Posted inAssociation News, National, News

FMI Responds To USDA Guidance On SNAP Waivers

FMI – The Food Industry Association has responded to recently issued USDA guidance on SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) waiver implementation, emphasizing the need for a clear transition period to help retailers prepare for new requirements that will affect point-of-sale systems, compliance and customer transactions. In its statement, FMI highlighted the importance of a well-managed […]

Posted inAssociation News, National, News, Nonfood Items

Key Brands Confirmed For The 2026 Inspired Home Show In Chicago

The International Housewares Association (IHA) has announced the lineup of brands set to exhibit at The Inspired Home Show 2026, a marketplace and networking platform for the home and housewares industry. Set for March 10-12, the 126th edition of the show is expected to draw thousands of retail buyers, product suppliers and industry leaders to […]

Posted inExecutive News, Association News, News, Northeast

NJFC Names 2026 President’s Scholarship Award After McCaffrey III

The New Jersey Food Council (NJFC) will be naming its 2026 President’s Scholarship Award after Jim McCaffrey III, president and CEO of McCaffrey’s Markets, in recognition of his decades of service to the grocery industry.  The honor was announced at NJFC’s annual holiday celebration Dec. 3 in East Brunswick, New Jersey, a gathering featuring hundreds […]

Posted inAssociation News, National, News

NGA Calls For Clear Guidelines On State SNAP Purchase Restrictions

The National Grocers Association (NGA) has issued a statement on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program waiver policies, emphasizing the need for clarity as states begin applying new rules that affect what foods can be purchased with SNAP benefits. In recent months, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved waivers that allow certain restrictions on SNAP-eligible […]

Posted inSnacks Brands, Association News, National, News

Winter Holidays Drive Chocolate, Candy Sales As Seasonal Traditions Endure

The winter holiday season remains the most important sales period of the year for chocolate and candy, driven by strong consumer traditions around gifts, entertaining and everyday indulgence, according to new data and seasonal insights from the National Confectioners Association (NCA). NCA research shows that 95 percent of Americans celebrate with chocolate and candy across […]

Posted inGrocery Store Equipment, Association News, National, News

FMI, Coalition Ask Federal Reserve To Finalize Debit Card Swipe Fee Reform

FMI – The Food Industry Association joined a coalition of merchant industry organizations representing Main Street businesses nationwide in urging the Federal Reserve to move forward and finalize its long-pending debit card swipe fee reform rule. The rule stems from the Durbin Amendment, enacted in 2010, which directed the Fed to ensure debit card interchange […]

Posted inPrivate Label Brands, Association News, National, News

PLMA Preps For National Store Brands Month In January

Store Brands Month returns Jan. 1 with a nationwide, consumer-focused awareness campaign designed to spotlight the quality, innovation and value of private label products. Created by the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA), the program is an industry-wide initiative that educates consumers about the breadth of store brand products available at supermarkets, club and convenience stores, […]