Artificial intelligence applications for local and regional retail grocers are no longer on the horizon – they are a reality today. Pete Catoe, founder and CEO of ECRS, a retail solutions provider, said AI technology is available to grocers with practical tools they should already be using to enhance the customer experience. Catoe said two […]
Category: Shelby Originals
Exclusive, in-depth stories from the Shelby team. Explore Food Industry features, market profiles, and unique perspectives from industry leaders.
Posted inBig Y Foods, Market Profile, Northeast
Local Grocers Dominate Market, Embrace Innovation Across Massachusetts
Massachusetts shoppers have a diverse selection of grocery stores to choose from, thanks to a strong presence of regional chains alongside new entrants. This fragmented market offers a variety of shopping experiences but also presents challenges in ensuring equitable access to healthy food options. When looking for a grocery store in Massachusetts, shoppers are likely […]
Posted inAssociation News, Guest Contributors, National
Independent Grocers Ready To Celebrate NGA Foundation Awareness Week
Initiatives like diversity and inclusion, leadership development, technical assistance and support for the industry’s next generation are important to independent grocers but are often eclipsed by the ongoing day-to-day business of feeding their communities. As the 501(c)3 nonprofit arm of the National Grocers Association, the NGA Foundation supports the future of the independent community grocer […]
Posted inAssociation News, Dairy News, Guest Contributors, National
What’s Driving Dairy Purchasing Decisions?
Dairy is a destination for daily staples on most shopping trips. But, how are evolving demographics, changing nutritional requirements and the rise of alternative products influencing what winds up in consumers’ baskets? A recent webinar hosted by NGA explored consumption trends for dairy products as part of a healthy eating pattern, including potential barriers that […]
Posted inMarket Profile, Independent Store News, Midwest
New Niemann Harvest Market Offers Guests A Shopping Destination
Shoppers in Carmel, Indiana, have a new destination for their grocery needs. Niemann Harvest Market opened May 15, the first in the state for the Niemann Foods banner. According to Store Director Sean Olson, what makes the store different is “everything that we do starts with partnerships with local producers and makers.” He clarified that […]
Posted inMarket Profile, Association News, Midwest
Indiana ‘Beset’ With Same Economic Problems As Rest Of U.S.
Indiana’s economy is experiencing a period of sustained growth. According to IBISWorld, the Hoosier state’s gross domestic product reached $353.9 billion in 2023, with a 20.3 percent increase over the past five years. Manufacturing remains a significant driver, with sectors like motor vehicles, metals and electronics leading the way. However, the recent “Feeding the Economy” […]
Posted inMarket Profile, Aldi, Corporate Store News, Home Page Latest News, Southeast, The Kroger Co.
Aldi To Begin Winn-Dixie, Harveys Assimilation Process
North Florida’s biggest retail grocery news over the past year arguably came out of Jacksonville. Following a deal announced in August 2023 and completed in early March this year, Southeastern Grocers’ Winn-Dixie brand, along with sister banner Harveys Supermarkets, now are owned by Aldi, the value-focused retailer headquartered in Batavia, Illinois. Aldi said the deal […]
Posted inAssociation News, Guest Contributors, National
A New Look At Labor Retention For Independent Grocery Operators
Grocery has one of the highest employee turnover rates of any U.S. industry. A recent study commissioned by the Coca-Cola Retailing Research Council examined the lingering impact of the pandemic and other issues around hiring and retention. In a recent webinar hosted by the National Grocers Association and the NGA Foundation, longtime industry expert, observer […]