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GMDC releases Amazon whitepaper
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The Global Market Development Center on Monday released a new whitepaper, “Amazon in Focus: Overview,” which summarizes an analysis of Amazon’s business model, presented by Keith Anderson, VP and senior analyst at RetailNet Group, in a GMDC* Connect Videocast.
Nielsen Holdings to complete Harris Interactive merger
NEW YORK — Nielsen Holdings on Monday announced that it has completed the tender offer by Nielsen and its wholly owned subsidiary, Prime Acquisition Corp., to acquire all outstanding shares of common stock of Harris Interactive, a global market research firm. Nielsen expects to complete the acquisition of Harris through a merger under Delaware law. Upon the completion of the merger, Harris Interactive will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Nielsen and its shares will cease to be traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market.

General Mills rolls out new products

MINNEAPOLIS — General Mills has launched more than 50 new items in the United States, with dozens more to launch in international markets.

Some of the new offerings include:
Altria to acquire Green Smoke

RICHMOND, Va. — Altria Group on Monday announced that its subsidiary, Nu Mark, agreed to acquire e-vapor business Green Smoke and its affiliates for approximately $110 million in cash and up to $20 million in incentive payments.
Nestlé expands Valentine's Day collection with new kits

GLENDALE, Calif. — Nestlé USA announced expansions to its seasonal Valentine's Day collection, which includes cards kits filled with Nestlé-branded treats.
Welch's PB&J Snacks to hit retail shelves

ALLENDALE, N.J. — The Promotion in Motion Cos., makers of Welch's Fruit Snacks, announced the launch of Welch's PB&J Snacks, which combines the tastes of peanut butter and jelly in one treat.

The bite-sized snacks have a chewy center made with real fruit, which is surrounded by a peanut butter coating. Snackers can choose from four varieties: Concord Grape or Strawberry center and creamy or crunch peanut butter outside.
Hallmark names VP, strategic relationships

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Former Coca-Cola executive Scott Young has joined Hallmark Cards as VP strategic relationships and business development.

He succeeds longtime Hallmark VP Vince Burke, who retires Jan. 31 after more than 30 years with the company.
Survey: Almost 90% of moms regularly influenced by coupons

CHICAGO — An exclusive study of more than 2,200 moms who primarily buy food for their family at supermarkets reveals that an overwhelming majority (89%) are regularly influenced by coupons to try new food and drink products.

Conducted by the online community WomensForum.com, the "Womensforum.com Supermarket Moms Survey" also found that nearly half of grocery-seeking moms (49%) see it as a frequent occurrence.
Samuel Adams debuts Rebel IPA

BOSTON — Samuel Adams announced that it’s ready to share Rebel IPA with drinkers across the nation. The IPA offers consumers citrus aromas along with piney, resinous notes that come from West Coast hops.

Rebel IPA was one of the first beers to be developed in the Samuel Adams nanobrewery, a small batch, 10-gallon brewery system that operates within the confines of the Samuel Adams Boston Brewery.
Vapor Corp. launches store-in-store concept

DANIA BEACH, Fla. — Vapor Corp., a U.S.-based electronic cigarette company, will unveil a store-in-store "authorized dealer" retail concept at the Tobacco Plus Convenience Expo in Las Vegas, which is set to take place with the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 29 to Jan. 30, 2014.