Amazon sets the record straight about Dash Carts and Just Walk Out tech
After numerous reports that Amazon was removing its Just Walk Out technology from its Fresh banners, the company has released an update confirming that it's currently focused on using the technology in small-format retail, while its Dash Carts will be applied to grocery and large-format stores.
Source: progressivegrocer.com
US: Hy-Vee enters Indiana with the acquisition of Strack & Van Til
Hy-Vee announced that it is acquiring Strack & Van Til, a 22-store grocery chain in northwest Indiana. The companies did not disclose the terms of the deal. Strack & Van Til will keep its name and operate as a subsidiary under Hy-Vee. Hy-Vee said it expects to finalize the acquisition in early May. The acquisition comes at a time when Hy-Vee is expanding its retail footprint and growing its presence in states such as Indiana.
Source: grocerydive.com
US: 7-Eleven, Inc. completes acquisition of 204 Stripes stores
7-Eleven, Inc. ("7-Eleven"), the premier chain in the convenience-store industry, announced the successful completion of its acquisition of 204 stores from Sunoco LP, which includes Stripes® convenience stores and Laredo Taco Company® restaurants. With the closing, 7-Eleven now owns and operates all Stripes and Laredo Taco Company locations across the US. In other news, 7-Eleven, Inc. has released its 2023 Impact Report.
Source: prnewswire.com
US: "Snack'in For You" launches in Bashas'
Snack'in For You by Sigma Foods announced the launch of its baked, vegetable-based, gluten-free, high-protein, better-for-you baked puffs at Bashas' locations throughout Arizona. Available in four-ounce bags across four boldly delicious flavor profiles: Cauliflower Puffs in Sour Cream and Onion, and Buffalo Ranch; Broccoli Puffs in Mesquite Barbeque, and Cheddar Jalapeño.
Source: globenewswire.com
Flashfood hits a major milestone in the fight against food waste
Flashfood is celebrating a major milestone as it reaches 100mln pounds of food diverted from landfills across North America. The Certified B Corp most recently partnered with California-based The Save Mart Companies to bring customers at Save Mart, Lucky and FoodMaxx banners the ability to use the platform.
Source: progressivegrocer.com
US: Gopuff gets fresh with Misfits Market
Quick-commerce platform Gopuff has rolled out what it describes as "a comprehensive and affordable Fresh Grocery assortment powered by Misfits Market's unique supply chain that reduces food waste", making use of the latter company's differentiated sourcing model. The partnership will deliver more than 300 items, including fresh fruit and vegetables, dairy, meat, and bread, to customers in as fast as 15 minutes.
Source: progressivegrocer.com
Sweden: Simone Margulies appointed new President and CEO of Axfood
The Board of Directors of Axfood has appointed Simone Margulies, currently Managing Director of Hemköpskedjan AB, as President and CEO of Axfood as of 15 August 2024. Simone Margulies will, from 15 August 2024, succeed Klas Balkow as President and CEO of Axfood.
Source: axfood.com
Malta: Lidl pledges donation to Caritas on food-saving bags on top of €3,000 gift
The discount supermarket giant Lidl has donated €3,000 to the Catholic charity Caritas Malta in a series of donations, which the company said were aimed at tackling food waste reduction. Lidl launched a food-saving bag in December 2023, retailing at €3, with imperfectly shaped fruit and vegetables that are perfectly good and safe to eat or with slightly damaged packaging from all its 10 stores.
Source: maltatoday.com.mt
Holland: Albert Heijn sets up Food Transition Advisory Council
Dutch retailer Albert Heijn has established a Food Transition Advisory Council comprising nine honorary independent experts from various sectors of society. Albert Heijn focuses on seeking outside perspectives and engaging in discussions with all links in the chain, which is in line with its mission: 'Samen beter eten bereikbaar maken. Voor iedereen.'(Making better food accessible together. For everyone.)
Source: esmmagazine.com
Jersey shop shelves empty after boat cancellations
Shop shelves in Jersey have been empty of fresh produce since Monday due to canceled freight ferries. Condor Ferries' conventional sailings were cancelled on Monday and Tuesday "due to operational reasons", the company said. The boats carry freight and fresh food, as well as passengers, to the Channel Islands.
Source: bbc.com
France: Climate change poses a 'decisive challenge' for retail leaders, Carrefour CEO says
Climate change stands as a "decisive challenge" for the current generation of retail leaders, according to Alexandre Bompard, chief executive and chairperson of Carrefour. Bompard was speaking on key issues facing retailers in his opening address at the 2024 World Retail Congress in Paris.
Source: esmmagazine.com
UK: Freezers, wonky veg, and the fight against food waste
In British homes, a quiet revolution brews in the kitchen - a concerted effort heralded by the soft hum of the freezer and the rustle of wonky vegetables in the shopping basket. Data from Worldpanel by Kantar indicates a shift from the ephemerality of perishables to the dependability of frozen goods. Products with extended shelf life are more common, and wonky vegetables - 23% cheaper on average - have found favor with cost-conscious consumers.
Source: kantar.com
Montenegro's retail leaders see profit surge in 2023
Montenegro's top five retail chains collectively surpassed €1bln in revenue in 2023, while profit grew 61% year on year to €31.4mln, according to local portal Investitor. According to financial statements submitted to Montenegro's tax administration, market leader Voli generated revenue of €356.23mln and a net profit of €15.6mln. This translates to a 14% increase in revenue and a 34% growth in profit compared to 2022.
Source: esmmagazine.com
Auchan launches new discount hypermarket brand in Romania
Auchan Romania has renovated its Brașov Vest hypermarket to launch a brand new concept: ATAC Hiper Discount by Auchan, promising everyday low prices and different price tiers based on quantity.
Source: esmmagazine.com
UK: Asda announces the ultimate summer BBQ range for 2024, with 26 NEW fiery meats, grills, and melts
For vegetarian and plant-based BBQ's, options include Vegetarian Harissa & Feta Burgers and OMV! Deliciously Vegan 4 Tandoori No Chicken Kebabs, with classic BBQ options available.
Source: corporate.asda.com