Posted in, Center Store, Marketing News, Midwest, Suppliers

Rural Minnesota Company’s Product One Of Oprah’s ‘Favorite Things’

Annie B’s, a small, family-owned company in Minnesota, has been given a gift itself: Its wooden box of caramels has been chosen as one of Oprah’s “Favorite Things” for 2014. The rustic gift box is filled with 35 caramels and is available in Original; Sea Salt Caramel; or assorted, which includes Original, Sea Salt Caramel […]

Posted in, National, Organic Natural, Suppliers

Snyder’s-Lance Creates ‘Better For You’ Division

Snyder’s-Lance Inc. has created a new “better for you” division as well as increased in its investment in Late July Snacks LLC—a leader in organic and non-GMO snacks. The moves support the Charlotte, North Carolina-based company’s goal of creating a stronger presence in a healthier, more sustainable food industry. “We see our company growing and […]

Posted in, Grocery Industry, Independent Store News, Northeast, Southwest, Suppliers

C&S Wholesale Grocers To Acquire The Grocers Supply Co.

C&S Wholesale Grocers Inc. and The Grocers Supply Co. Inc. said Monday that C&S has agreed to acquire the wholesale distribution and supply business of Grocers Supply. The acquisition will include Grocers Supply’s warehouse and distribution operations in the Houston, Dallas and Rio Grande Valley areas along with its approximately 1,800 employees, but will not include […]

Posted in, National, Suppliers

Cutrale-Safra Reaches Agreement To Buy Chiquita For $1.3B

Chiquita Brands International Inc. and the Cutrale-Safra group have reached a definitive merger agreement valued at approximately $1.3 billion. The agreement has been unanimously approved by Chiquita’s board of directors and includes Cutrale-Safra acquiring all outstanding common shares of Chiquita for $14.50 per share in cash. The companies say the transaction combines Chiquita, one of […]

Posted in, Beverage News, Center Store, National, Suppliers

Coca-Cola Looks To ‘Reinvigorate Growth’

The Coca-Cola Co. says it plans to take actions to reinvigorate growth, supporting the Atlanta-based company’s previously announced five strategic priorities to restore momentum and the company’s long-term growth target of high single-digit comparable currency neutral EPS. “We are taking decisive action to position The Coca-Cola Co. to continue delivering long-term value for our shareowners,” […]

Posted in, Corporate Store News, Independent Store News, Store News, Suppliers, West

Washington Food Industry Association Hands Out Annual Awards

The Washington Food Industry Association (WFIA) last week presented its annual awards during a surprise ceremony that highlighted the many achievements of the state’s grocery industry. Vashon Thriftway recognized with excellence award Norm Mathews, owner of Vashon Thriftway, was presented with the 2014 Excellence in Operations Award by the WFIA. “Norm has worked tirelessly to […]

Posted in, Executive News, National, Suppliers

Chiquita Names Craig Stephen SVP Of Sales, Marketing For Fresh Express

Chiquita Brands International has appointed Craig Stephen SVP of sales and marketing for Fresh Express. Stephen will have responsibility for Fresh Express sales, marketing and customer service operations as the company continues to provide expanded category offerings in retail value-added and private label salads. “Craig is highly regarded and respected by all stakeholders across the […]

Posted inSoutheast, Independent Store News, Suppliers

Wade Payne Of Mitchell Grocery Is Ala.’s Retailer Of Year, Others Recognized At Luncheon

The Alabama Grocers Association held its annual Food Industry Finest Luncheon this week, honoring its retailer, wholesaler, manufacturer and broker of the year award winners. More than 150 people attended the event at The Club in Birmingham to discuss the work of the Alabama Grocers Association in 2014 and those in the food, beverage and grocery […]