Center Store

PLANO, Texas — Frito-Lay North America's Smartfood brand is being extended to include all-natural popcorn, popped chips and puffed corn snacks.

CHICAGO — While more than half of U.S. adults currently are "watching" their diet, a fraction of them are doing so because they are concerned about their "salt intake," according to Mintel research.

It’s called automated retailing. While retail merchants MaxWellness and Kroger are still in the pilot phase, more or less, this should become a fast brand extension that can reach consumers in remote locations — the bus stop/train depot, the hospital, the airport, the school, the gym or inside another noncompetitive retailer’s box.


The advantages are just too good for these mini-boxes not to take hold. To begin with, there’s brand extension. Only the Internet can be as effective in attributing a national presence to a regional operator. 


Drug Store News spoke with Paddy Spence, CEO of Zevia, about the potential for natural sodas in the U.S. marketplace.



DSN: What is the awareness level of nonartificial sweeteners, and how is that trending in the U.S. market?

Self-service is becoming more prevalent as consumers grow accustomed to using kiosks for everything from self-checkout in the supermarket to checking in for their flights. Experts estimated that by 2016, 3 million kiosks will be in use globally.


ADDISON, Ill. — Michael Season's, a Natural Snacks brand, has introduced a new line of snacks made with black beans.

The new Michael Season's Popped black bean crisps line, the company said, features nutritional benefits of protein and fiber, is wheat-free and gluten-free and touts reduced fat and low sodium. The crisps also are free of preservatives, artificial coloring and flavors.

Michael Season's Popped black bean crisps are available in sea salt, nacho and roasted red pepper flavors and carry a suggested retail price of $2.99 per 3-oz. bag.

Customer loyalty has always been paramount for retailers, but as we wade into 2012 and beyond, it is becoming increasingly evident that retailers have a renewed focus on establishing a strong sense of loyalty and creating an engaging customer experience through cross-channel initiatives that are touching customers both in and — perhaps more importantly — out of the store.


Americans may be eating more meals at home, but they are still as pressed as ever for time. That means that food-prep time-savers are crucial for consumers. Consumers want to make healthful, fresh meals at home, but they depend on some prepared elements.