Institute and Washington insider law firm Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Bode Matz P.C. represents the most experienced and insightful professionals yet organized to focus on the ripples that will be felt by the food industry resulting from a sea change in Washington.

With a Democratic White House and a substantial Democratic majority in both houses of Congress, expectations are high for far-reaching legislation with significant repercussions for those in the industry. Former U.S. Congressman Charles Stenholm, known as "Mr. Agriculture" for his well-established experience in Congress on food and agricultural issues and immense knowledge of the business, provides a Washington veteran's familiarity with current representatives and the legislative process. Mr. Stenholm's contributions to the webinar will prove invaluable to anyone involved at any level in the food and agriculture business.

Attorney Marshall L. Matz, recent recipient of the Gene White Lifetime Achievement Award for Child Nutrition, discusses the importance of the reauthorization of the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004, set to expire on Sept. 30, 2009. Mr. Matz describes the many changes likely to be enforced in the reauthorization, particularly in relation to the obesity epidemic, an issue notably placed at the forefront of the new administration's health agenda, as well as the difficulties the reforms will encounter amid the balance of the Economic Stimulus Package and budgetary restraints. This issue will undoubtedly affect any food manufacturer as welfare reform, changes to the school lunch program and an increased importance on childhood nutrition will spill over into innumerable market segments.

The growing influence of consumer and health groups on an activist federal government will assuredly have a considerable impact on future regulations and legislation, and founder and former Chairman of the Food Institute Rick Frank discusses the various groups and representatives that will push for agendas and reforms marginalized by a pro-industry Bush administration. Food safety reform, which was not particularly emphasized over the past eight years, is one of 13 "urgent priorities" as compiled by the U.S. Government Accountability Office. As legislation concerning food safety is highly likely before the end of 2009, leading food industry legislative and regulatory expert Bob Hahn explores the possibilities for FDA reorganization or the creation of an entirely new entity to regulate food safety. With expanded federal authority on food safety issues, food processors and importers will be subject to greater compliance standards and will receive increased scrutiny from regulators.

Other issues discussed in the webinar were:

  I.     Issuance of a report from FDA's Science Advisory Board classifying CFSAN as in a "state of crisis"

 II.     Obesity epidemic continues to worsen, with increasing evidence that consumers not using or not understanding the nutrition label

 III.     States, cities, and counties beginning to enact their own food laws, including bans on trans fat in restaurant foods and nutrition labeling of restaurant foods

 IV.     Rising food prices, with some blaming diversion of grains to ethanol as a contributing factor

 V.     Economic downturn has increased food insecurity and demand for food assistance programs among low-income Americans

 VI.     Perception that FDA under Bush Administration has been "toothless"

A recording of the webinar can be found on the Food Institute website at www.foodinstitute.com/foodregs2009.cfm with more details and commentary.

The Food Institute is the foremost resource for information relative to the food industry and produces e-newsletters, printed analytical reports, guides and statistical reviews of food industry developments.

Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Bode Matz P.C. is a prominent Washington-based law firm that specializes in food legislation and regulation, including food safety, labeling and food importation.

Budget-Conscious Shoppers Buying Less Food

FOOD INSTITUTE PRICE INDICES DOCUMENT "PAINFUL" DECLINING UNIT MOVMENT IN FOOD SALES

Upper Saddle River, NJ - (Jan. 26, 2009) - Supermarket and restaurant chains saw their patrons buy less physical product at the end of 2008, year over year, according to the Food Institute's exclusive Prices Indexes. The Food Institute, based here, found that in December alone "deflated" sales at grocery stores fell 4.7%, after allowing for inflation, while eating and drinking places saw their "deflated" sales drop 6.6%. – among the largest declines the Food Institute has recorded since it began tracking this information two decades ago.

 "The impact of higher food prices on both U.S. supermarkets and restaurants is painfully apparent when looking at sales and inflation data from 2008's final quarter," commented Brian Todd, President & CEO of The Food Institute. "While people have to eat, they are opting to do so less often at restaurants, and are carefully traversing supermarket aisles in search of bargains and more economical meal solutions."

Even though there was some slight easing of food-at-home price inflation in the final months of last year, consumers cut back even more sharply on their expenditures at both food stores and restaurants. Operators saw growth in their business plummet to only about 3% in the final quarter as the government's Consumer Price Index for food-at-home hovered above 7%.

Food Inflation last year was at a 19-year high, and, while it is expected to ease somewhat this year, could still top 4%. "Budget conscious consumers, however, will likely be the norm for the foreseeable future, and will continue to look for values," added Todd.

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Would you like to be able to access this kind of information, as well as on other food industry topics 24/7? Become a member of The Food Institute. Go to www.foodinstitute.com and click on "Become A Member" on the menu bar at the top of the page. You will be able to receive the information-packed Food Institute Report, access the FI website with its food industry data bases, get the daily electronic newsletter, Today In Food, and benefit from substantial discounts on FI's webinars, seminars and publications.

Kraft Foods Join the National Grocers Association and Food Institute to Launch Student Learning Service

Upper Saddle River, NJ (May 27, 2008) - The Food Institute (FI) and The National Grocers Association (N.G.A.), in cooperation with Kraft Foods, are pleased to announce the launch of the Student Learning Service, a program designed to assist students pursuing a food industry career. The Student Learning Service (SLS) will make important industry information from the Food Institute accessible to the students -- and faculty -- of the member schools of the N.G.A. Food Industry University Coalition (FIUC).

“This is a fantastic program that taps into the Food Institutes vast knowledge and tools to benefit both students and faculty members,” says Richard George, Professor of Food Marketing, St. Joseph’s University, an FIUC member school. Here are some of the benefits the SLS -- executed in alliance with FIUC -- will provide:

Access to food industry data to support student efforts, particularly reports and presentations;
Details on job opportunities;
“Real time” information on developments within the food industry;
and Faculty assistance to develop course work

“Kraft understands the strategic imperative represented by this initiative,” says Denny Belcastro, VP, Customer Development and Industry Relations, Kraft Foods. “In supporting this program, we’re helping to ensure students will acquire the skills and talent essential to be the effective future leaders the food industry needs,“ The Student Learning Service will have several components and – by making the most of web technology – will be designed for ease-of-use. These components include easy access to FI databases/information resources through the FI website (www.foodinstitute.com) and N.G.A. website www.nationalgrocers.org; a career center; a subscription to FI’s “Today in Food Daily Update” e-newsletter and the weekly “FI Report.” Each university’s website also will provide access. Just some of the resources available include: the market information centers, mergers & acquisitions database; archive of back articles, research resources and the food price outlook.

“We believe the Student Learning Service is one of our most important initiatives launched in the last several years,” says Brian Todd, President and CEO of the Food Institute. “The service directly engages the student body of each school with the food industry real-time, and will provide students with the information and background they need to have as future leaders.”

The Student Learning Service also will include a number of new products currently in development, such as: public reports from iLumen Benchmarking Service, Competitive Promotions Report promotional review, a Crisis Management Center and financial reports. In addition, the LearnSomething training programs currently being developed for the Food Institute site would be available for sign-up.

The Student Career Center, aimed directly at the students, will be a tremendous resource. The center will not only provide information about careers after graduation, but also will include details on part-time summer employment and internships. In close association with the N.G.A. Coalition, FI would actively seek participation among all companies in the food industry (major corporations, processors, wholesalers, retailers, etc.) to solicit graduates and students, and would also actively solicit students for posting. This could be an immensely important service, not only for the students, but also -- especially -- for the industry at large, which can certainly benefit from the skills being acquired by tomorrow’s generation at Coalition schools.

“N.G.A. is excited about this new initiative for a number of reasons. One of N.G.A.’s key working agenda items is to recruit the next generation of quality leaders and entrepreneurs, this new program aids us in reaching that goal.” said Frank DiPasquale, Senior Vice President of the National Grocers Association.

The program is expected to launch in August to coincide with the start of the 2008-09 academic year. For more information please contact Christine Cunnick at 703-516-0700.