Center Store

New York -- Sales of natural pet health products totaled $45 million in 2004 and are expected to have explosive near-term growth, according to findings in Market Trends: Natural, Organic, and "Eco-Friendly" Pet Products, a new report issued by market researcher Packaged Facts. The report forecasts that by 2009, sales of natural pet health products will grow by 149 percent to $112 million in sales.

NEW YORK CITY -- In a pre-emptive strike to defend its turf in Manhattan's Union Square -- where Whole Foods Market is scheduled to open its third New York store later this month -- online grocer FreshDirect has been handing out flyers that offer head-to-head price comparisons with the natural food chain.

New York -- Sales of natural pet health products totaled $45 million in 2004 and are expected to have explosive near-term growth, according to findings in Market Trends: Natural, Organic, and "Eco-Friendly" Pet Products, a new report issued by market researcher Packaged Facts. The report forecasts that by 2009, sales of natural pet health products will grow by 149 percent to $112 million in sales.

MONTVALE, N.J.-- Reports and rumors continue to swirl around the disposition of A&P's Canadian operation. So far, however, no official word has come from the grocer's mouth.

MONTVALE, N.J.-- Reports and rumors continue to swirl around the disposition of A&P's Canadian operation. So far, however, no official word has come from the grocer's mouth.

With unique products and even more unique merchandising, Dave's Marketplace has retrieved its pet category sales in a competitive market.

Mainstream chains are taking advantage of hot sales of organics in the frozens aisle.

Mainstream chains are taking advantage of hot sales of organics in the frozens aisle.