On Wednesday, general merchandise retailer Target reported results for the first quarter of 2016. During its conference call, the retailer noted that Q1 food comps were dragged down by a decline in center store grocery. The drop was due in large part to what Target describes as a “meaningful disruption” related to a major center… Read More »
Earlier this month, Kroger and Boulder, Colorado-based natural & organics foods retailer Lucky’s Market announced a “strategic partnership.” As stated in the press release, the partnership: “…will benefit customers and accelerate growth in new and existing markets by combining Kroger’s scale and experience with Lucky’s best products, practices and techniques.” The press release also reveals… Read More »
Whole Foods: Gluten Free Retail Tour This installment of “Gluten Free Retail Tour” highlights Whole Foods’ efforts in the gluten free space. This retail tour features Whole Foods-Easton, which opened in Columbus, Ohio last September. Despite some unique merchandising techniques used throughout the store and an abundance of fresh and grab-and-go options, we were somewhat underwhelmed by… Read More »
In December 2015, the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) introduced its SmartLabel technology initiative. The goal is to give consumers “instantaneous access” to detailed product information on thousands of products through their smart phones. This means providing increased transparency on ingredients and other product attributes, including nutritional information, allergens, genetically engineered ingredients, third-party certifications, social compliance… Read More »
A growing number of gluten free apps are cropping up that cater to shoppers with food allergies, and more specifically those with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. There are apps that support product research and the in-store food shopping process as well as tools that help locate gluten free-friendly dining-out options. This post focuses on… Read More »
Last week Kroger reported results for its fourth quarter and 2015 fiscal year, which ended on January 30, 2016. Some key performance highlights: 9% identical supermarket sales growth (excluding fuel) in Q4, continuing its string of quarterly identical supermarket sales growth, now at 49 straight quarters. That’s an incredible 10+ years running. 2015 full-year identical… Read More »
It’s critical that celiacs and other gluten-sensitive shoppers conduct adequate due diligence on products and ingredients, else health risks come into play. Product and supply chain transparency is paramount. Fortunately, the gluten-free shopper journey is becoming more manageable as new technology and tools, like mobile apps, come on board. Today, tools and technology to support… Read More »