Breez AI has added Gary Koch, CEO of Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG), to its board of directors and named David Stukus as VP of sales and customer success. The leadership additions come as Breez AI accelerates growth across retailers, prepares to deploy its next‑generation AI platform, and unlocks new monetization capabilities for independent grocers. “Breez […]
Category: National
Posted inNew Products, Beverage News, National, News
Oikos Adds Strawberry, Caffeinated Mocha Latte to Protein Shake Lineup
Oikos, the Danone-owned high-protein yogurt brand, is expanding its ready-to-drink protein shake lineup with two new flavors: Strawberry and Mocha Latte. The additions bring the shelf-stable shake line to five varieties, joining Chocolate, Vanilla and Salted Caramel. Each shake delivers 30 grams of complete protein, 5 grams of prebiotic fiber and vitamins A and D, […]
Posted inGrocery Research, Featured News, National, News
Report: 19 States To Restrict SNAP Soda, Candy Purchases By End Of 2026
By the end of 2026, 19 states will have SNAP food restriction waivers in place, affecting roughly one‑third of program participants and putting up to $830 million in soda, candy and energy drink sales at risk, according to a new report from Numerator, a consumer data and technology company. The report, “SNAP Spending in 2026: […]
Posted inCorporate Store News, National, News
Family Dollar Shutters 350 Stores In 10 Months Under New Ownership
Family Dollar has closed at least 350 stores in the U.S. since July 7, 2025, a 4.69 percent reduction in the chain’s footprint, according to a new analysis by Local Falcon, a local AI search visibility platform. The closures amount to about one store per day over the 309‑day period ending May 12. The chain’s […]
Posted inDairy News, National, News
Kraft Natural Cheese Adds Lactose‑Free Line With Three Varieties
Kraft Natural Cheese has launched its new Lactose‑Free product line, expanding its portfolio to meet growing demand for dairy options that support a range of dietary needs. Available in three varieties – Mild Cheddar Shredded Cheese, Mozzarella Shredded Cheese, and Mozzarella String Cheese – each new product is made with real dairy and delivers the […]
Posted inExecutive News, Featured News, Merchandising News, National, News, The Kroger Co.
Kroger SVP Jabbar Retires After 38 Years
The Kroger Co. has announced that Valerie Jabbar, SVP of retail divisions, retired in May after 38 years of service. Jabbar began her career with Kroger’s Fry’s division in 1987 as a clerk. Over the decades, she held a range of leadership roles, including assistant store director, category manager, drug/general manager coordinator, general office seasonal […]
Posted inCorporate Store News, BJ's Wholesale Club, Featured News, National, News
BJ’s Adding 5 Clubs In 3 States
BJ’s Wholesale Club has announced the locations of five new clubs set to open this year in Florida, Indiana and Kentucky – part of a push to add 12 stores nationwide in 2026. The stores will be located in: Lecanto, Florida; Ocala, Florida; Port St. Lucie, Florida; Portage, Indiana; and Frankfort, Kentucky The expansion strengthens […]
Posted inIndependent Store News, Corporate Store News, Featured News, National, News
Grocers Fire Up Grills, Fuel Points, Military Support For Memorial Day
Memorial Day weekend is nearly here, and grocers across the country are rolling out programs that blend savings, community support and a few hot-off-the-grill events. Whether shoppers are hosting a cookout, honoring service members or stocking up for summer, retailers are offering a range of options. Here’s a look at what some grocers are doing […]