Posted inGuest Contributors, Association News, National

Consumer Trends Present New Opportunities To Leverage Fresh, Health, Wellness

Consumer trends in 2025 highlight a growing focus on health and wellness, presenting significant opportunities for independent grocers to adapt and thrive. Shoppers are increasingly prioritizing fresh, nutritious products and personalized solutions, driving a shift in how food retailers approach their offerings. Independent grocers, with their deep community connections and agility in meeting changing preferences, […]

Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Association News, National

FMI, NielsenIQ Report: Shoppers Blend In-Store, Online Experiences

As grocery shopping enters a new era of digital transformation, FMI – The Food Industry Association and NielsenIQ have released a new report, “Digital Engagement Transforms Grocery Shopping,” which premiered at FMI’s Midwinter Executive Conference. The report found that more than 90 percent of shoppers participate in both online and in-store shopping. “Consumers are seamlessly […]

Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, National

AppCard Introduces Pinky 2.0 For Independent Grocers

AppCard has introduced Pinky 2.0, an innovation that aims to boost the relevance of coupons and optimize consumer behavior tracking by using artificial intelligence for independent grocers. The advancements are designed to enhance grocery shopping experiences, driving higher customer retention and stronger coupon redemption rates.  Pinky 2.0’s new capabilities are grounded in personalized, data-driven insights, […]

Posted inBakery News, National

St Pierre To Make TV Debut In The U.S. Market

St Pierre Bakery has revealed its first above-the-line campaign for the U.S. market with a tongue-in-cheek take on French superiority, highlighting the brand’s quality credentials.  The “Eat Avec Respect” campaign, which launches Feb. 3, will appear across retailer online channels, social and digital brand channels and on TV screens through Connected TV. The Connected TV […]

Posted inOnline Grocery Technology, Association News, National

Badge Wins 2025 FMItech Pitch Competition

FMI – The Food Industry Association announced Badge as the champion of the fourth-annual FMItech Pitch Competition held during the FMI Midwinter Executive Conference Jan. 30-Feb. 2 on Marco Island, Florida. Three finalists presented food industry technology solutions, with conference attendees casting votes to determine the winner. “I’m thrilled to see how the FMItech Pitch Competition continues […]

Posted inSnacks Brands, Ask The Experts, National

Candy And Snacks: A Winning Formula For Independent Retailers

Sponsored content A Q&A with Anne-Marie Roerink, principal of 210 Analytics  2024 Trends: Balancing Value and Indulgence  Q: What were the major trends shaping the retail, candy and snacks landscape in 2024?  The dominant story of 2024 was the “value balancing act,” as consumers skillfully navigated between indulgence and practicality. This year saw a surge […]