Posted inAssociation News, Guest Contributors, National

Preparing For The USDA’s New Organic Enforcement Rule

The deadline for USDA’s “Strengthening Organic Enforcement” (SOE) final rule is barely a month away. More robust recordkeeping, audits and traceability of organic certifications will be required of more businesses throughout the food supply. The National Grocers Association, as part of its traceability partnership with ReposiTrak, hosted a recent webinar that explained what the rule […]

Posted inBJ's Wholesale Club, Albertsons, Association News, Market Profile, Northeast

Maine Sees Evolving Retail Landscape, Population Shift

Maine is known for its picturesque mountain and coastal landscapes, as well as its seafaring traditions, agricultural and forestry businesses. It also is a state dealing with economic and workforce challenges and an evolving retail landscape. Layered on top of this, Maine is experiencing a profound pandemic-fueled population shift. COVID had (and is still having) […]

Posted inThe Kroger Co., Albertsons, Amazon Fresh, Association News, Corporate Store News, National, Whole Foods

FTC Sues To Block Kroger, Albertsons Merger

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has sued to block the proposed merger between The Kroger Co. and Albertsons Cos., alleging that the deal is anticompetitive. The FTC charges that the proposed deal will eliminate competition between Kroger and Albertsons, leading to higher prices for groceries and other essential household items for millions of Americans. The […]

Posted inPrivate Label Brands, Albertsons, Association News, Northeast

PLMA Sets Keynote, Speaker Lineup For Upcoming Conference

Brandon Brown, SVP of Own Brands at Albertsons Cos., will be the keynote speaker at the PLMA 2024 Annual Meeting and Leadership Conference, set for March 20-22 in San Antonio.  With a focus on trends, the gathering at the Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk brings together manufacturers, retailers and others to gain insights, knowledge and […]

Posted inMarket Profile, Albertsons, Association News, Southwest

Food Deserts Serious Reality In Parts Of Rural New Mexico

Challenging is a word some might use to describe the state of supermarkets in New Mexico. Others see it as ripe for changes, that if instituted, would benefit retailers as well as economically challenged residents. While surrounding states are thriving in terms of population and economy, New Mexico hasn’t fared as well in recent years. […]

Posted inAssociation News, Midwest

Grant Offerings Aim To Boost Food Access In Minnesota

The Minnesota Grocers Association (MGA) is partnering with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) to expand food access in low- and moderate-income areas via two grant programs. The GFAP Equipment and Physical Improvement Grant helps grocery stores and small food retailers buy equipment or make physical improvements that will allow them to increase the availability […]