Consumer pessimism related to gas prices and the economy remains high, but did not increase in March, according to the results from the most recent NACS Consumer Fuels Survey. Because convenience stores sell 80% of the gasoline purchased in the country, NACS conducts monthly surveys of gasoline customers to gauge their feelings related to gas…
DetailsHealthy 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 are more aware than ever of their own nutritional deficits, and what poor eating habits can do in terms of their long-term health,” said John…
DetailsThe 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 Tobacco (BAT), Imperial Tobacco, Japan Tobacco, and Philip Morris International (PMI) are all working on electronic cigarettes, nicotine inhalers, and tobacco vaporizers. “It will be…
DetailsThe 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 in more than 15 years as the worst drought” in 50 years continues to grip major farm states, reports the Washington Post. USDA says that…
DetailsAfter 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 prices, which in turn pushed pump prices higher. Refineries had temporary supply trouble, which also added to the higher prices. The national average of regular…
DetailsUSA 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 is timely, as more people are turning e-cigarettes to quit smoking or comply with smoke-free laws. According to a recent University of Minnesota study, young…
DetailsWhole 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 suggested that the move is odd for a chain that’s known for selling higher-priced organic foods. “How successful are you going to be when you’re…
DetailsU.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 was the 18th year of growth for the U.S. wine industry, as sweet reds and higher-end blends engaged more consumers. Domestic wines outpaced imports, with…
DetailsGeneral 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 fueling infrastructure, reports the Houston Chronicle. During an address at an energy conference this week, Akerson said that GM is turning out more natural gas-fueled…
DetailsBeer 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, with 66% saying they consume alcohol, and drinkers consuming just over four alcoholic drinks per week, on average. The findings are from Gallup’s annual Consumption…
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