In this Issue

In fall 2016, Mars brought together its chocolate and Wrigley segments under Mars Wrigley Confectionery in an effort to better deliver innovative products that address consumer desires and insights. Since then, the division has been busy. In 2017 alone, Mars Wrigley Confectionery has brought beloved U.K. brand Maltesers to the United States, introduced the now-permanent M&M’s Caramel variety — as well as several new varieties and flavors of its biggest brands — and redesigned several of its brands’ packaging.

Humble roots in the family business fed a calling to ‘create moments that matter.’ A lifetime of martial arts training gave him the confidence and discipline to make it happen. Drug Store News Mckesson SVP marketing, strategy and business development Chris Dimos about his mentors, his background in his family’s business and how his passions have shaped his approach to doing business. 

Consumers are gravitating toward more natural eye and ear care products that have fewer chemical additives, industry observers said.

The shift comes amid increasing demand for eye care products overall, as the baby boomer population ages and younger consumers seek options for treating various eye irritations resulting from allergies, prolonged exposure to computer screens and other factors.

After years of ignoring warnings that sun exposure poses a health risk and hastens aging, consumers are starting to see the light. In fact, overall category sales rose 6.7% for the 52-week period ended May 14 across multi-outlets, according to IRI. Lotions and oils advanced almost 7%, and sunscreens and bug repellants jumped 3.5%.

But retailers and marketers said much more needs to be done. A recent Marist Institute for Public Opinion Poll said only 1-in-10 people apply sunscreen regularly.

Parents and school nurses alike have expressed plenty of concern about super lice and how to treat these pesticide-resistant hair vermin safely, and most importantly, effectively. A number of OTC manufacturers have responded with product launches and offerings that effectively address ridding households of lice infestations.

With more than 12 million outbreaks estimated to occur annually among preschool and school-aged children in the United States, lice infestations are a big deal. And pharmacists play a key role in helping parents select safe and successful treatments.

According to a whitepaper published earlier this year by TyraTech, makers of Vamousse, lice resistance to permethrin and synergized pyrethrins has limited the efficacy of OTC products containing these pesticides and engendered their misuse and overuse.

Feminine hygiene products, once relegated to back aisles near diapers, are hidden no longer. In fact, the entire category is being treated more like a beauty business than a commodity. Some chains even cross-merchandise feminine wipes or cleansers near beauty aisles.

Once again, millennial shoppers are driving the change. They aren’t afraid to talk about periods or other feminine issues that were once unmentionable. There are blogs about waxing and menstruation, and Refinery 29 Snapchatted about how to empty a menstrual cup.

Adult bath products offering a Zen-like experience are bubbling to the surface in mass stores and helping to perk up sales, along with Epsom salt soaks. Consumers are favoring products with a purpose over simply fragrant bath additives. That explains the 26% climb in volume of Dr. Teal’s, which offers a Pure Epsom Salt Soak, along with body wash and foaming bath. It is the No.1 selling SKU in the bath category.