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Mars to reinvest in supply chain, launches M&M’s Spotlight concert series
HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. — Mars is making a big reinvestment in its U.S. manufacturing. The company on Thursday announced a $70 million investment that it says would add roughly 250 jobs at various sites across the country and ensuring that 95% of its chocolate products are made in the United States.
Sargento intros Sweet Balanced Breaks snacks
PLYMOUTH, Wis. — Sargento on Wednesday introduced its latest snack product, Sweet Balanced Breaks, which combine cheese and such sweet ingredients as dark chocolate and dried fruit.

“We have been thrilled with the response to Balanced Breaks snacks, and we wanted to give our loyal fans even more variety and convenience in their snacks," Sargento Foods’ consumer products division director of marketing Ryan Hemsing said. “The Sweet Balanced Breaks line lets people embrace their sweet side with the perfect balance of indulgence and real goodness.”

TreeHouse Foods onboards former Walgreens group VP as chief strategy officer

OAK BROOK, Ill. — Moe Alkemade, former Walgreens group VP/general manager for convenience, will join private brand manufacturer TreeHouse Foods as SVP and chief strategy officer, effective April 24, the company announced Tuesday.

He will report to Sam Reed, TreeHouse chairman and CEO. The move reunites Alkemade with Rachel Bishop, who joined Treehouse from Walgreens in 2014.
Mighty Organic rolls out Mighty Sticks

LA FARGE, Wis. — Jerky maker Mighty Organic is adding to its product offerings with the new Mighty Sticks.

“It's awesome to introduce a 100% grass-fed beef stick that's healthy and not overly processed,” Mighty brand manager Ellie France said. “These days, it seems everyone wants to snack sensibly, which makes Mighty Sticks a great choice whether you're at your local co-op or the convenience store down the street.”
Nice-Pak named Walmart Private Brand Supplier of the Year

ORANGEBURG, N.Y. — Nice-Pak on Tuesday announced its recognition as the Private Brand Supplier of the Year by Walmart, one of the company's largest customers. Walmart's Private Brand Supplier of the Year Award is new for Walmart in FYE 2017 and was awarded to Nice-Pak as a result of their overall collaboration with product innovation, thought leadership and category insights.
Jerky maker Lorissa’s Kitchen launches convenience-focused ad campaign

MINNEAPOLIS — Protein snack brand Lorissa’s Kitchen is unveiling new advertising to highlight the convenience of its jerky for health-minded shoppers. The “Snack more, make snacks less” campaign kicked off Monday with TV spots that feature Lorissa's Kitchen snacks as a solution to time-consuming snack prep.
Carolina Global Brewing unveils Juicebar Cocktails

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — With demand for healthy juices increasing, Carolina Brewing Company is bringing them to the ready-to-drink space with the launch of its Juicebar Cocktails line of malt beverages. It will begin distribution for the first two flavors, Carrot Aloe Mango (4.9% alcohol by volume) and Pineapple Lime (4.7% alcohol by volume) in May in Mass., Conn., R.I., Minn., N.J. and Ga.
Bartell Drugs sees tangible results with Prime Now service

SEATTLE — There’s always a first for everything.
Red Vines launches California Collection ahead of multi-city tour

SAN FRANCISCO — Ahead of National Licorice Day on April 12, the American Licorice Company has introduced a new addition to its Red Vines product line. The Red Vines California Collection features seven varieties of the brand’s licorice pieces, and the company is planning to kick off a statewide tour to support the launch.
StarKist intros 3 new pouch flavors

PITTSBURGH — StarKist is expanding its Tuna and Salmon Creations line of single-serve pouch products with its new Bold line of flavors. The first three products in the line, introduced Friday, are Tuna Creations Bold Thai Chili Style, Bold Jalapeño Style and Bold Hot Buffalo Style.