Chipotle Reaches 1,000th Chipotlane Milestone 

Chipotle Mexican Grill  announced today the opening of its 1,000th Chipotlane restaurant on Thursday, November 21. Located in the Kansas City metro area, the milestone restaurant will feature the company's signature digital order drive thru pick-up lane. Of the company's more than 3,600 restaurants in its real estate portfolio, nearly 30% feature a Chipotlane.

"Chipotlanes are a critical piece of our long-term growth goal of reaching 7,000 restaurants in North America," said Chris Brandt, Chief Brand Officer. "This restaurant format

is the fastest way for fans to...

HPAI H5N1 Virus in Dairy Cattle – What We Know

In March 2024, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1), commonly referred to as bird flu, was confirmed in domestic U.S. livestock for the first time in a dairy operation in Texas. Since then, the virus has spread to 549 dairy operations across 15 states, raising widespread uncertainty throughout the dairy and livestock markets. Industry participants have raised concerns about the outbreak's potential impact on consumer perception and demand for dairy and meat products, though government agencies reiterate that the national food supply remains safe. Expana is closely monitoring the situation...

ANALYSIS: U.S Beef Tenderloin Holiday Trends

With Thanksgiving in view, it seemed to be a good time to give an update on beef tenderloins as the next slated holiday will be Christmas and New Years. Tenderloins have had a rough year when comparing prices year-over-year. On average, prices have tracked about 10% below year-ago levels for choice tenderloins. Speaking to the cost-conscious environment, the beef industry has found itself in this year. Fast-forward to today’s price, choice tenderloins currently sit at $15.75/lb. which is about 6% below year-ago levels for the same...

The Retail Rundown: Turkey Takes the Spotlight

According to Circana data, fresh whole turkeys were featured at an average discounted price of $1.48 per pound last week, up from $1.27 per pound during the same period last year.

The most popular turkey sizes, 10–15 and 16–24 pounds, averaged $1.34 per pound, compared to $1.00–$1.10 per pound last year. These prices reflect pre-promotion rates and do not account for additional discounts or free turkey offers.

Whole turkeys are often used as loss leaders to increase holiday store...

Wahlburgers Debuts Limited-Time Triple Threat Slider Flight

Wahlburgers invites fans on a flavorful journey with its new Triple Threat Flight — a trio of sliders with a bold mix of tastes that will keep guests on their toes beginning Tuesday, Nov. 19, and through the Big Game.

Priced at $12.95*, the thrilling lineup includes the following sliders prepared for takeoff:

• Classic Meatball: A hearty meatball with provolone and spicy arrabbiata sauce for an unforgettable kick.
• BBQ Bacon: White cheddar, bacon, jalapeño, BBQ sauce and avocado spread to highlight the packed smoky richness guests... 

ANALYSIS: Korea's Oct 2024 Beef Imports Climb to 9-Month High, In-Month Volumes Highest Since 1994

Korea’s October 2024 beef imports rose to the highest levels since January 2024, reaching 46,697 mt, according to the latest Korea Customs Service data.

Volumes surged by 21.0% (8,117 mt) month-on-month (m-o-m), fuelled by higher imports from its key suppliers, Australia and the United States (US).

In-month October 2024's figures were the highest on record since 1994, driven by subdued imports earlier in the year and a rush...

Whetstone Distribution Acquires Chicago-Based Anmar Foods 

Whetstone Distribution has acquired Anmar Foods, a Chicago-based meat producer specializing in beef, turkey, chicken, and other animal proteins, including pork, lamb, sausages, and smoked products. 

The acquisition is part of Whetstone’s strategy to expand its regional customer base. The company recently bought several other Chicago-based businesses, including Fulton Market and Pritzlaff Wholesale Meats, as well as Moesle Meats and Queen Foods...

Kroger Reveals Customer Thanksgiving Favorites and Grocery Shopping Habits in Time for The Holidays

In preparation for Thanksgiving, The Kroger Co. surveyed customers to see how they plan to shop and what they plan to eat during the holidays this year.

"Thanksgiving is such a special time of year and we take pride in knowing exactly what is important to our customers during this holiday season," said Tom Duncan, Vice President, Head of Marketing at Kroger. "No matter how they choose to celebrate, we're happy to provide our customers with value on the items they need...

The Meat Institute and the American Meat Science Association Announce

The American Meat Science Association (AMSA) and the Meat Institute today announced a partnership to manage the popular Meat Buyer’s Guide (MBG) with editions to publish in 2024 and 2025.

This agreement will ensure the continuity and future development of an essential industry resource. The phased upgrade of the Meat Buyer’s Guide is set to begin with an initial print run in December 2024, followed by a comprehensive update and re-release scheduled for 2025.

The MBG, first published in 1961, summarizes the USDA’s Institutional Meat Purchase...

Kingswood Capital Management Acquires Branding Iron Holdings, a Leading Protein Provider

Kingswood Capital Management, LP (together with its affiliates, “Kingswood”) announced today that it has acquired Branding Iron Holdings (“Branding Iron” or “the Company”), an industry-leading provider of branded and private label protein products, including beef and pork, with a core focus on frozen and refrigerated ground meats. This represents the latest investment for Kingswood in the food and beverage industry.

“It was important to us to identify a long-term partner who will help us grow and support customers across...

McDonald’s USA, Syngenta and Lopez Foods Collaborate to Help Produce Beef More Sustainably in the US

McDonald’s USA, one of the largest fast food restaurant chains, Lopez Foods, a multi-protein producer and long-term supplier to McDonald’s, and Syngenta North America, a leader in agricultural technology, today announced a collaboration that aims to increase feed efficiency and help reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released per pound of meat produced, as part of efforts to improve the sustainability of beef production.

Enogen® corn is an in-seed innovation available exclusively from Syngenta, that...

The Retail Rundown: This Year's Thanksgiving Dinner May Cost Less 

This week’s protein promotions spotlight seafood, which makes up 33.1 percent of all ads, with pork following at 25.6 percent and beef at 24.3 percent. Chicken features come in at 13 percent, while turkey ads saw a small increase to 3.8 percent, up from 3.3 percent last week but below the 5 percent seen two weeks prior.

Frozen turkeys make up 27 percent of all turkey ads, up 25.7 percent last week, with prices ranging between $2.79 and $5.00 discounted last week.

According to the Expana Thanksgiving Dinner Index 2024...

Thanks a Million, America! Burger King® Gives Away One Million Whopper® Sandwiches for Just $1

To say thank you to everyone who submitted their dream Whopper creation in the Million Dollar Whopper Contest, Burger King is serving up one million original Whopper sandwiches for just $1 starting Nov. 12 – while supplies last;

Starting Nov. 14, after much anticipation, Burger King Guests can enjoy the three finalist Million Dollar Whopper Contest builds and help crown the winner of the $1 million grand prize

Earlier this year, Burger King introduced...

Applebee’s Introduces NEW Really BIG Meal Deal

Enjoy the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich or BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for just $9.99; Available for both dine-in and To Go

Applebee’s is going BIG with the debut of its NEW Really BIG Meal Deal featuring the NEW Big Cluckin’ Chicken Sandwich and BIG Classic Bacon Cheeseburger served with Classic Fries and a fountain drink for only $9.99!* Big Taste, Big Flavor and Big Value, the Applebee’s NEW Really BIG Meal Deal is available now for...

ANALYSIS: China’s Oct 2024 Meat Imports Extend 15-Month YoY Decline Streak, Reaching 534,675 mt

China’s total meat imports, including variety meats in October 2024 were recorded at 534,675 metric tonnes (m)t, based on the latest preliminary data from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China.

Imports dipped by just 1.1% m-o-m (-5,868 mt), falling for the second month, as firmer winter demand offset any significant declines.  

Volumes were also supported by its major supplier Brazil’s beef exports hitting record highs, but its poultry exports to China have...

ANALYSIS: Uruguay’s Beef Exports See 11.3% Monthly Rise in October, Yet Decline 11.9% Y-o-Y

In October 2024, Uruguay’s fresh beef exports reached 28,512 MT, based on the latest data from the Uruguayan National Customs Directorate. This is 11.3% higher than the previous month and marks a 11.9% drop Y-o-Y. On a YTD basis, cumulative exports now stand at 292,422 MT, up by 2.2% compared to the same period last year. Uruguay’s annual performance indicates resilience in export volumes, with exporters adjusting destination strategies in response to fluctuating demand and price conditions...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Reports Results for the Fiscal Third Quarter Ended October 6, 2024

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc., a full-service restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere, today reported financial results for the fiscal third quarter ended October 6, 2024.

Highlights for the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2024, Compared to the Third Quarter of Fiscal 2023:

• Total revenues are $274.6 million, a decrease of $2.9 million.
• Comparable restaurant revenue(1) increased 0.6%.
• Net loss is $18.9 million, compared to...

ANALYSIS: Australia's Oct 2024 Beef Exports Hit Fresh All-Time High; YTD Exceeds 1 Million Mt

Australia’s beef and veal exports for October 2024 reached a fresh all-time high at 130,048 mt, according to the latest figures from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF).

While October 2024 export figures exceeded July 2024’s high of 129,998 mt by a narrow margin of 50 mt, they reflected a month-on-month (m-o-m) increase of 14.0% (+16,002 mt). This rise was driven by higher shipments to key destinations, including the...

ANALYSIS: U.S Choice Bone-In Ribs Rise into the Holiday Period

As the holiday season approaches, Choice bone-in ribs have returned to the conversation. Looking back, this item has shown consistent upward momentum over the past month. It started October at $9.24/lb., approximately 10% lower than its year-ago level. Since then, the price has steadily risen to its current value of $11.03/lb., or roughly a 19% increase, surpassing 2023 year-to-date price of $10.93/lb.

In a similar trend, 2023 also saw...

Two Australian Beef Plants Anticipated to Resume Exports to China by Year’s End

On November 3, Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell met with China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao at the China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, where Wang assured Farrell that China would lift its remaining trade restrictions on Australian exports. 

Farrell noted that since last year’s expo, China has lifted tariffs on Australian wine and resumed exports from eight red meat facilities. China also plans to fully reopen its market to Australian rock lobsters by the end of this year.  

Despite the progress, two Australian beef plants (Plant 1620...

ANALYSIS: Argentina’s Beef Exports Rose Modest 3.0% in September, Still Marking a 44.5% Y-o-Y Surge

Argentina’s beef exports reached 70,806 MT in September 2024, according to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census. Although this figure shows a modest 3.0% M-o-M increase, it still remains 44.5% higher compared to the same period last year.

China continues to represent a significant portion of market share, absorbing 68.9% of total Argentina’s beef exports, equivalent to 49,521 MT. This represents a slight 2.4% drop compared to the previous month, but still...

ANALYSIS: Japan's Sept 2024 Beef Imports Plummets to 7-Month Low Amid High Inventory Pressure

Japan’s beef imports in September 2024 plunged 21.9% month-on-month (m-o-m) to a seven-month low, totalling 38,177 metric tonnes (mt), as reported by Trade Statistics of Japan.

At the lowest level since February 2024, this 10,707 mt decline was mainly led by lower volumes from its major suppliers, apart from Mexico. This monthly slowdown traces back to lingering challenges from Japan’s scorching summer, which curtailed foodservice consumption and led to inventory buildups across key regions such as Tokyo... 

Understanding the Global Cattle Cycle's Role in Shifting Beef Trade and Prices

The Global beef cattle market is characterized by an interplay of cyclical trends, external pressures, and strategic management decisions across key regions. This whitepaper outlines the current state of the cattle industry in six major areas- the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Mexico- highlighting key findings related to production, market pressures, and the potential outlook. As forces like weather, the economy, and trade dynamics shape the global beef landscape, industry stakeholders can stay ahead of the... 

The Retail Rundown: Late-Season Push for Grilling Cuts

As October ends, beef and seafood promotions are neck and neck, each occupying about 25 percent of total advertising space. During the final week of "Pork-tober, pork features account for 20.8 percent of buying opportunities, closely followed by chicken at 20.6 percent.

Though the shift from grilling cuts to roasts has been in motion for a few weeks, a forecast of record warmth in parts of the central and eastern U.S. this week offers a last chance for backyard cooking before winter sets in.

This could spur late-season promotions...

MeatWorks Launches Free 2-Day Nationwide Shipping of USDA Prime Steaks

MeatWorks, a premier provider of USDA Prime steaks and high-quality meats, is thrilled to announce the launch of nationwide shipping. Starting immediately, customers across the 48 contiguous United States can now enjoy premium MeatWorks products delivered straight to their doorstep—with free shipping on every order.

"At MeatWorks, we've always believed in making premium-quality meats more accessible to everyone," said Brock Furlong, CEO at MeatWorks. "With our new expansion to nationwide shipping, we're excited to offer our USDA Prime steaks at wholesale prices...

ANALYSIS: US Boneless Beef Imports from Australia Soar, Domestic and Import 90s Gap Grows

The week of October 7th experienced 6,045 MT of boneless beef that cleared for entry into the United States, marking a significant 52-week high. This represents an impressive year-over-year increase of 53.5%. Australia plays a key role in the boneless beef market, exporting lean boneless beef to various countries, with the U.S. accounting for 32.6% of their exports, equating to 37,218 MT in September alone.

Even with more meat available on the market, the price of Aus/NZ...

ANALYSIS: Korea's 2024 Safeguard on Australian Beef Kicks In, 43 Days Earlier Y-o-Y

As of 24^th October, Australian beef imports into Korea has exhausted its 2024 Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) volumes, according to the Korea Customs Service website.

Imports exceeding this volume now incur a tariff rate of 24.0% for the remainder of the year, up from the current rate of 10.6%. This activation occurred significantly earlier than last year’s 8th December 2023 trigger date, representing a difference of approximately 43 days.

Just earlier on 14th October 2024, Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) has reported that Australia had...

ANALYSIS: New Zealand's Sept 2024 Beef Exports Tumble to 11-Month Low amid Seasonal Slowdown

New Zealand’s September 2024 beef exports plummeted to an 11-month low, recording at 29,110 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest data from Stats NZ. This marks the fourth consecutive month of decline, with exports falling by 8.3% (-2,631 mt) compared to August 2024.

The lower tonnage saw reduced exports to key clients such as the United States (US), Japan and Korea, while increased allocations to Canada, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia helped offset further falls...

ANALYSIS: Mexican Beef Import and Export Dynamics YTD

From January to September 2024, beef imports in Mexico reached a total of 190,097 tons, reflecting a significant increase compared to the previous year. The United States remains the main supplier, with 112,974 tons accounting for 68.9% of total imports, an 8.1% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth highlights the ongoing importance of the U.S. market as a key source of supply for Mexico, especially during times of economic fluctuations that have affected trade decisions.

In addition to imports from the United States, South America has... 

ANALYSIS: UB Choice Beef Cutout Outperforming Year Ago Levels

The Urner Barry Choice Cutout has been relatively tame this year when compared to last year’s moves. The peaks and troughs have been fairly muted as prices remain sticky and at elevated levels from a historical perspective. This has largely been driven by the lower middle meat prices as buyers opted for more cost-conscious beef items. For example, when looking at export ribs or tenderloins through the summer months – they predominantly tracked below year-ago levels and by quite a good margin...

ANALYSIS: Korea's Beef Imports Rise 4.8% Y-o-Y in September, Australia Surpasses US as Top Supplier

Korea’s beef imports rose to 38,580 metric tonnes (mt) in September 2024, reversing last month’s losses, according to the latest figures from the Korea Customs Service.

Volumes rose by 1.2% (+452 mt) from the previous month, bolstered by increased imports from Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. However, declines in quantities from the United States, driven by a reduction in herd size, limited overall growth.

Annually, total imports increased by 4.8% (+1,768 mt), representing the strongest growth since the beginning... 

The Retail Rundown: Tuning in to Turkey

Retail promotions for seafood continue to dominate the protein category this week, capturing nearly a third of ad circular space (32 percent). Beef and pork follow, taking up 23 percent and 21.3 percent, respectively. Chicken is up slightly from the previous week at 16 percent. Egg ads held steady at about 3 percent.

Several items were featured at lower prices compared to 2023 last week, with chicken leg quarters averaging $1.55 per pound, 5 cents cheaper than last year. Fresh pork loin prices were down by 2 percent...

E. coli Linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounders Kills 1 in Multi-State Outbreak

An investigation is underway following an outbreak of E. coli linked to McDonald's Quarter Pounder hamburgers that killed one individual in Colorado and sickened dozens of others across multiple states. 

The U.S. Food & Drug Administration identified the strain as O157:H7, a dangerous bacteria that can cause severe illness or death. The primary sources of outbreaks are raw or undercooked ground meat, raw milk and cheeses, and contaminated vegetables...

ANALYSIS: China’s Beef Imports Sink 5.7% M-o-M in September; Tonnage Lowest Since 2020

China’s September 2024 beef imports slumped 5.7% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 218,199 metric tonnes (mt), according to the General Administration of Customs People's Republic of China.

Although August 2024 saw a mild recovery, volumes in September 2024 dropped by 13,136 mt, with declines recorded across all major suppliers except Australia and Bolivia. September 2024’s in-month tonnage was also the lowest since 2020, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by the world’s largest beef importer.

Annual figures painted...

Strike to Halt Operations at Brazilian Ports on October 22

Brazilian port workers will stage a 12-hour strike on 22 October, with around 60,000 registered and freelance workers from three national federations set to halt activities. The strike will run from 7 AM to 7 PM on October 22 and is expected to heavily impact the Port of Santos.

The action, announced on 17 October, serves as a warning to the federal government as workers protest a proposed bill that would remove some labor rights for freelance and port workers. The bill, scheduled...

The Retail Rundown: Eggs Rule the Roost During Baking Season 

As October reaches its midpoint, many homes are filled with the irresistible aromas of freshly baked goods, marking the onset of the holiday baking season.

This seasonal shift benefits the egg case as eggs find their way into breads, cookies, pastries, pies, and more. Also, more consumers are reaching for hot breakfasts as the weather turns colder, which further boosts egg demand.

Data from Circana shows that the average retail feature price for large, white Grade A eggs averaged $3.72 per dozen last week...

ANALYSIS: China’s Sept 2024 Meat Imports Slump 4.3% M-o-M; Ends Two-Month Growth Streak

China’s total meat imports, including variety meats fell in September 2024, amounting to 540,543 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest preliminary figures from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China. 

On a monthly basis, imports slipped 4.3% (-24,559 mt), partially affected by the shorter working month due to the observance of the Mid-Autumn festivities. 

Annually, imports plummeted by 9.2% (-54,457 mt) in September, marking the eighth consecutive month since the start of the year...

ANALYSIS: The U.S 2024 Ups and Downs of Inside Rounds

As cooler temperatures bring in roasting season, let's take a look at a favorite, inside rounds. This item has seen a year of heightened volatility, which started back in Q1. They have broken all-time record highs for March at $3.76/lb; this is 35% above year-ago levels and roughly 40% over the 5-year average for this time.  If we look back to the middle of June, inside rounds saw a sharp price increase. This item rose 15% in about a month...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Dressed Steer Weights Continue in Record High Fashion

As of September 16^th, dressed steer weights continue to push all-time high levels for the past two consecutive weeks currently at 948 lbs. Year-over year there has been a percent change of 3.27%. Since July, dressed steer weights have increased by 3.6%. The previous record was set less than a year ago, at the end of 2023, when dressed steers averaged 942 lbs. in December. Over the past three years, weights have consistently exceeded the ten-year average across all months. The current period... 

ANALYSIS: Brazilian Beef Exports Hit a New Record High in September, 8.4% MoM and 17.4% YoY.

The Brazilian fresh beef (frozen and chilled) exports totaled 251,749 MT in September, according to the latest data released by the Brazilian Foreign Trade Secretariat. This sets a new record, surpassing the previous high from just two months ago, when Brazil shipped 237,268 MT of fresh beef overseas. September volume accounts for a monthly 8.4% increase and is 17.4% higher compared to the same period last year. On a year-to-date basis, Brazil has exported 1,845,638 MT of fresh beef...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Dressed Steer Weights Continue in Record High Fashion

As of September 16^th, dressed steer weights continue to push all-time high levels for the past two consecutive weeks currently at 948 lbs. Year-over year there has been a percent change of 3.27%. Since July, dressed steer weights have increased by 3.6%. The previous record was set less than a year ago, at the end of 2023, when dressed steers averaged 942 lbs. in December. Over the past three years, weights have consistently exceeded the ten-year average across all months... 

ANALYSIS: China Activates Australian Beef’s Safeguard Mechanism in Surprise Move

China has announced that Australian beef will now be subjected to a 12.0% Most-Favoured Nation (MFN) tariff, as the Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) of 178,418 metric tonnes (mt) has been triggered, according to a statement from the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China.

In a surprising move, the official announcement came on Sunday, October 6th, during China's seven-day "Golden Week" holiday, which began on October 1st. This period, marking the 75th anniversary of the People's Republic, is one of the country's longest public holidays...

ANALYSIS: Australia's Sept 2024 Beef Exports Slide 6.4% MoM; China-bound Shipments Climb

Australia beef and veal exports in September 2024 eased further to 114,046 metric tonnes (mt), the latest data from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry (DAFF) indicated.

Hitting the 2nd highest in-month figure since our records began in 2010, September’s exports surpassed the drought year’s highs back in 2019, but narrowly missing 2015’s record highs of 118,432 mt by 4,386 mt.

Month-on-month (m-o-m), volumes slipped another 6.4% (-7,751 mt) following July 2024’s all-time highs that was recorded at...

ANALYSIS: Unusual Trend Ignites Price Surge in Chuck Rolls

In January, Chuck Rolls entered the year at $3.85/lb, gaining in price to $4.57/lb by the end of the month, or roughly a 19% change. The price jump can be attributed to winter weather events that caused plant closures and disrupted the supply chain. A bottom of $3.50/lb was seen in the beginning of May as production normalized back in April, putting Chuck Rolls back on track with historical trends. In late August, prices started to increase, whereas in the past, prices...

ANALYSIS: Uruguay Beef Exports Shed 16.9% in September, Still Up by 4.0% YTD

According to the latest data released by the Uruguayan National Customs Directorate, Uruguay’s fresh beef export has reached 25,625 MT in September 2024, marking a 16.9% decline compared to the previous month, and 13.7% drop YoY. On a YTD basis, beef exports totaled 263,910 MT, which is 4% higher than last year’s 253,847 MT.

China continued to be the primary destination for beef exports in September, accounting for 10,076 MT, or 39.3% of the total. This figure represents a reduction of nearly 20% compared...

Jack in the Box Inc. Announces Departure of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Jack in the Box Inc. announces the resignation of EVP and Chief Financial Officer Brian Scott, who has accepted a new position outside of the restaurant industry. To assist with a smooth transition, his last day with Jack in the Box will be November 20th.

Dawn Hooper, a Jack in the Box veteran of 24 years who has previously served as interim chief financial officer, will assume the role of principal financial officer on November 1st and interim CFO upon Scott’s departure...

Wendy's Celebrates 25 Years of Nickelodeon's "SpongeBob SquarePants" with "Krabby Patty Kollab" 

Fans have eagerly speculated and imagined how this iconic patty might taste, and Wendy's is bringing its Krabby Patty Kollab Burger to land for a limited time, best paired with a first-of-its-kind Pineapple Under the Sea Frosty. The Krabby Patty Kollab Burger is Wendy's take on the most coveted recipe in all of Bikini Bottom, available starting October 8 in restaurants nationwide and on the Wendy's app.

The Wendy's Krabby Patty Kollab includes:

• Pineapple Under the Sea Frosty: Wendy's...

Bob Evans Launches All-New Breakfast Value Menu Starting at $5.99

Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen™ is excited to announce the launch of their all-new breakfast value menu, "Sunrise Savers," debuting today, October 3. The new breakfast menu gives guests high-quality, farm fresh dishes at affordable prices – putting more food on your table for less. The Sunrise Savers menu features an array of wholesome, delicious dishes, ranging from farmhouse classics to brand new dishes designed with flavor and value in mind.

"At Bob Evans Farmhouse Kitchen, our goal is to excite our...

ANALYSIS: U.S. Beef Cold Storage Hits a 52-Week Low

According to the latest USDA beef cold storage report, the total volume of beef in cold storage has experienced a significant decline in August, with an almost 2% drop month-over-month. This decline has brought the current storage volume to its lowest level in three years. Notably, boneless beef has seen a decrease of 1.13%, while beef cuts have experienced a more pronounced reduction of 7.48%. This considerable decline in beef cuts suggests that the overall change in total beef inventory is closely aligned with the trends...

How a Port Strike Could Ripple Through the Ag Sector

The port strike has entered its third day and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) has signaled that they are willing to resume negotiations with the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), but without preconditions made by the union. 

In an update provided Wednesday, USMX stated: "Reaching an agreement will require negotiating – and our full focus is on how to return to the table to further discuss these vital components, many of which are intertwined. We cannot agree to preconditions to return to bargaining – but we remain committed to bargaining in good...

Live Updates: Key Developments in the East and Gulf Coast Port Strike

October 3: The port strike has entered its third day and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) signaled that they are willing to resume negotiations with the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), but without preconditions made by the union. 

In an update provided Wednesday, USMX stated: "Reaching an agreement will require negotiating – and our full focus is on how to return to the table to further discuss these vital components, many of which are intertwined. We cannot agree to preconditions...

The Retail Rundown:  Port Strike Sends Shockwaves Throughout Supply Chain 

The strike at East and Gulf Coast ports officially began once the calendar turned to October, following unsuccessful contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX).

The strike's impact is being felt throughout the supply chain, causing significant disruptions in the flow of goods ahead of the rapidly approaching holiday season. 

In a statement released on Tuesday, USMX stated that its current offer includes a nearly 50% wage increase. In response, ILA said it has rejected USX's offer "because it fails to address...

ANALYSIS: Japan's Aug 2024 Beef Imports Dips 0.9% M-o-M; Australia and New Zealand Lead Yearly Gains

Japan’s August 2024 beef imports slipped by just 0.9% month-on-month (m-o-m) to 48,884 metric tonnes (mt), according to the latest data from Trade Statistics of Japan.

Marking the fourth consecutive month below the 50,000 mt threshold, the pace of import growth was eroded by Japan’s blistering summer conditions and a weak yen, which has contributed to a slowdown in the dining-out sector.

Compared to the same period last year, imports grew a healthy 7.0%...

Hurricane Helene Intensifies U.S. Agriculture Disruptions As Port Strike Officially Starts

Hurricane Helene, a powerful Category 4 storm, made landfall in Florida's Big Bend region on September 26, 2024. The storm caused widespread destruction across the southeastern U.S., with the death toll approaching 125 as of this writing. 

Its damaging winds, storm surge, and flooding led to power outages and infrastructure damage in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and the Carolinas–with the Carolinas seemingly suffering the greatest impacts. Parts of North Carolina are submerged under water, where roads have been washed out and properties have been flattened. As of October 1...

IHOP Is Bringing Weekends to the Weekdays to Celebrate the New Value-Driven House Faves Menu

Today, IHOP® announced it’s bringing the weekend to the weekday by inviting guests to enjoy its new House Faves menu every Monday through Friday from 7am-10pm, for just $6. IHOP prides itself on listening and reacting to guest feedback quickly; knowing customers are constantly looking for more ways to save when dining out with their families, the brand curated its House Faves menu with some of its best-selling breakfast items for guests to enjoy for just $6...

ANALYSIS: Korea Poised for Early Activation of Safeguard Mechanism on Australian Beef Amid US Supply

Australian beef imports into Korea could face a tariff rate increase of 24.0% as the Special Agricultural Safeguard (SSG) mechanism is expected to activate earlier than in previous years. Korea's increasing reliance on Australian beef amid dwindling US supply has long suggested an earlier activation of the safeguard tariffs. 

Under the Korea-Australia Free Trade Agreement (KAFTA), the safeguard volume for this year is set at 188,437 metric tonnes (mt). Any imports exceeding this safeguard volume limit in 2024 will incur a tariff rate of 24.0%...

Burger King® Gets a Jump (Scare) on Halloween with Limited Time Menu Additions

This Halloween, Burger King® – home of the flame-grilled Whopper® – is teaming up with Amazon MGM Studios Consumer Products and the animated adaptations of The Addams Family to serve up scary delicious takes on some of the brand’s most iconic menu items. Available starting Thursday, Oct. 10 at participating restaurants while supplies last, the new The Addams Family Menu features four delicious items – each inspired by a different character from the beloved animated films.

Over the years, Burger King has given its...

ANALYSIS: Mexico’s Livestock Trade Deficit Persists Amid Volatile USD:MXD

The Grupo Consultor de Mercados Agrícolas (GCMA) reported that Mexico's livestock trade balance remains in deficit, driven by increasing domestic prices that spurred record beef and pork imports. Between January and July 2024, meat imports totaled 1.67 million tonnes, a 6.3% increase from the same period in 2023.

Homero García de la Llata, president of Mexicos National Confederation of Livestock Organizations (CNOG), pointed out that several problems and weaknesses are affecting livestock farming in Mexico. These include low productivity, limited financing, and a lack of innovation and technology....

ANALYSIS: Imported Cattle Shake Up US Beef Market

The U.S. boxed beef market has had its fair share of trials and tribulations this year and they only seem to be growing as unfamiliar trends continue to emerge. One of those trends that has largely been absent through the last couple years during the contraction in the U.S. cattle herd, is imported cattle from Mexico and Canada. Fast forward to the present day, this trend is alive and well and has been causing some uncertainty in the market as both sides of the aisle try to gauge the...

ANALYSIS: Production Shortfall Drives New Zealand's Aug 2024 Beef Exports to 10-Month Lows

New Zealand’s August 2024 beef exports totalled 31,741 metric tonnes (mt), hitting the lowest levels since October 2023, according to the latest data from Stats NZ. The volume fell by 18.2% (-7,072 mt) compared to the previous month.

Marking a 10-month low, and falling for the third consecutive month, this decline was primarily driven by New Zealand's two key markets, the United States (US) and China, with smaller drops also seen in markets like Canada, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. In-month volumes was also...