PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Episode 12 - Summer Food Trends Shift into Autumn

Listen now as Jamie and Simon examine seasonal shifts underway in the food and ag space as we say goodbye to Summer and hello to cooler weather, election season, and the harvest. 

Aramark Celebrates NFL’s International Games with Globally Inspired Cuisine at Stadiums Across U.S.

The 2024 NFL season is upon us, and Aramark Sports + Entertainment (Aramark, NYSE: ARMK) is bringing the spirit of global cuisine to its venues as the league prepares to host five international games in three countries.

Aramark’s partners at the Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings will be part of the exciting lineup of NFL International Games, with the Eagles competing on Sept. 6 in São Paulo, Brazil, and the Vikings playing on Oct. 6 in London, England. To celebrate these historic events...

ANALYSIS: The Seasonal Rebound of EU Shell Egg Markets

Retail buying activity continues to rebound as the post-summer season unfolds, aligning with typical seasonal patterns observed at this time of year. Shell eggs have become less available for breaking plants as some producers are gearing their production efforts towards increased supermarkets demand. This has resulted in bullish sentiments for raw material, and sellers are confidently maintaining higher asking prices. This upward pressure on prices is evident in market assessments for both cage and barn shell eggs, which have risen for two consecutive...

More Choices, Less Satisfaction? A Look at Findings from Recent Micro Study on Fast-Casual Chains

Data intelligence solutions provider Competitor IQ, a subsidiary of DALBAR Inc., shared insights from a micro study focused on the fast-casual foodservice landscape.

The study focused on fast-casual chains operating in Atlanta, Georgia and the big takeaway focused on the “Customization Conundrum.”

According to the firm, fast-casual chains have had an increased focus on customization options. Think of options like Chioptle or the various sandwich chains that allow customers to create meals to their specifications...

The Retail Rundown: September's Seasonal Shifts

Although there are about two weeks left to enjoy summer, many consider the season unofficially over following Labor Day. The retail landscape is starting to reflect this shift, where factors like cooler weather and football season are already influencing consumer demand. 

The frozen/convenience aisles and deli counters benefit from back-to-school needs and provide quick meals for busy households. Circana data indicates that prepared dishes/kits earned $18.1 million in total sales last week, up from $17.7 million the week prior. Over in lunchmeat, fresh packaged turkey retailed at $7.21 discounted, an 18-cent year-over-year decrease.  

USDA Releases Updated Guideline to Strengthen Substantiation 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today the availability of an updated guideline that makes recommendations to strengthen the documentation that supports animal-raising or environment-related claims on meat or poultry product labeling. Today’s action builds on the significant work USDA has already undertaken to protect consumers from false and misleading labels and to implement President Biden’s Executive Order on Promoting Competition in the American economy.

“USDA continues to deliver on its commitment to fairness and choice for both farmers and consumers, and that means supporting transparency and high-quality standards...

New Study Finds a Relationship Between Eating Eggs and a Reduced Risk of Alzheimer's Dementia

For adults, eating eggs may support brain health – with research especially citing the egg’s naturally rich choline content.

A new study published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests an association between eating eggs and a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s dementia in older adults. These findings are important as the prevalence of Alzheimer’s dementia—the most common type of dementia—is expected to increase with an aging population.

Researchers continue to explore how diet could impact risk for Alzheimer’s dementia. Whole eggs, with most of their...

Vital Farms Hires Reena Van Hoven as Chief People Officer

Vital Farms, a Certified B Corporation that offers a range of ethically produced foods nationwide, has hired Reena Van Hoven as Chief People Officer (CPO), starting September 16, 2024. Van Hoven joins Vital Farms from food and beverage industry leader Danone North America. In the newly created CPO role, Van Hoven will lead Vital Farms’ People Team overseeing Business Partnerships, Org & People Development, and Total Rewards.

“We are thrilled to welcome Reena to build on the great foundation our People Team has established. We believe our true competitive...

FMI Research: Shoppers Feel in Control of Their Grocery Spending

Consumers are adapting their shopping strategies to include more flexibility as they attempt to control their grocery spending heading into the fall, according to the latest survey conducted by FMI – The Food Industry Association and The Hartman Group. The report, U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends 2024: Return to Routine, provides a crucial snapshot of how shoppers are finding value and evolving their grocery shopping habits in the current economic environment.

While shoppers report continued concerns regarding inflationary pressures on food and other consumer categories...

Vital Farms Hires Joe Holland as Chief Supply Chain Officer

Vital Farms, a Certified B Corporation that offers a range of ethically produced foods nationwide, has hired Joe Holland as Chief Supply Chain Officer (CSCO)beginning on September 1, 2024. Mr. Holland’s proven track record of driving operational excellence for high-impact consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies will help the company continue to raise the standards across the food industry. He will lead Vital Farms’ diversified supply chain team, including its award-winning egg washing and packing facility, Egg Central Station (ECS), in Springfield, Missouri, its forthcoming...

Kroger Files Motion to Enjoin the FTC's Administrative Merger Challenge

The Kroger Co. today filed a motion for preliminary injunction in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio, against the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) administrative proceeding challenging the company's merger with Albertson's Companies, Inc. The company argues that by proceeding in its administrative tribunal, in addition to the separate action in federal court, the FTC is violating Constitutional protections.

The motion details how the FTC's administrative proceeding against the merger clearly violates the Constitution in two areas:

• First, the FTC violates Article II of the Constitution because...

Circana Reports on the Future of Dinner: Quick Meals and Invested Occasions Define Consumer Habits

Circana™, a leading advisor on the complexity of consumer behavior, today released insights from its Future of Dinner report, revealing that U.S. consumers source 81% of their dinners at home and most often enjoy dinner with others. While Gen X prefers dinners that require minimal preparation and few ingredients, Gen Z consumers increasingly invest in special occasion dinners as they hone their kitchen skills, while also seeking no-prep dinner solutions. In fact, half of all dinners are ready in 15 minutes or less...

The Retail Rundown: Leaping Towards Labor Day

Labor Day weekend, often viewed as the unofficial end of summer, is just two weeks out. Many families are seizing the opportunity for one last vacation, boosting foodservice spending.

For some students, summer break has already concluded, and back-to-school shopping for essentials like breakfast and lunch items is in full swing. Among retailers, Labor Day is recognized as the final major grilling event of the year, marking the last big push to promote barbecue favorites.

Last week, boneless skinless chicken breasts were featured at $4.43 discounted, 18 cents above...

Hormel Foods Announces Retirement of Deanna Brady, Executive Vice President, Retail, after 28 Years 

Hormel Foods Corporation, a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announces the retirement of Deanna Brady, executive vice president, Retail, at the end of the fiscal year on Oct. 27, 2024. During nearly three decades of distinguished service to Hormel Foods, she successfully led teams across both the foodservice and retail lines of business and served as a key architect of the company's results-driven, high-performing culture.

The company also announces the return of John Ghingo, who will join Hormel...

FSIS to Start H5N1 Beef Monitoring Sampling

On September 16, 2024, the FSIS will be adding H5N1 influenza A monitoring in dairy cows at slaughter to its already robust national surveillance programs for pathogens and chemical contaminants.

FSIS will leverage its existing National Residue Program (NRP) and conduct H5N1 sampling in the muscle samples of dairy cow carcasses already collected for this program. Samples will be tested by FSIS laboratory personnel using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. Carcasses sampled under the NRP are held by establishments pending results of residue testing...

The Retail Rundown: Multiple Factors Fuel Promotions; CPI Update

As we reach mid-August, grocery stores are transitioning their end caps from summer displays to game-day essentials, gearing up for the NFL regular season. At the same time, circulars are packed with barbecue items for the upcoming Labor Day weekend along with back-to-school essentials as some regions are already welcoming students back to class.

This week, seafood continues to dominate, representing about 28% of total protein volume in retail buying opportunities. Pork follows with a 23.4% share, while beef captures...

Vertical Cold Storage Completes Purchase of Dothan Facility

Vertical Cold Storage, a developer and operator of temperature-controlled distribution centers sponsored by real estate investment firm Platform Ventures, finalized the acquisition of the frozen distribution center from Dothan Warehouse Investors in Dothan, Alabama. Terms were not disclosed.

“We are excited to add Dothan to our growing network of temperature-controlled distribution centers and are looking forward to partnering with them as we focus on integrating the business and serving our customers. Dothan is the third operation we’ve added to our network...

Egglife Foods Debuts in Top 12% of Inc. 5000's Fastest-Growing Companies

Egglife Foods has harnessed the power of eggs to become one of the fastest-growing companies in America. Thanks to the success of its debut product - egglife® egg white wraps - Egglife Foods has earned its place in the top 12% of the coveted Inc. 5000 list. The startup makes its Inc. 5000 debut at #563 overall and #22 among food and beverage companies, after growing from $4M to $40M in just four years.

"It's amazing to see how far the power of egg...

Lindsay Goldberg to Acquire a Controlling Interest in Golden State Foods

Golden State Foods, one of the largest diversified suppliers to the foodservice and retail industries, today announced that Lindsay Goldberg, a family and founder-focused private equity firm, has entered into an agreement to acquire a controlling interest in the Company alongside the Wetterau family, who will maintain a significant ownership interest. The acquisition recognizes GSF’s outstanding 75-plus year track record of successful value creation and builds on GSF’s strong momentum. The investment by Lindsay Goldberg will provide the Company with additional resources and capabilities to advance its...

Vital Farms Reports Second Quarter 2024 Financial Results and Raises Fiscal Year 2024 Guidance

Vital Farms, a Certified B Corporation that offers a range of ethically produced foods nationwide, today reported financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2024.

Financial highlights for the second quarter ended June 30, 2024, compared to the second quarter ended June 25, 2023, include:

• Net Revenue increased 38.5% to $147.4 million, compared to $106.4 million
• Gross Margin expanded 362 basis points to 39.1%, compared to 35.5%
• Net Income of $16.3 million, compared to $6.7...

Weis Markets Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results

Weis Markets, Inc. today reported its financial results for the 13-week second quarter and 26-week year-to-date period ended June 29, 2024.

"Our second quarter 2024 results, which were negatively impacted by the Easter holiday shift, are in line with our expectations despite an extremely challenging market environment marked by continuing customer caution," said Weis Markets, Inc. Chairman, President, and CEO Jonathan H. Weis. "During the quarter, we increased our price investments by lowering the prices on 600 high-demand dairy items as...

The Retail Rundown: Unsettled Start to August

August began with a sharp decline in the global market, triggered by weak U.S. economic data and disappointing labor market figures. Traders are also assessing corporate earnings and the Federal Reserve's stance on interest rates amid concerns of a U.S. economic slowdown.

Publix Reports Second Quarter 2024 Results and Stock Price

Publix’s sales for the three months ended June 29, 2024 were $14.5 billion, a 3.1% increase from $14.1 billion in 2023. The company estimates sales were negatively impacted by 1.1% due to the effect of the Easter holiday being in the first quarter in 2024. In 2023, the effect of the Easter holiday was in the second quarter. Comparable store sales for the three months ended June 29, 2024 increased 1.1%.

Net earnings for the three months ended June 29, 2024 were $972... 

USDA, USTR Name New Agricultural Trade Advisors

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai today announced the appointment or reappointment of 55 members to serve on seven agricultural trade advisory committees.

The advisory committee system was created by Congress to ensure that U.S. agricultural stakeholders have input and insight into U.S. trade policy and negotiating objectives. The Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee is comprised of senior representatives from across the U.S. agricultural community who advise the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative on overall trade policy matters, while members of the six...

At Least 6 Fire Companies Respond to Ruth Farms Fire in Harrod, OH

At least six fire companies responded to a pair of buildings ablaze on Ruth Farms in Harrod, Ohio Tuesday afternoon, July 30.

Three of the chicken farm’s employees have been treated for injuries at a nearby hospital, but no information has been made available on how many birds were affected.

The Harrod Auglaize Township Fire Department were not available to comment, but thanked all the crews that came out to assist with the fire on their Facebook page later Tuesday evening...

The Retail Rundown: Summer and Back-to-School Fuel Deli Demand

As August approaches, consumers are eager to savor the last weeks of the summer season. With Labor Day weekend—the unofficial end of summer—just five weeks away, some retailers have already begun stocking up for the holiday.

In the meantime, back-to-school items, including snacks and sandwich ingredients, are beginning to appear in circulars. The deli counter is currently benefiting from summer activities as day-trippers make meals for picnics and various outings.

Last week, the lunchmeat sector generated nearly $26.8 million in total sales, up...

Firefighters Battle Barn Fire at Hickman Egg Ranch in AZ

A fire broke out early Saturday morning at Hickman Family Egg Ranch in Tonopah, Arizona.

In a joint effort, Arizona Fire and Medical Authority, Harquahala Fire, Avondale Fire and Buckeye Fire worked to fight the blaze that engulfed a 700-foot chicken coop.

According to the 12News report, firefighters were able to contain the flames to that building with minor impingement on the buildings that surrounded the fire.

No human injuries have been reported, but the number of birds affected has not...

Nellie’s Free Range Unveils a New Campaign Aimed at Educating Misinformed Consumers

Nellie's Free Range, the #1 free-range brand in the U.S. and part of the Pete & Gerry’s family, today unveiled its new brand campaign, "Life’s Better Out Here," highlighting the company’s commitment to the highest standards of animal welfare, and educating consumers on the critical differences between cage-free and free-range eggs.

The campaign features children, fueled by Nellie’s eggs, who are permitted to let their bodies (and imaginations) run free outdoors, drawing a parallel to how the brand believes hens should live. The spots...

American Egg Board Names Bill Winkelman Vice President of Industry Affairs & Engagement

Nick Jones Director of International Marketing, Erica Mirth Manager of Content & Design

The American Egg Board (AEB) today announced it has named Bill Winkelman vice president of industry affairs and engagement, Nick Jones director of international marketing and Erica Mirth manager of content and design. These important placements reflect key strategic priorities for the egg industry and the national checkoff organization.

“The success of our industry rests with people, and the American Egg Board is continuing to deepen its bench strength with the experienced...

PODCAST: Agri-Food for Thought Episode 11 - Tech and Weather Events Threaten Supply Chains

Technological and severe weather events have the potential to impact supply chains around the globe. Join Jamie and Simon as they cover the latest developments in the food and agriculture space. Featuring special guest, Heather McGuire Doyle...

Cal-Maine Foods Names Judd Stevens as Vice President, Operations 

The Nation's leading producer and distributor of shell egg, Mississippi based Cal-Maine Foods, has named a new Vice President of Operations, Judd Stevens.

Stevens has been with the company for over two decades and most recently led the company's Wharton County Foods, LLC as General Manager. He will assume the role of his predecessor, Tim Thompson, effective July 23.

He has managed several other locations for the company in Texas, Florida and Mississippi as well as having served as President of The Texas Poultry... 

The Retail Rundown: Competition for Ad Space Intensifies

As the final full week of July comes to a close, the retail sector is promoting at-home eating during the dog days of summer, a time when protein consumption typically drops due to the heat and fewer major retail buying occasions.

Competition for ad space is heating up, with seafood and pork leading the way, each capturing 25.8% of retail buying opportunities this week. Beef follows with 22.4%, unchanged from the previous week. Chicken has increased to 17.7%, up from 16.4% last week. Eggs account for 4.5%, with most feature activity...

New Breakfast Deal Starting at $4.99 Promises Exceptional Value at Perkins American Food Co.

Perkins American Food Co.™, formerly Perkins Restaurant & Bakery®, is launching America's best value breakfast, with the launch of its new Great American Trio, starting Friday, July 19. Enjoy the 5 Under $5, 6 Under $6, and 7 Under $7, all featuring Perkins famous buttermilk pancakes, crispy Applewood smoked bacon, and perfect eggs prepared your way. The best news? Perkins serves breakfast all day, every day, so you can dig into America's best value breakfast any...

Cracker Barrel Appoints Sarah Moore as New Chief Marketing Officer

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store® is pleased to announce the appointment of Sarah Moore as its Chief Marketing Officer, effective Monday, July 22.

Moore's nearly 20 years of hospitality experience is a perfect match for the strong hospitality focus of Cracker Barrel. Her strategic experience in marketing, brand building, and guest engagement will be strong assets to Cracker Barrel as it evolves, taking what is beloved and differentiated about the brand and building on it.

A longtime fan of Cracker Barrel, she join...

United States' Department of Agriculture Shuffles Leadership

Several key staff appointments and promotions have been made by the United States' Department of Agriculture (USDA) on July 17.

Promotions

Eric Deeble, who was the Deputy Assistant Secretary for the office of Congressional Relations, has been promoted to Deputy Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs.

Cindy Long will uphold her position as Deputy Under Secretary for Food and Nutrition Service after serving as Administrator for the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

After nearly three years as Senior Advisor for Climate in the Office of the... 

The Retail Rundown: Grocers Vie with Foodservice During Peak Travel Season

Summer is usually the peak demand period for foodservice, as warmer weather encourages vacation plans and out-and-about activities. As more consumers embark on trips, spending is typically increased at restaurants and bars.

Data released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Tuesday showed that restaurant business rose 0.3 percent last month, likely supported by the summer travel season. Overall retail sales in June remained unchanged from May, outpacing expectations for a decline. Stock futures climbed following the stronger-than-expected data, sending the Dow Jones Industrial Average to... 

Walmart's Grocery Network Transformation: The Next Steps on Our Supply Chain Modernization Journey

In the last several years, something has become very clear: Walmart customers love options. From the strength of our delivery business to our innovative aisles in-store and online, we’re witnessing shoppers make use of every opportunity to save money and live better.

As customers change the way they shop, we’re taking steps to build even more trust with them, ensuring the things they want – and need – are on shelves faster than ever before. To do that, we've been investing... 

The Retail Rundown: Dog Days Dull Buying Occasions

Holiday retail meat clearance last week was reported as mostly positive albeit a bit scattered due to varying weather conditions across the country. This week, extreme heat and record temperatures are expected to persist in the Western and Eastern U.S.

The sweltering conditions that typically accompany the dog days of summer make it challenging for retail to capture regular meat purchases. The egg case also typically sees fewer purchases around this time of year as consumers opt for cold breakfasts like cereal and fruit...

Vertical Cold Storage Adds 10th Facility to Network

Vertical Cold Storage, a developer and operator of temperature-controlled distribution centers sponsored by real estate investment firm Platform Ventures, has entered into a purchase agreement to acquire the frozen distribution center from Dothan Warehouse in Dothan, AL. The Dothan facility focuses on poultry for export markets and is located close to several interstate highways, enabling less than one day delivery to the ports of Jacksonville, FL; Mobile, AL; New Orleans, LA; Panama City, FL; and Savannah, GA. The operation employs 40...