Shopko Announces Participation In Veriflora Preferred Retailer Program

Just in time for the spring 2011 gardening season, Shopko has announced that it has become a Veriflora Preferred Retailer and will offer consumers Veriflora certified sustainably grown annuals, perennials and vegetable plants. Shopko is the first multi-state retailer in North America to earn the distinction of Veriflora Preferred Retailer.

Mezzetta Launches New Products Inspired By Current Restaurant, Culinary Trends

April 25, 2011 Mezzetta Specialty Foods

Mezzetta Specialty Foods, Americas number-one producer of imported and domestic peppers and olives, announced today it is debuting a variety of new unique specialty food products inspired by current culinary trends, including three new cheese-stuffed olives: Smoked Gouda, Habanero Jack and Sharp White Cheddar.

Sales Surge In Specialty Foods A Sign Of Economic Recovery

U.S. specialty food sales sizzled last year in what industry experts believe is a sign consumers are regaining confidence and opening their wallets.

Deli Prepared Foods Lead Departments Increasing Share Of Fresh

April 25, 2011 The Perishables Group

New research from the Perishables Group reveals the in-store deli is gaining share of perishables sales, driven by deli-prepared foods. The information was released in the Perishables Groups new Deli Department Drivers report, which combines point-of-sale supermarket data, consumer demographic profiles, shopper loyalty card data and secondary research to determine the most important factors impacting department performance.

Fashion Execs Are Dairy Godfathers To A Herd Of Cows; $4.49 A Half-Gallon

Last year, Arethusa, their 325-acre farm in Litchfield County, began selling pricey branded milk and yogurt at 23 retail accounts, including Whole Foods. The milk sells for $4.49 per half-gallon, or more than twice the national retail average.