Center Store

Allegations against Hershey could impact candy sales
WASHINGTON — Hershey is facing accusations that it has not helped efforts to end child labor, which potentially could impact the sales of its products during one of the biggest sale seasons of the year.
Cottonelle wants consumers to 'make the ultra switch'
DALLAS — Toilet tissue brand Cottonelle is encouraging consumers to try something new in their bathrooms.

To promote its brand, Cottonelle announced the launch of its "Make the Ultra Switch" sweepstakes. By giving away 90 prizes in 90 days, the company hopes shoppers will seek to purchase Cottonelle's thick toilet paper, the company stated.

‘Constant newness’ makes gum sales pop

 Continued product innovation in the sugarless gum segment helped push dollar sales ahead nearly 5% for the 12 weeks ended Nov. 28, 2010, according to SymphonyIRI Group. 

“Constant newness has been driving the category, and as manufacturers continue to invest in advertising, consumer interest remains high,” said Lisbeth Echeandia, VP trade marketing for consulting group Frey Enterprises. 
Photo trends shift; focus turns to cards, books

As photo processing continues to evolve, retailers are finding new ways to make the department profitable. Bing Liem, VP sales for Fujifilm North America, said retailers need to re-evaluate their existing on-site photo business. 

“It’s critical to maximize the use of existing assets,” he said. New product offerings, such as posters, folded cards, calendars and books, help maximize the value of the category, Liem said. 
Candy: New twists on classics sweeten sales

New twists on classic candy brands helped propel dollar sales in the chocolate candy segment ahead nearly 10%. An increase in prices contributed to the dollar sales gain, but a big boost came from line extensions and limited-edition flavors.

“The old standbys are comfort brands for consumers, and manufacturers continue to trade off their following with new products,” said Lisbeth Echeandia, VP trade marketing of consulting firm Frey Enterprises.
Swiffer paints cleaning products aisle red

MINNEAPOLIS — Procter & Gamble's Swiffer products are turning red for Valentine's Day with new limited-edition packaging.

From Feb. 6 to March 16, shoppers at Target will find that Swiffer products — including Swiffer WetJet, Swiffer sweeper starter kit and Swiffer Dusters extender — will be adorned with red packaging. Red also will appear on displays in stores to help Target shoppers find the perfect Swiffer products to suit their floors.
Duracell program to donate batteries to equip volunteer firefighters

BETHEL, Conn. — Procter & Gamble’s Duracell brand, in partnership with the National Volunteer Fire Council, on Monday kicked off a national battery donation program. The Power Those Who Protect Us program is designed to help equip the more than 730,000 volunteer firefighters with supplies they need to help power such firefighting gear as flashlights, breathing apparatuses and emergency personnel locators.
Squishy surprise

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Brand Vending has added multipacks to its lineup of Sqwishland collectible animals. The new six- and 12-pack Sqwishlander Surprise Mix collections contain an assortment of regular, rare and ultra-rare squishies. The six-packs sell for $4.99, and 12-packs retail for $9.99. 
American Greetings launches Opening Acts for Valentine's Day

CLEVELAND — Highlighting lovable pairs this Valentine's Day, American Greetings has introduced Opening Acts.

Opening Acts is a collection that pairs cards with specially designed envelopes that play a song or sound when opened, offering consumers a fun and unexpected way to show the ones they love how much they care.

American Greetings' Opening Acts line is available at stores nationwide.
Hockey for Huggies program launches

NEW YORK — The National Hockey League and diaper brand Huggies have teamed up for a month-long campaign to collect diapers and donations for families and babies in need across North America.