The youngest generation may be the biggest group of influencers.
read moreThere have been 515 executive changes in the food industry during the first eight months of 2019—30% more than a year ago, according to Food Institute data.
read moreConsumer desires, needs, and lifestyles are reshaping the grocery business and leading the way to next-generation grocery shopping, reported
On April 26, a May orange juice futures contract settled below $1 per lb. for the first time since October 2009.
read moreU.S. retailers closed 5,994 stores, while opening 2,641, through the first 15 weeks of 2019, according to real estate tracking from Coresight Research.
read moreA pair of grocery companies are making their mark in the eSports world.
read moreThe Amazonization of Whole Foods Market took another step forward during the first week of April as reports emerged that the companies are lagging in attracting Prime members.
read moreNothing is more American than baseball, apple pie, and the annual Feburary "big game"(you know what I'm talking about, I have legal constraints). But now you can add one more thing onto the list, chicken wings.
read moreIn the past, the American people have watched as retailers such as Walmart, Target and even Kohl's worked to enter the grocery channel. However, have we ever seen a grocer look to become something more? I posited this question after reading a few recent news stories about Kroger.
read moreAlthough it can sometimes seem like coffee's younger sibling, the tea category has been stepping up and making a name for itself in creative and interesting ways.
read moreWalmart reported strong same-store sales growth in the second quarter, the largest increase in nine years, fueled by its grocery business.
read moreCall it the shot heard across the packaged food world: Conagra Brands Inc. will acquire Pinnacle Foods for approximately $10.9 billion in cash and stock. The transaction is expected to enhance Conagra's multi-year transformation plan and expand its presence and capabilities in its most strategic...
read moreIf you've gone to the grocery store lately you've surely noticed the increased importance given to products that make mealtime easier. From pre-cut fruits and vegetables to meal kits to fully-prepared dishes, the supermarket is becoming a major competitor in the foodservice sector.
read moreVisions of sugar-plums and popcorn danced in the heads of attendees at the Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago. There were visions of upcoming trends, too, like unusual flavor combinations and healthy indulgences that appeal to consumers' good and bad sides.
read moreNow, more than ever, the issue of food waste is top of mind for the food industry. Despite retailers, foodservice operators and manufacturers trying to tackle it head on, many challenges lurk around the corner. Despite this, innovative and impactful approaches abound to tackle this complex concern.
read moreFor the past decade, food retailers have experienced declining customer counts and shrinking baskets. Retailers have hoped for food inflation to make up for those declines, but that is wishful thinking of old. The industry is littered with examples of retailers who...
read moreConsumer trends have been shifting to the perimeter of the supermarket, as shoppers opt for more fresh and unprocessed foods. However, the center store is still important to customers, particularly the upcoming Gen Z generation, which is increasingly influencing grocery purchases.
read moreKnown variously as Generation Z, Gen Z, the iGeneration and the Post-Millennials, the demographic cohort born in the mid-1990s to the mid-2000s is beginning to emerge as a powerful consumer group. And what this group wants to spend its money on is food.
read moreThe World Economic Forum's 45th Annual Meeting was held in Davos, Switzerland, in 2015. At the event, Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Li Kequiang said, "It must be pointed out that China is still a developing country and still has a long way to go before achieving...
read moreEaster spending is expected to total $18.2 billion this year, nearly matching last year's record of $18.4 billion, according to an annual survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. About 81% of Americans will celebrate the holiday and will spend an average of...
read morePlease indulge me for a moment by taking the time to count how many social media platforms you currently have an active account with. By my own count, I have active profiles on more than 10, and chances are, you are in that range, too.
read moreWalmart and Amazon are constantly vying for the top grocery spot. Both companies are moving closer to one another, as Walmart attempts to make moves in the e-commerce space and Amazon opens brick-and-mortar outlets. Now, that gap may be closing even more, as Walmart has begun to compete with Amazon on price and delivery speed.
read more"Honey, can you answer the door? I think the SNAPBox just got dropped off."
read moreChanging consumer tastes and preferences for higher-end, premium coffees have slowly been changing the global coffee industry. This makes it more important than ever to keep apprised of updates to the coffee market, such as price fluctuations, crop forecasts, sales and overall trends.
read moreAmazon is no stranger to the Food Institute Blog. They serve as a benchmark for e-commerce in many ways, and over the weekend, the company made two moves that will likely impact the retail world in the coming months.
read moreThe new tax bill is expected to affect the majority of American workers starting in February, but already, some companies are planning ahead and enjoying the public relations boon of offering bonuses up front to their employees. Walmart was one such company, but a series of additional actions generated some backlash among consumers.
read moreWhat do you do when you announce you are about to close nearly 400 stores, but then find out through the legal system you are obligated to keep more than 75 of them open? Starbucks Corp. is developing the answer to this question in real-time in regards to its Teavana concept.
read moreWith Thanksgiving only a week away, most Americans are beginning to prep their meals for the holiday. This year, many shoppers may be a bit happier with what they find at the checkout register, as many Turkey Day staples are seeing lower prices than previous years.
read moreThere are about two months remaining in 2017, and retailers are preparing for the Thanksgiving and winter holiday seasons. However, savvy industry members are also looking to what will be hot in 2018, and Whole Foods Market is supplying some food for thought regarding food trends in the new year.
read moreAll supermarkets have had to become smarter and more responsive in this new era of food retailing as options become wider for consumers, and mergers such as the Amazon/Whole Foods Market deal make it harder to compete. However, some chains are taking a more comprehensive approach than others.
read moreWhen you go to the supermarket and grab an item, what is the first thing you check? The nutrition label might be a logical answer, but for many Americans, this might not be the case. Regardless, such labels provide a snapshot of the nutrition of a food item, and those labels...
read moreHere at the Food Institute Blog, we regularly write about how retailers and food producers are trying to get a foothold in customers' doors. From grocery delivery programs to Internet of Things-connected fridges to digital assistants, most recognize that technology and convenience are driving forces for today's companies. Everyone wants that foot in the door. Figuratively, at least.
read moreThe food industry landscape is changing faster than ever, and we at the Food Institute know how important, but difficult, it can be to stay on top of the most recent industry news. If you didn't have a chance to catch the biggest developments from the past week, here are the most viewed stories featured in our Today in Food daily newsletter:
read moreCook County, IL, first approved a penny-per-ounce tax on sugary drinks, in hopes of raising $200 million a year, in November 2016. It was the seventh local government in the U.S. to pass such a levy, and was by far the largest area. The tax was originally set to go into...
read moreIt seems that Target doesn't want to sit on its laurels.
read moreNews can come at you fast in the food industry, so today, I'm going to provide a few quick updates on two stories I've been following recently in our blog.
read moreFor a myriad of reasons, consumers are starting to look for ways to reduce their meat consumption. Some look for meat alternatives to improve their health, while others are concerned about the environmental impact of traditional meat production. Regardless of their...
read more"We're fascinated with robots because they are reflections of ourselves."
read moreTarget will no longer sell Hampton Creek products at its stores after allegations of food safety issues and mislabeling. The retailer, Hampton Creek's largest client, is not aware of anyone falling sick from the products, but alerted the Food and Drug Administration to the...
read moreAs we are approaching the mid-point of 2017, I think it is accurate to note that grocery retailers are in the midst of a sea change that will affect the way they conduct business going forward. From labeling rules to sugary beverage taxes to e-commerce dominance, grocery retailers are being forced to adapt to an evolving marketplace with increasing consumer demand for better-for-you products delivered directly to your door.
read moreDespite the uncertainty that Brexit has created, the British food industry has been seeing some positive results over the past year. While some manufacturers are still concerned about what Brexit will mean for their businesses, both food exports and supermarket sales are seeing growth.
read moreIf you are a regular reader of Today In Food, you'll know that just about every day, a new food or beverage product hits store shelves. While we do our best to track all new emerging products, it is a daunting task: according to new data from USDA, there are about 58.7 new product launches per day.
read moreEven though the retail food sector seems more tumultuous and uncertain as the years go by, grocers are more optimistic than they've been in recent years, according to Progressive Grocer's Annual Report of the Grocery...
read moreIt's a few days until Easter Sunday, and it's a pretty important time for grocers looking to sell a variety of items. From asparagus to strawberries, from ham to lamb, and from eggs to seasonal candies, many U.S. shoppers will be filling their baskets to prepare for home-cooked meals.
read moreWhen the Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company first unveiled its bankruptcy plans in 2015, we here at the Food Institute took particular notice. One of its Pathmark stores was just a stone's throw away from our office, and the company's headquarters was right next door in Montvale, NJ. Besides our proximity, the closure of the country's oldest supermarket chain certainly put the bankruptcy on our collective radar.
read moreIn a few days, the vast majority of Americans will sit down for a meal with their loved ones and give thanks for a nearly-completed year. However, how those Americans will celebrate varies greatly by region and background. It would be impossible to fully articulate all of the differences, but luckily, a few recent news reports shed some light on the...
read morePackaged breakfast foods have been having a tough few years. Cereal sales are down, more fast food outlets are offering breakfast as an alternative to eating at home, and now light yogurt's popularity is on the decline. Some types of yogurt, such as organic and Greek, have stayed popular, but with consumers' changing definitions of health, light yogurt has fallen by the wayside.
read moreTonight, when you sit down to watch some TV and relax, count the food commercials you see. From food producers to restaurants to grocers, chances are, you'll run into more than one, and for good reason. Food companies see the value in advertising their products to consumers through TV, and other channels like...
read moreMost maple syrup producers across North America are reporting a banner year in 2016. Increased production is both attributed to excellent weather and an increase in operations extracting and refining the product. But with increased production comes an increase in the amount of end-product, and maple syrup producers are now trying their best to shake the product's reputation as a breakfast condiment.
read moreChances are you've heard of Pokémon Go, the hugely popular mobile game that has taken the world by storm. The game builds off the popularity of the Pokémon universe that was made popular in the mid-90s with its original video game, which then spun off into trading cards and other merchandise, and is based on the concept of catching and battling creatures called Pokémon. The new Pokémon Go is essentially an augmented reality app in which players go out...
read moreAs cereal sales slump and consumers look for more natural, healthy foods, General Mills is rethinking its strategy.
read moreAfter enjoying a long weekend for Independence Day, I feel most Americans would agree there are a few inalienable rights. We are entitled to the rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Our forefathers may not have had the foresight to add it to the Declaration, but current day Americans would probably be in favor of adding another to that list: the right...
read moreWhen Whole Foods Market first unveiled its plans to open a lower priced chain aimed at Millennials, the reviews were mixed. Some thought it was a good way for the company to boost sales and gain new customers; others were worried it would cannabalize sales at traditional Whole Foods stores.
read moreEvery morning about this time, she gets me out of my bed a-crying. Get a job! After breakfast every day, she throws the want ads right my way, and never fails to say. Get a job! So goes the first verse to the famous 1957 doo-wop song by the Silhouettes. While Get a Job was amazingly successful, reaching the number one spot on both the Billboard pop and R&B charts, those trying to get a job today are likely going...
read moreRetail has long been beholden to a simple rule regarding economies of scale: bigger is better. However, with advancing technology over the past 10 to 15 years, the retail landscape has changed. Improvements in the supply chain make it possible to provide the necessary support to smaller stores. According...
read moreFiguring out how to feed a family is no easy task. Often, it's a juggling act, with the needs of nutrition, variety, personal taste and cost all competing for what ends up on the plate. For millions of Americans, the daily costs of eating make up a significant portion of their overall budget. Conventional wisdom would hold that low-income Americans would be more likely to cook their own food at home in order to get some savings, but...
read moreTake a quick look around your office and see what your coworkers are drinking. Yes, I'm sure coworkers are drinking coffee, but how many of them are slugging down sodas, sweet teas and other sugar-added beverages? Chances are, more and more of your workers are drinking water. Looking at my own desk, I only see a 1-liter Nalgene filled with (you guessed it) water.
read moreWhole Foods Market was once the go-to food store for all things specialty, organic and natural, but now as many other retailers are expanding into the sector, Whole Foods has had a hard time keeping its lead. Part of problem is its "Whole Paycheck" moniker that many customers use to mock the chain's high prices.
read moreUsually when we think of meat, we picture juicy beef burgers and sizzling bacon, but some food manufacturers would like consumers to think of a different image. How about chicken tenders that don't contain any chicken, or a burger made out of pea protein that still "bleeds"? Well, that may become the new normal if Hampton Creek and Beyond Meat have anything to say about it.
read moreOnline grocery is not a new concept anymore. Increasingly, analysts are seeing that the competition is not so much between traditional supermarkets and e-commerce, but between the plethora of online grocery services themselves. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores may always have a place in the food retail landscape...
read moreThe month of October 2015 was supposed to be a reckoning of sorts for the retail industry: retailers were told to transition to the new chip-based EMV (Europay, MasterCard and Visa) cards and associated devices or be liable for fraud committed with older, more traditional swipe varieties. Eight months have since passed, and thanks to a variety of...
read moreAmazon is certainly a powerhouse in the retail industry. It can't be denied that the company is force to be reckoned with, which is constantly setting the bar for the rest of the industry. For that reason it is one of the companies we cover the most here on on our blog, reporting on its expanded services,
In recent years, Americans have shifted their food purchasing habits. What was once the hallmark of the American food industry, grocery stores have taken a backseat in the news as fast-casual eateries, farmers markets, specialty stores, drug chains and other big box retailers have become more popular. Despite the noise, grocery stores remain a pivotal part of the American food ecosystem, and many shoppers still turn to these traditional outlets for their daily bread.
read moreThe Kroger Co. may be a large and successful supermarket chain with over 2,700 stores in 35 states, but that doesn't mean it has time to rest on its laurels. It recognizes the importance of adapting to customer tastes as the food industry is always changing, and it can be...
read moreGrocery shops, drug stores, restaurants and fast-food stores are all battling for a share of consumers' stomachs, and in this battle, retailers seem to have the upper hand, according to an updated study from Technomic. The group's 2015 Retailer Meal Solutions (RMS) Consumer Trend Report finds that consumers are purchasing RMS more often, many times at the detriment of fast-food outlets.
read moreSnack manufacturers may be targeting the wrong audience.
read moreWholesale retailers used to be frequented solely by restaurant owners and consumers with large families, but they are now taking a bigger bite out of the food retail market. Consumers of all ages and incomes are beginning to see the benefit of the wholesale club model, even for specialty, organic and gourmet foods.
read moreThe Dash Button ordering system. The face of American drone research. One-hour delivery to select markets. Whether it's food-related or not, Amazon serves as a weathervane for today's retail landscape. The company generates a surprising amount of news, and most of the time it's good news (seriously, we cover them nearly weekly in Today in Food and have also written on their exploits fairly often read more
Many people use the phrase "you are what you eat," but what if what you're eating isn't what you think? Food fraud is a major problem in the industry, and not just on a food safety level. Many times foods are labeled incorrectly or in a misleading way (intentionally or not) that implies certain foods are something that they are not.
read moreGrocery shopping has drastically changed in the past few years. Traditional supermarkets still have their place, but specialty stores, online retailers, and big box stores are rapidly moving in on supermarkets' turf. It is becoming increasingly difficult for retailers to differentiate and become successful in the industry.
read moreGrocery delivery services are expected to the big disruptor to the food retail industry, with convenience and customization key drivers of customer satisfaction. New companies are popping up every month that claim to offer a different spin, whether it's local and organic foods, faster shipping, or lower prices. In its Future of Food Retailing report for 2015, Willard Bishop predicted...
read moreWhen it comes to food labeling discussions, GMOs are all the rage and both sides have equally-fervent advocates. GMO supporters claim the modified ingredients don't harm anyone and mandatory labeling efforts could hurt producers by discouraging customers from buying their products, in addition to increasing production costs. Those who rally against GMOs believe that they present a health risk to the...
read moreEveryone in the food industry knows that prices, to an extent, are flexible. Different types of food are subject to market fluctuations, tariffs, taxes, shipping costs and more. These prices can vary from state to state, and the Portland Press Herald did an excellent write up on the state of Maine. At it's core, the story asks: why do Mainers pay so much...
read moreAs online ordering and delivery becomes more popular, technological innovations will inevitably come about to make the process easier, faster and more appealing. After ecommerce became more widespread, companies were immediately looking at how to improve it, such as enabling mobile shopping, speeding up...
read moreThe first week back after the holidays is sometimes a slow one. Everyone is just getting back into their regular routine, shifting their brains away from parties and presents. It also tends to be a slow week for company announcements and food industry news. However, this year seems to be different, especially among convenience stores, who have been particularly busy the past few days.
read moreWhile organic and gourmet foods were once only available at small and specialty grocers like Whole Foods Market and Fairway, all retailers are seeing the benefits of offering them. Consumers can now go to almost any supermarket and find aisles and aisles of organic products, in many cases at similar prices as traditional items. Even department stores and...
read moreData breaches are becoming all too common in the retail and foodservice industries, as the technology becomes more accessible and credit cards become consumers' main form of payment. It seems no one is immune, with even the largest and most secure companies falling victim.
read moreSupermarkets in the UK are struggling to carve out a niche in the market as competition grows and consumer expectations change. More discounters are coming into play, offering lower prices without the added frills, and threatening the sales of traditional retailers.
read moreWe know that color plays an important role in food. Color is one of the first things we notice when we pick up a piece of produce or see our meal placed in front of us on the table. There are also studies showing that color can impact the way we perceive taste, in a pretty major way, both it in the food itself and in the...
read moreConsumers expect a lot from food companies. No longer is it enough to just have a good tasting product at a competitive price point. Businesses are held to a higher standard of environmental awareness, social responsibility, animal welfare, and product quality. Many consumers need...
read moreFood labeling can be a bit of a struggle in the United States. Consumer consensus rings fairly clear when it comes to what "all-natural" claims should mean, but that term can be considerably variable and often leaves consumers feeling confused. The upcoming Food Labeling...
read moreConsumers are increasingly interested in where their food comes from, both for ethical and safety reasons. Traceability is a major reason why shoppers, especially Millennials, purchase the brands they do. If they could, many people would like to know every last detail about how their food was made, down to the name of the farmer who picked their produce. (Or the name of their specific chicken, a la Portlandia.)
read moreFood industry analysts always warn that shoppers are moving away from center store products, opting instead for fresh, perimeter items. The belief is that consumers, especially younger ones, want to stay away from processed foods as much as they can, and that's hurting the consumer packaged goods market. While that may be partially true, the center of the store is not as avoided as we might be led to...
read moreIf you live on either the East or the West Coast, it's quite likely that your local supermarket scene is in a state of change. Some may call it a state of turmoil. With A&P announcing its bankruptcy on the East Coast and Haggen declaring bankruptcy out West, there's a significant number of stores changing banners, and some are even closing for good.
read moreSales of organic and natural products are more popular than ever, but Whole Foods Market does not seem to be benefiting from the rise in demand. The specialty retailer should be thriving in a time when sales of organic foods are at an all time high, and consumers are increasingly looking for unique, artisan and...
read moreEveryone has heard the phrase "we eat with our eyes first," suggesting that the appearance of food is just as important as taste. Of course this saying has merit (who would want to eat a meal that looks disgusting?) and if you've ever watched a...
read moreIt's that time of year again: as the end of 2015 looms closer, we start to speculate on what's to come in 2016. Most of us can guess what types of food trends will drive consumers in the upcoming year based on what has been popular in the past (i.e. non-GMO, local, less processing), but fresh, emerging trends may be harder to predict....
read moreAddressing climate change and instituting eco-friendly business practices are increasingly important to today's consumers. It is not only essential for food to be natural and sustainable, but for the company as a whole to implement environmental initiatives. Analysts at Mintel
If there's one thing Millennials hate, it's being lumped in with the rest of the cohort. Take it from me, your resident Millennial blogger. I'm sure Jennette agrees, too. It seems the neverending chorus constantly harks upon our buying power, our purchasing preferences, and our search for something authentic and artisan/craft/locally-made.
read moreWhen it comes to branding and marketing, food companies often find themselves in a sea of change and uncertainty. It seems like every day, new rules and regulations emerge that make it more and more difficult for producers to advertise their products, from new labeling requirements to new dietary guidelines. And there's always the threat of a hiding class-action lawsuit regarding false advertising.
read moreToday marks October 1st, the start of a new month. For many around the country, it also begins a fascination with ghouls, zombies, ghosts and other scary creatures as we ready ourselves for the culmination of the month in Halloween. This provides retailers with a great opportunity to market seasonal items to the masses to capitalize on the first of the autumn holidays.
read moreFor most of my childhood, a bowl of cereal at breakfast was the perfect start to my day. I remember enjoying it as a snack after school on more than one occassion, too, but it appears that today's youth don't enjoy the same meal, as sales sag within the United States. Producers aren't sitting idly by, though, as they look abroad for new ways to grow their brands.
read moreAfter facing tough times with its enormous data breach and subsequent class action lawsuits, Target has been working hard to get customers back. It seems every few months there's a new development in the company's turnaround plan, whether it be it's focus on natural, organic and...
read moreAn interesting article in The Wall Street Journal today about the Aldi supermarket chain and the impact of the low cost retailer on British food retailers pointed out that the chain is expanding in the U.S. It's surprising however, that there is read more
It seems Google's mission right from the start has been to disrupt as many conventional businesses with its technology as it can. One of those changes happened August 10, as the company formed the Alphabet holding company and spun off its core internet search business. CEO Larry Page reached out to investors in a letter on their website regarding the transition:
read moreAmazon has always had a penchant for quickly delivering and implementing radical changes to its business operations to improve their overall service, and over the past 48 hours, the company once again proved their ability to change gears quickly. Amazon made three changes to it's business operations during the same amount of time that it would take for an order to show up at your house using it's Prime free two-day delivery option.
read moreStudents complain when the back to school items start gracing store shelves as early as July, but there's another fall item that keeps popping up earlier and earlier: pumpkin. It seems Americans can't get enough of this fall flavor, and this year is no different. Manufacturers, restaurants and retailers are all cashing in on the pumpkin craze, with loads of new products and some changes to old favorites.
read moreSales of local foods are expected to increase to $20.2 billion by 2019, according to Packaged Facts, but despite the category's popularity, most consumers don't know what the term "local" actually means. Shoppers generally think local means the food came from relatively close by, that it was produced at a small...
read moreTarget has had its ups and downs over the past two years or so. It all started with a data breach that impacted tens of millions of customers, forcing the company to upgrade its technology and security, and ultimately testing its ability to regain consumer trust. Data breaches are unfortunately somewhat commonplace in today's economy, but that doesn't mean it's easy for customers to forgive a company after it's hacked.
read morePeople love a good comeback story. Not just as the plot of a cheesy movie, but also for their favorite food products. When an item makes its way back on the shelf after a long hiatus, consumers get excited. However, companies seemingly have good reasons for removing products in the first place, with reasons ranging from "the item was too time...
read moreEach retailer operates its business differently. Some focus on improving e-commerce, others promote the in-store experience with remodels and amenities. It is sometimes hard to compare businesses and determine which model is more effective, but STORES Magazine and the National Retail Federation offer some insight.
read moreIn the food industry, one of the most important questions can be summed up as thus: "Where do my potential customers shop?" While new retail formats have sprung up in the past few years, and more and more Americans are willing to shell out their dollars at drug stores, dollar stores and specialty markets, most people believe that a resounding number of us still rely on...
read moreWalmart is one of the biggest names in retail, not only in the U.S., but internationally as well. Here at the Food Institute, it seems we are constantly reporting on new developments in Walmart's business, whether it be new store openings, warehouse expansions or acquisitions. Recently, though, Walmart has been especially busy expanding globally and updating its U.S. operations to improve its reputation and make its stores more effective.
read moreSoda, once the quintessential American beverage, has had a long and storied history within our society. From humble beginnings as a medicinal tonic to the evolution of Coca-Cola as a global voice of unity, soda has made its mark on much of our culture. But in the ever more health-conscious America, soda sales are plummeting as...
read moreGrocery and meal delivery services are growing at an astonishing rate within the United States. Specifically, Millennials, who are often portrayed as having too much work and not enough time, seem eager to take full advantage of meal delivery services which can offer convenience and down-right good food after a long day of work. However, to limit this growing industry to one generation is foolhardy, as the benefits can be reaped by...
read moreEvery morning, in offices and homes alike, people turn to the convenience of K-Cup coffee pods and Keurig brewing machines to get their morning dose of caffeine. Just how many pods are used each year? Some estimates note that empty K-Cups sold by Green Mountain Coffee could circle the Earth between 10.5 and 12 times.
read moreBarbecues are a a staple of the American summer. Especially as Fourth of July approaches, many people are deciding what type of meat to buy or what sides to make. As much as individual taste comes into play, price and value may be just as, or more, important. With the rising and declining costs of some staple items, we may notice a difference in what our picnic tables look like this year.
read moreWhen you take a look into the shopping carts of U.S. consumers, you're likely to find fewer packaged goods and more fresh produce, meats, seafood and dairy. U.S. fresh food sales have gone up in the last four years,
The next time you're sitting in line, waiting for the cashier to find an oddly-placed barcode on the snack package the customer in front of you so desperately craves, think of this: this dismal part of life may be coming to an end.
read moreImagine, if you will, a small food market with about 200 items, including the staples: milk, fresh produce, eggs, bread and toiletries. Instead of cashiers, stock personnel and managers, however, shoppers order via a screen and all products are delivered to a pick up window via...
read moreGerman retailer Lidl plans to expand into new markets, including the U.S. and Australia, becoming direct competition for similar discount retailer Aldi. Lidl will invest $202 million to create a U.S. headquarters in Arlington, VA, and a distribution center in Spotsylvania County, reported
Every sector of the food industry is experiencing an increase in merger activity, possibly demonstrating a shift from organic expansion to acquisition-based expansion. In 2014, the Food Institute recorded the highest...
read moreFoodservice spending is rising because of increased food and operation costs, but that has not translated into more restaurant visits, according to The NPD Group. Foodservice operators are trying to get consumers to dine out more, but four out of five meals are still prepared and consumed at home.
read moreAn increasing number of supermarkets, warehouse clubs and even discount stores are seeing the potential of moving into the organic space. Young consumers especially are looking for more healthy, natural and specialty products, and if retailers want to keep up with demand, they must expand their organic offerings.
read moreThe California drought has returned to the forefront of the news as senior water rights holders begin to contend with sanctions on their water usage. The drought is becoming so severe that several senior water rights holders in the Sacramento-San Joqauin Delta with highly-coveted riparian rights (who are historically exempt from such sanctions) are trying to head off curtailments by offering to reduce their diversions by 25% in a deal with the state.
read moreTarget aims to attract more young shoppers by shifting its grocery focus and curating its products for today's consumer. It recently revealed plans to concentrate more on its private label brands and items such as Greek yogurt and bagged coffee, and less on traditional packaged food brands. The new strategy includes sorting its food products into three categories:...
read moreWhile Millennials have been shifting the landscape with their unique spending habits, they tend to shift to reflect older generations' after they settle down and start families, according to a study by Goldman Sachs. Younger Millennials' shopping priorities are still natural and organic foods with transparent labeling, but those who have children and spouses tend to to look for value, convenience and selection like previous generations did, reported
The world is adapting to the rise of online shopping options, including the use of digital options for brick-and-mortar trips. Each region has proven an early adopter of certain technologies over others, and North American shoppers are the most likely to use digital coupons in the world, with 26% of...
read moreWhile online grocery is steadily growing, its pace will likely pick up as Millennials and Generation Z continue growing their purchasing power. Both generations grew up with digital technology, and the vast majority of both are either willing to switch to online grocery shopping or already do so, according to Nielsen’s Global E-commerce and The New...
read moreIt seems as if food companies are always launching new products, but some are definitely more successful than others. In order to remain profitiable and to meet changing consumer demands, a food company must position innovative new products alongside the staples that made them successful in the first...
read moreWhen Whole Foods Market opened its first Chicago shop in 1993, direct competition was minimal. Jewel-Osco, Dominick's and some natural-food stores sold organic fare, but none of them could offer the wide range of organic and natural products that Whole Foods had on its shelves. In 2015, however, the landscape has changed, with Mariano's, Heinen's, The Fresh Market and even traditional food chains meeting...
read moreFacing pressure from dollar stores and other deep discounters, Walmart is working to hold onto its title as the country's low-price leader. One of its biggest initiatives is pressuring suppliers to cut costs on their products, which would allow the retailer to pass the savings onto its customers, reported
It seems as if supermarket chains and restaurants are constantly being rated as "the top chain in America." In the past two months alone, four different consumer rankings have been released touting their results as finding America's favorite chain or brand.
read moreLooking at the latest personal expenditure data from the government, in 2014’s final quarter, consumers spent 9% less than the prior year on gasoline for their vehicles than the year before – or about $33 billion on an annualized basis. At the same time, however, they were apparently driving to restaurants much more as expenditures at...
read moreAmazon will take space in a first-of-its-kind three-story warehouse in Seattle.
read moreTo continue growing, Costco is transforming in a number of areas including its mobile membership app, self-checkout, e-commerce and changes in space allocation, according to a Barclays analysis.
read moreE-commerce food sales have been growing at a rate of about 22% per year, and it is expected to make up close to 10% of the overall food and consumables market by 2023, according to data presented by Inmar at the Food Institute's annual Future of Food Retailing webinar, sponsored by BMO Harris Bank. Inmar's Jim Hertel and Craig Rosenblum took...
read moreIt's not often you see a company announce that it will double its reach just before unveiling it has a supply issue. But Impossible Foods accomplished this feat in the span of a few days.
read moreWalmart will invest in store upgrades in over 20 states across the U.S. in 2019. In addition to remodels, it plans to expand its free grocery pickup option and delivery options, as well as add online order pickup towers, its FAST product unloading system and...
read moreThe nation's largest food retailer is three times more efficient picking groceries than Kroger while reducing out of stocks for online orders.
read moreAmazon intends to build and expand Whole Foods Market stores across the U.S. in an effort to reach more customers.
read moreDuring the last weekend of October, video game enthusiasts the world over will gather in San Jose, CA, for TwitchCon 2018. This year, however, there is a notable food tie-in.
read moreMondelez International unveiled a new growth strategy Sept. 7, which included pursuing opportunities in the c-store channel.
read moreUnited Natural Foods Inc. (UNFI) entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Supervalu Inc. for approximately $2.9 billion on July 26.
read moreIf anyone wondered how Kroger would fare now that Amazon has jumped into the grocery space, I think we can safely say that any doubts have now been put to rest. The company recently reported a $2 billion profit for its first quarter on the heels of the sale of its convenience store business, and that's just the start of it.
read moreAs more U.S. and international cities take steps to ban plastic straws and other plastic items in restaurants, and grocery retailers from France to Australia taking a hard line on the issue, it's clear that sustainability and environmental consciousness are becoming essential to the food business.
read moreDespite the warnings of Elon Musk, artificial intelligence is on its way. It's not a topic we've shied away from in the Food Institute Blog, either, but a few developments over the past few weeks have inspired me to once again dive into the technology of the future in hopes of determining how it will affect the food industry.
read moreSteve Jobs once said that "innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower." While he likely wasn't referring to the convenience store industry, he might as well have been. Because at a time when retail is increasingly shying away from new openings, the U.S. convenience store category is thriving, with a 0.3% growth in new stores last year.
read moreA recent study from Brick Meets Click found online food sales will increase to over 8% of overall grocery sales by the end of 2022, up from under 5% at the end of 2017. The firm predicts online grocery sales will grow at a CAGR of 13%, as compared to 1.3% for...
read moreIf you are focused on the food industry specifically, or the retail industry more generally, you are likely familiar with the "Amazon Effect." The term refers to Amazon's ability to radically change industries it doesn't operate in, even when it is merely rumors fueling the news narrative.
read moreWalmart is making a major investment in store remodels across the U.S. in 2018. It plans to invest in new stores, revamps and upgrades at various stores nationwide. Some of the new features include increasing online grocery pickup, adding more pickup towers and introducing mobile payments. It also plans...
read moreWhen it comes to retail, technology is king. In order to compete with both brick-and-mortar stores and online giants like Amazon, Walmart is developing ways to provide customers with the ease of online ordering combined with the convenience of local pickup. To that end, over the weekend, news broke about two of the company's most...
read moreThe cost of a basket of 16 staple food items will cost consumers a bit more in 2018, with the price increasing 2% to about $51.05, according to the American Farm Bureau Federation's (AFBF) Spring Picnic Marketbasket Survey. The 2018 price is a $1.02 increase when compared to 2017.
read moreArtificial intelligence, augmented and virtual reality, the Internet of Things, cryptocurrencies, voice assistants, 5G and biometrics: these technological advancements are already available or on the way. Each will affect commerce in their own way, but what each relies upon is rather simple:
read more[EDITOR'S NOTE: The following is a piece written by Food Institute President Brian Todd. The piece will be published in the upcoming March 5 edition of the Food Institute Report.]
read moreIf you've been reading Today in Food, you'll notice that meatless burgers are becoming pretty popular across the country. This trend extends to retail and foodservice outlets alike. If you don't believe me, take a look at a few stories we've featured in the daily newsletter since the start of 2018:
read moreU.S. consumers are expected to spend an average of $143.56 on Valentine's Day, an increase from 2017's $136.57, according to the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. Those aged 25-34 will be the biggest spenders at an average of $202.76.
read moreWith football's biggest game of the year coming up in just a few days, many retailers and restaurants are getting ready to serve a boost of customers for this food-focused event. While most people host or attend parties to cheer on the game or watch the big-budget commercials, a lot of emphasis is placed on the food.
read moreFollowing Target's news that it would acquire delivery startup Shipt for $550 million back in December, the industry was abuzz with speculation of how this would affect rivals. Analysts were particularly interested in seeing how the merger would impact fellow food delivery company Instacart, which, at the time, was a partner of Target.
read moreWalmart has been making moves for some time now to compete with Amazon in the technology space. Both companies have introduced similar online grocery programs, which both boast in-home delivery, as well as fast shipping, specialty products, and ease of use. Even brick-and-mortar, which would seem to be a leg up for Walmart, is becoming a focus for Amazon, which now has its network of...
read moreRapid expansion and acquisition of new customers may seem like a good thing for most businesses, but in the grocery delivery industry, it can spell disaster. Most food e-commerce companies find that when they expand into new markets too fast, they lack the infrastructure to keep up with deliveries. Take the case of
The food industry landscape is changing faster than ever, and we at the Food Institute know how important, but difficult, it can be to stay on top of the most recent industry news. If you didn't have a chance to catch the biggest developments from the past week, here are the most viewed stories featured in our Today in Food daily newsletter:
read moreThe third wave coffee movement is described by the industry as an effort to promote high-quality, artisan coffees and increase the general public's coffee knowledge from a standard cup of coffee to the world of cascara and French press. An increasing number of high-end independent coffee shops are seeing success due to consumers' boosted interest in specialty coffees, and even chains like Starbucks have entered the movement with its...
read moreSince its inception, Walmart has always been a behemoth in the brick-and-mortar retail industry. It quickly became one of the top retailers for a whole host of products, including grocery items. However, with the advent of e-commerce and the emergence of companies like Amazon, being a leader in brick-and-mortar is no longer enough. Now, Walmart is trying to innovate in the e-commerce space, to maintain its place at the top of the...
read moreAutumn is officially upon us, but it doesn't feel like it at the Food Institute headquarters where we are still contending with ninety degree days. However, in the spirit of the season, the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) published its annual fall survey regarding the price of grocery staples, and found increases year-over-year.
read moreIf you haven't heard of meal kits yet you must be living under a rock, because they have been the darling of the food industry for over a year now. These pre-portioned, step-by-step meals were seen as the future of the food industry, introducing a new way to save people time, while lessening their reliance on take-out food and restaurants.
read moreThe growing foodie movement in the U.S. has impacted many parts of the industry, but one, possibly unexpected, sector that is seeing a chain reaction is convenience stores. C-stores are not usually gourmet establishments, but rather a place to grab a snack and fill up the gas tank on a long road trip. However, operators are finding that customers are looking for more high-quality options, and c-stores are finding, in many cases, that they are in direct competition with fast casual restaurants and other foodservice...
read moreA lot of time and marketing dollars are spent on appealing to the Millennial generation. We even spend a good deal of time on the cohort here in the FI Blog. However, most companies have focused on the younger, single members of the generation, but it may be time to turn our attention to Millennial parents.
read moreGrocery chains are facing a changing consumer landscape, and that means that the food retail industry must make some changes as well.
read morePlant-based foods have been a hot topic of conversation in the past year, as more companies are beginning to offer alternatives that more closely resemble animal meat. Just last week, I covered some of the up-and-coming companies in the sector right here on the FI Blog.
read moreThere has been much debate about instituting sugary drink taxes, specifically in Philadelphia where one was put into place in six months ago. Some argue that it will improve consumer health and boost revenue for much needed initiatives, while others say it places an unfair burden on soda manufacturers and hurts low-income shoppers.
read moreSales of yogurt in America have been steadily climbing for the past few years, thanks to the introduction of new varieties such as Greek yogurt and consumers' increasing interest in healthy snack and meal alternatives. Yogurt sales in the U.S. amounted to $7.7 billion in...
read moreAt $13.7 billion, Amazon’s proposed acquisition of Whole Foods Market is largest deal ever for a grocer and equates to a 10 times EV/EBITDA multiple, notes a report from BMO Capital Markets.
read moreTechnology has been a part of the food industry for quite some time, in all areas from manufacturing to retail to foodservice. But it is now taking over more of operations, moving from just helping cashiers scan grocery items and taking restaurant diners' orders to actually cooking food and running every aspect of the supermarket.
read moreWhen I think of unique food combinations, I usually think of fast-food outlets. Taco Bell introduced the Doritos Taco. Burger King recently reintroduced its Cheetos Mac and Cheese Bites product. Sonic previously offered a Nerds rope-flavored iced drink. However, these "stunt foods" are no longer just for the fast-food market. Food manufacturers are starting to grab onto this trend.
read moreThere's no question that soda sales are on the decline, as consumers are looking for ways to cut down on sugar consumption and improve their health. There are also many cities beginning to implement soda taxes in an effort...
read moreJust two days ago, Jana Partners increased its stake in Whole Foods Market to 8.3%, up from approximately 7.2%. This news caused a flurry in the the industry as as analysts, experts and competitors all began to predict what this might mean for the company. It also sparked talks of a potential acquisition from rival grocery companies.
read moreFaced with increasing competition in the supermarket sector, retailers really have to step up their game. It's no longer enough to just have a wide selection or be close to people's homes. With so many more options, customers aren't sticking with one primary store, but moving from retailer to retailer to find the one that has the right balance of value, convenience and quality.
read moreSpecialty, natural and organic markets used to be the new trend, as chains like Whole Foods Market, Sprouts Farmers Market and the Fresh Market became extremely popular. However, now that natural and organic food has become more mainstream and more traditional markets are beginning to expand...
read moreMillennials in America now add up to about 75 million people, which is definitely a sizable chunk of the consumer market. They (myself included) are a notoriously fickle bunch, that place a lot of importance on sustainability, traceability and creativity. While we have noted that too much emphasis may be put on appealing to Millennials, when there are other demographics that are just as influential, it is important to still keep track of what Millennials are...
read moreStarbucks didn't become one of the biggest foodservice operations in the U.S. by sitting on its laurels. The company is often-cited as an innovative one, with initiatives including new products, expansive employee benefits, unique stores and more. The company even...
read moreTraditional food manufacturers are continually trying to keep up with consumer trends and have been fighting to retain customers as artisan and specialty brands have dominated the space in recent years. Today's consumers are more interested in transparency, natural ingredients and sustainabilty than in the past, and it has been difficult for the...
read moreMore often than not, consumer demand dictates market conditions. Today's consumers are more interested in eating cleaner, healthier foods, and that's not just from a nutrition perspective. This focus on healthier foods translates outside the realm of health: the socio-economic impact of...
read moreOn the way into work on July 1, I tuned into a local New York classic rock station. I was anticipating a great Independence Day weekend and wanted to channel that through some music, but instead of gracing me with Creedence Clearwater Revival or Led Zeppelin, the DJs were going through some recent news headlines. And what I heard truly struck me for two reasons. The first was the content of the message and the platform: they were talking about avocado...
read moreYou'd have to be living under a rock to have missed the recent news about Mondelez's takeover bid for Hershey. While not much has actually happened yet, it sparked a lot of speculation about if such a deal would even come to pass and what this merger could mean for the industry....
read moreThe Specialty Food Association's Summer Fancy Food Show is a gigantic affair, and one that no single person can fully encapsulate. I was lucky enough to spend a good portion of my day yesterday attending the show, and over the course of a few hours, I was able to meet a variety of specialty food producers, try some interesting new products...
read moreToday's foodie society has cleared the way for all sorts of specialty and artisan foods to hit the mainstream culture. What was once considered high-end and exclusive can now be found at retailers and restaurants ranging from Whole Foods to Walmart to McDonalds. Cold brew coffee is one trend that has benefited from this societal change, as this style of java that could at one time only be found at independent coffee shops and...
read moreAs you've probably realized by now, the food industry is very interested in Millennials. Actually, when you think about it, every industry is interested in them. Virtually every new product and marketing effort is geared towards appealing to Millennials and they are seen as the generation to impress and win-over. While that may be a pretty good tactic as they are now the
The Department of Labor released the final rule updating the overtime regulations, which will automatically extend overtime pay protections to over 4 million workers within the first year of implementation. Starting on Dec. 1, 2016, the initial increases to the standard salary level and HCE total annual compensation requirement will go into effect. Future automatic updates to those thresholds will occur every three years, beginning on January 1,...
read moreIf you're an avid reader of the Food Institute blog, or really, if you are involved in the food industry in any way, you should know by now that grocery delivery is a big deal. It is a rapidly expanding market with the potential to completely change the way consumers and retailers think about food purchases....
read moreDespite the increased decline of ready-to-eat cold cereals in recent years, General Mills seems to be optimistic.
read moreWe're back in action over here at the Food Institute following a much-needed Memorial Day weekend, and it seems like summer is finally here for good. Despite some up-and-down weather this spring across the nation, most Americans are starting to settle into their summer routines. Now, we can cue up the deluge of college commencements, high school graduations, weekend barbecues and summertime vacations. And for Americans, that usually means one thing: hot dogs.
read moreWhat type of juice is selling best? What are frozen fruit sales numbers looking like? Which brand of canned corn should we sell?
read moreGrocery delivery is not a new concept, but it definitely has yet to be perfected. So many companies claim to offer a unique take, whether it's artisan products, fast delivery, or low prices, but I'm not sure any one has figured out exactly what the right formula is to get customers from all types of demographics switching over from traditional supermarket shopping.
read moreDairy milk has become a difficult business to be in, as American consumers are flocking more to non-dairy alternatives. Some do so for allergy reasons, but most believe the alternatives are healthier, and in some cases, better for the environment.
read moreIt's a tumultuous time in the beverage industry. With health regulators, city officials and the average consumer expressing backlash against sugar-laden beverages, many are looking to health drinks with a specific focus on organic drinks as the new trend in the beverage industry. However, consumers will not likely sacrifice taste for health, spurring a very important question: what exactly will the global organic drinks market look like through 2020? Fortunately, Technavio has
Amazon is a fairly constant topic here at the Food Institute Blog, and within the past few weeks, the company gave us plenty to write about. From the expansion of Amazon Payments to new products linked to Dash Buttons to the expansion of same-day delivery, the company is showing...
read moreIn the food industry, like many industries, trends are of the utmost importance. Businesses need to know what caused past price increases or decreases, how other companies are faring, what consumers expect, and what that all means for future profitability. It is also vital to understand the concerns of the industry, and what the smallest...
read moreIndustry analysts seem torn on whether or not online grocery will really be the future of food retailing. New food delivery companies keep emerging and expanding, supermarkets are all adding their own e-commerce services and online retailers are expanding into the grocery market. But is all of this innovation really worth it? Or are companies just jumping on the bandwagon in an effort to stay competitve, when online grocery is just a fleeting trend?
read moreSales in the grocery industry are never easy to come by. It takes an experienced leadership team, motivated department managers, an effective supply chain and qualified employees to find those sales. That doesn't even take consumer demand, market conditions, evolving tastes and growing competition into account. Suffice it to say, running an effective grocery chain can be a daunting task.
read moreGMO labeling is definitely a hot topic in the industry. Several states have passed or are trying to pass mandatory labeling laws, and many are pushing for a national standard. On the other side, many prefer only voluntary labeling, saying there is still no scientific evidence that GMOs are...
read moreMy last name has lead to a variety of interactions over the years, ranging from questions about my relationship to the classic soup maker (spoiler alert: nope, not related) to the gifting of a Andy Warhol-inspired Campbell's Soup tie from my friend's mother in grade school. Truth be told, I'm a Progresso soup guy at heart, but I...
read moreThe Kroger Co., by all accounts, is a giant. Born in 1883 in Cincinnati, OH, The Kroger Company is now the country's largest supermarket chain by revenue and operates over 2,620 supermarkets and multi-department stores. In addition, it's the second largest general retailer in the nation, and the twenty-third largest company. Kroger also happens to be the fifth largest retailer in the world, and recent news reveals they may be working to up their...
read moreIf you take a look through past editions of the Food Institute's Today in Food daily newsletter, you won't run out of stories concerning meal delivery, grocery shopping and other food-related technology. For example, our Feb. 8 edition includes a story on Kroger looking to expand its digital shopping service to new markets, our Feb. 5 edition includes a...
read moreIf you are food company, you need to think about switching to cage-free eggs. Animal welfare is becoming increasingly important to consumers, and the cage-free movement is at the forefront. While other concerns (like removing gestation crates for sows or stopping de-horning of...
read moreThe story of the connected consumer is always expanding. Where there are needs that require filling, there will be technology to make it easier. Never did I think that technology and food would be so interconnected, and as a food writer, I never imagined so much of my writing would revolve around technology.
read moreGrocery store checkout lanes are not usually customers' favorite place. Waiting in line and being begged by their kids or tempted by their sweet tooth to buy candy, soda and chips can be an uphill battle, but some retailers are on a mission to change that.
read moreIt's an oft-cited cliche, but it's often cited for a reason: Americans love to make New Year's resolutions every January 1, and those resolutions are usually tied to weight management in some form. New diets, renewed gym memberships and a focus on healthy living figured prominently for many Americans in previous years. This year, however, could be somewhat different.
read moreAs 2015 quietly passes into the record books and 2016 begins, we at the Food Institute are are settling back into the groove. In many ways, the first week of the year is a great time to reflect upon the past year, but it also serves as a great time to look...
read moreIt's almost the end of 2015. Companies are finishing up their holiday parties, employees are setting their out-of-office notices and business takes a short-yet-needed respite. The month of December brings with it ugly sweater contests and holiday contents, and perhaps most of all, lists letting us know what's going to be big in 2016. Fortunately, we at the Food Institute aren't the only ones...
read moreJust how health is the U.S. market for new meal delivery services? It's an interesting question posed in the December issue of Entrepreneur. In some ways, 2015 was the year of the meal delivery kit, with dozens of new ventures beginning operations with a unique take on bringing convenient, healthful food to consumers. However, the piece's authors...
read moreBy many accounts, 2015 was the year of the gig economy. Instead of relying on yellow cabs, we turned to Uber. Instead of buying groceries ourselves, we turned to food delivery companies. Instead of handling online orders themselves, restaurants turned to services like GrubHub....
read moreIt's a Wednesday morning in December, and that can mean its a pretty dry day in the news when it comes to fresh fruit and veggies. Sure, there are always some interesting stories coming through this week (including the tantalizing deregulation of the Innate snowden potato, and this story about Florida citrus growers using thermal...
read moreThe advent of the gluten-free diet is an interesting one. Although the science behind celiac disease has long been understood, in recent years consumers have begun to associate a gluten-free diet with a number of health and lifestyle benefits. The diet has impacted both celebrities and small-town America in equal force, and although the science is still being debated, many have argued that the removal of gluten from their diets is a life-changing event.
read moreConsumers have a love-hate relationship with sugar. Most people try to cut down on their sugar consumption, but also have a need to satisfy their sweet tooth. This is leading to a rise in sugar substitutes and alternative beverages, such as seltzer, water and tea. It is also making room for new flavors that can help cut down the use of sugar.
read moreOft-maligned, poorly understood and apparently a powerhouse in spending, once again the Millennial generation comes into focus with the release of a report by market research group Turn, noting that advertisers spend up to 500% more when trying to...
read moreThe term "natural" has always been used pretty loosely in the food industry. Companies generally put it on their products to portray a sense of quality, while consumers assume the items with that claim are made without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or even that they are organic. However, there is no real...
read moreThe shift in popularity from big food companies that hold the largest share of the market to small, specialty companies that are just getting started may not be limited to only consumers. Investors are starting to notice that it may beneficial to move away from the well-known food stocks that have been struggling to get...
read moreThe food industry is constantly changing as new trends emerge, consumer tastes change and government regulations are updated. History is usually a good indicator of what is to come, and past trends are bound to lend themselves to future shifts. So it's important that businesses look back at the past year to determine what moves they should make in 2016.
read moreThe A&P Bankruptcy proceedings have hit home in this area, and I've found myself looking for a new grocery store as my go-to shopping destination is in the process of liquidating itself. This week, I visited a store that was purchased from A&P and reopened under a new banner, and was happy to see a display filled with ripe avocados, an item I noticed was lacking at my home store as it was preparing for a shutdown. I was even happier when I took a look at the price: 3 large Hass avocados for only $5.
read moreOnline grocery shopping is a hot topic in the food industry. Retailers and manufacturers alike are wondering how the rising popularity of e-commerce will impact their business, and with reason. Online grocery is one of the fastest growing categories in the industry, with sales growing five to six times greater than conventional channels, according to A.T. Kearney's
We've been watching the avian influenza outbreak pretty closely here at the Food Institute. Although most people understood that poultry prices would rise in the wake of the flu, government efforts were focused specifically on stopping the spread of the disease when it was first encountered in April. Luckily, it appears those efforts worked: by most accounts, the outbreak is over, and life is reverting to normal for producers in the affected regions.
read moreWhole Foods Market was once the go-to place for organic, natural and specialty foods. However, other retailers are increasingly seeing the merit of expanding their organic and natural food options, which has slowly eaten away at Whole Foods' market share. Back in June, The Food Institute reported that Costco and Kroger may surpass Whole Foods' organic sales, while other chains like Target and...
read moreAmazon made its reputation by creating disruptive sales opportunities for consumers since day one. By offering items online at discounted prices and providing quick, reliable and affordable shipping, the online retailer has positioned itself as the premier online shopping destination for over a decade.
read moreThe options are virtually endless when it comes to grocery delivery, as new companies keep emerging and others are completing funding rounds and expanding their service areas. Companies large and small have gotten into the action, and it isn't just existing retailers like Target or...
read moreThe rise of the emoji is an interesting phenomenon in our tech-savy world. Our earliest ancestors utilized pictographs and ideograms to represent physical items and ideas. However, as the alphabet system evolved and spread through the cultures of the world, our system of naming and...
read morePrivate label food items are becoming increasingly popular as consumers look more for value in their choices and perceptions of private label's quality improves. Store brands accounted for nearly $3 billion in incremental sales overall at the end of 2014, an increase of 2.5% over the previous year and more than twice the percentage gain that was recorded by national...
read moreThe American Dream is the national ethos and founding pillar upon our economic system. The ideals contained within the Dream spell out a path to prosperity, success and upward social mobility through hard work and determination. But the American Dream isn't always so easy to achieve, a lesson Haggen learned the hard way when it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this week.
read moreBreakfast is shifting from being the most important meal of the day to the most popular. Breakfast foods are increasingly being eaten more than just in the morning hours, and restaurants and analysts have begun to take notice.
read moreEarlier this year, I was lucky enough to spend a long weekend in New Orleans. It was my first trip to the city, and one of the first things that struck me was how beautiful the city itself was, followed closely by how friendly the locals were. By the time I was sitting down for my...
read moreAmazon is often cited as a disrupter in the online retail market, being one of the first to successfully establish themselves on the Internet as a legitimate retailer for the common American. The company continued to evolve, introducing free shipping, Prime...
read moreSugar has a strange history, with some estimates noting that it was first domesticated in 8,000 B.C. At one point, the granulated sweetener was considered an exotic novelty. Things began to change, however, in the year 1500, as technological improvements and New World sources changed sugar from a "fine spice" into a bulk commodity, according to read more
Most consumers agree protein is an important part of any meal, but not everyone uses it in the same way. Dinners used to consist of a one protein at the center of the plate, such as roasted chicken or a steak, with other items like starches and vegetables as sides. Now, households are changing the layout of their meals, and putting the traditional meat on the...
read moreMany industry analysts are predicting the demise of the so called "traditional supermarket," which they say is nearing the end of its tenure. With the rise of specialty stores, supercenters and alternative markets (such as convenience stores, drug stores and dollar stores), the grocery store is no longer the only major player in the food retail space. However, the line between supermarkets and other types of retailers is blurring, and it is becoming difficult to...
read moreNot many could foresee the growth Target would achieve in such a short timeframe. The company first opened in 1962 in Roseville, MN, and by 1972, the company had expanded to 46 locations. By 1982, the company had expanded beyond the central U.S., and by 2008, there were 1,600 stores across the nation.
read moreToday's world is filled with conveniences. Ideally, you could buy a new outfit, order a pizza, book a vacation, do your grocery shopping, and send your mom a birthday present, all without having to leave the house (or even talk to anyone else). Companies introduce new programs and products on a regular basis that make it even easier to spend money, such as one-click ordering, voice recognition technology, and...
read moreFrom freight trucking services to the average Joe getting to work to road tripping Millennials, America is a nation on-the-go. The national reliance upon individual vehicles offers Americans a specific and unique freedom of mobility, and in an economic climate without prohibitive gas prices, it seems more and more...
read moreIn a world that is increasingly dependent upon technology and convenience, it's no surprise that online ordering is becoming a staple for the American consumer. Although brick-and-mortar locations will always be a viable choice for those who need an item immediately, the convenience and price savings of online shopping often trump the immediacy of a...
read moreFrozen meals are known for their convenience, easy to pop into the microwave after a long day at work or school. However, they are not usually popular among the health conscious, which is an ever-growing segment of the consumer population. As people become more concerned with eating "better-for-you" foods, frozen meal manufacturers need to come up with ways to stay relevant and...
read moreAt The Food Institute, we have a little saying we like to repeat: we cover the entire food industry, from farm to fork. But the distance between the two seems to be shrinking as American consumers are exhibiting rising demand for locally-grown and produced foods.
read moreSeveral trends stood out at the 2015 Summer Fancy Food Show as companies capitalized on consumer demand. Some long-running flavors also made an appearance, whether continuing their existing trajectories or becoming slightly altered as consumers look for new flavors.
read moreU.S. consumers are spending less time eating and drinking in the average day than a decade ago. The overall population spent 1 hour and 14 minutes eating per day in 2004, but in 2014, we spent only 1 hour and 10 minutes eating and drinking, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics's
Few countries tie in their national identity with their culinary history as closely as France. When you think of French cuisine, your mind probably focuses immediately on cheeses, wines and baguettes. That may need to change, however, as the organic movement picks up steam within the country.
read moreCompanies have been trying to understand Millennials for years, ever since they started becoming old enough to make their own purchasing decisions. However, they may not be as complex as marketers have been led to believe. Specialty stores and small format retailers may not be the most important to Millennials, rather low prices and convenience may be the ultimate drivers of their purchases.
read moreToday's consumers love to snack. Some believe snacking throughout the day is healthier than eating three large meals, while others look to snacks for their convenience and portability. Whatever the reason, it's undeniable that snacks, especially in the "better-for-you" category, are gaining popularity...
read moreTrader Joe's has a long-established reputation for providing healthy fare at affordable prices, but a former executive from the company is taking it one step further with the opening of the Daily Table in Dorchester,...
read morePrivate label sales continue to control dollar share in the canned vegetable sector, according to a Food Institute analysis of data provided by IRI Worldwide. Private label products remained a top seller in many canned fruit categories, as well.
read moreOne of the most popular sectors for food industry startups is meal delivery. Every week another company is completing a large funding round, expanding into a new market or creating a new service. Research group PitchBook recently noted that online delivery represents a read more
New food trends are always moving on to the scene, but some stick around longer than others. Healthy foods and exotic flavors both seem to stay popular with consumers, as year after year more products are released with natural, nutritious and unique taste claims.
read moreAs sales of staples such as soda decline, contenders are appearing across the beverage industry. Dairy hasn't gone untouched, with plant-based alternatives growing rapidly. Other botanical beverages are trying to ride the same wave that gave rise to coconut water, touting health benefits and unique ingredients to gain the attention of younger consumers.
read moreFood ordering has gotten increasingly simple over the past few years, as many companies specialize in apps and websites that let users order and get food delivered in just a few taps of their smartphone. Domino's is obviously aware of that trend, and has launched an even easier service. Domino's unveiled a...
read moreAll industries are seeing the need to increase advancements in technology, and the food retail and restaurant business is at the forefront. Consumers are always interested in services that save them time and money, and technology is one obvious way for companies to deliver on that expectation. One of the most popular types of technology are smartphones, which open the door to all sorts of mobile apps and services.
read moreSupermarket mergers and acquisitions have been heating up in the past week, as four new deals in the industry were announced. Many retailers are using acquisitions to expand their chain or release new product offerings, instead of doing so organically.
read moreKraft Foods Group is the latest company to attempt to appeal to more health-conscious consumers and those looking for simpler fare by removing artificial ingredients from its products. The company will remove artificial preservatives and synthetic colors from its macaroni and cheese beginning in early 2016, as reported by Sun Sentinel. Instead of the yellow dyes nos. 5 and 6 which currently color the products, it will use...
read moreHow would you like to know that 2.2% of your annual revenue was going to come from fees people pay to just to buy your products or services? There might be some administrative costs incurred but other than that, you would have a positive cash flow before actually selling anything. Does this sound good to you?
read moreAmerican consumers have always demanded perfection. We want the best product available for the lowest possible price. Our entire economic system is fashioned so that we reward products with beautiful form and efficient function by buying them, allowing the rest to metaphorically rot. This could not be more true (or literal, for that matter) in the produce industry, which reportedly culls as much as
Consumers in the U.S. and overseas are in the midst of their Easter preparations, and food purchases are a large part of that. The National Retail Federation estimates the average person celebrating Easter in the U.S. will spend $140.62, slightly...
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