Content about Barbara White-Sax

September 18, 2012

Whether packing lunches or providing an on-the-go pick-me-up, parents want more from the snacks they give their kids.

Whether packing lunches or providing an on-the-go pick-me-up, parents want more from the snacks they give their kids. “Snacks have to be nutritious, convenient and nutrient-dense,” said June Jo Lee, VP of The Hartman Group. Alternative grains, low-sugar and bean-based snacks are hot, and portion control is important. With nut allergies on the rise in the last decade, sales of nut-free snacks are increasing. Consumers are moving away from soy, which could be the next high-fructose  corn syrup. 

February 18, 2011

Cos. milk new products in struggling sector

Rising commodity costs and brutal competition have been squeezing profits from the ready-to-eat cereal category.

Rising commodity costs and brutal competition have been squeezing profits from the ready-to-eat cereal category. Dollar sales for the 52-week period ended Dec. 26, 2010, were down 3%, according to SymphonyIRI Group. Sue Viamari, editor of SymphonyIRI’s Times and Trends, said the category has been in decline during the past several quarters, and there was a 0.7% decline in price per volume during the same period. 

February 18, 2011

From screens to shelves, direct-response is a hit

Move over Snuggie and ShamWow — more direct-response products are coming to retail.

 “Over the past five years, there’s been an explosion of these products at retail,” said Tom Haire, editor of Response Magazine, a publication that covers the direct-response industry. “Retailers see products that fly off the shelves because they’ve been advertised so heavily, and manufacturers see an opportunity to extend the life of the brand.”

January 5, 2011

Beverage segment gets significant energy boost

  Dollar sales for energy drinks were up 8.2% in drug stores for the 52 weeks ended Oct. 31, 2010, according to SymphonyIRI Group. Energy shot dollar sales in the channel fared even better, with sales surging nearly 12% for the same period.

 Despite occasional controversy, demand remains strong for the beverages, and the segment is poised to become even more significant as its appeal broadens beyond its original target consumer group. 

January 5, 2011

Pet goods bark success

Americans still are spending on their pets. The American Pet Products Association projected that consumers spent $47.7 billion on their furry friends in 2010, an increase of 4.9% over 2009. 

Sales of pet beds, leashes and inexpensive toys still were strong sellers. Treat-dispensing toys, such as Premier Pet Products’ Busy Buddy, are must-have items. When priced right, they generate strong impulse purchases. 