Center Store

EAST HANOVER, N.J. The iconic, silent spokesman of Planters is speaking for the first time in 94 years, thanks to the nut brand's new marketing campaign.

Mr. Peanut will be featured in a series of stop-motion animation commercials that bring to life the “naturally remarkable” world of Planters. Lending his voice to Mr. Peanut for the Naturally Remarkable campaign is actor Robert Downey, Jr.

ATLANTA Coca-Cola is beefing up its noncarbonated beverage portfolio with four new varieties of Fuze and Gold Peak teas.

According to published reports, Fuze raspberry and unsweetened green tea should be available by December, with green tea and tropical versions of Gold Peak available early next year.

WILTON, Conn. Clear Conscience Pet has developed a new line of pet treats that include natural roasted bison liver and bison cartilage chews.

The treats are grain-free and gluten-free, with no chemical preservatives or additives, as well as no added growth hormones, steroids or antibiotics. The liver treats are made with a patent-pending process that combines organic vegetables with these healthy meats, the company said.

HERSHEY, Pa. One of Hershey's popular mint brands is adding a powerfully cool taste experience to its line.

Ice Breakers Frost sugar-free mints are coated with xylitol, cooling and flavor crystals and will be available in Wintercool and peppermint varieties.

CLEVELAND Everyday objects are taking center stage in a new line from American Greetings.

The new Yakety Yaks line features innovative music and motion technology in which quirky characters belt out hilarious songs that are perfect for celebrating any occasion, the company said.

"[Yakety Yaks] definitely put a smile on our faces while we were working on the line, and they are sure to put a smile on any recipient's as well," said Carol Miller, executive director of new product concepts at American Greetings.

LOS ANGELES Two supermarket chains owned by Kroger announced their fundraising efforts to benefit local food banks.

Ralph's and Food 4 Less said that they are collecting donations to help local food banks and families in need through their checkstand canisters. Each retailer kicked off their respective Bringing Hope to the Table initiatives, which include an annual cause-marketing partnership with Feeding America that generated more than $200,000 for Feeding America-affiliated food banks this year.

VANCOUVER, Canada Leading Brands will roll out its TrueBlue 100% juices across Canada and the West Coast of the United States.

Each TrueBlue beverage is filled with antioxidant-rich 100% superfruit juices. The juices initially are available in 46-oz. PET bottles in three flavors: wild blueberry, wild blueberry and pomegranate, and wild blueberry and blackberry.

OLD TAPPAN, N.J. New Leaf introduced New York Giants wide receiver Steve Smith as its new spokesman, marking the company's first celebrity endorsement.

Smith inked the multiseason endorsement agreement with New Leaf, the maker of iced tea and lemonade beverages, on Nov. 1. He was introduced to New Leaf at a promotional signing appearance in 2009.