Weekly Insights

Seasonal Merchandising: Are you getting your share?

March 15, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, Vice President, Business Development/CMO Seasonal merchandising has emerged as one of the most powerful sources of growth in sales, profits and traffic for retailers. The definition of "seasonal events" has also expanded over the last 10 years. Today seasonal events reflect periodic, unique merchandising opportunities that fall into five groups.

P&G Campaign Targets Oral Health

March 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble's Crest and Oral-B brands launched the Better Check-Ups Challenge, which will challenge people across the country to improve their oral care in 2010.

Adult Incontinence Category Booming

March 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Personal care brands Depend, Tena and Poise are rolling out new campaigns and product launches targeting boomers. Examples include Kimberly-Clark's Depend Variety packs, meant to resemble "real underwear," reported Brandweek.

Payless ShoeSource to Launch New Line of Beauty Products

March 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Payless ShoeSource formed an alliance with Maesa Group to create a collection of new beauty and body care products to be available exclusively in about 1,500 Payless ShoeSource stores this fall.

Kimberly-Clark Rolls Out Kleenex Hand Towels

March 15, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Kimberly-Clark Corporation launched Kleenex Hand Towels across the U.S.

Cross-Marketing Can Be 'Win-Win' for Winn-Dixie

March 15, 2010 -- Retail
Winn-Dixie is forging partnerships with other businesses in order to get an edge in the hypercompetitive supermarket segment. Partnerships include Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Redbox and Shell, reported Florida Times-Union.

SmartCo to Open Five Stores

March 15, 2010 -- Retail
Warehouse grocer Smart & Final Stores acquired five vacant Albertsons sites and will open SmartCo Foods outlets in Colorado this summer, reported The Denver Post.

Wal-Mart Brings Back Certain Goods

March 15, 2010 -- Retail
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is bringing back some products it had removed from shelves last year, such as some health and beauty supplies, pet treats and laundry detergent, reported BusinessWeek.

Harris Teeter Celebrates 50 Years

March 15, 2010 -- Retail
A Harris Teeter location in Raleigh, NC, shows the creativity and quality that has helped the chain survive 50 years. The store offers an Asian bar, a pizza bar and a selection of wines, reported Supermarket News.

U.S. Chain-Store Sales Up 3%

March 15, 2010 -- Retail
U.S. chain-store sales rose 3.4% in the first week of March from one year ago, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers and Goldman Sachs, reported Diamonds.net.

The Kroger Southwest Division Launches New Marketing Campaign

March 15, 2010 -- Retail
Kroger's Southwest division launched its new marketing campaign, including lower prices, new store signage and television, print and radio spots.

First Aldi Texas Stores to Open Mar. 18

March 15, 2010 -- Retail
Aldi will be opening 27 stores in North Texas this spring, with the first 11 scheduled to open in the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex area on Mar. 18.

Register for the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference - Registration Deadline is this week!

March 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. Register now!

Maximize Your Impact at the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference!

March 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Supplier members who register for the Showcase, Showcase Plus and Sample Box receive the added benefit of having their entries visible to buying Wholesale and Retail members prior to the conference. Showcase entries provide an opportunity for Wholesaler and Retailer attendees to actually see Suppliers' products as they make their appointment selections. Register now!

GMDC Member Title Changes

March 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
See the following key changes to GMDC member titles.

Category Sales Information Available to Members

March 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recaps for General Merchandise and Health and Beauty categories.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

March 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training courses is to support GMDC Retailer and Wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

Free Business Magazines

March 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

Enduring Shopping Behavior Shift Being Seen: Report

March 15, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Shopping behavior will change as a result of new marketplace realities, and retailers and suppliers will need to adapt, according to a report from PricewaterhouseCoopers and Retail Forward.

Unilever Names New Chief Marketing & Communications Officer

March 15, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Keith Weed will become Unilever's Chief Marketing & Communications Officer on Apr. 1.

Kimberly-Clark Can Support Scott Brand Claims: NAD

March 15, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The National Advertising Division (NAD) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus determined that Kimberly-Clark Corp. adequately supported product performance claims for the company's "New! Scott Extra Soft Tissue."

Duane Reade Holdings, Inc. Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2009 Results

March 15, 2010 -- Financial
Duane Reade Holdings, Inc.'s adjusted FIFO EBITDA increased 34.8% to $30.5 million from $22.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Solazyme and Unilever Form Partnership

March 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Renewable oil and bioproducts company Solazyme, Inc. signed a research and development agreement with Unilever to develop oil derived from algae for use in soaps and other personal care products.

Helen of Troy to Acquire Pert Plus and Sure Brands

March 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Helen of Troy Limited entered into an agreement with Innovative Brands, LLC to acquire the Pert Plus hair care and Sure anti-perspirant and deodorant businesses.

Walmart to Roll Out Hard Candy Beauty Product Line

March 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Walmart is gearing up for spring with a collection of new Hard Candy beauty products slated to be on shelf the first week of May, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

P&G Launches Whitening Collection

March 8, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble will introduce Crest and Oral-B 3D White collection this month, which includes Whitestrips, toothpaste, whitening rinse and toothbrushes, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Target Rolls Out Eco-Friendly Beauty Line

March 8, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Target is bolstering its beauty department by offering shoppers its One new line of 28 earth-friendly products in recyclable, plastic-free packaging, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Sunstar Americas Brushes Up Oral Care Offerings

March 8, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Maker of GUM- and Butler-brand dental products, Sunstar Americas is launching several new oral care products for spring 2010, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

P&G CEO Looks at Acquisitions to Claim Bigger Share

March 8, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble Co. CEO Robert McDonald will consider acquisitions across all product lines as he seeks to raise the average amount customers spend on P&G brands, reported Bloomberg.com.

New Wakefern Members to Operate Acquired Shaw's

March 8, 2010 -- Retail
Wakefern Food Corp. picked up two new members to operate three of the 11 Shaw's it recently purchased in Connecticut, reported Supermarket News.

Hannaford, Shipyard Team for Health Initiative

March 8, 2010 -- Retail
Employees of Bath Iron Works can get discounts to restaurants, retail stores and other businesses by showing they purchased, or at least considered buying, Guiding Stars-rated items at Hannaford, reported Supermarket News.

Walgreens Restructures Health Care Divisions

March 8, 2010 -- Retail
Walgreens rolled out a strategic restructuring of its health care divisions to enable the company to offer integrated "Pharmacy, Health and Wellness Solutions."

Price Chopper Supermarkets to Acquire Six Supermarkets

March 8, 2010 -- Retail
Price Chopper Supermarkets entered into an agreement to purchase six P&C stores from Tops Friendly Markets. The stores are located in New York and New Hampshire.

Can Online Metrics Work?

March 8, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 60 percent of companies queried by interactive agency ISITE Design believed that their current approach to measuring Web strategy was not effective, reported eMarketer.com.

Marketing to the Ubiquitous Cell Phone

March 8, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Marketers who are not keenly focused on spreading their message through mobile technologies may lose a key opportunity that gives loyal customers special attention, reported eCommerceTimes.com.

Marketing Budgets Spiral Toward Social

March 8, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Marketers claim that they will devote nearly one-fifth of their marketing budgets to social media in the next five years, according to The CMO Survey from Duke University and the American Marketing Association, reported eMarketer.com.

Yaksitch Joins Albertsons LLC Dallas Division

March 8, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Albertsons LLC named Frank Yaksitch vice president, marketing and merchandising, for its 98-store Dallas-Fort Worth division, effective March 12, reported Supermarket News.

NAD Recommends Glaxo Discontinue Certain Claims

March 8, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The National Advertising Division (NAD) of the Council of Better Business Bureaus recommended that GlaxoSmithKline discontinue certain bacteria-removal claims made for the company's Aquafresh Iso-Active Whitening Toothpaste.

Publix Announces 4th Quarter and Annual Results for 2009

March 8, 2010 -- Financial
Publix's sales for the fourth quarter of 2009 were $6.1 billion, a 1 percent increase from last year's $6 billion, while sales for the fiscal year ended Dec. 26, were $24.3 billion, a 1.6 percent increase from last year's $23.9 billion.

Revlon Reports 2009 Results

March 8, 2010 -- Financial
Revlon, Inc.'s net sales of $1,295.9 million compared to $1,346.8 million, a decrease of 3.8 percent. Excluding unfavorable foreign currency fluctuations of $26.0 million, net sales declined by 1.8 percent in 2009.

Rite Aid Reports 3.2% Same Store Sales Decrease

March 8, 2010 -- Financial
For the five weeks ended Feb. 27, Rite Aid Corp.'s same store sales decreased 3.2 percent over the prior-year period while front-end same store sales decreased 3.2 percent.

Fred's Posts Growth in February

March 8, 2010 -- Financial
Fred's Inc.'s sales at stores open at least a year climbed 2 percent in February as customers headed to its stores to take advantage of advertised promotions, reported The Associated Press.

Walgreens February Sales Increase 3.2%

March 8, 2010 -- Financial
Walgreens had February sales of $5.31 billion, an increase of 3.2 percent from $5.14 billion for the same month in 2009. Sales in comparable stores increased 0.4 percent.

BJ's Wholesale Club Reports February Sales Results

March 8, 2010 -- Financial
BJ's Wholesale Club, Inc. reported that sales for February 2010 increased by 12.8 percent to $755.2 million from $669.6 million in February 2009.

Stop & Shop Posts Q4 Profit Gains

March 8, 2010 -- Financial
Ahold's fourth-quarter operating income at the company's Stop & Shop/Giant-Landover division rose 15 percent, to $238 million, and full-year operating income at the division rose 24 percent, to $869 million, reported Supermarket News.

Register for the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference - Registration Deadline is March 17!

March 8, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. Register now!

Maximize Your Impact at the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference!

March 8, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Supplier members who register for the Showcase and Sample Box receive the added benefit of having their entries visible to buying Wholesale and Retail members prior to the conference. Showcase entries provide an opportunity for Wholesaler and Retailer attendees to actually see Suppliers' products as they make their appointment selections. Register now!

Retail Sales Could See An Upswing for 2010

March 8, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
From Jerry Barnes, VP Member Services It would not be prudent to predict any type of economic recovery at this point in time; however, if registrations for the GMDC General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conferences are any indication, the retail sales market may very well be looking at an upswing for 2010.

Energizer Introduces Schick Hydro

March 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Energizer, Inc. introduced its Schick Hydro razor line for its Schick brand that claims to protect and care for skin while it removes hair.

GSK Consumer Healthcare to Remove Zinc from Its Denture Adhesives

March 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) will transition to zinc-free versions of its denture adhesives as there are potential health risks associated with long-term excessive use.

Goody Debuts Simple Styles Collection

March 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Goody is launching its Simple Styles collection, a line of accessories specifically designed for all hair types available in both blonde and brunette shades, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required)

Nature's Gate Launches Lotion

March 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Nature's Gate is launching its Glow Lotion, which moisturizes skin while gradually adding a hint of color, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required)

Idelle Labs Reintroduces Sea Breeze Astringents

March 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Idelle Labs is bringing back to the facial care market the Sea Breeze original and sensitive astringents exclusively at Walmart on March 1, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

WomenHeart and Colgate Total Toothpaste Launch 'Heartwarming Smiles' Campaign

March 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
In recognition of American Heart Month, WomenHeart: The National Coalition For Women With Heart Disease and Colgate Total toothpaste partnered to launch the Heartwarming Smiles campaign.

Walmart to Sell "How to Train Your Dragon" Toys

March 1, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Walmart will be the exclusive retailer for DreamWorks Animation's "How to Train Your Dragon" toy line, created by Spin Master Ltd. starting March 1.

Sears Holdings to Close 21 Stores by Spring

March 1, 2010 -- Retail
Sears Holdings plans to shut 21 more stores around the country by spring, bringing the total number closed over the past year to 56, reported USA Today.

Harris Teeter "Story of the Year" Contest Under Way

March 1, 2010 -- Retail
Harris Teeter launched its "Story of the Year" online video contest, where customers can share their favorite Harris Teeter experience, reported Supermarket News.

United Supermarkets Launches NuVal Nutritional Scoring System

March 1, 2010 -- Retail
United Supermarkets, LLC is implementing the NuVal Nutritional Scoring System in all of its United Supermarkets, Market Street and Amigos United grocery stores.

What Makes Consumers Try New Products?

March 1, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some four in 10 consumers bought a new product after seeing it on the shelf or display, according to a Brand Trial survey conducted by Market Force Information, Inc., reported Progressive Grocer.

Physicians Formula Holdings, Inc. Announces Appointment

March 1, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Physicians Formula Holdings, Inc. appointed Jeff Berry as chief financial officer, replacing Joseph Jaeger.

Duckwall-ALCO Stores Appoints Richard E. Wilson as President and CEO

March 1, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Duckwall-ALCO Stores, Inc. named Richard Wilson as president and chief executive officer effective Feb. 22 after Lawrence Zigerelli resigned.

Colorado Proposes Ban On Cosmetics it Claims Cause Cancer

March 1, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Colorado senators are calling on the state to crackdown on 'cancer-causing' chemicals in personal care products, reported Cosmetics Design.

drugstore.com, inc. Acquires SkinStore.com

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
drugstore.com, inc. completed its acquisition of Salu, Inc. owner and operator of SkinStore.com.

Clorox Considering Acquisitions

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
Clorox Co. has considered several acquisition targets and is willing to spend as much as $500 million if the right asset were to become available, reported BusinessWeek.

Albertsons Makes Bid for Bashas' Stores

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
Albertsons Inc. plans to persist with a proposal to acquire Bashas' Inc.'s 120 stores, distribution network and headquarters for $260 million to $290 million, reported Arizona Republic (Free Registration Required)

Safeway Inc. Announces Fourth Quarter 2009 Results

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
Safeway Inc. reported a net loss of $1,609.1 million for the 16-week fourth quarter of 2009. Net income was $338 million for the 17-week fourth quarter of 2008.

Dollar Tree Reports Fourth Quarter Earnings

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
Dollar Tree, Inc.'s consolidated net sales for the fourth quarter were $1.56 billion, a 12.4 percent increase compared to $1.39 billion reported for the quarter ended Jan. 31, 2009.

Walmart Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2010 Results

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.'s net sales for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2010 were $112.8 billion, an increase of 4.6 percent from $107.9 billion in the fourth quarter last year.

Target Corporation Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2009 Earnings

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
Target Corp.'s net earnings of $936 million for the quarter ended Jan. 30, 2010, compared with $609 million in the quarter ended Jan. 31, 2009.

Sears Holdings Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2009 Results

March 1, 2010 -- Financial
Sears Holdings Corp. saw a net income of $430 million for the fourth quarter of 2009 and $235 million for 2009 compared to $53 million in 2008.

Multicultural Efforts

March 1, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, VP, Business Development/CMO Any retailers or marketers striving to reach U.S. consumers must realize that nearly one third of their audience, or 87 million people, belongs to a non-Caucasian racial or ethnic market. As of the 2000 Census, the U.S. population included 34.7 million blacks/African Americans, 35.3 million Hispanics and 10.1 million Americans of Asian descent. Growth trends show that these ethnic populations will continue to fuel the growth of the total population. In fact, while the Caucasian population of the United States grew only 5.9 percent between 1990 and 2000, the African American, Hispanic and Asian populations combined grew 35 percent.

Register for the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference - Registration Deadline is March 17!

March 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. Register now!

Maximize Your Impact at the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference!

March 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Supplier members who register for the Showcase and Sample Box receive the added benefit of having their entries visible to buying Wholesale and Retail members prior to the conference. Showcase entries provide an opportunity for Wholesaler and Retailer attendees to actually see Suppliers' products as they make their appointment selections. Register now!

GMDC Member Title Changes

March 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
See the following key changes to GMDC member titles.

Category Sales Information Available to Members

March 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recaps for General Merchandise and Health and Beauty categories.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

March 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training courses is to support GMDC Retailer and Wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

Free Business Magazines

March 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

Stress Relief Online, Aromatherapy by Mail

February 22, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Johnson & Johnson will debut its online stress management program for women, Upliv, later this month at upliv.com, reported The New York Times on the Web (Free Registration Required).

P&G's Gillette Introduces Fusion ProGlide, Fusion ProSeries

February 22, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble (P&G) is introducing the Gillette Fusion ProGlide shaving system and the Gillette Fusion ProSeries, a lineup of male skin care products.

Neutrogena Signs Miranda Cosgrove

February 22, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Neutrogena signed actress and recording artist Miranda Cosgrove as its newest brand ambassador.

Vogue International Teams up with Walt Disney Pictures

February 22, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Maker of the Organix hair care brand, Vogue International, teamed up with Walt Disney Pictures for both the theatrical release and Blu-Ray/DVD release of Alice in Wonderland, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Sure Launches New Antiperspirant, Deodorants for Men and Women

February 22, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Sure is launching two new lines of antiperspirant and deodorants designed specifically for men and women and will be available nationwide at major drug and grocery stores this month.

Cetaphil Rolls Out Press Tube Pump

February 22, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Galderma Laboratories' Cetaphil developed a press tube pump for its new UVA/UVB Defense SPF 50, which will be available in March, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Kellogg Increases 2010 Ad Spend, Triples Social Media

February 22, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Kellogg increased advertising spending in 2009 to an estimated $1.1 billion globally, and will again this year, in addition to moving aggressively into social media, according to COO John Bryant, reported MediaPost.com.

Mattel Taps Into Social Media with Puppy Tweets

February 22, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Mattel Inc. is preparing to release Puppy Tweets, a toy that will allow dogs to publicize their everyday activities on Twitter via a sound and motion sensor, reported The Los Angeles Times (Free Registration Required).

Regional Chains Poised for Growth: Planet Retail

February 22, 2010 -- Retail
Local supermarket operators are more likely to see growth in 2010 than the "big three" traditional supermarket chains, according to Planet Retail's Top 10 Retailers to Watch in North America report, reported Supermarket News.

Food Lion Lowers Prices

February 22, 2010 -- Retail
Food Lion is lowering prices throughout its stores on thousands of items, including milk, bread, produce, meat, juice, canned goods, detergent, paper products and pet food.

Giant Food Launches New Online Community for Moms

February 22, 2010 -- Retail
Giant Food launched www.smallvictories.com, a new online community for moms, which will be refreshed daily with content including recipes, money-saving advice and tips from fellow moms.

Brookshire Grocery Aims to Enhance Shopper Data

February 22, 2010 -- Retail
In an effort to enhance its ability to leverage shopper card data, Brookshire Grocery partnered with analytic services firm Spire, reported Supermarket News.

Brand Names Fight to Stay in Stores

February 22, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Large retailers are reconsidering the amount of brand name products on their shelves, replacing items that are not top sellers with store brands instead, reported CNNMoney.com.

Weis Markets Names Four SVPs

February 22, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Weis Markets promoted four executives: Rusty Graber, Jim Marcil, Jay Ropietski and Kurt Schertle were named senior vice presidents, reported Supermarket News.

Sanders Resigns as CEO of United Supermarkets

February 22, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Robert Taylor will serve as interim CEO of United Supermarkets following executive vice president and CEO Dan J. Sanders' resignation.

FDA Warns About Potential for Maalox Product Mix-Ups

February 22, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
FDA warned about the potential for serious side effects in people who take Maalox Total Relief in the belief that it contains the same ingredients as Maalox antacid products.

SUPERVALU Announces Sale of Connecticut Shaw's Stores

February 22, 2010 -- Financial
Supervalu plans to sell all Connecticut Shaw's stores, reaching agreements with Wakefern and Stop & Shop for the sale of 16 Shaw's stores.

Duckwall-ALCO Stores Completes New Credit Facility

February 22, 2010 -- Financial
Duckwall-ALCO Stores, Inc. closed on a new $120 million four-year revolving credit facility with Bank of America, N.A. and Wells Fargo Retail Finance, LLC.

Whole Foods Market Reports First Quarter Results

February 22, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Whole Foods Market, Inc.'s sales increased 7.0 percent to $2.6 billion for the 16-week first quarter ended Jan. 17.

Sports = Big Bucks for Retail

February 22, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
From Jerry Barnes, VP Member Services Americans are obsessed with sports. For those merchandisers who sell sports apparel, sports merchandise and sports celebration products, the craze is big business. It's growing fast-reaching into the billions of dollars in revenue every year. In fact, the shift in the timing of this year's Super Bowl boosted February retail sales, and youth-oriented clothing sellers posted sharply higher results.

Register for the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference - Registration Deadline is March 17!

February 22, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. Register now!

Maximize Your Impact at the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference!

February 22, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Supplier members who register for the Showcase and Sample Box receive the added benefit of having their entries visible to buying Wholesale and Retail members prior to the conference. Showcase entries provide an opportunity for Wholesaler and Retailer attendees to actually see Suppliers' products as they make their appointment selections. Register now!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

February 22, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recaps for General Merchandise and Health and Beauty categories.

Increase Your Sales

February 15, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
From Jane Colvard, Manager Member Services, GMDC Whether you're a Supplier or a Wholesaler/Retailer, GMDC's Sample Box and Showcase programs provide an outstanding opportunity to connect and increase sales prior to and at the annual GMDC Marketing Conferences.

Dove Launches Campaign for Men's Line

February 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Unilever's Dove brand launched an integrated campaign for its Men+Care line of skin products, including social media, TV and a microsite, DoveMenCare.com, reported DMNews.com.

AtHisBest.com Dedicated to Men's Health, Grooming Products

February 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Drugstore.com launched AtHisBest.com, an online store offering more than 10,000 men's grooming, health, home, fitness and personal care items.

Dollar General to Reveal the New Face of Bobbie Brooks

February 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Dollar General Corp. is launching a companywide model search this spring for a new face of Bobbie Brooks, its exclusive women's fashion brand.

Bic Expands Men's Disposable Shaver Category

February 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Bic is offering two new shavers for men: the Bic Flex4 and the Bic Hybrid Advance, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Remington Gets Top Honors from Good Housekeeping Research Institute

February 15, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Remington won the Good Housekeeping's Second Annual "Very Innovative Products" award for its Frizz Therapy iron, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Tide Teams Up With Venus Williams to Launch New Product

February 15, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble's Tide introduced Tide plus Febreze Freshness Sport. Venus Williams will serve as the ambassador for the launch.

Spectrum Brands Adds Russell Hobbs to Its Portfolio

February 15, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Spectrum Brands and Russell Hobbs, Inc. signed a definitive agreement to bring Russell Hobbs' network of small appliance brands into Spectrum's operating structure.

Russell Hobbs to Expand George Foreman Brand

February 15, 2010 -- General Merchandise
After the announcement of its pending acquisition by Spectrum Brands, Russell Hobbs unveiled a plan to expand its George Foreman brand into new product categories, reported Home Channel News.

Target Introduces Target Mobile GiftCards

February 15, 2010 -- Retail
Target rolled out the Target Mobile GiftCard, where customers can save GiftCard information to a PIN-secure account on the Target.com mobile site.

Walmart Consolidates Food Bag Section

February 15, 2010 -- Retail
Walmart consolidated its food bags section nationally to one brand, SC Johnson's Ziploc, and its own private label, Great Value, reported Advertising Age (Free Registration Required).

SUPERVALU Emphasizes Importance of Health and Wellness During Heart Health Month

February 15, 2010 -- Retail
SUPERVALU Inc. is promoting health and wellness by showcasing how the company can partner with customers to help them make healthier choices.

Fareway Tops SN's First 'Top 50 Independents' List

February 15, 2010 -- Retail
The largest supermarket operator in terms of volume with sales below $1 billion in the United States is Fareway Stores, according to Supermarket News' compilation of small chains and independents.

More Retail Closures Likely: Report

February 15, 2010 -- Retail
Retailers seeeking additional cost-cutting measures in a challenging consumer environment may close more stores in response, according to a Bloomberg.com analysis.

Why We Shop Where We Shop

February 15, 2010 -- Retail
Some 5 percent of consumers use convenience stores for fill-in purchases, according to a consumer survey conducted by Market Force Information Inc., reported CSP Daily News.

Register for the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference - Early Bird Discount Ends Feb. 19!

February 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Arizona. Register now!

GMDC Welcomes New Members

February 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC announces the following new Retail and Wholesale members and Supplier associate members.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

February 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training course is to support GMDC Retailer and Wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

Free Business Magazines

February 15, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

How to Reach Affluent African Americans

February 15, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Luxury marketers are guilty of missing out on advertising to affluent African Americans, claims the book Black Is the New Green: Marketing to Affluent African Americans, reported Adweek.

Retail Customer Experience: Why Generation Y Isn't Buying Your Products

February 15, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Generation Y's attention span is short, demands are great and purchases are diverse, according to RetailWire.com (Free Registration Required).

United Supermarkets Names Interm CEO

February 15, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Robert Taylor will serve as interim CEO of United Supermarkets.

Nash Finch Company Announces Promotion

February 15, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Nash Finch promoted Christopher A. Brown to president and chief operating officer of Nash Finch Wholesale.

CVS Caremark Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2009 Results

February 15, 2010 -- Financial
CVS Caremark's net revenues for the fourth quarter of 2009 increased $1.7 billion to $25.8 billion, up from $24.1 billion in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Clorox Delivers 26 Percent EPS Growth in Q2

February 15, 2010 -- Financial
Clorox reported second-quarter net earnings of $110 million versus $86 million in the year-ago quarter, an increase of 26 percent.

Hasbro Reports Fourth Quarter and Full-Year 2009 Results

February 15, 2010 -- Financial
Hasbro Inc. saw net revenues of $1.38 billion for the fourth quarter, an increase of $144.1 million, or 12 percent, compared to $1.23 billion a year ago.

Weis Markets Reports 4th Quarter Results

February 15, 2010 -- Financial
Weis Markets, Inc.'s sales increased 8.4 percent to $671.4 million compared to $619.4 million for the same period in 2008.

Stater Bros. Holdings Inc. Announces First Quarter 2010 Results

February 15, 2010 -- Financial
Stater Bros. Holdings Inc.'s supermarket sales were relatively flat, declining 1.11 percent in the first quarter of fiscal 2010 compared to the same period of the prior year.

Toys"R"Us Introduces Exclusive Line of Branded Baby Essentials

February 8, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Toys"R"Us, Inc. introduced an exclusive line of baby essentials under its Babies"R"Us brand, including powdered infant formulas, diapers, wipes and laundry detergent.

Supervalu Extends Baby Basics Line

February 8, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Supervalu introduced improved Baby Basics diapers that provide better leak protection and improved fit. A Baby Basics brand training pant will also be rolled out this spring.

Alberto-Culver Restages Noxzema, Unveils New Products

February 8, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Alberto-Culver is revamping its Noxzema brand with several new products and a new restaged look, including face washes, scrubs and pads, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Coty Joins in Supporting Relief Effort Following Earthquake in Haiti

February 8, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Coty Inc. donated $100,000 to two humanitarian organizations involved in the earthquake relief efforts in Haiti, the American Red Cross and Save the Children.

Method to Roll Out $10 Million Campaign

February 8, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Green cleaning-products company Method is introducing a detergent in a campaign with a budget estimated at $10 million, reported The New York Times on the Web (Free Registration Required).

Lysol Introduces No-Touch Hand Soap System

February 8, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Reckitt Benckiser launched the Lysol No-Touch Hand Soap System, which automatically senses hands and dispenses antibacterial soap, reported Happi.

Bi-Lo Gets Another Extension to Submit Plans

February 8, 2010 -- Retail
Bi-Lo, which filed for Chapter 11 bankrupcy protection, received another extension from the U.S. courts. Bi-Lo now has until Feb. 28 to come up with exclusive plans to reorganize the company, reported KamCity.com.

Winn-Dixie Opened First New Store in Six Years

February 8, 2010 -- Retail
Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc. opened its first newly constructed location since 2004 in Covington, La. on Feb. 4.

New Save Mart to Feature 'Green' Systems

February 8, 2010 -- Retail
Save Mart Supermarkets opened a 56,000-sq. ft. location in Modesto, Calif. that features systems to reduce its carbon footprint, reported Supermarket News.

Register for the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference - Early Bird Discount Ends Feb. 19!

February 8, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. Register now!

Maximize Your Impact at the 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference!

February 8, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Supplier members who register for the Showcase and Sample Box receive the added benefit of having their entries visible to buying Wholesale and Retail members prior to the conference. Showcase entries provide an opportunity for Wholesaler and Retailer attendees to actually see Suppliers' products as they make their appointment selections. Register now!

GMDC Welcomes New Members

February 8, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC announces the following new Retail and Wholesale members and Supplier associate members.

GMDC Member Title Changes

February 8, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
See the following key changes to GMDC member titles.

Category Sales Information Available to Members

February 8, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recaps for General Merchandise and Health and Beauty categories.

NRF Releases Valentine's Day Forecast

February 8, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Couples will spend an average of $63.34 on gifts for their significant other or spouse for Valentine's Day, compared to $67.22 last year, according to the National Retail Federation.

Costco Wholesale Corporation Announces Executive Management Changes

February 8, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Costco Wholesale Corporation appointed Craig Jelinek president and COO, effective immediately.

SuperValu Names Julie Dexter Berg Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer

February 8, 2010 -- Executive Updates
SuperValu named Julie Dexter Berg executive vice president and chief marketing officer, effective March 15, and she will report to Craig Herkert, CEO and president.

Southern Family Names Henderson President

February 8, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Max T. Henderson Jr., was named president of Southern Family Markets effective immediately, reported Supermarket News.

Consumer Product Safety Commission Recalls Toy Guns Due to Choking Hazard

February 8, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Dollar General, is recalling toy guns due to a choking hazard.

Walgreens January Sales Increase 2.7 Percent

February 8, 2010 -- Financial
Walgreens had January sales of $5.36 billion, an increase of 2.7 percent from $5.22 billion for the same month in 2009. Sales in comparable stores decreased 1.1 percent.

Pacific World Acquires Woodward Labs

February 8, 2010 -- Financial
Manufacturer of nail products and artificial nails, Pacific World, acquired Woodward Labs, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Alberto Culver Reports First Quarter Fiscal Year 2010

February 8, 2010 -- Financial
Alberto Culver's net sales for the first quarter increased 2.9 percent to $363 million compared to $352.8 million in the prior-year quarter.

Spartan Stores Announces Third-Quarter Fiscal 2010 Financial Results

February 8, 2010 -- Financial
Spartan Stores, Inc.'s consolidated net sales for the 16-week third quarter were $786.9 million compared with $781.9 million in the same period last year.

Member Profile: Dean Erlandson, Senior Vice President, Mass Channel, Hallmark Cards, Inc.

February 8, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
Dean Erlandson is the senior vice president of Mass Channel for Hallmark Cards Inc., located in Kansas City, Mo. Dean assumed the position in 2009 after serving as vice president of sales for Crayola Inc., a subsidiary of Hallmark Cards. He has also held various sales and training positions with both Johnson & Johnson and Schering-Plough Consumer Health Care. A GMDC member since the late '90s, Dean has participated on several GMDC committees and currently serves on the Education Leadership Council.

Mississippi Senate passed HB 512

February 8, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The Mississippi Senate passed HB 512 Schedule III (Prescription) for PSE by a vote of 45-4.

JFL Launches Coupon Saver

February 8, 2010 -- General Merchandise
JFL Enterprises, Inc. released The Coupon Saver, a coupon storage device that retails for $3.99 and is available in assorted styles.

P&G Rolls Out Line of Men's Shampoo

February 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Head & Shoulders Hair Endurance for Men, a line that claims to reduce hair breakage by eliminating dandruff, was rolled out by Procter & Gamble, reported Brandweek.

Anti-Aging Key Purchase Motivator for Women: Study

February 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
About 75 percent of women skincare users claim they "use skincare products to look the best they can for their age," according to a study by The NPD Group.

Gold Bond Launches New Product

February 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Chattem, Inc.'s Gold Bond introduced Gold Bond Ultimate Hand Sanitizer Moisturizer.

NPD Presents Overview Of Global Prestige Beauty Trends

February 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The total U.S. prestige beauty industry experienced a decline of 6 percent in dollar sales from 2008 in its 2009 year-end results for skincare, makeup and fragrance, according to The NPD Group.

HealthRight Products Rolls Out Nasal Strips

February 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
HealthRight Products introduced its patented Breathe Clear nasal strips with patented Dual Lift Dual Flex technology, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

St. Ives Rolls Out Green Tea Facial Products

February 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
St. Ives, a skin care brand from Alberto-Culver, is launching facial products infused with 100 percent natural green tea in 2010, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Church & Dwight Adds Depilatories to Nair Line

February 1, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Church & Dwight's Nair brand will roll out several new hair-removal products for 2010, including Shower Power Max, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Procter & Gamble Unveils New Febreze Scent

February 1, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble's Febreze introduced the Thai Dragon Fruit fragrance to its premium Destinations Collection.

Supermarket News Releases List of Top 75 Food Retailers

February 1, 2010 -- Retail
Supermarket News released its annual listing of the Top 75 food retailers and wholesalers in North America.

Hy-Vee's Jon Wendel Receives Supermarket News Marketer Award

February 1, 2010 -- Retail
Jon Wendel, senior vice president of marketing, Hy-Vee, received Supermarket News' fifth annual Marketer of the Year Award.

Delhaize Betting on Bottom Dollar

February 1, 2010 -- Retail
Delhaize's new corporate structure clears the way for the retailer to expand behind its discount Bottom Dollar discount division, reported Supermarket News.

Giant Eagle Rolling Out Pilot HBW Concept

February 1, 2010 -- Retail
Giant Eagle is rolling out a health and wellness pilot concept in Pittsburgh, Pa., that will feature a bigger selection of supplements, cosmetics and skin care, reported Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

Schnuck Siblings Honored as Citizen(s) of the Year

February 1, 2010 -- Retail
The six Schnuck siblings were honored by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch as Citizen(s) of the Year for 2009.

Health Mart Reaches 2,500 Stores

February 1, 2010 -- Retail
Health Mart opened its 2,500th pharmacy, roughly four years after the chain unveiled plans to expand into a nationwide franchise pharmacy operation, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required)

Associated Retail Stores Selects Park City Group's Consumer Driven Sales Optimization Solution

February 1, 2010 -- Retail
Associated Retail Stores selected Park City Group's Consumer Driven Sales Optimization platform to capture, manage, analyze and share critical data with its partners.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

February 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. Register now!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

February 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recaps for General Merchandise and Health and Beauty categories.

Free Business Magazines

February 1, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

NRF Forecasts 2.5 Percent Increase in Retail Sales for 2010

February 1, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
U.S. retail sales should rise 2.5 percent this year, indicating that store chains endured the worst of the downturn, the National Retail Federation forecasts.

More Shoppers Buying Supplements: Survey

February 1, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Nearly three out of 10 shoppers surveyed are purchasing more vitamin/mineral supplements/pills to ensure their diet is healthy, according to the National Grocers Association's 2010 Consumer Survey.

A&P Names President, CEO

February 1, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Ron Marshall will assume the role of president and CEO of The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company, Inc. effective Feb. 8.

Craig Boyan to Lead H-E-B as President and COO

February 1, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Craig Boyan was named president and COO at H-E-B.

Mark Walsh Named COO of Pharmavite LLC

February 1, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Pharmavite LLC promoted Mark Walsh to chief operating officer (COO), effective immediately.

NAD Recommends Cobalis Corp. Change Claims for Dietary Supplement

February 1, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The National Advertising Division (NAD)determined that Cobalis Corp. can support certain claims for the company's "PreHistin" dietary supplement product but recommended the company modify or discontinue certain claims.

Consumer Product Safety Commission, Starbucks Recalling Glass Water Bottles

February 1, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission and Starbucks Corp., are voluntarily recalling more than 12,000 glass water bottles with stoppers that could shatter and cut consumers when the stopper is inserted or removed.

Kimberly-Clark Announces Year-End 2009 Results and 2010 Outlook

February 1, 2010 -- Financial
Kimberly-Clark Corp.'s net sales in the fourth quarter of 2009 increased 8.4 percent to $5 billion, including an approximate 5 percent benefit from stronger foreign currency exchange rates.

Tops Markets Awarded Winning Bid for Penn Traffic Grocery Stores

February 1, 2010 -- Financial
Tops Markets was awarded the winning bid for Penn Traffic's 79-store grocery chain in a Delaware bankruptcy court, reported The Buffalo News.

Rite Aid Reports 2.1 Percent Same-Store Sales Decrease for January

February 1, 2010 -- Financial
Rite Aid's same-store sales decreased 2.1 percent over the prior-year period for the four weeks ended Jan. 23, while pharmacy same store sales were down 2.1 percent.

Serving the Retail and Wholesale Business of General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness

February 1, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
From Jerry Barnes, VP Member Services GMDC celebrates 40 years as a nonprofit trade association focused on growing and expanding the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness business of our members. GMDC has evolved over the years to bring new initiatives to the members of the association, and we thought we would take the time to review some of the major developments and changes.

Milani Introduces Avatar-Themed Beauty Products

January 25, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Milani Cosmetics unveiled a cosmetics collection inspired by the film Avatar, and CVS will be among the first to sell the line in February, reported Happi.

Factor Nutrition Labs Plans Line Extension, Print Campaign

January 25, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Factor Nutrition Labs plans to expand its supplements product roster with four additional products by the end of 2010, reported Chain Drug Review (Free Registration Required).

NCR to Install Blockbuster Express Kiosks in Brookshire Stores

January 25, 2010 -- General Merchandise
NCR Corp. will install its Blockbuster Express-branded DVD-rental kiosks in the 50-unit Brookshire Grocery chain in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi.

Supervalu Outlines Fiscal 2011 Store Plans

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Supervalu is planning to open 45 to 50 new hard discount stores, including licensed stores, in fiscal year 2011 as well as three new traditional supermarkets.

Target Announces Business Plans For Next Five to 10 Years

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Target plans to invest approx. $1 billion in the renovation of about 340 existing stores and will develop a smaller store format with an edited merchandise assortment.

Duane Reade Rolls Out New Customer Rewards Program

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Duane Reade launched Duane Reade FlexRewards, a customer rewards program that replaces Dollar Rewards, its previous customer rewards program.

Stores Use "Store-Within-a-Store" Concept to Boost Sales

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Some stores are utilizing more "store within a store" concepts, and the collaborations will continue to multiply rapidly, claim retail analysts, reported The Sacramento Bee (Free Registration Required).

Retailers Ramp Up 'Senior Discounts'

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Retailers are resurrecting, revamping or promoting more heavily discounts aimed at senior citizens, reported OregonLive.com.

Meijer to Expand Smaller Format Store in Illinois

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Meijer plans to expand its new smaller format, grocery-focused concept by building a second store in Orland Park, IL.

Customers an Underused Asset: Dunnhumby

January 25, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Despite their presumed importance, "customers may be the least utilized asset most companies have," stated VP Matt Nitzberg, reported Supermarket News.

Walgreens Promotes Three Executives

January 25, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Walgreens promoted Kermit Crawford to EVP of pharmacy services, Dana Green was promoted to EVP and Colin F. Watts was promoted to corporate VP.

Rite Aid Names Bryan Shirtliff to New Position

January 25, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Rite Aid named Bryan Shirtliff, currently the company's SVP of Category Management, to the new position of SVP, Business Development.

CVS Caremark Names New Executive

January 25, 2010 -- Executive Updates
CVS Caremark appointed David Casey as vice president and diversity officer.

Procter & Gamble Names New Executive

January 25, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Procter & Gamble appointed Linda Clement-Holmes SVP of global diversity and global business services, effective Feb. 1.

Consumer Product Safety Commission Issues Final Rule Establishing Recall Guidelines

January 25, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a final rule establishing guidelines and requirements for mandatory recall notices as required by the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008.

National Toxicology Program, FDA Have Some BPA Concerns

January 25, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
NIH's National Toxicology Program and FDA stated they have "some concern" about the potential effects of Bisphenol A (BPA).

Nash Finch Announces Retail Segment Goodwill Impairment Charge

January 25, 2010 -- Financial
Nash Finch will take a non-cash $69.9 million goodwill impairment charge in fiscal year 2009 relating to its retail segment.

Inverness Sells Vitamin Business to International Vitamin Corp.

January 25, 2010 -- Financial
Inverness Medical Innovations, Inc. sold its vitamin and nutritional supplements business to International Vitamin Corp. for approximately $63.4 million.

Bashas' Submits Re-Organization Plan

January 25, 2010 -- Financial
Bashas' submitted a plan of reorganization to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Phoenix to be looked over by its various debtor groups, reported Supermarket News.

The Economy and Consumer Trends in General Merchandise

January 25, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
By Keith Wypyszynski, Vice President, Business Development/CMO, GMDC With the past year behind us, U.S. consumers are still looking for new ways to save money. There's a renewed trend to clip coupons, and consumers are re-shopping mortgages and car insurance policies. Consumers also are becoming increasingly cautious as to how they will continue to spend their hard-earned cash. The home has become the center of opportunity - family time, eating at home, home as the entertainment center; all trends leading to opportunities in General Merchandise as consumers look to save money on do-it-yourself entertainment, products and solutions.

Shiseido to Acquire Bare Escentuals

January 25, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Shiseido Co., Ltd. entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Bare Escentuals, Inc. for approximately $1.7 billion.

Sunflower Farmers Market Unveils Consumer-Friendly Programs

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Sunflower Farmers Market launched two consumer-friendly programs to provide shoppers a broad range of consumer content, including its "Smart Tags Program," reported Progressive Grocer.

The Lowest Price is Not Always the Best Price: Nielsen

January 25, 2010 -- Retail
Retailers' focus on cutting prices and increasing store brand assortment is positively impacting unit sales, but negatively impacting dollar sales, according to Nielsen.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

January 25, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training course is to support GMDC Retailer and Wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

January 25, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, AZ. Register now; the Early Bird discount ends Feb.19.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

January 25, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Consumers Willing to Spend More to Go Green: Survey

January 25, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 90 percent of survey respondents incorporated some level of "greenness" into their daily lives, while few (8.8 percent) are 100 percent "green," according to a survey from Burst Media.

Cosmetics Manufacturers Launch Bright Colors on More Shelves

January 18, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Cosmetics manufacturers are going for glitz and glamour with increased efforts to beautify beauty departments in mass retail, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Hy-Vee, Amber Pharmacy Form New Specialty Pharmacy Company

January 18, 2010 -- Retail
Hy-Vee, Inc., and Amber Pharmacy formed a new company -- Hy-Vee Pharmacy Solutions -- to offer specialty pharmacy services through Hy-Vee's retail stores.

CVS Launches E-commerce Capabilities for Beauty 360

January 18, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
CVS/pharmacy recently introduced e-commerce capabilities for Beauty 360, its prestige beauty retail store.

Unilever Launches Men's Grooming Collection

January 18, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Unilever's Dove brand launched its Dove Men+Care collection, including body and face wash in three variants, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Health and Personal Care Stores Post 3.3% Gain

January 18, 2010 -- Economic Data
U.S. grocery stores saw no growth in retail sales in 2009, according to the Census Bureau. However, health and personal care stores -- including pharmacies -- posted a 3.3 percent gain, considerably better than the 6.2 percent decline in the overall retail sales total.

Henkel Expanding Tone, Dial Brands with Body Washes

January 18, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Henkel brands Tone and Dial are looking to launch in March the new Tone Daily Detox purifying body wash and Dial NutriSkin body wash, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Walgreens Launches Diabetes Consultation Pilot Program

January 18, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Walgreens launched the Walgreens Optimal Wellness program, a self-care educational program for people with chronic conditions -- starting with those with type 2 diabetes.

Hallmark Cards, Inc., Introduces Webcam Greetings

January 18, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Hallmark Cards, Inc., introduced webcam greetings -- new cards that use augmented reality technology. Ten cards currently are available for Valentine's Day.

Target Launches Giada De Laurentiis Line of Cookware

January 18, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Target introduced Giada De Laurentiis for Target, an exclusive line of cookware products and specialty food items.

Walgreens Charts Progress of Renewal Efforts

January 18, 2010 -- Retail
Walgreens is transforming both its core retail business and its overarching mission as a full-service provider of health-and-wellness services, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Deloitte Consumer Spending Index Falls in December

January 18, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The Deloitte Consumer Spending Index dipped slightly in December -- primarily due to a decline in real wages -- but it remains near its highest level since 2004.

More than Half of Consumers Use Mobile Phones for In-Store Activities

January 18, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 51 percent of consumers -- across 11 countries -- used their mobile phones for in-store activities, according to a Motorola, Inc., Enterprise Mobility Solutions study.

Walmart's "Marketside": What's "In-Store" for 2010?

January 18, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Walmart's recent developments with brand "marketside" conceptually follow Fresh & Easy Buzz's analysis about the synergistic potential of brand "Marketside," reported FreshnEasyBuzz.blogspot.com.

Family Dollar Names Don Hamblen as Senior Vice President

January 18, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Family Dollar Stores, Inc., named Don Hamblen to the position of senior vice president of customer marketing.

SuperValu Names New EVP of Merchandising

January 18, 2010 -- Executive Updates
SuperValu named Steve Jungmann as EVP, merchandising. Jungmann will lead all of the company's merchandising activities for its retail banners, excluding Save-A-Lot.

SuperValu Adds Two Executives

January 18, 2010 -- Executive Updates
SuperValu added two new executives: Chuck Elias as group vice president, strategic planning; and Keith Wyche as president of the Cub Foods chain, reported Supermarket News.

Safety Commision to Develop Standards for Toxic Materials in Children's Products

January 18, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission will develop standards to regulate toxic metals in children's products, reported BusinessWeek.

Walgreens to Acquire 25 Minnesota Snyder's Drug Stores

January 18, 2010 -- Financial
Walgreen Co. agreed to acquire the pharmacy business and certain other assets of 25 company-owned Snyder's Drug Stores in Minnesota.

Tops' Bid for Penn Traffic Wins Support

January 18, 2010 -- Financial
Tops Markets' bid of $85 million for all of Penn Traffic's supermarkets won the support of creditors' committees, unions, suppliers and others; but was objected to by Price Chopper, reported The Post-Standard.

Make Health and Beauty Your No. 1 New Year's Resolution

January 18, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
By GMDC Member, Michael D. Sleeper Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Imperial Distributors, Inc. Here are 10 reasons why management should make HBC its top priority on the New Year's resolution to-do list...

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

January 18, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Ariz. Register now; early bird discount ends on Feb. 19.

Category Sales Information Available to Members

January 18, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service which provides data that is updated each month.

Free Business Magazines

January 18, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit -- for free!

McNeil Consumer Healthcare Announces Voluntary Recall of Certain OTC Products

January 18, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
In consultation with the FDA, McNeil Consumer Healthcare is voluntarily recalling certain lots of OTC products in the Americas, the United Arab Emirates and Fiji.

Shampoo, Conditioner Introductions Peaked in 2009's First Quarter

January 11, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
New shampoo and conditioner product introductions were highest in the first quarter of 2009, according to Competitive Promotion Report.

P&G Spending More on Beauty, Fabric Care Products

January 11, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble is spending more on beauty and fabric care innovations, with most launches slated for the April to June time frame, reported Brandweek.

Innovations, 'Green' Cleaning Products Boost Category Sales

January 11, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Recent innovations in cleaning products boosted sales as customers discover new items, claims Wegmans cleaning tools category buyer Tom Gavin.

Holiday Report: Drug Chains Register Increased Sales

January 11, 2010 -- Retail
Chain drug retailers' holiday sales rose 6.8% while same-store sales for the period increased 5.5%, reported Chain Drug Review (Free Registration Required).

Spartan Stores Continues Supply Chain Optimization Strategy

January 11, 2010 -- Retail
As part of its distribution network optimization, Spartan Stores, Inc. plans to operate all supply chain activities from its Grand Rapids, MI distribution center.

Weis Markets Lowers Prices on 2,600 Staple Items

January 11, 2010 -- Retail
Weis Markets, Inc. lowered prices on 2,600 staple items and froze them through Apr. 1. The company also froze the prices on an additional 624 products.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

January 11, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Arizona. Register Now, Early Bird Discount ends February 19th.

Category Sales Information Available to Members

January 11, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Free Business Magazines

January 11, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

Poor Mobile Websites Turn Off Many Smartphone Users: Survey

January 11, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Poor mobile site functionality is still a turn-off for many smartphone owners, according to Compete's quarterly Smartphone Intelligence survey.

Walgreens Names New VP of Customer Centric Retailing

January 11, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Walgreens named Mike Arnoult to the post of VP Customer Centric Retailing, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Rite Aid Reports 1.8% Sales Decline in December

January 11, 2010 -- Financial
Rite Aid's same-store sales decreased 1.8% over 2008 for the four weeks ended Dec. 26.

Nutrition 21 Sells Assets to Nature's Products Inc. for $3.2 Million

January 11, 2010 -- Financial
Developer and marketer of nutritional ingredients, Nutrition 21, Inc., sold substantially all of the assets of its direct response and retail businesses to Nature's Products, Inc.

Member Profile: Topco Associates LLC

January 11, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
Curt Maki, Vice President HBC/GM Program Management and Pharmacy For the past 15 years, Curt Maki has served as Vice President HBC/GM Program Management and Pharmacy with Topco Associates LLC, a $10 billion Co-op located in the Chicago suburb of Skokie, IL. Topco Associates LLC provides procurement, quality assurance, packaging, and other services exclusively for its member-owners which include supermarket retailers, wholesalers, and foodservice companies. A registered pharmacist with a Bachelor Pharmacy degree from North Dakota State University and an MBA, Maki has also served over the years as Vice President Merchandising at Pay'n Save Drug Stores in Seattle and in various operational and merchandising positions at Osco Drug including store manager and buyer. Curt has been involved with GMDC for ten years and currently serves on GMDC's Board of Directors and Membership Advisory Board. Additionally, he has been a frequent leader for both roundtable discussions and First-time Attendee forums.

H-E-B Lowers Prices, Plans Expansion in Texas

January 11, 2010 -- Retail
H-E-B Grocery is lowering prices on more than 5,000 products and plans on opening 13 store locations in Texas. The company is also building a distribution center and will remodel and update more than 60 of its existing stores.

Unified Increases Credit Line With New Bank

January 11, 2010 -- Retail
Unified Grocers exercised a provision in its current revolving credit agreement that increases the total committed funds available to the company to $275 million, reported Supermarket News.

Navarro Discount Pharmacies Names CEO

January 11, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Navarro Discount Pharmacies, which operates 28 stores that cater to the Hispanic market, named Steve Kaczynski CEO, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Raley's Elects Michael Teel as CEO

January 11, 2010 -- Executive Updates
Raley's Board of Directors named Michael Teel as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Teel is the grandson of the regional supermarket founder, Tom Raley.

FDA Misses Third Deadline on BPA

January 11, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
FDA did not meet its own, third deadline for a decision on the safety of Bisphenol A, and it is unclear how the agency will handle the issue in 2010, reported Food Safety News.

TRIA Beauty Announces FDA Clearance

January 11, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
TRIA Beauty received OTC clearance from FDA for a hand-held blue light device designed for the treatment of mild to moderate inflammatory acne.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

January 4, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training course is to support GMDC Retailer and Wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

January 4, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed. The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Online registration opened Oct. 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

January 4, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

January 4, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Free Business Magazines

January 4, 2010 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

GlaxoSmithKline and NanoBio In Licensing Agreement for Cold Sore Treatment

January 4, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
GlaxoSmithKline and NanoBio Corp. formed an exclusive licensing agreement in the U.S. and Canada for the OTC use of a compound used for treating cold sores.

Pharmaceutical Companies Show More Interest in OTC, Personal Care Brands

January 4, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Sanofi Aventis became the latest pharmaceutical company to expand its package-goods business, reported Advertising Age. (Free Registration Required)

Drugstore.com to Buy Salu Inc.

January 4, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Drugstore.com, Inc. agreed to acquire Salu, Inc., owner and operater of the SkinStore.com webstore, an online retailer of clinical skin care and beauty products.

Anti-Aging Technologies Came to the Forefront in 2009

January 4, 2010 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Demand for anti-aging cosmetics will not wane as the past 10 years have seen increased spending in the category, reported Cosmetics Design.

Fewer Holiday Cards Sent This Year: Hallmark

January 4, 2010 -- General Merchandise
About 1.8 billion Christmas cards were sent this year, down from about two billion in recent years, claims a Hallmark spokeswoman, reported USA Today.

P&G's Tide Launches Tide Washing Machine Cleaner

January 4, 2010 -- General Merchandise
Tide launched Tide Washing Machine Cleaner, designed to remove residues and water-hardness minerals that may build up in washing machines.

Chain Store Sales Rise

January 4, 2010 -- Retail
Retail sales got a lift from the slower holiday gift completion rate this year, according to the International Council of Shopping Centers-Goldman Sachs chain store sales index.

Retail Holiday Sales Posted 3.6% Increase

January 4, 2010 -- Consumer & Business Insights
MasterCard Advisors tentatively estimates retail sales increased 3.6% between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24, reported Advertising Age (Free Registration Required).

RC2 Corp. to Pay $1.25 Million For Lead in Toys

January 4, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
RC2 Corp. agreed to pay a $1.25 million civil penalty for allegedly violating the Federal lead paint ban, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

CPSC Steps up Registration Process for Baby Products

January 4, 2010 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The Consumer Product Safety Commission will require each manufacturer of a durable infant or toddler product to provide additional registration requirements.

Walgreens Reports First Quarter 2010 Results

January 4, 2010 -- Financial
Walgreens' net earnings for the quarter ended Nov. 30 were $489 million, a 19.6% increase from $408 million in the same quarter a year ago.

Looking Back and Feeling Good About the Future

January 4, 2010 -- GMDC Matters
By Dave McConnell, GMDC President/CEO As we greet the New Year, it's easy to try to forget the challenges we faced in 2009 as many businesses struggled to cope with what is evolving into the 'new normal' for our industry. This new world includes a higher level of expectation by members that associations deliver true value at not only their annual networking events but also in terms of added value for the additional products and services included under the umbrella of members' annual dues payment.

Alberto Culver Enters into Agreement to Acquire Simple Health & Beauty

December 21, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Alberto Culver entered into an agreement to acquire Simple Health & Beauty, a UK-based based skin care company, from Duke Street, a private equity fund.

Retail Channels Seeing Global Shift in Consumer Beauty Shopping

December 21, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Changing consumer behavior is shifting global beauty retail channels, according to a Kline & Co. study.

Batteries See Holiday Sales Boost

December 21, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Some 30% of all battery sales are generated around the holidays, claim industry experts, reported Drug Store News.

3M Acquires Brazilian Floor Care Product Manufacturer

December 21, 2009 -- General Merchandise
3M entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Brazil-based Incavas Industria de Cabos e Vassouras Ltda., a manufacturer of floor care products.

Winn-Dixie to Carry Visa Prepaid Debit Cards

December 21, 2009 -- Retail
The Visa Reloadable Prepaid Debit Card will be available in Winn-Dixie Supermarkets in January, according to nFinanSe, Inc., reported Supermarket News.

Top Five Consumer Goods Spending Trends: Nielsen

December 21, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
A restraint in spending remaining the norm and value remaining a top priority are some of Nielsen's top five consumer goods spending trends for 2010.

Fewer Shoppers Plan to Shop After Christmas: Survey

December 21, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Only 35% of consumers surveyed would shop in the week after Christmas, according to a survey from America's Research Group, reported Reuters.

Hispanics Purchasing More Private Label Products: Study

December 21, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 37% of Hispanic shoppers are purchasing more private brand products and 25% plan to buy more in 2010, according to a Food Marketing Institute study.

CVS Caremark Names New Human Resources Officer

December 21, 2009 -- Executive Updates
CVS Caremark appointed Lisa Bisaccia as senior vice president and chief human resources officer, replacing Mike Ferdinandi, who is retiring.

Zhu Zhu Toys Do Not Violate Antimony Levels

December 21, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Zhu Zhu toys do not violate U.S. standards for levels of the chemical antimony, claims the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, reported Reuters.

Dollar General Reports Third Quarter Financial Results

December 21, 2009 -- Financial
Dollar General reported net income of $75.6 million for its third quarter that ended Oct. 30, compared to a net loss of $7.3 million in the comparable 2008 quarter.

The Top Viewed Weekly Insights Articles for 2009

December 21, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
There was plenty of news in 2009 in the General Merchandise and Health, Beauty, Wellness business at retail. Here is a collection of some of the top viewed articles by GMDC Weekly Insights readers from the past year:

Giant-Carlisle Acquires 25 Ukrop Stores

December 21, 2009 -- Retail
A division of Ahold USA, Giant-Carlisle, will acquire 25 stores from Ukrop's Super Markets, Inc. for approximately $140 million.

Mintel Predicts 2010 Beauty Trends

December 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Mood Beauty, Nu Naturals, Pro-Tech't and Turbo Beauty 4G are the global beauty trends for 2010 as predicted by Mintel. 2010 will focus on innovation and resilience.

Quigley Corp. to Focus on OTC/Personal Care Products

December 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The Quigley Corporation, with the completion of its evaluation, found that it is in the company's best interests to focus primarily on the OTC/Personal Care marketplace.

GSK Unveils $30 Million TV Ad Campaign for Nicorette

December 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
GlaxoSmithKline plans to spend $30 million on a television ad campaign for its OTC nicotine-infused gum Nicorette in an effort to gain market share, reported Forbes.

Unilever To Close CA Personal Care Manufacturing Plant

December 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Unilever will close its manufacturing plant in City of Industry, CA. The facility manufactures Unilever personal care brands such as Dove, Suave and AXE.

Various Companies Promising More Innovation in 2010

December 14, 2009 -- General Merchandise
CPG marketers are promising more innovation and new products in 2010 as U.S. household and CPG marketers saw flat to down volumes this year, reported Advertising Age (Free Registration Required).

Retailers Discount Gift Cards

December 14, 2009 -- General Merchandise
A few retailers tied promotions to gift cards last year, but this is the first season such offers are widespread, reported The News & Observer.

P&G Signs Binding Offer for Sara Lee's Air Freshener Business

December 14, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble signed a binding offer with Sara Lee Corp. to acquire Ambi Pur, a leading global air care brand with presence in 80 countries, for $470 million.

Where Are the Must-Have Items This Holiday?

December 14, 2009 -- Retail
This holiday season is seeing a lack of breakout products according to industry analysts and retailers, reported Advertising Age (Free Registration Required)

Drug Stores See Sales Climb 3.3% in October: Census Bureau

December 14, 2009 -- Retail
Drug store and pharmacy sales during October were up 3.3% while grocery stores were down 0.3% in November, according to a retail sales report from the Census Bureau.

Shrinkage Is Rising, But Can Be Combated

December 14, 2009 -- Retail
A sour economy prompted an increase in shoplifting, but vigilance can pay off if store associates know what to look for, reported The Post and Courier.

U.S. Consumers Waiting to Shop for Holidays

December 14, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
U.S. consumers' job concerns are causing them to spend less on the holidays this year according to a survey by America's Research Group, reported Reuters.

P&G Chairman to Step Down on Jan. 1

December 14, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Procter & Gamble's Chairman of the Board, A.G. Lafley, will retire from the company effective Feb. 25, 2010 and will cease his role as chairman on Jan. 1, 2010.

Retailers Can Still Sell Bratz Dolls: Court Decision

December 14, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit stayed the recall of MGA Entertainment's Bratz line and all associated products, and retailers will be able to continue selling all Bratz products.

Rite Aid Reports November Sales

December 14, 2009 -- Financial
Rite Aid's total drugstore sales for the five-week period decreased 2.1% to $2.425 billion compared to $2.476 billion for the same period last year.

Energizing Health and Beauty Categories

December 14, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Jerry Barnes, V.P. Member Services, GMDC As GMDC reviews the annual performance of Health and Beauty, wholesale/retail and supplier members are continually challenged in growing their sales. In particular, over the last 12 months Health and Beauty categories have been under fire at retail for a combination of reasons: Shoppers are reviewing all purchases in a still tight economy, while at the same time the categories are being "squeezed" for space at retail, thus restricting offerings. This combination of developments has created unique challenges.

GMDC Welcomes New Members

December 14, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes new 2010 wholesale/retail, general merchandise and health beauty wellness members.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

December 14, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed - the 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Online registration opened October 16th!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

December 14, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

December 14, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Free Business Magazines

December 14, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

Aveeno Product Wins Seal, Forms Partnership

December 7, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment earned the Green Good Housekeeping Seal. The company also formed a partnership with upcycling company, TerraCycle.

American Greetings, Target Release Digital Greeting Card

December 7, 2009 -- General Merchandise
American Greetings Corp. and Target Corp. partnered to introduced a digital slideshow greeting card that holds up to 50 digital images.

FDA Approves Merck's Zegerid OTC Heartburn Medication

December 7, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The FDA approved Zegerid OTC for the treatment of frequent heartburn. Zegerid OTC is a proton pump inhibitor that controls and suppresses acid for 24 hours.

Deadline Approaches for Using Flexible Spending Accounts

December 7, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Employees that must use the money placed in their Flexible Spending Accounts by Dec. 31 or forfeit the balance, often stock up on OTC items, reported USA Today.

Wegmans Features Customized Toy Line

December 7, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Wegmans Food Markets is selling a customized line of classic toys from Holgate Toy Company, reported Supermarket News.

Affordable Innovations to Spur Housewares Sales

December 7, 2009 -- General Merchandise
With consumers staying at home more, houseware manufacturers are appealing to this trend with innovative and affordable products, reported The Baltimore Sun.

Careful Management of Private Label Programs Can Increase Sales, Profits

December 7, 2009 -- Retail
Managing private label with simultaneous promotions and managed price gaps, can grow both store brand and national brand profits, according to Willard Bishop.

Shopping Expeditions Provide Insight on HBC Category

December 7, 2009 -- Retail
Retailers can learn much by visiting competitors, focusing on several types of stores and comparing a handful of similar products, reported Grocery Headquarters.

NCR to Install Some 200 Blockbuster Kiosks at Duane Reade

December 7, 2009 -- Retail
NCR Corporation will install its Blockbuster Express-branded DVD-rental kiosks in more than 200 Duane Reade locations.

More Shoppers, Less Spending on Black Friday Weekend: NRF

December 7, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
More shoppers spent less on Black Friday, with average spending dropping to $343.31 per person, according to a National Retail Federation survey.

Walgreens Announces Executive Promotions

December 7, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Walgreens named Laura Merten as divisional VP of compliance, loss prevention and profit sharing; and Bryan Schneider to replace her as division VP of health law.

Walgreens Sales Increase 8.7% in November

December 7, 2009 -- Financial
Walgreens had November sales of $5.36 billion, an increase of 8.7 percent from $4.93 billion for the same month in 2008.

FTC Testifies on Efforts Against Deceptive Marketing of Prepaid Phone Cards

December 7, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The FTC told a U.S. House Subcommittee that it is focusing on the "deceptive" marketing of prepaid phone cards.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

December 7, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed -- the 2010 conference will be held May 21 - 25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa, in Phoenix, Arizona. Online registration opened October 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

December 7, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data which is updated each month.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

December 7, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Free Business Magazines

December 7, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit, for free!

GMDC Completes Study on Consumer Shopping Habits

December 7, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Chris DePetris, Director of Wellness Programs, GMDC Last week, the Global Market Development Center announced the completion of the 2009 market research on Consumer Shopping Habits Study for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles. The final research report contains more than 180 pages of information, based on an analysis of the primary qualitative and quantitative research. The research defines the H+W (Health and Wellness) consumer and provides actionable items that retailers and suppliers can implement today to capitalize on this dynamic, universal and growing consumer buying behavior.

GMDC Welcomes New Members

December 7, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes new 2010 wholesale/retail, general merchandise and health beauty wellness members.

The Value of E-Learning

November 30, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski Vice President, Business Development and CMO The movement toward e-learning is clearly motivated by the many benefits it offers. The opportunities created by the advent and development of e-learning are more efficient training of a globally dispersed audience and reduced publishing costs as Web-based training becomes a standard. E-learning also offers individualized instruction, which print media cannot provide and which instructor-led courses present at great cost. In conjunction with assessing needs, e-learning can target specific needs. And by using learning-style tests, e-learning can locate and target individual learning preferences.

Department Stores, Wal-Mart Promote Housewares

November 30, 2009 -- Retail
Macy's Inc., is promoting oven mitts meant to be used as Christmas stockings, while Wal-Mart saw strong sales in sleepwear, socks, and underwear in the third quarter, reported Bloomberg.com.

Increase in Shoplifting has Retailers Turning to New Technologies to Combat Crime

November 30, 2009 -- Retail
Retail theft was up for the first time in six years according to the National Retail Security Survey. In 2008, retailers reported losing $36.3 billion to theft.

Supervalu, Valassis Forge In-Store Marketing Alliance

November 30, 2009 -- Retail
Supervalu and Valassis Communications, Inc., aligned to develop and execute in-store, at-shelf marketing programs aimed at maximizing efficiencies, reported Progressive Grocer.

U.S. Households Expected to Spend Less This Year: Report

November 30, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
U.S. households are expected to spend an average of $390 on Christmas gifts this holiday season, down from last year's estimate of $418, according to a report from The Conference Board.

Walgreens Appoints Two Executives

November 30, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Walgreens appointed Kathleen Wilson-Thompson as SVP and chief human resources officer, and Charles V. Greener as the new position of VP of corporate affairs and communications.

ADA Asks FDA for Classifications for Tooth-Whitening Chemicals

November 30, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The American Dental Association asked the FDA to establish appropriate classifications for tooth-whitening chemicals, citing concern about the safety of the whitening products.

Dollar Tree, Inc. Reports Record Third Quarter Results

November 30, 2009 -- Financial
Dollar Tree's net sales for the third quarter were $1.25 billion, a 12.1 percent increase compared to $1.11 billion reported for the quarter ended Nov. 1, 2009.

Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Soft Gels to be Offered to NFL Players

November 30, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Nordic Naturals is participating in the NFL/NFLPA Sports Nutrition Label Certification Program with its Ultimate Omega 120 soft gels, which will be offered to NFL players.

Price War Brews Between Amazon and Wal-Mart

November 30, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Amazon and Wal-Mart are waging an online price war that is spreading through product areas like books, movies, toys, mobile phones, and electronics, reported The New York Times on the Web. (Free Registration Required)

GM Items Featured In Rite Aid Holiday Gift Guide

November 30, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Rite Aid's Holiday Gift Guide includes various GM items for under $20, such as two Hot Wheel cars, 50-sq. ft. of gift wrap and 100-bulb string of lights, as well as beauty items like a 42-piece makeup kit.

Mintel Predicts Flavor, Scent Trends for 2010

November 30, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Mintel predicts new flavors and scents will make an appearance in the U.S. marketplace in 2010 and identifies six key flavors and two scent trends for next year.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

November 30, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training course is to support GMDC Retailer and Wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

Store-Level Personnel Training

November 30, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
What if all your retail employees could engage customers, discover their needs, and recommend the right product regiments and solutions? Your Health Beauty Wellness product sales would increase, your customer loyalty would rise, and you would see an impact in repeat buying. Prepared to Sell-the online training program for retail employees-can help achieve these goals...and more.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

November 30, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed. The 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Online registration opened Oct. 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

November 30, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

ITC Finds Matchbooks from India Being Sold at Unfair Prices

November 30, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The U.S. International Trade Commission determined that a U.S. industry is materially injured by matchbooks from India being sold in the Unuted States at less-than-fair value.

Unilever To Reveal New Innovations Next Year

November 23, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
CEO Paul Polman claims Unilever will unveil "big innovations" as early as next year, starting with personal care, reported Bloomberg.com.

Novartis Beginning $200 Campaign for Prevacid 24-Hour

November 23, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Novartis Consumer Health launched a $200 million campaign for its new Prevacid 24HR OTC treatment, reported The Wall Street Journal (WSJ Subscription Required)

P&G Launches New Dawn

November 23, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble launched Dawn Hand Renewal with Olay Beauty.

Toys Predicted To Sell Well This Holiday Season

November 23, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Four in 10 CMOs polled by BDO Seidman named toys as the expected top seller this year, well above the 24 percent citing electronics and 14 percent naming household goods, reported Forbes.

American Greetings Partners With Taylor Swift

November 23, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Taylor Swift will create a line of greeting cards, gift packaging, stationery, online photo personalization products and online greetings as part of a partnership with American Greetings.

Target Considering Smaller Stores to Expand in Cities

November 23, 2009 -- Retail
Target is considering opening smaller-format stores to expand in cities, according to Chairman and CEO Gregg Steinhafel, who said the retailer has no definitive plans or sites, reported Bloomberg.com.

Web Sales Up 12.6% Due to Discounted Items: Report

November 23, 2009 -- Retail
In October, e-commerce sales increased 12.6 percent over October 2008, according to a study from MyBuys Inc. Sales of discounted items were up 112 percent, reported Internet Retailer.

Lifetime Brands Launches Company Social Networking Pages

November 23, 2009 -- Retail
Lifetime Brands Inc. launched company pages on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr and YouTube. As part of the digital initiative, the corporate Web site will also be updated.

Holiday Offers, Free Shipping Deals Grow Among Top 100 E-Retailers

November 23, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
New holiday-related promotions began at several top 100 online retailers. Meanwhile, the number of top 100 e-retailers offering free shipping rose to 63 from 61 a year ago, according to a survey from Internet Retailer.

Report: Hispanic Purchasing Power Growing At Rapid Rate

November 23, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The purchasing power of Hispanics is growing at a rate nearly three times that of the general population in Arizona and nationwide, said Loui Olivas, professor emeritus at Arizona State University, reported The Arizona Republic (Free Registration Required)

Family Dollar Names VP of Merchandising

November 23, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Family Dollar Stores Inc. promoted Donna Barker to VP of merchandising and general merchandise manager, reported Charlotte Business Journal (Free Registration Required)

Nash Finch Promotes Kathleen Mahoney to Executive Vice President

November 23, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Nash Finch promoted Kathleen M. Mahoney to executive VP, general counsel and secretary. Previously, she served as senior vice president, general counsel and secretary.

Giant-Landover Names Sampson SVP Ops/Sales

November 23, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Giant Food LLC hired Shane Sampson as senior vice president, operations/sales. He will report directly to Giant Food President Robin Michel, reported Progressive Grocer.

Federal Reserve Proposing Rules for Gift Cards

November 23, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The Federal Reserve Board proposed rules that would restrict fees and expiration dates applying to gift cards.

Report: S.C. Johnson May Buy Sara Lee Unit

November 23, 2009 -- Financial
S.C. Johnson & Son Inc. may be eyeing Sara Lee Corp.'s air-freshener business, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal, reported The Associated Press.

Sears Holdings Reports Third-Quarter Results

November 23, 2009 -- Financial
Sears Holding's total revenues decreased $470 million to $10.2 billion for the 13 weeks ended Oct. 31.

P&G Recalls Three Lots of Vicks Sinex Spray

November 23, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble is recalling three lots of its Vicks Sinex nasal spray in the U.S., Germany and the UK after finding the bacteria B. cepacia in a product made at its plant in Gross Gerau, Germany.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

November 23, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training course is to support GMDC retailer and wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

Store-Level Personnel Training

November 23, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
What if all your retail employees could engage customers, discover their needs and recommend the right product regimens and solutions? Your health beauty wellness product sales would increase, your customer loyalty would rise and you would see an impact in repeat buying. Prepared to Sell - the online training program for retail employees - can help achieve these goals ... and more.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

November 23, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed - the 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix. Online registration opened Oct. 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

November 23, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides updated data each month.

Needs and Necessities

November 23, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski Vice President, Business Development and CMO Retailers and suppliers should take notice of a new shopper paradigm in place for major purchases. It's based on needs and necessities, and it doesn't look like it's going away any time soon. Two years ago, according to the NPD Group, features were the primary reason consumers made purchases across such categories as kitchen electronics, personal care appliances, home environment and major appliances. With the economic recession, consumers are now saying price is the primary driver in purchase decisions and features have become secondary. Needs and necessity are now the most important factors behind most long-term premium purchase decisions, and that's what is driving unit growth.

Natural, Organic Personal Care Industry to Grow 2% in 2009

November 16, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The natural and organic personal care products industry grew to more than $600 million in 2008, according to Mintel, reported Puget Sound Business Journal (Seattle) (Free Registration Required).

Bayer Introduces Citracal Calcium Plus Heart Health Supplement

November 16, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Bayer Consumer Care launched its Citracal Calcium Plus Heart Health, which contains vitamin D, phytosterols and 1,260 mg of calcium per daily dose.

Mission Skincare Teams Up With CVS

November 16, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Mission Skincare will launch "Active Lifestyle Skincare Destinations" in the beauty aisle of more than 5,000 CVS/pharmacy locations nationwide.

Unilever Combining Hair Care, Skin Care Group

November 16, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Unilever is combining its Chicago-based antiperspirants, deodorant and hair care group with its skin care business to create a Personal Care business unit based in Englewood Cliffs, NJ.

Duracell Launches Battery with Power Level Gauge

November 16, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Duracell rolled out its new Ultra Advanced with Powercheck battery that features a gauge located on the battery indicating its power level.

American Greetings Expands Talking E-Cards

November 16, 2009 -- General Merchandise
AmericanGreetings.com made available talking e-cards featuring six new designs with multiple voices as well as the opportunity to add one's own voice.

Target Lowers More Toy Prices

November 16, 2009 -- Retail
Target introduced all-new price cuts on hundreds of toys. November deals include more than 400 price cuts, which began rolling out Nov. 1.

Duane Reade Launches Publication Spotlighting New Products

November 16, 2009 -- Retail
Duane Reade is introducing hundreds of new products via its new publication, The Duane Reader.

Global Retail Theft Reached $114.8 Billion in 2009

November 16, 2009 -- Retail
The level of global retail theft reached $114.8 billion in 2009, increasing 5.9 percent over last year's total of $104.5 billion, according to the Center for Retail Research.

Coupon Redemption Up 26% in Third Quarter: Study

November 16, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Year-to-date coupon redemption was up 26 percent to 2.4 billion redemptions in the third quarter, according to research from Inmar in collaboration with the Nielsen Co.

CVS Appoints New CFO

November 16, 2009 -- Executive Updates
David M. Denton will succeed David Rickard as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, effective Jan. 1, 2010.

P&G to Work with FDA to Fix Cold Medication Issues

November 16, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Procter & Gamble is working with FDA to address the issues that caused FDA to issue a warning letter over vitamin C-fortified cold and flu remedies, reported Nutraingredients-USA.

CVS Caremark Reports Record Third Quarter 2009 Results

November 16, 2009 -- Financial
CVS Caremark's net revenues for the third quarter of 2009 increased $3.8 billion to $24.6 billion, up from $20.9 billion during the third quarter of 2008.

Get Certified on "How To Do Business With" Key Retailer and Wholesaler Members

November 16, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The purpose of the "How To Do Business With" online training course is to support GMDC Retailer and Wholesaler members' supply chain and purchasing processes with valued domestic and international trading partners.

Store-Level Personnel Training

November 16, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
What if all your retail employees could engage customers, discover their needs, and recommend the right product regiments and solutions? Your Health Beauty Wellness product sales would increase, your customer loyalty would rise, and you would see an impact in repeat buying. Prepared to Sell - the online training program for retail employees can help achieve these goals ... and more.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

November 16, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed - the 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert idge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Ariz. Online registration opened Oct. 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

November 16, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Minority and/or Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE)

November 16, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
Jane Colvard, Manager Member Services, GMDC GMDC offers its supplier members the opportunity to display the Minority or Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) designation within their company profiles. In today's age of large corporations, this designation becomes infinitely important in providing an entry into a marketplace that can be otherwise difficult for a small corporation to navigate.

PhRMA Proposes FDA-Approved Logo for Marketing in Social Media

November 16, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
PhRMA is advocating for a universal safety symbol to indicate that a Twitter or Facebook mention links to a page that contains the pharmaceutical company's FDA-mandated risk information, reported Advertising Age (Free Registration Required).

Hand Sanitizer Sales Rise Amid Flu Concerns

November 9, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Hand sanitizer sales rose 70.5 percent in the last six months, from $69.4 million to $118.4 million, according to Nielsen.

American Greetings Launches Line of Greeting Cards with CDs

November 9, 2009 -- General Merchandise
American Greetings Corp., launched new CD compilation cards. Consumers can choose from cards with CDs coordinated by decade, musical theme or mood.

Rite Aid to Test New Customer Rewards Program

November 9, 2009 -- Retail
Rite Aid Pharmacy is testing a new customer rewards program that allows members to earn rewards points and can cash them in for free health screenings and discounts, reported The Buffalo News.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

November 9, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed - the 2010 conference will be held May 21 - 25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Online registration opened Oct. 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

November 9, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

November 9, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Free Business Magazines

November 9, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

Brands More Influential than Price in Spurring Purchases: Study

November 9, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Almost 60 percent of health/beauty and household goods category shoppers buy their favored brand even when a cheaper alternative is available, reported Progressive Grocer.

CVS Appoints Greer to SVP, Marketing

November 9, 2009 -- Executive Updates
CVS Caremark appointed Len Greer to the position of SVP, Marketing for its pharmacy benefit management business.

Retailers Urge Federal Action on Organized Retail Crime

November 9, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Food and drug retailers are asking federal lawmakers to pass legislation making organized retail crime a federal crime, reported Supermarket News.

Duane Reade Reports Third Quarter Earnings

November 9, 2009 -- Financial
Duane Reade Holdings, Inc.'s total net sales increased 4.2 percent to $448.9 million for the third quarter ended Sept. 26. Total same-store sales increased 0.7 percent.

Member Profile: Spartan Stores Inc.

November 9, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
Karen Bakewell, Director - General Merchandise/HBC Merchandising Karen Bakewell joined the Grand Rapids, Mich.-based Spartan Stores, Inc., five years ago as the director of general merchandise/HBC merchandising. Spartan Stores, Inc., is the nation's 10th largest grocery distributor and distributes more than 40,000 products to more than 400 independent grocery stores in Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. Spartan Stores, Inc., also owns and operates 100 retail supermarkets, including D & W Fresh Markets, Family Fare Supermarkets, Felpausch Food Centers, Glen's Markets and VG's Food and Pharmacy. Before joining Spartan Stores, Karen enjoyed a varied and successful two-decade career with The Kroger Company. Since she began her personal involvement with GMDC in 2004, Karen has served for two years on the GMDC Membership Advisory Board, currently serves on the GMDC Board of Directors and will join the GMDC Education Leadership Council in January. She also has been a frequent table leader for roundtable discussions and assists with the First-Time Attendee meetings at both the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conferences.

Merck and Schering-Plough Now Merged

November 9, 2009 -- Financial
Schering-Plough Consumer Health Care will be the Consumer Health Care division in the new Merck.

Pfizer and Wyeth Become One: Working Together for a Healthier World

November 9, 2009 -- Financial
Wyeth Consumer Healthcare is now Pfizer Consumer Healthcare.

Cough/Cold Sales Soar as H1N1 Flu Persists

November 9, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The H1N1 flu pandemic is prompting more people to stock up on OTC medicines for cough, cold and throat, driving up U.S. sales to an anticipated $3.6 billion this year, 1.7 percent higher than in 2008, according to Mintel, reported Bloomberg.com.

Chloraseptic Adding New Ingredients to Lozenges

November 9, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Prestige Brands' Chloraseptic is introducing benzocaine and menthol liquid centers into its entire line of lozenges.

Assortment, Promotion Will Build Stationery Sales

November 9, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Maintaining a broader mix and continuing with promotional efforts will build stationery aisle sales beyond the back-to-school season, claim leading suppliers, reported Grocery Headquarters.

In Wisconsin: 15,000 reasons to worry about the state's lakes

November 5, 2009 -- Retail
A day at the beach in Wisconsin's North Woods didn't used to go like this. Candy Dailey spent a Fourth of July holiday splashing with grandkids on the sandy shore of Lake Metonga when she felt a nasty sting on her foot. She didn't need to look down to know the culprit was a zebra mussel -- cuts from the razor-sharp shells have become as unremarkable as bee stings since the mussels invaded Dailey's lake eight years ago.

More Than One in 10 Self-Diagnose Lactose Intolerance

November 2, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The overall prevalence rate of self-diagnosed lactose intolerance is 12 percent, according to a study from the Baylor College of Medicine, reported Refresh.

Internal Cough/Cold Category Activity Peaked In Third Quarter

November 2, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Internal cough/cold category product introductions peaked in the third quarter following a relatively active first half, reported Competitive Promotion Report.

Small Candy Manufacturers Target Niche Markets

November 2, 2009 -- General Merchandise
While large candy companies dominate the market, smaller candy manufacturers are competing by targeting specific consumer groups, reported The Street.com.

Spartan Stores Signs Deal with Park City Group

November 2, 2009 -- Retail
Spartan Stores Inc., signed on to become the latest grocery retailer to implement Park City Group's Consumer Driven Sales Optimization model in support of its scan-based trading initiative.

Walmart Outlines Fiscal Year Plans

November 2, 2009 -- Retail
In the fiscal year ending Jan. 31, 2010, Walmart expects to add approximately 38 million-sq. ft. globally, compared to approximately 44 million-sq. ft. added in the prior year.

Walgreens to Buy 12 Massachusetts Apothecaries for $19 Million

November 2, 2009 -- Retail
Walgreens agreed to buy 12 Eaton Apothecary pharmacies in the Boston area for about $19 million from a unit of the Nyer Medical Groups.

GMDC Members - Executive Updates

November 2, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Several key changes have been made to GMDC Member titles.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

November 2, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed - the 2010 conference will be held May 21 - 25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. On-line registration opened Oct.16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

November 2, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

November 2, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness Industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Free Business Magazines

November 2, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

Deloitte Releases 24th Annual Holiday Survey

November 2, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Consumers are expected to spend $1,145 each on the holidays, a 16 percent increase over 2008 levels, according to Deloittle's 24th Annual Holiday Survey.

More Consumers Willing to Tell Others About Bad Experience: Study

November 2, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 86 percent of consumers stopped doing business with an organization after a bad customer experience, up 27 percent from four years ago, according to the fourth annual Customer Experience Impact Report.

Rite Aid Makes Executive Changes

November 2, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Rite Aid promoted Dan Miller to senior vice president of pharmacy and Karen Staniforth to vice president of pharmacy operations.

AWI's Ellis Promoted; Former GMDC Chairman Yahn Retires

November 2, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Bernie Ellis was named president of Associated Wholesalers Inc. (AWI), and Charles Yahn, AWI executive VP of sales and store development, is retiring, reported Supermarket News.

San Francisco Bill Would Mandate Rebates for Reusable Bags

November 2, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
San Francisco Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi introduced legislation that would require drug stores and supermarkets to offer a 10-cent rebate to customers for each reusable bag, reported The Sacramento Bee (Free Registration Required).

Where Are New Opportunities for Growth?

November 2, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, Vice President, Business Development/CMO, GMDC In a time of economic slowdown, finding growth is still the No. 1 issue for the top CPG Company and retail CEOs in 2009. Focusing on just one or two areas - e.g. more new products, more advertising - often does not provide the critical mass of change needed to take a business to the next level in terms of incremental growth. The study for jump starting growth completed by Meridian Consulting identified several areas where organizations and manufacturers were responding to a need to take a broader view of their business model. Retailers/wholesalers are looking at new usage occasions and categories and new consumer services that can enhance shopping experience and create greater opportunity for differentiation. Manufacturers indicate emphasis on new channels as equal to emphasis on new products for growth.

Attention interior design students: lights, camera, action!

November 2009 -- Education Sponsor
NCIDQ has partnered with the Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC) and the Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) to host an interior design education video competition.

Deloitte: Cosmetics Firms Missing Out on Licensing Opportunities

October 26, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The cosmetics industry is losing out when it comes to licensing its own strong brand names, according to a Deloitte researcher, reported Cosmetics Design.

Galderma's Cetaphil Earns Good Housekeeping Seal

October 26, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser, Cetaphil Moisturizing Cream and Cetaphil UVA/UVB Defense SPF 50 were granted the Good Housekeeping Seal by the Good Housekeeping Research Institute.

External Cough/Cold Category Activity Increased in Third Quarter

October 26, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Activity in External Cough/Cold Category product introductions and packaging and ingredient changes increased in the third quarter, reported Competitive Promotion Report.

Newell Rubbermaid Optimizes Merchandising With Insights

October 26, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Newell Rubbermaid is leveraging shopper insights to fine-tune planograms to drive value, educate shoppers and prompt impulse purchases, reported CPG Matters.

HAC Inc. Signs Deal with Park City Group's Scan Based Trading

October 26, 2009 -- Retail
HAC, Inc. signed on to implement Park City Group's Scan Based Trading, designed to improve sales, reduce inventories and improve product shrink through improved visibility to scan data.

Target, CVS to Offer Reusable Bag Reward System

October 26, 2009 -- Retail
Target will give a five-cent discount for every reusable bag used, while CVS customers who shop on four occasions and do not ask for a plastic bag will get a $1 cash bonus on their CVS loyalty card, reported Chicago Sun-Times.

Duane Reade Extends Hours in 55 Stores

October 26, 2009 -- Retail
Duane Reade extended the hours of 55 of its 256 locations, raising the number of stores open seven days a week to 248 and the number of 24/7 locations to 70.

CVS Adds New Features To CVS.com, Launches CVS.com Mobile

October 26, 2009 -- Retail
CVS/pharmacy added new features to CVS.com, providing access to prescription management tools, health information and customer savings.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

October 26, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed. The 2010 conference will be held May 21 - 25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. On-line registration opened October 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

October 26, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take Advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

October 26, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness Industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Free Business Magazines

October 26, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members, take advantage of this valuable benefit for free!

NRF Predicts Holiday Sales Decline

October 26, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
U.S. consumers plan to spend an average of $682.74 on winter holiday-related shopping, a 3.2 percent drop from last year's $705.01, according to NRF's 2009 Holiday Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey.

States Eye Prescription-Only Cold Medicines

October 26, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
State lawmakers are considering copying an Oregon law requiring a prescription for cold medicines containing pseudoephedrine, due to a resurgence in methamphetamine labs, reported The Wall Street Journal (WSJ Subscription Required).

Walgreens Announces $2 Billion Share Repurchase Plan

October 26, 2009 -- Financial
Walgreens announced a new $2 billion share program to replace the January 2007 $1 billion plan that had approximately $655 million remaining.

Wellness Shopper Retail Channel Preferences

October 26, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
Chris DePetris, Director of Wellness Programs, GMDC As part of GMDC's ongoing commitment to research, in January GMDC launched a major multi-year research project to identify the Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles. This newest release from the Consumer Shopping Habits Study offers insights on: - Which Retail Channels Consumers are Using for Wellness Purchases - Top Health and Wellness Categories Purchased in each Retail Channel Leveraging the information in this report will be helpful for any retailer looking to increase its level of positive Health and Wellness impressions with its shoppers. The report also will provide manufacturers with insights on consumer shopping behaviors by channel.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

October 19, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed -- the 2010 conference will be held May 21-25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Ariz. Online registration opened October 16!

Category Sales Information Available to Members

October 19, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Take advantage of GMDC's Category Sales Recap service that provides data that is updated each month.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

October 19, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness Industries. Post your company's available positions on GMDC's JobCenter today!

Free Business Magazines

October 19, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC members -- take advantage of this free, valuable benefit!

Pharmavite Recognized for Working with Food Retailers

October 19, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Pharmavite LLC was awarded the 2009 Supermarket News Category Excellence in vitamins and supplements. The award recognizes Pharmavite for working with food retailers to build the vitamin category in the grocery channel, reported NPI Center.

Acne Category Product Introductions Increased in Third Quarter

October 19, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
New product introductions, package changes and ingredient changes soared in the Acne Category, while price activity declined, reported Competitive Promotion Report.

Bernie Madoff Halloween Masks Hot Item

October 19, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Bernie Madoff masks are one of the biggest-moving Halloween items this year, second only behind Michael Jackson costumes, reported WHEC.com.

The Value of Selection

October 19, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
Jerry Barnes, Vice President, Member Services, GMDC The current trend observed in the online book, movie and music business -- where the assortment of available titles is unlimited -- has led to consumers embracing the idea of the choices available to them. This may be a call to retailers that the future could be found in capitalizing on consumers developing desire for an ever-expanding assortment of products within key categories.

Destination Maternity to Re-Launch Collection at Sears, Kmart

October 19, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Destination Maternity Corp. will re-launch its Two Hearts Maternity by Destination Maternity collection, available exclusively at Sears and Kmart stores.

Hanesbrands Expanding Space in Walmart

October 19, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Hanesbrands Inc. is getting twice as much space in more than 3,500 Walmart stores, to offer more clothing choices for plus-size women, reported Bloomberg.com.

NPD Holiday Survey Explores Consumer Intentions

October 19, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
About 30 percent of consumers surveyed told NPD they plan to spend less this holiday, a four point increase over last year's results.

Johnson & Johnson Reports Third Quarter Results

October 19, 2009 -- Financial
Johnson & Johnson saw sales of $15.1 billion for the third quarter of 2009, a decrease of 5.3 percent. Contributing to operational sales growth were sales of Aveeno skin care products and Listerine antiseptic mouthrinse.

Conair to Implement RFID Tags on All Products by 2010

October 19, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Conair will encode tags applied to products as they are manufactured and prepared for shipping, in Costa Rican and Chinese factories, by 2010, reported RFID Journal.

Kohl's to Close Wisconsin Distribution Center

October 19, 2009 -- Retail
Kohl's Corp. will close its distribution center -- which serves more than 80 stores -- in Menomonee Falls, Wis., on Jan. 29, 2010, reported The Business Journal of Milwaukee (Free Registration Required).

Nutrisystem Signs Distribution Deal with Walmart

October 12, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Nutrisystem, Inc. signed a distribution agreement with Walmart to offer customers the Nutrisystem 14-Day Starter Program for the first time in the retail channel. The program rolled out the first week of October and will be available on Walmart.com.

P&G To Launch Rouge Beauty Magazine In U.S.

October 12, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gample (P&G) plans to launch its custom beauty magazine Rouge in the United States, and expects to reach 11 million households in both Canada and the United States by next year, reported Advertising Age (Free Registration Required).

Clean & Clear Rolls Out In-Shower Facial Product

October 12, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Clean & Clear introduced its new Clean & Clear Morning Burst In-Shower Facial. The product, available beginning in August, is priced between $5.49 and $6.49, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Oral Care: Brushing Up on Sales

October 12, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
New combination products from major manufacturers likely will drive oral care product sales, but private label continues to be a factor. Oral care food, drug store, and mass merchandise category sales have been flat over the past five years, increasing from $3.1 billion in 2003 to only $3.3 billion in 2008, according to Mintel, reported Progressive Grocer.

Antacid Category Registers Activity in Third Quarter

October 12, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
After a relatively quiet first half 2009, activity in the antacid category rose in the third quarter with new product introductions, package changes and ingredient changes, reported Competitive Promotion Report.

Target Lowers Some Toy Prices

October 12, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Target will discount a selection of toys up to 50 percent and will match locally advertised prices on the toys it carries as well as other merchandise in the store.

GNC Introduces New Store Prototype

October 12, 2009 -- Retail
GNC opened a new store format that strives to make the store a health and wellness resource for the entire family. The 3,000 sq. ft. location offers nearly triple the number of products available in today's GNC stores, with 1,000 new items, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

Various Presentations Now Available at GMDC.org

October 12, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
2009 Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference, Business Session and Workshop Presentations, including the Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles, presented by Laurie Demerritt of the Hartman Group, Supermarket Pharmacy Trends presented by John Carlo of Wegmans, and Turning Point: Building a Partnership for HBC Growth, from Tom Rinck of Johnson & Johnson and Peter Holton of Advantage Sales and Marketing, are now available in the Media section of the member area at www.gmdc.org.

GMDC 2010 Marketing Conferences

October 12, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The 2010 General Merchandise Marketing Conference dates have been changed. The 2010 conference will be held May 21 - 25 at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Spa in Phoenix, Arizona. Online registration opens October 16!

Holiday Shopping Outlook Becoming Positive

October 12, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Contrary to many industry participants, Michael Sleeper of Imperial Distributors takes a more optimistic view of the coming holiday selling season, stating in his monthly column that consumers are more optimistic and that holiday shopping will improve.

Study Examines Coupon Web site Usage

October 12, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 62 percent of adults look for coupons for online stores, while 12 percent never make a purchase without checking an online coupon Web site first, a rise of 4 percent over last year, according to the Second Annual Benchmark Survey on Consumer Coupon Behavior commissioned by RetailMeNot.com

Walgreens Senior VP Leaves Company

October 12, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Walgreens senior vice president of pharmacy innovation and purchasing, George J. Riedl, will leave the company at the end of the year.

Family Dollar Reports Yearly Earnings

October 12, 2009 -- Financial
Family Dollar Stores, Inc.'s net income for the year ended Aug. 29 increased 25 percent to $291.3 million compared with net income of $233.1 million for fiscal year 2008. Sales for fiscal year 2009 were $7.401 billion, or 6 percent above sales of $6.984 billion for fiscal year 2008.

Social Media and Retail

October 12, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, Vice President, Business Development/CMO, GMDC Social Media and the Internet is becoming an increasingly important avenue toward influencing shopper purchases at retail. Retailers must listen to and engage their customers through social media by participating and encouraging conversations. The end result will improve shopper experiences, will raise overall sales, and will help turn loyal customers into passionate advocates.

Almost Half of Drug Store Purchases are Sold on Promotion: Nielsen

October 12, 2009 -- Retail
Some 40.4 percent of drug store purchases are sold on promotion, according to a Nielsen study. Chicagoans buy the most on promotion, with 55.9 percent of products sold, while impulse purchases such as ice cream, crackers, and carbonated beverages sell the most on promotion.

P&G's Crest, Scope Launch Outlast Trio

October 5, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble's (P&G) Crest and Scope launched the Outlast trio of products including new Scope Outlast mouthwash, Crest Extra White Plus Scope Outlast toothpaste and Oral-B Floss Picks Plus Scope Outlast flavor.

Demeter Fragrance Library Introduces Scents at CVS

October 5, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The Demeter Fragrance Library launched Baby Powder, Pure Soap, Patchouli, Honeysuckle, Laundromat and Lilac scents in CVS stores nationwide, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

P&G Introduces 'Signature Series' Colognes

October 5, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble's (P&G) TAG brand launched the "Signature Series" scents in collaboration with rapper Chris "Ludacris" Bridges, athlete Carmelo Anthony and skateboarder Rob Dyrdek. The Signature Series includes three cologne-quality scents featuring images of each celebrity on the packaging.

Paper Towel Sales Increase 2.9 percent: IRI

October 5, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Sales of paper towels, a $2.5 billion business, rose 2.9 percent in the 52 weeks ending Aug. 9, excluding Wal-Mart sales, according to information Resources, Inc. (IRI). P&G's Bounty is the category leader, with $923 million in sales and a 38 percent share of the market, per IRI. In Nielsen tracked channels, Viva is the No. 2 branded paper towel with an 8.8 market share, according to Kimberly-Clark, reported Brandweek.

Perf Go Green Launches Eco-Batteries at 225 Wakefern/ShopRite Stores

October 5, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Perf Go Green Holdings, Inc. is launching its PerfPower Alkaline Batteries at 225 Wakefern/ShopRite stores in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The batteries contain 0 percent lead, 0 percent mercury and 0 percent cadmium and are made with recycled materials and are 100 percent recyclable.

Walmart Offering More Than 100 Toys for $10

October 5, 2009 -- Retail
Walmart expanded its $10 holiday assortment to more than 100 toys this year.

Kmart Releases Fab 15 Toy List

October 5, 2009 -- Retail
Kmart released its Fab 15 Toy list, which highlights the hottest toys for the season with a focus on toys that deliver the best long-term play value.

CVS Reworking Longs Stores, Expects to Finish by November

October 5, 2009 -- Retail
CVS Caremark is transforming 541 former Longs Drugs into CVS Pharmacy stores. CVS rehired 98 percent of the employees, including pharmacists who had worked for Longs, and without closing any stores or disrupting business, CVS has been remodeling and restocking the stores. CVS expects to be finished for a November promotional splash, stated Jill Gridley, district manager for the Sacramento region, reported The Sacramento Bee (Free Registration Required).

Conference Presentations Available at GMDC.org

October 5, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
2009 Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference, Business Session and Workshop Presentations, including the Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles, presented by Laurie Demerritt of the Hartman Group, Supermarket Pharmacy Trends presented by John Carlo of Wegmans, and Turning Point: Building a Partnership for HBC Growth, from Tom Rinck of Johnson & Johnson and Peter Holton of Advantage Sales and Marketing,now are available in the Media section of the member area at www.gmdc.org.

Top GMDC Showcase Items at the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

October 5, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The "GMDC Showcase" offers a high-profile display for companies' most innovative products, promotions and merchandising concepts at the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Conference. Every retail and wholesale company, via a pre-schedule viewing, has the opportunity to scan items of interest while in the Showcase for follow-up with the respective supplier company.

U.S. Consumers Cutting Back on Halloween Spending: Survey

October 5, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 29.6 percent of consumers state that U.S. economic conditions will impact their Halloween spending plans. Consumers are expected to each spend an average of $56.31 on Halloween, down from $66.54 last year. To cut back, 35.4 percent of consumers will use last year's decorations without buying new ones, 16.8 percent will make costumes instead of purchasing them and 15.8 percent will reuse last year's costumes. "The overriding theme for Americans' Halloween celebrations this year will be, 'How creative can I be, and how little can I spend?'" according to Phil Rist, executive vice president, Strategic Initiatives, BIGresearch, who conducted the survey for the National Retail Federation.

GMDC Roundtables - Recap of the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference Discussions

October 5, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
At the recent Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference in Orlando, Florida, more than 150 attendees participated in GMDC Roundtable Sessions, which are discussions between Wholesalers, Retailers and Manufacturers on current industry topics.

Upcoming Holiday Spending Predicted to be Sluggish

October 5, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some early forecasts are suggesting a less-than-robust holiday season for 2009. A report from Deloitte predicted holiday-shopping sales this year will be unchanged from last year's $810 billion, which itself was down 2.4 percent from 2007's figure. A BIGresearch survey found 40 percent of respondents budgeting less for gifts than they did last year, while 4 percent were budgeting more, while an Information Resources, Inc. poll saw 23 percent of respondents adopting a gift-giving budget of $800 or more, "down 13 percent from 2008, reported Progressive Grocer.

Former Supervalu VP Joins Wal-Mart Canada

October 5, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Former Supervalu Inc. executive Duncan Mac Naughton joined Wal-Mart Canada Inc. as chief marketing officer. Mac Naughton was Supervalu's executive vice president of merchandising and marketing, reported Chain Drug Review (Free Registration Required).

Sen. Franken Introduces Household Cleaning Ingredient Legislation

October 5, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Minnesota Sen. Al Franken introduced The Household Product Labeling Act, expanding existing labeling requirements and requiring household cleaning products such as furniture polish and laundry detergent to carry labels with a complete list of ingredients, reported MPRnewsQ.

Walgreens Posts 4th-Quarter Results

October 5, 2009 -- Financial
Walgreens' fourth-quarter sales increased 7.6 percent to a record $15.7 billion, while fiscal 2009 sales of $63.3 billion also hit a record. Cash flow from operations increased 55 percent to $852 million and 35 percent to $4.1 billion for the year. "We posted solid fourth-quarter results while continuing to advance one of the most important strategic and operational transformations in our company's history," stated Walgreens' president and chief executive, Greg Wasson, "and we've done this while navigating through the most severe economic downturn in decades."

Shopper Marketing

October 5, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
By Keith Wypyszynski, Vice President, Business Development/CMO, GMDC Today's marketing world is as complex as it has ever been, and marketers must aim to deliver a clear and consistent message at every consumer touch point. The focus on in-store marketing has continued to increase, and companies have realized that shopper marketing can generate significant gains and advantages. As companies continue to learn more details of shopper behavior, companies are able to send focused and targeted messages to shoppers and consumers while they shop. As a result, retailers and marketers have mobilized their efforts by investing in technology and resources, restructuring organizations and evaluating their collaboration efforts with partners and service providers.

United Supermarkets Partners with MyWebGrocer, ePharmacy for Upgraded Websites

October 5, 2009 -- Retail
United Supermarkets upgraded the websites of its three banners, United Supermarkets, Market Street and Amigos United, via a new partnership with MyWebGrocer and ePharmacy. New features include streamlined prescription refills, interactive weekly circulars by store location, online catering orders, gift card purchases, floral orders, video cooking tutorials and in-store promotions, reported Supermarket News.

GMDC Awards 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award to Wayne Bryant

September 28, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC awards its 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award to Wayne Bryant of American Sales Company a Division of Ahold USA, at its Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference in Orlando, Florida.

GMDC Roundtables - Recap of the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference Discussions

September 28, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
At the recent Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference in Orlando, Florida, more than 150 attendees participated in GMDC Roundtable Sessions, which are discussions between Wholesalers, Retailers, and Manufacturers on current industry topics.

Unilever Makes Offer To Acquire Sara Lee Personal Care Business

September 28, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Unilever made a binding offer to acquire the Personal Care business of the Sara Lee Corporation for €1.2 billion.

Seasonal Flu Vaccines Available At Target Pharmacies

September 28, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Seasonal flu vaccines are available at Target Pharmacies nationwide for $24.

BusinessWeek, Interbrand Name Best Global Brands

September 28, 2009 -- General Merchandise
BusinessWeek and Interbrand released its annual ranking of the Best Global Brands.

JCPenney and Cellfire Launch Mobile Coupon-Scanning Program

September 28, 2009 -- Retail
JCPenney and Cellfire Inc. joined together to create a cellphone coupon prgram, which will allow customers to download and carry coupons on their mobile phones that can be scanned directly from the phone's display screen at the register.

Schuncks Markets Rolls Out SoloHealth EyeSite Kiosks

September 28, 2009 -- Retail
Schnucks Markets partnered with Atlanta-based SoloHealth to provide self-service vision-screening kiosks in 30 of its stores, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

Top GMDC Showcase Items at the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

September 28, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The "GMDC Showcase" offers a high-profile display for companies' most innovative products, promotions and merchandising concepts at the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Conference. Every retail and wholesale company, via a pre-schedule viewing, has the opportunity to scan items of interest while in the Showcase for follow-up with the respective supplier company.

Retail Sales to Remain Flat During Holidays: Deloitte

September 28, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Retailers should expect sales to remain flat compared with the 2008 holiday shopping season, according to Deloitte. "Although there are signs that suggest the economy is nearing the end of its darkest days, many consumers remain burdened by restricted credit availability, high unemployment and foreclosures," stated Carl Steidtmann, chief economist with Deloitte Research. Deloitte's Retail group expects total holiday sales to reach $810 billion, a 0 percent change in November to January holiday sales over last year and an improvement over last season's 2.4 percent decrease.

Fewer Consumers Combining Trips, Errands to Save Gas: Study

September 28, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
About 71 percent of consumers are still combining errands and trips in an effort to save gas, down from 78 percent one year ago, according to Nielsen's gas price impact survey.

The Nielsen Company, Facebook Form Strategic Alliance

September 28, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The Nielsen Company and Facebook formed a multi-year, strategic alliance to help marketers better use the Internet to develop and market new products.

Rite Aid Announces Promotions

September 28, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Rite Aid Corporation promoted Robert I. Thompson, formerly senior vice president, pharmacy operations, to executive vice president, pharmacy. The company also promoted Bill Wolfe, formerly group vice president, managed care and government affairs, to senior vice president, managed care and government affairs.

Public Health Leaders Propose Tax on Soda: Study

September 28, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Seven experts in nutrition, pubic health and economics called for an excise tax of a penny per ounce on caloric soft drinks and other beverages that contain added sweeteners in a report published in the New England Journal of Medicine, reported The Wall Street Journal. (WSJ Subscription Required)

San Jose, CA, Votes to Ban Plastic Bags

September 28, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The San Jose, California, City Council voted to ban most plastic and paper shopping bags beginning 2011, but the measure must still go through an environmental impact study and receive final approval from the council, reported San Jose Mercury News.

Rite Aid Releases Fiscal Second Quarter Results

September 28, 2009 -- Financial
Rite Aid Corporation reported revenues of $6.3 billion for its fiscal second quarter ended Aug. 29. Pharmacy same-store sales and the number of prescriptions filled increased by 0.8 and 1.4 percent respectively. A 274 basis point increase in generic dispensing year-over-year negatively impacted sales.

Associate Member Profile: Driveline Retail Merchandising's Dan Colvard, Senior Vice President of Sales

September 28, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
This week we would like to profile one of GMDC's Associate Member service companies. Dan Colvard is senior vice president of Ssles for Driveline Retail Merchandising. Headquartered in Plymouth, MN, Driveline services 82,000 retail door locations with more than 14,600 permanent employees plus surge staffing across the United States. Colvard has also served as VP of sales for National Retail Services, a brand acquired by Driveline in 2006, as well as an owner partner in a national consumer products company and VP of retail sales and operations for a national publishing company.

Vaseline Introduces New Lotion

September 28, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Unilever's Vaseline brand developed the new Vaseline Sheer Infusion with Stratys-3 lotion, which it claims is the only lotion that delivers "superior" moisture across all surface layers of the skin, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

Pepto-Bismol Increases Market Share: IRI

September 28, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble Co.'s Pepto-Bismol added 0.7 share points in its original stomach remedy liquid and 2.5 share points in stomach remedy tablets in the 52 weeks ending Sept. 6, while private-label shares in healthcare products overall are up 1.5 points across all channels in the past year, according to Information Resources, Inc. (IRI), reported Advertising Age. (Free Registration Required)

Highlights from GMDC's Recent White Paper on Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles

September 21, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The Global Market Development Center (GMDC) releases new insights from its study on Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles. The most recent white paper summarizes two important topics that affect retail sales: Consumer Channel Use by Health and Wellness Orientation Critical Issues that Impact Health and Wellness Retail

GMDC Wishes to Thank Health Beauty Wellness Conference Sponsors

September 21, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Attendees were able to enjoy opportunities for networking with top management of association members, their trading partners, current and potential, not only during the business meetings but during the many conference social events. Sponsorship of specific events, functions, breakfasts and dinners enables GMDC to continue to offer not only exceptional business programs for attendees but a successful conference experience.

GMDC Awards 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award to Wayne Bryant

September 21, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC awards its 2009 Lifetime Achievement Award to Wayne Bryant of American Sales Company a Division of Ahold USA, at its Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference in Orlando, Florida.

GMDC Roundtables - Recap of the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference Discussions

September 21, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
At the recent Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference in Orlando, Florida, more than 150 attendees participated in GMDC Roundtable Sessions, which are discussions between Wholesalers, Retailers, and Manufacturers on current industry topics.

2009 GMDC Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference Provided New Opportunities to Grow Member Businesses

September 21, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Jerry Barnes, Vice President, Member Services The 2009 GMDC Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference, the top convergence of health, beauty, and wellness retailing in the United States - came to a successful conclusion this week. Retail and Wholesale members along with supplier and service associate members came together to network, strategize and form working relationships that will last well beyond the four-day conference. Unique to this year's conference, was the co-location of the Food Marketing Institute's (FMI) Supermarket Pharmacy Conference with GMDC's 39th annual HBW conference. The co-location offered the memberships of both associations the opportunity to develop strategies and tactics to capitalize on the emerging health and wellness opportunities across the entire store.

Added Extras Introduces Dead Sea Skin Care Product Line

September 21, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Added Extras launched its new line of Minerals Dead Sea skin care products, which incorporate the therapeutic benefits of the Dead Sea, according to the company. The collection includes body lotion, body wash, Dead Sea water, salt scrub, mud soap, and body butter, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

Demand High for Effective Skin-Lightening Ingredients: Research

September 21, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Demand for effective skin-lightening ingredients that could replace hydroquinone in pigment-control products is significant, according to market researchers at the Millennium Research Group. Pigment-control products are becoming increasingly popular, as they have many different uses, including reducing age spots, acne scarring, and hyperpigmentation. Additionally, the questions that FDA placed on hydroquinone, one of the original pigment-control ingredients, is likely to enhance the need for alternatives, reported Cosmetic Design.

H1N1 Flu Keeps Spreading Long After Fever Subsides: Research

September 21, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
H1N1 flu appears to remain contagious much longer than ordinary seasonal flu, according to new studies. The best sign that a H1N1 flu patient is no longer contagious is when the coughing stops, not when the fever subsides, reported The Associated Press.

Cepacol Launches Cepacol Fizzlers

September 21, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Cepacol introduced Cepacol Fizzlers, an OTC throat-relief product for children ages 5 to 12.

Home Strategy Evolves at Kmart

September 21, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Kmart is making strides in improving and enhancing its home offerings. The retailer introduced a broader portfolio of new brands and designs.

Rite Aid Offering Gift Certificates with $25 Purchase

September 21, 2009 -- Retail
Rite Aid is running its fall Rake in the Savings program, offering shoppers free $5 to $20 gift certificates with purchases of $25 and more through Oct. 17.

Kodak Launches New Retail Order Station Kiosk, Photo Printer

September 21, 2009 -- Retail
The Eastman Kodak Company introduced the KODAK Picture Kiosk G4XE Order Station and the KODAK 8810 Photo Printer for use in retail photo center operations.

Costco Attracting More Affluent Shoppers: Report

September 21, 2009 -- Retail
Costco served 44.1 percent of U.S. affluent households at some point in the past year, up 2.8 points. The affluent are also shopping at Walmart, but the percentage of those who shopped at the chain in the past year was down .6 percent from 2008 to 79.6 percent, reported Advertising Age. (Free Registration Required)

Moms' Holiday Shopping Plans Previewed

September 21, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The majority of moms plan to shop at mass merchandisers/super centers for the holidays (85 percent), down 2 percent from 2008. Overall, moms will spend $672 on holiday gifts this year, consistent with last year's spending levels. Compared to the total sample of moms, moms of teens plan to spend the most on holiday gifts, according to The Marketing to Moms Coalition.

Retailers Looking to Cater to Aging Consumers

September 21, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Retailers are adjusting product lines, renovating stores and redesigning promotional materials to cater to an aging consumer base. Rite Aid is revising its private-label goods with larger typefaces on packaging while Family Dollar is considering new lighting and shelf labels. Baby boomers are expected to spend an additional $50 billion over the next decade on consumer products in the United States, reported The Wall Street Journal. (WSJ Subscription Required)

CVS Caremark Announces Several Executive Moves

September 21, 2009 -- Executive Updates
CVS Caremark announced several executive moves, including the appointment of Mike Bloom as SVP merchandising and supply chain. Bloom will lead an integrated end-to-end network managing store layout, as well as the selection, purchasing, inventory and supply of product to the stores. Scott Baker will assume the role of SVP internal operations and real estate, while Hanley Wheeler, SVP of stores in the Central Division, will assume leadership of the East Division, and Dennis Palmer, SVP of stores in the West Division, will additionally assume responsibility for the Hawaii market, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

Safeway Taps CPG Veteran for Brands Post

September 21, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Safeway appointed Joseph Ennen as senior vice president, consumer brands, reported Supermarket News.

Garlic Press/Slicers Recalled by Trudeau Corporation Due to Laceration Hazard

September 21, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Canada-based Trudeau Corporation is voluntarily recalling about 22,000 Trudeau Garlic Duo Slicers. The garlic duo's slicer blades can break during use, posing a laceration hazard to users.

Drug Stores Register $17.4B in Sales During July

September 21, 2009 -- Financial
The nation's drug stores rang up $17.4 billion in sales during July, 3.6 percent more than a year earlier. This marks the fifth straight month sales have exceeded 2008 levels, according to government data. Through July, sales were up 3.3 percent from last year.

Highlights from GMDC's Recent White Paper on Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles

September 14, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The Global Market Development Center (GMDC) releases new insights from its study on Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles. The most recent white paper summarizes two important topics that affect retail sales: Consumer Channel Use by Health and Wellness Orientation Critical Issues that Impact Health & Wellness Retail

GMDC Wishes to Thank Health Beauty Wellness Conference Sponsors

September 14, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Attendees will be able to enjoy opportunities for networking with top management of association members, their trading partners, current and potential, not only during the business meetings but during the many conference social events. Sponsorship of specific events, functions, breakfasts and dinners enables GMDC to continue to offer not only exceptional business programs for attendees but a successful conference experience.

Helping Consumers Make Healthy Choices

September 14, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith G. Wypyszynski, GMDC Vice President, Business Development/CMO Today marks the close of the GMDC Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference, which this year was co-located with the Food Marketing Institute Supermarket Pharmacy Conference. During the conference, there was significant discussion during business meetings, business sessions and roundtables that a consistent proactive approach to self care and disease management would benefit retailers, marketers, our national health system and consumers. It was also discussed that many consumers would welcome additional guidance to more fully manage their health and wellness.

NPD Notes Tough First Half 2009 for Beauty Care

September 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The NPD Group, Inc. reported that first half (January through June) 2009 retail sales in the U.S. prestige beauty industry equaled $3.7 billion, an overall dollar decline of 7 percent versus the first half 2008.

Pharmavite to Utilize LearnSomething's ShopperAssist

September 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Pharmavite signed a sponsorship agreement with LearnSomething to test the impact of shopper education on retail purchasing of dietary supplements using its ShopperAssist program, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

Schering-Plough Launches Claritin 12-Hour

September 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Schering-Plough launched Claritin 12-Hour, an OTC 12-hour allergy medicine, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

Recession Puts Finer Point on School Shopping

September 14, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Some economists claim consumers will be more concerned with school supply staples during this back-to-school selling season and less with the likes of what's "in" due to the restraints of the recessionary economy, reported the Rapid City Journal.

American Greetings Introduces Recordable Photo Frame Cards

September 14, 2009 -- General Merchandise
American Greetings Corp. launched recordable photo frame cards.

P&G to Offer Value-Priced, Premium Products

September 14, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble (P&G) will offer more value-priced products to attract cost-conscious consumers, but also more premium-priced products to attract the higher-spending shopper, according to top management. P&G officials stated that this strategy, along with spending more on advertising, will generate sales growth again in the last quarter of this year following two quarters of sales declines, reported The Cincinnati Enquirer.

H.E.B. Offers Free Housecleaning to Support Private Label Offerings

September 14, 2009 -- Retail
To promote its new line of private label household cleaning tools, H.E.B. is offering a year of free housecleaning with its Ready Set Clean consumer contest, reported Supermarket News.

About Half of College Students Prefer Responsible Brands: Survey

September 14, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Some 43 percent of college students claim they prefer to buy socially responsible brands, according to the 2009 edition of Alloy Media + Marketing's College Explorer survey conducted by Harris Interactive. Meanwhile, the group's discretionary spending power increased 5 percent from last year to $56 billion, reported MediaPost.

Retail Theft Increases in '08: Survey

September 14, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Shoplifters and dishonest employees stole more than $6 billion in 2008 from 22 major retailers, according to the 21st Annual Retail Theft Survey conducted by Jack L. Hayes International, a loss prevention and inventory shrinkage control consulting firm. The 22 unnamed surveyed retailers apprehended a record 904,226 shoplifters and dishonest employees in 2008 and recovered more than $182 million from the thieves.

Study Finds Affluent Shoppers to Be Heavy Coupon Users

September 14, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
A higher percentage of affluent consumers, those with $70,000-plus incomes, have been identified as heavy coupon users versus the U.S. household average, at 39 to 34 percent, according to a coupon use study by Nielsen, reported Chain Store Age.

Consumers Plan to Spend More on 2009 Holiday: IRI

September 14, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
American consumers plan to enter this year's holiday season with a more hopeful outlook, resulting in consumer confidence to selectively open their wallets wider than the 2008 holiday season, according to research from Information Resources, Inc. (IRI).

Matrixx Officially Names Hemelt as CEO

September 14, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Matrixx Initiatives named William Hemelt as president and CEO, effective Aug. 28, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required)

P&G to Sponsor U.S. Olympic Team

September 14, 2009 -- Financial
Procter & Gamble (P&G) is sponsoring the U.S. Olympic Teams for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and the London 2012 Olympic Games, reported The Columbus Dispatch.

Setting Objectives and Agenda Items to Prepare for GMDC SEC Conference Appointments

September 8, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Participating members at GMDC's upcoming Health Beauty Wellness (HBW) Marketing Conference in Orlando, may access their Senior Executive Conference (SEC) appointment schedules via the link provided to you in the recent SEC communication.

Young, Healthy Individuals More Likely to Get H1N1 Flu: Study

September 8, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Children between five and 14 were 14 times more likely to come down with H1N1 flu than people over 60, according to a report from the Chicago Department of Public Health. The report adds to the weight of evidence showing that the disease has disproportionately found victims among young, healthy people, while skipping the elderly, reported The Wall Street Journal. (WSJ Subscription Required)

H1N1 Flu Not Likely to Mutate Into Superbug: Study

September 8, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The H1N1 virus that causes the flu is not likely to mutate into a "superbug," one of scientists' worse fears, according to a University of Maryland study. The scientists, working with ferrets, found no evidence that the 2009 H1N1 virus combined with either of two seasonal flu viruses to form new, so-called reassortant viruses, reported Science Daily.

Men's Grooming Taking Off Slowly: Report

September 8, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The global economic downturn is having a significant negative effect on the men's grooming segment despite a virtually unanimous belief amongst market experts that the category should remain buoyant. Bernstein market research suggests that overall sales of men's grooming products in the U.S. fell by 20 percent in the four weeks up to mid-June, reported Cosmetic Design.

Study: Recession Not Changing Makeup Buying

September 8, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
While four out of 10 U.S. women are wearing more neutral shades and a more natural makeup style than before the recession, they will not be giving up their favorite products anytime soon, according to an international usage survey commissioned by L'Oreal. The survey also found that nearly half of U.S. women believe wearing makeup gives them an advantage at work and makes them feel more in control, while 86 percent believe that wearing makeup improves their self image. Futhermore, nine out of 10 women in the U.S. and Europe reported no change in makeup usage despite the economic crisis.

P&G Launches Fresh Breath Product

September 8, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble (P&G) is launching a new product benefit called "Outlast," which purports to deliver five times longer fresh breath across its Scope, Crest and Oral-B lines. The move is an attempt to reinvigorate the segment, which has seen sales slow due to private label and a lack of new product innovation, reported Brandweek.

Thermos Launches Foogo Phases Line

September 8, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Thermos L.L.C. launched Thermos Foogo Phases, a new line of BPA-free drinkware for infants and toddlers.

Report: Self-Service Checkout Technology On the Rise

September 8, 2009 -- Retail
Self-service checkout technology is one of the few "winners" in the economic crisis, according to Planet Retail. Its latest report, Self-service checkouts: How the next generation of self-service changes retailing, predicts the number of stores around the world with some kind of self-service checkout technology will triple by the end of 2013 at the latest, reported Chain Store Age.

Study: Holiday Could Remain Tough

September 8, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
U.S. retail sales in the 2009 holiday season may decline from last year's results or at best show only a slight increase, according to a Global Hunter Securities LLC forecast. Sales are likely to range from up 1 percent to down 1 percent from last year, while inventory demand in the third and fourth quarters is expected to drop 7.5 percent, reported Reuters.

Economic Troubles Encourage Coupon Savings Habit

September 8, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Since the financial crisis deepened a year ago, coupon use has been on the rise. Marketers made substantially more coupons available to encourage consumer purchases, and shoppers responded by increasing their coupon use by approximately 20 percent during the first half of 2009, according to Promotion Marketing Association, Inc.'s Coupon Council.

Imperial Distributors Founder Dies

September 8, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Frank Sleeper, the founder of general merchandise wholesaler Imperial Distributors, passed away on Aug. 27 at the age of 95 in Ocoee, FL.

Black & Decker Coffeemakers Recalled By Applica Consumer Products Due to Burn Hazard

September 8, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Applica Consumer Products Inc., of Miramar, FL, is voluntarily recalling about 9,800 Black & Decker Thermal Coffeemakers. The coffeemakers can overheat and melt, posing a burn hazard to consumers.

Oneida Completes Licensing Agreementt with Robinson Home Products

September 8, 2009 -- Financial
Oneida Ltd. completed an agreement to license its U.S. consumer flatware and dinnerware business to Robinson Home Products Inc.

Walgreens Reports August Sales

September 8, 2009 -- Financial
Walgreens reported August sales of about $5.2 billion, an increase of 6.8 percent from about $4.9 billion for the same month in 2008. Sales in comparable stores increased 1.9 percent. Comparable store front-end sales decreased 1.3 percent. Front-end sales continue to be hurt by slow sales of discretionary items in a challenging economy. August pharmacy sales increased 8.1% percent, while comparable pharmacy sales increased 3.8 percent. Comparable pharmacy sales were negatively impacted by 2.2 percentage points due to generic drug introductions in the last 12 months.

Metro Inc. Enters Into Deal to Acquire Les Supermarches GP Inc.

September 8, 2009 -- Financial
Metro Inc. entered into a deal to acquire Les Supermarches GP Inc. Les Supermarches GP has annual sales of more than C$300 million and operates 15 supermarkets in Quebec City and eastern Quebec, including eight under the Metro and Metro Plus banners, and seven under the GP banner.

Delivering Value to Our Customers

September 8, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
By Dave McConnell, President & CEO, GMDC Last week I had the opportunity to participate in the Grocery Manufacturers Association's Executive Conference that took place here in Colorado Springs. An impressive array of CEO's and senior level executives from consumer products goods suppliers as well as wholesalers and retailers gathered to dialogue about the challenges we all face in these uncertain economic times.

Setting Objectives and Agenda Items to Prepare for GMDC CCC HBW Marketing Conference Appointments

September 8, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Registrants for GMDC's upcoming Health Beauty Wellness (HBW) Marketing Conference in Orlando may access their Controlled Casual Conference (CCC) appointment schedules online within the Member Area at GMDC's Website.

GMDC Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

September 8, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
During the 39th Annual Conference, GMDC has invited and co-located the conference with the Food Marketing Institute (FMI) Supermarket Pharmacy Conference. The two conferences offer members of both associations an opportunity to develop strategies and tactics to capitalize on the emerging health and wellness opportunities at retail. Learn more about the exciting programs available!

Highlights from GMDC's Recent White Paper on Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles

September 8, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
The Global Market Development Center (GMDC) releases new insights from its study on Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles. The most recent white paper summarizes two important topics that effect retail sales: Consumer Channel Use by Health and Wellness Orientation Critical Issues that Impact Health & Wellness Retail

GMDC Wishes to Thank Health Beauty Wellness Conference Sponsors

September 8, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Attendees will be able to enjoy opportunities for networking with top management of association members, their trading partners, current and potential, not only during the business meetings but during the many conference social events. Sponsorship of specific events, functions, breakfasts and dinners enables GMDC to continue to offer not only exceptional business programs for attendees but a successful conference experience.

Introducing Steribottle, the safe and simple way to feed your baby anytime

September 8, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Introducing Steribottle, the safe and simple way to feed your baby anytime - at home or on the move. Forget the hassle of washing and sterilizing - just fill, feed, and recycle. With Steribottle, every feed is fresh, safe and easy for you and your baby.

Crayola Solar Park to Be Built with Support from PPL & UGI

September 8, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Some 1 billion Crayola crayons will be made annually with the help of solar power.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler/Retailer Members

August 31, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes new 2009 Wholesaler/Retailer Members.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer/Supplier Members

August 31, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer/Supplier Members.

Road Trip - A Scavenger Hunt for Great Retailing Ideas Yields Some Surprising Results in Unusual Places

August 31, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
By Patrick Kiernan, Day/Kiernan Associates At its 2009 General Merchandise Marketing Conference, GMDC provided a unique store tour as part of its Dallas event. Multiple buses took both retailers and CPG suppliers on a Sunday afternoon road trip to see some of the most innovative concept and specialty stores in the U.S.

GMDC, FMI to Bring Together Pharmacy, Rest of Store with Co-located Conference

August 31, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
A Chain Drug Review editorial looks to the long-term benefits of the upcoming GMDC Health Beauty Wellness Conference, co-located with the FMI Supermarket Pharmacy Conference.

Beiersdorf Partners with Start-Up to Develop Skin, Hair Products

August 31, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Beiersdorf will be working with an emulsion and foam specialist, Bubbles and Beyond, to develop a range of gentle cleansing products for skin and hair, reported Cosmetic Design.

Beauty Supplements Need Their Own Brands: Kline

August 31, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Cosmetic companies looking to enter the nutricosmetics market should create new, separate brands for their beauty supplements, according to market research firm Kline, reported Cosmetic Design.

Suppliers Kept Toothpaste Category Active During Second Quarter

August 31, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
While toothpaste suppliers held the line on pricing in the second quarter, they increased new product introductions, along with package and ingredient changes to keep the category active and appealing to consumers, according to Competitive Promotion Report data.

Tom's of Maine Launches New Toothpaste

August 31, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Tom's of Maine will introduce Maximum Strength All-Natural Sensitive Toothpaste in two flavors: Soothing Mint and True Mint.

Nivea For Men Launches "The Groom Room"

August 31, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Nivea For Men launched an online destination, "The Groom Room," a resource for men to find exclusive blog posts, grooming tips and trends, as well as articles on a range of topics including sports, entertainment, career, fashion and grooming, dating and relationships, technology, health and fitness.

Duane Reade Unveils Fresh Look in New Stores

August 31, 2009 -- Retail
Approaching its 50th anniversary, Duane Reade introduced a new store design that features lighter, airier spaces with wider aisles and a more accessible pharmacy department, reported The New York Times on the Web.

Discount Drug Mart Enters into Kodak Contract

August 31, 2009 -- Retail
Eastman Kodak Company entered into an exclusive, multi-year contract with Discount Drug Mart, Inc., that will deploy KODAK Picture Kiosk G4 Digital Stations and KODAK Adaptive Picture Exchange (APEX) thermal dry lab systems into all 70 Discount Drug Mart stores throughout Ohio.

Nielsen, IRI Team Up to Use Single Household Consumer Panel

August 31, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Nielsen Co. and Information Resources Inc. (IRI) will use a single national pool of households to test consumer buying habits.

Walgreens Names Divisional VP, Treasurer

August 31, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Walgreens appointed Jason Dubinsky as divisional vice president and treasurer, replacing John Spina, who was promoted last month to corporate vice president of retail integration and new format development. Mr. Dubinsky joins the company from Goldman Sachs Group in Chicago.

FDA Cracks Down on Ibuprofen Pain Relief Gels

August 31, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Eight companies received warning letters from the FDA, stating that they are marketing unlawful OTC topical drug products containing the pain reliever ibuprofen. The agency has not approved any ointments containing the drug.

Toys 'R Us Launches Exchange Program for Unsafe Baby Toys

August 31, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Toys 'R Us is instituting a "cash-for-clunkers" type program for unsafe baby toys, and it appears to be an interesting image-developing, business-building model.

New Holiday Item from Sony Unveiled

August 31, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Sony has unveiled its new 7-inch, S-Frame DPF-D72N/BQ digital photo frame with crystallized Swarovski Elements, which will go on sale in October in time for the holiday shopping season, reported MobileTechReview.com.

Setting Objectives and Agenda Items to Prepare for GMDC SEC Conference Appointments

August 31, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Participating members at GMDC's upcoming Health Beauty Wellness (HBW) Marketing Conference in Orlando, may access their Senior Executive Conference (SEC) appointment schedules via the link provided to you in the recent SEC communication.

Setting Objectives and Agenda Items to Prepare for GMDC CCC HBW Marketing Conference Appointments

August 31, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Registrants for GMDC's upcoming Health Beauty Wellness (HBW) Marketing Conference in Orlando, may access their Controlled Casual Conference (CCC) appointment schedules online within the Member Area at GMDC's Website.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler/Retailer Members

August 24, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler/Retailer Members.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer/Supplier Members

August 24, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer/Supplier Members.

Current Trends Affecting Consumer Purchases

August 24, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, GMDC Vice President, Business Development/CMO In many cases, individuals believe product trends are all about the product itself. But it is people who drive product trends, not the products. Changes in lifestyles and demographics play a part in what people will buy next. The economy has affected people's buying habits and the products they buy have changed. The trend is that more value-based products--not cheaper, but value based--are seen by consumers as good buys. This means products that have quality materials, provide long product longevity and durability, are not disposable, and are good investments, are in.

Activity in Suncare Products Category Slowed in 2009: Report

August 24, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Following intense activity in the closing period of 2008, the suncare category has become quiet, with only three price changes and no new product introductions, package changes or ingredient changes in the second quarter of the current year, reported Competitive Promotion Report.

Study: Ibuprofen Best for Kids with Broken Arms

August 24, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Kids with a broken arm do better on ibuprofen than on a more powerful prescription combination that includes a narcotic, according to a study by the Medical College of Wisconsin published by the Annals of Emergency Medicine. The study tested ibuprofen against acetaminophen plus codeine, a combo called Tylenol No. 3 that is also sold in generic form. The children on ibuprofen "were more likely to play, they ate better and they had fewer adverse effects," stated study leader Dr. Amy Drendel, reported The Associated Press.

Two Osteoporosis Drugs May Treat Flu Viruses: Researchers

August 24, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Two existing drugs used to treat osteoporosis may be effective in killing influenza viruses, including the H1N1 flu and the H5N1 bird flu viruses, researchers in Hong Kong discovered. The two drugs are pamidronate and zoledronate, which are marketed by Novartis AG under the brand names Aredia and Reclast, respectively, reported Reuters.

Vitamins C, E, Other Antioxidants Do Not Raise Melanoma Risk: Study

August 24, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Vitamins C, E and other antioxidants do not increase the risk for melanoma, according to a study published in the Archives of Dermatology, reported HealthDay.

Kiss My Face Launches Mouthrinse Line

August 24, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Kiss My Face is launching a new line of mouthrinse in four flavors. The 100% natural Breath Blast Mouthrinse is free of alcohol, parabens, phthalates, artificial sweeteners, flavors and coloring and was not tested on animals, according to the company, reported Drug Store News.

Duracell Launches Smart Power Initiative

August 24, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble's Duracell launched its Duracell Smart Power initiative, which expands the brand's product portfolio beyond the traditional battery to address the ever-changing power needs of the modern consumer. The company's latest offerings such as the new drop-and-go myGrid charging pad fall under an emerging category of personal power solutions.

Private Label Dollar Share Increasing: Nielsen

August 24, 2009 -- Retail
Dollar sales of private label products grew by 7.4% to $85.9 billion within drug and mass-merchandisers (including Wal-mart), with shares recorded at 16.9%, according to Nielsen.

Survey: Many Retail Execs Optimistic About '10 Recovery

August 24, 2009 -- Retail
Two-thirds of senior executives in the retail industry expect to see better revenue, profitability and an improving jobs picture in 2010, according to a survey conducted by KPMG LLP.

Retailers Share Hispanic Shopper Marketing Strategies

August 24, 2009 -- Retail
Retailers shared their marketing strategies in regard to attracting Hispanic consumers at The 5th annual Hispanic Retail 360 Summit. For instance, knowing that Latinos index higher than the general population on a variety of health issues such as obesity, lactose intolerance and heart disease, Hy-Vee launched a health and wellness program. The company now has a dietitian working in 173 of its 225 stores, reported Convenience Store News.

Internet Ads Can Be as Effective as TV Ads: Study

August 24, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The Internet can be as effective an advertising medium as television advertising, according to Information Resources, Inc. and dunnhumbyUSA. Over the course of 12 weeks, online ad campaigns with an average reach of 40% of their target segment successfully grew retail sales of the advertised brands by an average of 9%. This compares to an average increase of 8% for TV advertising.

Exec Discusses How Bounty Attracted Hispanic Shoppers

August 24, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
David Miller Gozez-Giron, associate marketing director for Procter & Gamble, told Brandweek how the company attracted Hispanic shoppers to Bounty.

Walgreens Executive to Chair Product of the Year USA Jury

August 24, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Colin Watts, chief innovation officer at Walgreens, will be jury chair for the second annual Product of the Year USA Awards. On Product of the Year Jury Day (Sept. 30) at New York's Gansevoort Hotel, Watts and the jury panel, consisting of industry leaders, influencers and key stakeholders, will preview new consumer packaged goods in competition for the 2010 Product of the Year imprimatur from 100,000 American shoppers who will ultimately choose the winning products.

GAO: Better Information and Planning Would Strengthen CPSC's Oversight of Imported Products

August 24, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The growing volume of consumer products imported into the United States strained the resources of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), challenging the agency to find new ways to ensure the safety of these products, according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO). The Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) mandated that GAO assess the effectiveness of CPSC's authorities over imported products.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler/Retailer Members

August 17, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler/Retailer Members.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer/Supplier Members

August 17, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer/Supplier Members.

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

August 17, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC offers attending health beauty wellness supplier/manufacturer members an innovative way to maximize sales opportunity through The Showcase, a special room located in close proximity to the Controlled Casual Conference floor -- allowing for the display of featured products, promotions and merchandising innovations. For Retailer and Wholesaler members, The Showcase offers a great way to find new business ideas and promotions.

Health and Beauty Trends

August 17, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Jerry Barnes, GMDC Vice President, Member Services With the upcoming GMDC Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference, scheduled for September 11-14 in Orlando, it is a good time to review some of the latest trends within Health and Beauty. There are some interesting trends shaping the retail landscape in the current economic climate, with shopping shifts by category and department.

MinuteClinic Launches Pink-Eye Test in Atlanta Area

August 17, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
MinuteClinic now is offering a rapid conjunctivitis (pink-eye) test at its 23 locations inside select CVS/pharmacy stores in the Atlanta area. The rapid test is a pilot project conducted in partnership with Rapid Pathogen Screening, Inc. At a future date, MinuteClinic hopes to offer the test nationally in its clinic locations in 25 states.

Schering-Plough Launches Claritin Eye

August 17, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Schering-Plough Corporation launched Claritin Eye, an OTC antihistamine eye drop.

Colgate-Palmolive Launches Softsoap Nutri Serums Body Wash

August 17, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Colgate-Palmolive introduced Softsoap Nutri Serums body wash in two varieties -- Restoring with Vitamin E, and Moisture Retaining with Omegas 3 & 6.

Study: Beauty Products Six of Top 10 Fastest Growing '08 Luxuries

August 17, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Six of the top 10 fastest growing luxuries purchased by affluent consumers for personal use and enjoyment, were in the beauty products category -- as measured by the average amount spent on their purchases, according to a study by Unity Marketing, Luxury Beauty Snapshot Report 2009. Face care, cleansers, toners and moisturizers posted growth of 34% in the share of affluent consumer's average spending from 2007 to 2008.

Rapid Test Often Wrong about H1N1 Flu: CDC

August 17, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Quick tests for H1N1 flu are accurate only 70% of the time; suggesting doctors should not rely on the results alone to make treatment decisions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reported Bloomberg.com.

Aura Cacia Launches Electric Air Fresheners

August 17, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Aura Cacia is introducing a new line of electric aromatherapy air fresheners for home and office.

Wegmans Sells More Canning Supplies

August 17, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Wegmans Food Markets is selling more canning jars and other supplies used to preserve homegrown tomatoes, fruits, jams, jellies and pickles. Improved sales may be the result of increased supply, according to the retailer, reported Supermarket News.

P&G Introduces Bounce Dryer Bar

August 17, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble (P&G) launched the Bounce Dryer Bar, which attaches to a dryer's drum and lasts between two to four months, according to the company.

Chain Store Sales Down in July: Report

August 17, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
U.S. chain same-store sales for July 2009 were same-store basis, according to the International Council of Shopping Center (ICSC) Index. For August, ICSC expects comparable store sales will be down 4% year-over-year, with the later back-to-school shopping season and an improving underlying economy giving a small boost.

Drug Stores Increasing Shopper Count During Recession: Study

August 17, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Drug stores and convenience stores are increasing their share of shoppers during the recession, while supermarkets moved ahead of mass merchandisers in share of shoppers, according to WSL Strategic Retail's How America Shops PULSE survey. Drug stores are seeing the strongest lift in traffic from middle-aged, middle-income shoppers, who also are likely to be using the stores -- over a mass merchandiser -- for quick fill-in shopping, reported Convenience Store News.

Procter & Gamble Announces Appointment of Director

August 17, 2009 -- Executive Updates
The Procter & Gamble Company appointed Maggie Wilderotter, chairman and CEO of Frontier Communications Corporation, to its board of directors. The appointment is effective immediately.

CPSC to Enforce New CPSIA Requirements for Children's Products, Effective Aug. 14

August 17, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
On Aug. 14, 2009, new requirements of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) -- that are aimed at making children's products safer and increasing consumer confidence in the marketplace -- will take effect. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is educating domestic and overseas manufacturers, importers and distributors of children's products and other consumer goods, of these important new safety requirements.

Deloitte Consumer Spending Index Rises in July

August 17, 2009 -- Financial
The Deloitte Consumer Spending Index rose in July, steered by falling unemployment claims and tax burdens -- along with a rise in real wages. "The uptick in the Index may give retailers and their suppliers a reason for cautious optimism, going forward," stated Carl Steidtmann, chief economist with Deloitte Research, a subsidiary of Deloitte Services LP, and author of the monthly Index.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler / Retailer Members

August 10, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler / Retailer Members.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer / Supplier Members

August 10, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer / Supplier Members.

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

August 10, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC offers attending health beauty wellness supplier/manufacturer members an innovative way to maximize sales opportunity through The Showcase, a special room located in close proximity to the Controlled Casual Conference floor, allowing for the display of featured products, promotions and merchandising innovations. For Retailer and Wholesaler members, The Showcase offers a great way to find new business ideas and promotions.

Opportunities in General Merchandise: Eating at Home

August 10, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, GMDC Vice President, Business Development/CMO Consumers all view the kitchen differently, and the kitchen has become a hub of family communications and a place of entertainment in the current economy. Cooking has become fun, and it involves creating shared experiences and enjoying life's simpler pleasures.

Treatment Can Prevent Most H1N1 Symptoms: Study

August 10, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Treating healthy individuals for weeks with Roche Holding AG's Tamiflu or GlaxoSmithKline Plc.'s Relenza may prevent some from later displaying H1N1 flu symptoms, according to researchers. However, the drugs did not stop people from getting infected with the flu, according to a report in the Annals of Internal Medicine that analyzed previous studies, reported Bloomberg.com.

Judge Will Not Order Brawny to Stop Using "Bowtie" Pattern

August 10, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
A federal judge refused a request from Procter & Gamble to have Georgia-Pacific Corp. stop using a so-called "bowtie" embossing pattern on its Brawny paper towels, as the embossing is not immediately recognizable to consumers as being linked to Bounty and that there is only a "mere possibility of confusion" from similarities between the two brands' patterns, reported The Associated Press.

Colgate-Palmolive Sues Over "Total" Trademark

August 10, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Colgate-Palmolive sued Johnson & Johnson and Chattem Inc., claiming that both companies used Colgate's "Total" brand name in violation of the company's trademark. In two separate lawsuits, Colgate-Palmolive alleges trademark infringement, unfair competition, trademark dilution, deceptive trade practices and unjust enrichment, reported Reuters.

CVS Caremark Releases Second Quarter Results

August 10, 2009 -- Financial
Net revenues for CVS Caremark Corporation's second quarter of 2009 increased $3.7 billion to $24.9 billion, up from $21.1 billion during the second quarter of 2008. Revenues in the pharmacy services segment increased 22.1% to $13.0 billion in the second quarter of 2009. Revenues in the retail pharmacy segment increased 17.2% to $13.8 billion in the second quarter of 2009. Same-store sales increased 6.1% over the prior-year period. Pharmacy same store sales rose 7.5%.

Reports Show Economy Mending

August 10, 2009 -- Financial
The U.S. economy is showing signs of stabilizing, according to Federal Reserve data released last week. The Beige Book points to improvement in terms of manufacturing activity. However, high unemployment and sluggish retail sales still pose a risk to the economy, reported USA Today.

Most Kids Do Not Get Enough Vitamin D: Study

August 10, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
About 70% of children are not getting enough Vitamin D, mainly due to lack of exposure to sunlight, increasing their risk for heart disease, bone deficiencies and other health problems, according to two studies in the journal Pediatrics, reported Fox News.

Americans Spend $17.7 Billion on Alternative Medicines: NIH

August 10, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
American consumers spend $14.8 billion annually for nonvitamin, nonmineral, natural products, and another $2.9 billion for homeopathic medicines, according to a new National Institutes of Health (NIH) report, reported Reuters.

Tom's Of Maine Introduces Long-Lasting Deodorant

August 10, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Tom's Of Maine introduced a new 24-hour, long-lasting deodorant. The launch combines a natural, vegetable-based formula that is packaged from single-source plastic so it can be recycled from canister to cap.

Shoppers Looking To Spend, But Wisely

August 10, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Shoppers want to spend again, but many learned how to buy more for less, which could favor drug store purchasing, according to a report in the Chicago Tribune.

Word-of-Mouth Spend Hits $1.5 Bil.

August 10, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Spending behind word-of-mouth (w-o-m) marketing hit $1.54 billion last year, according to PQ Media. While most traditional channels saw spending slow, outlays behind w-o-m tactics including buzz, influencer, community and viral marketing grew 14.2% in 2008. Food and drink brands led the way, accounting for 30% of all w-o-m spending. PQ Media is forecasting the w-o-m spending will increase another 10.2% this year despite the recession, reported Brandweek.

P&G Introduces Tide Stain Release

August 10, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble (P&G) introduced Tide Stain Release in three forms: powder, liquid and a Duo Pac.

P&G Introduces Febreze Home Collection

August 10, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Procter & Gamble (P&G) launched the Febreze Home Collection, a scented and styled home decor line, which includes Febreze Scented Reed Diffusers and Febreze Soy Blend Candles.

Spin Master Launches New Doll Line

August 10, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Spin Master Ltd. launched Liv, a line of teenage fashion dolls, available in retail stores across the U.S. and Canada.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler / Retailer Members

August 3, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Welcoming our newest 2009 Wholesaler / Retailer members!

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer / Supplier Members

August 3, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Welcoming our newest Healthy Beauty Wellness Manufacturer / Supplier members!

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

August 3, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC offers attending health beauty wellness supplier/manufacturer members an innovative way to maximize sales opportunity through The Showcase, a special room located in close proximity to the Controlled Casual Conference floor, allowing for the display of featured products, promotions and merchandising innovations. For retailer and wholesaler members, The Showcase offers a great way to find new business ideas and promotions.

Highlights form GMDC's Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles

August 3, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Chris DePetris, GMDC Director of Wellness Programs GMDC just released new insights from the education study Consumer Shopping Habits for Wellness and Environmentally Conscious Lifestyles. The most recent white paper, from research completed by the Hartman Group, summarizes two important topics that effect retail sales.

Dove Body Debuts NutriumMoisture Body Wash

August 3, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Dove claims that its latest body wash, NutriumMoisture, is clinically proven to preserve both skin's natural proteins and lipids while significantly reducing dryness and improving moisturization, citing research published in the June 2009 Cosmetic Dermatology.

New Product Introductions At High Level For Skin Care Category

August 3, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Skin care category activity has been intense over the past three quarters, with 38 new product introductions and 45 price changes, although ingredient and packaging changes have tapered off, according to Competitive Promotion Reports.

H1N1 Flu May Cause Neurological Symptoms in Children: CDC

August 3, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Any child who exhibits neurological symptoms such as seizures along with signs of flu should be tested for the H1N1 virus and started on antiviral therapy immediately, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The agency disclosed that four children in Dallas County, Texas, who were infected with the H1N1 virus in late-May, had seizures or changes in mental status such as weakness and drowsiness. All of the children recovered completely, reported Reuters.

Rite Aid Touts Back-to-School Savings

August 3, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Rite Aid it is offering more than $200 worth of school supply rebates and a wide selection of value-priced private brand back-to-school products, reported Drug Store News.

SUPERVALU Announces Sale of Albertsons Stores in Utah

August 3, 2009 -- Retail
SUPERVALU reached an agreement with Associated Food Stores for the sale of the majority of its Albertsons stores located in Utah. The sale will include 36 Utah locations, with the exception of three St. George-area stores, which will remain Albertsons and continue to be operated by SUPERVALU.

Meijer to Open Small-Format Store in Illinois

August 3, 2009 -- Retail
Meijer will open a new, smaller-format store in Niles, Ill., next year. The store will be about 102,000 square feet, or half the size of a typical Meijer location, reported Niles-Herald Spectator.

More Retailers Accepting Food Stamps

August 3, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
More retailers are accepting food stamps as a record number of consumers are turning to government aid to pay for groceries. Nearly 39-million people received food stamps, now known as Electronic Benefit Transfers, in April 2009, up about 20 percent over April 2008. CVS is included in the list of retailers accepting food stamps in some stores, reported USA Today.

Survey Finds 64 Percent of Americans Unaware Sunscreen Inhibits Vitamin D Production

August 3, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Nearly 64 percent of Americans are unaware that sunscreen hinders the body's ability to produce Vitamin D, a nutrient found to support the immune system, bone strength, colon health and more, according to a survey conducted by Wellesse.

CVS Caremark Names New MinuteClinic President

August 3, 2009 -- Executive Updates
CVS Caremark appointed Dr. Andrew J. Sussman as president and chief operating officer of MinuteClinic, the company's retail-based health clinic subsidiary. Dr. Sussman, who will also serve as senior vice president/associate chief medical officer of CVS Caremark, was executive vice president/chief operating officer of UMass Memorial Medical Center.

Todd Schnuck Named COO in Management Revamp

August 3, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Schnuck Markets announced that Todd Schnuck, president of the family-owned chain, would add the title of chief operating officer and take on responsibility the day-to-day store operations, reported Supermarket News.

Next Generation Barcode Outlined

August 3, 2009 -- Economic Data
A replacement for the black-and-white stripes of the traditional barcode was outlined by researchers. Bokodes, as they are known, can hold thousands of times more information than the current striped version and can be read by a standard mobile phone camera, reported BBC News.

Weis Increases Earnings by 18.5 Percent in Q2

August 3, 2009 -- Financial
Net earnings at Weis Markets improved 18.5 percent to $15.2 million, on a 2-percent sales increase to $615.4 million. Comparable-store sales were up 2.4 percent, reported Supermarket News.

Jarden Net Income Rises on Cost Cuts

August 3, 2009 -- Financial
Despite a 7 percent decline in sales to $1.27 billion, Jarden Corporation, the household and outdoor products maker with brands including Sunbeam and Mr. Coffee, posted a 4 percent gain in profits due to cost cuts.

3M Acquires ACE Brand

August 3, 2009 -- Financial
3M acquired the ACE branded (and related brands) elastic bandage and supports product lines and thermometer product line from Becton, Dickinson and Company (BD).

Associate Member Profile: Method Product's George Shumny, Vice President of Sales

July 27, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
George Shumny is the Chief of Retail Health (Vice President of Sales) at Method Products, Inc., a privately held home care and personal products company headquartered in San Francisco.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler / Retailer Members

July 27, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Wholesaler / Retailer Members.

GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer / Supplier Members

July 27, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC Welcomes New 2009 Health Beauty Wellness Manufacturer / Supplier Members.

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

July 27, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC offers attending health beauty wellness supplier/manufacturer members an innovative way to maximize sales opportunity through The Showcase, a special room located in close proximity to the Controlled Casual Conference floor, allowing for the display of featured products, promotions and merchandising innovations. For Retailer and Wholesaler members, The Showcase offers a great way to find new business ideas and promotions.

Shaving Category Active in Introductions, Package and Ingredient Changes

July 27, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The shaving category experienced most of its price changes in the first quarter, with 17 posted; and during the second quarter, suppliers followed up with increases in new product introductions and package and ingredient changes, according to Competitive Promotion Report.

Maybelline Sponsors NYC Fashion Week Shows

July 27, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Maybelline New York will serve as the official cosmetic sponsor for IMG Fashion's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in New York City's Bryant Park. The two-year agreement, which will commence at the upcoming spring collections in September 2009, will carry through to the event's planned move to Lincoln Center in September 2010.

Wal-Mart Develops Environmental Impact Index

July 27, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Wal-Mart Stores Inc. developed an index that will be used to measure the social and environmental impact of the products it sells in its stores. The information could be used to one day provide consumers a label assessing how "green" or "sustainable" a product is, reported Reuters.

Fujifilm Introduces 3D Digital Camera

July 27, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Fujifilm unveiled a compact digital camera that can be used to shoot three-dimensional (3D) photos and movies, which can be seen on an associated viewer without special glasses.

Hallmark Launches Hallmark Mobile Greetings

July 27, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Hallmark launched Hallmark Mobile Greetings, a cell phone product that "combines the immediacy of a text message with creative design and editorial." Users may also add their own personal message. Each Hallmark Mobile Greeting costs 99 cents.

Target Opens 23 Units

July 27, 2009 -- Retail
Target Corp. opened 23 stores in 14 states; four of the new locations are general merchandise stores, 17 are general merchandise stores with expanded food offerings, and two are SuperTargets.

Winn-Dixie Sees Outlook Improving

July 27, 2009 -- Retail
Winn-Dixie Stores are raising previously issued guidance on adjusted EBITDA for 2009 by nearly 8 percent, and it expects results to continue to improve next year, reported Supermarket News.

IRI: Recession, Age-Driven Lifestyle Changes, Health Issues Impacting Baby Boomers

July 27, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Baby boomers in their 60s generally shop more frequently and more often at smaller format stores, including drug stores and dollar stores, according to Information Resources, Inc.'s (IRI) Baby Boomers II: Preparing for the Upcoming Wave of Aging Shopper Growth. Aging shoppers rely heavily on many OTC products including vitamins and gastrointestinal tablets but purchase less personal items, including deodorant and shampoo, than their younger counterparts. Some 83 percent of boomers aged 53-62 also claim store brands are of excellent quality, compared with 70 percent of boomers aged 44-52.

Shopping Behaviors May Transcend Demographics

July 27, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The demographic traits in common usage by retailers and brand marketers are not valid predictors of shopping behavior, according to research released by Henkel Consumer Goods Inc.

Study: Consumers Want More Innovative Packaged Goods

July 27, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Consumers are eager for innovation when it comes to packaged goods and especially household and personal products, according to a new study from Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods, reported Gourmet Retailer.

Evenflo Recalls Switch-A-Roo Telephone Toys

July 27, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
Evenflo Co. Inc. is recalling its Switch-A-Roo Telephone Toys. A mirror decal attached to the toy can peel away, posing a potential choking hazard, according to Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Bi-Lo Posts June Profit of $1.3M

July 27, 2009 -- Financial
Bi-Lo Holdings reported a net profit of $1.3 million on sales of $202.6 million for the four-week period that ended June 20, reported Supermarket News.

Celebration Programs Create Opportunities

July 20, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, Vice President Business Development / CMO, GMDC The best celebrations don't just happen, and retailers - with the help of manufacturers - are ideally positioned to meet the needs of party-givers, as many items that typically comprise celebrations - birthday parties, graduations, and more - already are part of the merchandising mix. With the average spent on one party estimated well in excess of $100, and the average household planning and hosting these special events several times each year, celebration and birthday-related merchandising and sales clearly hold enormous potential for the retail industry.

Category Sales Recap Data Now Available!

July 20, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Category Sales Recap data for more than 90 General Merchandise, Health and Beauty Categories, is now updated every month and available to members.

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

July 20, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC offers attending health beauty wellness supplier/manufacturer members an innovative way to maximize sales opportunity through The Showcase - a special room located in close proximity to the Controlled Casual Conference floor, allowing for the display of featured products, promotions and merchandising innovations. For Retailer and Wholesaler members, The Showcase offers a great way to find new business ideas and promotions.

Take Advantage of GMDC's JobCenter to Find the Right Employees!

July 20, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to take advantage of GMDC's new JobCenter, a job site for employers to post jobs in the General Merchandise and Health Beauty Wellness industries.

Obesity Is Risk Factor for Severe H1N1 Flu: Study

July 20, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
People who are obese, but otherwise healthy, may be at higher risk for severe complications and death from the H1N1 flu virus, according to a study published in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) weekly report.

Novel H1N1 Virus Linked to 1918 Pandemic

July 20, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
An international team of researchers linked the H1N1 flu's ability to infect the lungs, as a quality shared with the virus strain that caused the 1918 flu pandemic. The researchers also discovered that people born around 1918 harbor antibodies that protect against the new H1N1 virus, reported Science Daily.

HairTech to Launch Paris Hilton Hair, Nail Care Line

July 20, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
HairTech International will launch Paris Hilton hair and nail care products this year. Through its licensing deal, HairTech is launching the Ultimate Brush by Paris Hilton, Polish by Paris and a Paris Hilton hair care line infused with pomegranate, coffeeberry and soy bean, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required.)

Ten Toys for Pool Play Profiled

July 20, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Ranging upward from moderate price levels, 10 toys for the pool and general water activities are highlighted by Daily Press.

Hallmark to Market Cards, Party Items Featuring Marvel Comic Heroes

July 20, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Hallmark Cards formed a licensing agreement to produce and market Marvel Entertainment comic book images and other characters on greeting cards, party goods and other social expression products.

Product of the Year Launches 2010 Competition

July 20, 2009 -- Retail
Product of the Year USA and global researcher TNS will begin surveying 100,000 American consumers on their reaction to consumer package goods entries for their 2010 competition, reported Progressive Grocer.

Deloitte Consumer Spending Index Rises in June

July 20, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The Deloitte Consumer Spending Index rose in June, after falling four consecutive months. The Index, comprising four components - tax burden, initial unemployment claims, real wages and real home prices - rose to 1.83 percent, from an upwardly revised gain of 1.4 percent a month ago.

Even the Affluent Seeking Best Shopping Deals

July 20, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
More shoppers from all income levels are increasingly seeking out deals at the grocery store, but the deal rates are up more than 8 percent from a year ago for households earning more than $70,000 - a faster rise than the 6 percent uptick for middle-income households ($30,000-$69,900) and 5 percent gain for lower-income households earning less than $30,000 per year, according to Nielsen Business Media, reported Progressive Grocer.

Average Family to Spend More Than $500 on Back-to-School

July 20, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The average family with pre-collegiate students will spend $548.72 on school merchandise - a decline of 7.7 percent from 2008 - according to the National Retail Federation's 2009 Back to School Consumer Intentions and Actions Survey, conducted by BIGresearch. Some 56.2 percent of back-to-school shoppers are hunting for sales more often, 49.6 percent are planning to spend less overall, 41.7 percent will purchase more store brand/generic products and 40 percent are planning to increase their use of coupons.

United Supermarkets Appoints New GM Business Director

July 20, 2009 -- Executive Updates
United Supermarkets, LLC, named Scott Preston business director of general merchandise. Preston succeeds Gary Crawford, who will retire from the Lubbock, Texas-based grocer in August, reported Progressive Grocer.

Walgreens Announces Executive Changes

July 20, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Walgreens announced the promotion of Wade Miquelon, its senior vice president and chief financial officer, to executive vice president and CFO. The company also promoted John Spina, its treasurer, to corporate vice president of retail integration and new format development. Meanwhile, Walgreens hired a 23-year Wal-Mart veteran, Steve Broughton, to oversee the consumables category.

U.S. to Spend Another $1 Billion for H1N1 Flu Vaccine

July 20, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The United States is ready to spend another $1 billion for H1N1 flu vaccinations, according to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, reported Reuters.

Perrigo Receives FDA OK for OTC Nicotine Lozenges

July 20, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The Perrigo Company received FDA approval to market OTC coated nicotine polacrilex lozenge USP, 2 mg and 4 mg, in cherry and cinnamon flavors.

Report: OTC Market Largely Not Impacted by Recession

July 20, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The overall over-the-counter medicine market grew 3.2 percent during nonrecession years and only 1.2 percent during recessions, according to the Impact of Recessions on the U.S. OTC Market study from consulting and research firm, Kline & Co. The impact of recessions on the OTC market mainly comes from erosion of branded OTC sales by private-label products and is reflected in slower growth rates, reported Drug Store News. (Free Registration Required.)

Research: Value-Seeking Behaviors May Transcend Demographics

July 20, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Consumer households can be categorized by "assembled" shopping solutions, or shopping styles, as well as with three behavioral segments, according to a study from Henkel Consumer Goods. Shoptimizers are most likely to be influenced in their choices by pre-shopping stimuli such as circulars and coupons. Mainstreeters do far less pre-planning and rarely save coupons, while Carefrees avoid everyday low price channels and bypass most pre-planning and in-store promotions, reported Hub Magazine.

Bi-Lo Names New Appointments to SVP Posts

July 20, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Bi-Lo named Bill Nasshan senior vice president of merchandising and marketing and promoted Anthea Jones to senior vice president of store operations, effective immediately. Nasshan succeeds Larry Stablein, who served the same role on an interim basis since late last year, while Jones will be responsible for operations and Bi-Lo Charities, reported Supermarket News.

Category Sales Recap Data Now Available!

July 13, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Category Sales Recap data for more than 90 General Merchandise, Health and Beauty Categories, is now updated every month and available to members.

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

July 13, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
By Jerry Barnes, GMDC Vice President, Member Services Are you registered to attend the GMDC Health Beauty Wellness (HBW) Marketing Conference scheduled for September 11-14, 2009, in Orlando, Florida? Would you like to make the most of this experience?

Supervalu to Form New Health and Wellness Division

July 13, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Supervalu is creating a new health and wellness division, headed by veteran executive Duncan MacNaughton, to enable the company to better coordinate its pharmacy and HBC businesses and provide customers with total health and wellness experience, reported Chain Drug Review.

Nutrition 21 Launches Prescriptix Nutraceuticals Product Line

July 13, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Nutrition 21 Inc. introduced the Prescriptix product line, comprised of three separate products that claim to provide consumers with a safe and more natural option by delivering clinical drug study levels of specific nutrients to enhance bone density, heart and joint health.

Take Care Clinics Expand Skin Condition Treatments

July 13, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Walgreens' Take Care Health Systems' Take Care Clinics are offering new dermatological treatments including wart removal with Cryotherapy, closure of minor cuts with Dermabond and treatment for contact dermatitis.

Vitamin D Deficiency Widespread and on the Increase: IOF

July 13, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Issues due to low levels of vitamin D are on the rise and potentially could cause severe repercussions for overall health and fracture rates, according to a new report by the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF).

Sunglasses Make Summertime Style Statement

July 13, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Important style trends are developing for sunglasses this summer; and big, apparently, is better, reported The Kansas City Star.

EcoLogo to Develop Environmental Standard for Toys

July 13, 2009 -- General Merchandise
The EcoLogo Program, a third-party certification group, is developing a standard that will allow toys to receive EcoLogo certification for meeting certain environmental criteria to provide credibility to natural claims, reported GreenerDesign.

Tops Completes Decoupling

July 13, 2009 -- Retail
Tops Friendly Markets completed its 16-month transition to local control. The chain, which was purchased by Morgan Stanley Private Equity from Ahold in December 2007, was managing marketing, merchandising and information technology through a shared-services arrangement with Ahold since the sale, reported Supermarket News.

Save-A-Lot Launching Digital Shoppers Club

July 13, 2009 -- Retail
Shoppers who sign up for the Save-A-Lot Smart Shoppers Club at Save-A-Lot.com will receive a $5 "instant coupon," good for a purchase of $20 or more at participating Save-A-Lot stores. Enrollees also will receive special offers and discounts, and updates on the last promotions at Save-A-Lot, reported Supermarket News.

Fewer Consumers Waiting for Sales: Study

July 13, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Fewer consumers are waiting for a sale to purchase merchandise, according to a study by Accenture. Some 57 percent now claim they will wait for a sale, rather than buy at the full retail price, compared with 62 percent in a 2008 survey, reported Retailing Today (Free Registration Required).

Analysis: Reasons Not to Panic over a Painkiller

July 13, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
Despite the FDA panel's recommendations relative to dosage, acetaminophen still is considered a safe drug when taken as directed, reported The New York Times on the Web.

New Vice President Corporate Development for GSK Consumer Healthcare

July 13, 2009 -- Executive Updates
GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) Consumer Healthcare appointed 14-year veteran Janet Carter-Smith to be its new vice president corporate development, reported Drug Store News (Free Registration Required).

Jackson, Tripp Retire from Supervalu

July 13, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Supervalu President/COO Mike Jackson and Executive Vice President Kevin Tripp - who also is president of the Retail Midwest region - are retiring from the company, effective Aug. 14, reported Supermarket News.

Helen of Troy Reports First Quarter Results

July 13, 2009 -- Financial
Helen of Troy Limited - designer, developer and worldwide marketer of brand-name personal care and household consumer products - reported slightly lower sales, but substantially higher earnings, year-over-year, for the quarter that ended May 31, 2009.

Laxative Category Activity Mixed in First Quarter

July 13, 2009 -- Financial
Price changes in the laxative category took off in the first quarter of 2009 - with nearly a doubling in activity, compared to those in the fourth quarter of 2008 - as item introductions leveled off and packaging and ingredient changes declined sharply, according to Competitive Promotion Report.

Be Sure to Use GMDC's Studies & White Papers to Help Take Your Business to the Next Level!

July 13, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Be sure to use GMDC's Studies & White Papers to help take your business to the next level!

Women's Well-Being Opportunity

July 6, 2009 -- GMDC Matters
From Keith Wypyszynski, GMDC Vice President, Business Development/CMO Typically, the female head of the household is the custodian of health for the entire family - the gatekeeper of what enters the home. She makes household decisions on diet, food products, OTC items, household goods and cleaners, exercise and even whether or not to see the doctor. She determines what is bought - and what is not.

Register Now for the 2009 HBW Conference!

July 6, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Register now for the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness (HBW) Conference. This is the last week to register!

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

July 6, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC offers attending Health, Beauty, Wellness supplier/manufacturer members an innovative way to maximize sales opportunity through the Showcase: a special room located in close proximity to the Controlled Casual Conferences(CCC) floor, allowing for the display of featured products, promotions and merchandising innovations.

Category Sales Recap Data Now Available!

July 6, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Category Sales Recap data for over 90 General Merchandise, Health and Beauty Categories is now updated every month and available to members.

H1N1 Flu Virus Remains Stable: WHO

July 6, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
According to the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Margaret Chan, the H1N1 virus is currently stable and there are no signs of its mixing with the avian flu or influenza viruses,. However, Reuters reported that "as we know the influenza virus is highly unpredictable and has great potential for mutation."

Jillian Michaels Launches Weight-Loss Line

July 6, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The Biggest Loser trainer Jillian Michaels launched a line of weight-loss products in partnership with ThinCare International, LLC. The line will include Maximum Strength Calorie Control, Maximum Strength Fat Burner, Triple Process Total Body Detox & Cleanse Plus Probiotic Replenishment and the QuickStart Rapid Weight Loss System.

P&G's Gillette Launches New Ad Campaign

July 6, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Procter & Gamble's (P&G) Gillette launched a new global advertising campaign to expand the shaving brand and reach men with other grooming products.

Hasbro, Yankee Candle to Release Scented Puzzles

July 6, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Hasbro and the Yankee Candle Company partnered to launch scented puzzles.

Cuisinart Launches Facebook Group

July 6, 2009 -- General Merchandise
Cuisinart joined Facebook to provide consumers with a forum in which to share ideas and recipes, and a quick and easy way to ask questions about their Cuisinart products, reported The Gourmet Retailer.

Self-Service Kiosk Transactions to Surpass $775B In '09: Study

July 6, 2009 -- Retail
Transactions at self-service kiosks will surpass $775 billion in 2009, and will grow to over $1.6 trillion by 2013, according to the IHL Group.

Retailers Reducing Product Assortment: Report

July 6, 2009 -- Retail
Drug stores, supermarkets and discount retailers are reducing the variety of products on their shelves, and the largest retailers are expected to cut the assortment of products in stores by at least 15 percent, according to industry executives and analysts. Some suppliers are also paring their own offerings in advance of the reductions, reported The Wall Street Journal. (WSJ Subscription Required)

Meijer Opening Smaller Format Store in Illinois

July 6, 2009 -- Retail
Meijer will open a smaller format grocery focused store in Niles, Ill. The new store will be 102,000 square feet, about half the size of most Meijer supercenters.

Report: Adoption of Self-Checkout Increases Over Past Two Years

July 6, 2009 -- Consumer & Business Insights
The adoption of self-checkout solutions accelerated over the last two years and installations are predicted to nearly triple by 2012 to reach 250,000 units globally, according to a Retail Banking Research report, Global EPOS and Self-Checkout 2009.

Kroger Co. Names President, COO

July 6, 2009 -- Executive Updates
Kroger Co. tapped Rodney McMullen to replace Don McGeorge, who is retiring as president and chief operating officer. McMullen, who has served as Kroger's vice chairman since 2003, will assume his new role Aug. 1.

FDA Advisers Urge Smaller Doses of Acetaminophen

July 6, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
With a two-thirds majority voite, an FDA advisory panel recommended that the maximum dosage of non-prescription acetaminophen be lowered.

Economy Dips at Slightly Lower Pace in 1Q

July 6, 2009 -- Financial
The economy fell at a 5.5 percent pace in the first quarter, but appears to be gaining stability, even though heavy layoffs persist, according to The Associated Press. The revised reading on gross domestic product, released by the Commerce Department, showed the economy from January through March did not fall as deeply as the 5.7 percent annualized decline reported a month ago, reported Forbes.

Rite Aid Completes $1.9 Billion Refinancing of its September 2010 Debt Maturities

July 6, 2009 -- Financial
Rite Aid Corporation successfully completed its previously announced refinancing of the majority of its September 2010 debt maturities, including its $145 million Tranche 1 Term Loan and $1.75 billion senior secured revolving credit facility.

California Fails to Pass Pseudoephedrine Prescription Bill

July 6, 2009 -- Legislative/Regulatory
The California State Assembly's Committee of Public Safety has voted against a proposed law that would require pseudoephedrine-containing products to be available only as prescription drugs, and this initiative will now not likely proceed, reports Chain Drug Review.

Register Now for the 2009 HBW Conference!

June 29, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Register now for the 2009 Health Beauty Wellness (HBW) Conference. Registration deadline is July 3!

Use the GMDC Showcase to Maximize Your Sales Opportunity at the Upcoming Health Beauty Wellness Marketing Conference

June 29, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
GMDC offers attending Health, Beauty, Wellness supplier/manufacturer members an innovative way to maximize sales opportunity through the Showcase: a special room located in close proximity to the Controlled Casual Conferences (CCC) floor, allowing for the display of featured products, promotions and merchandising innovations.

Member Title Changes: Updates on Position Changes at GMDC Member Companies

June 29, 2009 -- GMDC Updates
Please note the following key changes to GMDC Member titles below. These changes reflect only what has been provided to GMDC.

Select Rite Aid Stores Host Diabetes Solutions Days

June 29, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
Select Rite Aid stores nationwide hosted Diabetes Solutions Days on June 23 and 25. Consumers who attended the events were provided with diabetes-related health screenings and self-management solutions. The events included blood pressure screenings, personal pharmacist consultations and glucose meter selection and training, reported Drug Store News.

New Hair Styling Product Introductions Increase in First Quarter

June 29, 2009 -- Health Beauty Wellness
The hair styling category experienced an increase in new item activity and price changes in the first quarter, but there were no package or ingredient changes in existing SKUs, according to Competitive Promotion Report.