Center Store

CVS removes artificial trans fats from all exclusive store brands food products
WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS Pharmacy removed partially hydrogenated oils, the artificial trans fats in processed foods, from all excusive store brands food products. CVS is the first national retail pharmacy to make this move, according to the company.

CVS now offers more than 600 exclusive snack and grocery options that are free from artificial trans fats. Trans fats are purportedly linked to rising rates of heart disease in the United States.
Mondelez to introduce new Véa brand this year
BOCA RATON, Fla. — Mondelēz International is looking to launch a new “power brand,” aimed at driving incremental growth, the company announced Tuesday at the Consumer Analyst Group of New York Conference.

“Well-being is a significant growth opportunity for us, both in developed and emerging markets,” Mondelēz International chief growth officer Tim Cofe said. “In fact, 2017 will be our biggest year ever in the well-being space with unprecedented innovation and renovation of our portfolio.”

Kraft Heinz pulls plug on Unilever deal

PITTSBURGH — Kraft Heinz has called off its $143 billion proposed merger with Unilever.

“Unilever and Kraft Heinz hereby announce that Kraft Heinz has amicably agreed to withdraw its proposal for a combination of the two companies,” the companies said in a joint statement. “Unilever and Kraft Heinz hold each other in high regard. Kraft Heinz has the utmost respect for the culture, strategy and leadership of Unilever.”
MidWest Gloves & Gear intros Xpert Grip work gloves

CHILLICOTHE, Mo. — MidWest Gloves & Gear has introduced a new work glove to its selection. The company roled out its Xpert Grip General Purpose Work Gloves, which are aimed at providing superior non-slip grip and dexterity in dry, wet and oily conditions.

The palm of the new gloves features a unique palm surface with a foam rubber honeycomb coating to create a gripping surface. The knit gloves have a flexible cuff and are a high visibility safety color.
Kraft Heinz proposes $143B merger with Unilever

PITTSBURGH — Kraft Heinz proposed a $143 billion merger with Unilever, but Unilever rejected the bid, stating it undervalues its company.

"Unilever rejected the proposal as it sees no merit, either financial or strategic, for Unilever's shareholders. Unilever does not see the basis for any further discussions,” the company said in a statement.

Although Unilever rejected the initial proposal, this may not be Kraft Heinz’s only merger proposal.
Southeastern Grocers launches private-label transformation

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Southeastern Grocers, which operates the Bi-Lo, Fresco y Más, Harveys and Winn-Dixie banners, announced Thursday that it will be transforming its private label brand in its largest-ever undertaking, which will encompass some 3,000 items across categories throughout each banner.
Mondelez unveils Teddy Soft Bakes

EAST HANOVER, N.J. — Mondelēz International on Thursday rolled out its new treat that joins Teddy Grahams in the Teddy brand portfolio. The snack, already known around the world as Barni, will hit the U.S. as Teddy Soft Bakes.

Teddy Soft Bakes are a fluffy, soft-baked filled snack in the shape of a bear that comes in two varieties, chocolate filling and vanilla-flavored filling.
Four Loko unveils first Bold Series varieties as brand grows segment share

CHICAGO — Phusion Projects, maker of the Four Loko brand of malt beverages, announced Wednesday the first of the product innovations that it has scheduled for this year with the launch of its Four Loko Bold Series. The announcement also comes as the company marks a robust sales year.

Four Loko Bold Series’s first two additions are Four Loko Frost and Four Loko Blaze.
CVS highlights ‘Snacks That Give Back’ at more than 2,300 stores

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — CVS Pharmacy launched a new initiative, “Snacks That Give Back,” which highlights more than 30 better-for-you snacks that support charitable causes, fair labor and sustainability.

These products are featured at a trend zone-themed area in the store at 2,367 locations through early May.

Items included in the Snacks That Give Back trend zone are:
Angry Orchard rolls out seasonal Tapped Maple, limited-release Spiced Apple varieties

WALDEN, N.Y. — Angry Orchard on Tuesday announced the launch of its latest cider inspired by the seasons. Angry Orchard Tapped Maple, which is available through April, takes its inspiration from the late winter tapping of maple trees, blending American culinary apple with a hint of Vermont maple syrup.