Content about Harry Balzer

January 15, 2013
‘Heat-and-eat’ meals cook up new recipes, sales

In the current economy, microwavable single-serve meals may be the answer to consumers’ decreased restaurant use. “These meals occupy the spot between homemade and restaurant meals,” said Harry Balzer, chief industry analyst and VP at NPD Group. “They represent food
service redefined.”

In the current economy, microwavable single-serve meals may be the answer to consumers’ decreased restaurant use. “These meals occupy the spot between homemade and restaurant meals,” said Harry Balzer, chief industry analyst and VP at NPD Group. “They represent food
service redefined.”

August 20, 2012
Snacks play bigger role as food culture changes

Snacking is no longer limited to between-meal munching. “The food culture is changing, and snacking occasions are much broader,” said Blaine Becker, a representative for The Hartman Group.

Snacking is no longer limited to between-meal munching. “The food culture is changing, and snacking occasions are much broader,” said Blaine Becker, a representative for The Hartman Group. Becker said consumers are snacking more frequently during the day and often are reaching for more substantial, healthier snacks.

Research from The Hartman Group indicated that for millennial consumers, the lines between meals have blurred, and “three squares” a day are being replaced by smaller, more frequent meals.

October 19, 2011
Fresh dominates at drug

Drug stores continue to offer more fresh grocery items. “Fresh fruit and vegetables are top grocery categories. There’s high demand for the products, and the size of the market is huge. So it makes sense that the drug channel is going after that business,” said Harry Balzer, chief industry analyst and VP of the NPD Group.

Drug stores continue to offer more fresh grocery items. “Fresh fruit and vegetables are top grocery categories. There’s high demand for the products, and the size of the market is huge. So it makes sense that the drug channel is going after that business,” said Harry Balzer, chief industry analyst and VP of the NPD Group.

Greg Tradup, category manager of perishable, supplies and foodservice at McLane Co., said that drug stores are seeing a jump in sales of fresh fruits, juices and thaw-and-serve sandwiches.