Americans Hungry for Healthy Foods
Healthy eating has come to the forefront of many minds over the past several years, and this increased interest in healthy eating is highlighted by new research from Mintel. “Consumers…
Big Tobacco Investing in Smoke-Free Alternatives
The world’s four largest tobacco firms outside of China see less smoke in the future—and they’re going to be ready with smoke-free tobacco products, the Financial Times reports. British American…
USDA Reduces Corn, Soy Crop Estimates
The U.S. Department of Agriculture reduced its expectations for U.S. corn and soybean production “for the second consecutive month last Friday, predicting what could be the lowest average corn yield…
U.S. Drought Triggers Rise in Pump Prices
After dropping steadily from its April peak, gasoline prices are again rising because of the Midwest drought, Reuters reports. The dry conditions in cornfields have sparked an increase in ethanol…
The Debate over E-Cigarettes
USA Today highlighted the debate over e-cigarettes last week, balancing the concerns of researchers who warn of addiction with the industry’s claim they do more good than harm. The look…
Whole Foods Plans Aggressive Expansion
Whole Foods plans to triple its store count to 1,000 while opening locations in so-called food deserts—including midtown Detroit—and smaller markets, the Chicago Tribune reports. Food industry consultant Jack Horst…
U.S. Wine Consumption Records 18th Year of Growth
U.S. wine consumption grew 3% last year to reach 312.4 million 9-liter cases, according to The Beverage Information Group’s (BIG) recently released 2012 Wine Handbook. The group reports that 2011…
GM Calls for Natural Gas Station Network
General Motors Chairman and CEO Daniel Akerson wants you to know his company is serious about producing natural gas vehicles, but that more needs to be done to grow the…
Beer Edges Out Wine as Drinkers’ Beverage of Choice
Beer continues to be Americans’ preferred alcoholic drink, although wine remains a close second, with liquor favored by 22%. In fact, Americans’ drinking habits held steady in the past year,…
Walmart’s Small Format Makes Big Impression
Walmart says its smaller-format stores are gaining market share against dollar stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies and will therefore play an increasingly significant role in the company’s future, the Wall Street…