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CHICAGO -- Sara Lee Corp. here said yesterday it was implementing a comprehensive transformation plan designed to better position the company for long-term growth, which includes focusing tightly on its food, beverage, and household products, and divesting certain businesses. Also, as part of the plan, Brenda C. Barnes was elected c.e.o., effective immediately. She replaces Steve McMillan, who will remain chairman until October.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Struggling Southeastern grocer Winn-Dixie Stores, Inc. yesterday reported a second-quarter loss of $399.7 million, citing fierce competition. The company's stock tumbled more than 30 percent, falling below its 52-week low and closing at $2.25.

AUSTIN, Texas -- Whole Foods Market, Inc. yesterday reported a sales surge of 22 percent to $1.37 billion for the 16-week quarter ended Jan. 16.

NEW YORK -- Coupon use was on the rise in 2004 as 251 billion coupons were distributed within newspaper Free-Standing Inserts (FSIs) -- a 7.7 percent increase compared with 2003, according to the annual Marx FSI Trend Report. The report estimates that more than 850 FSI coupons were issued for every U.S. citizen, with potential per-person savings of nearly $1,000.

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The California Senate Committee on Business and Professions, chaired by Sen. Liz Figueroa (D-Alameda and Santa Clara counties), will hold an informational hearing today on slotting fees in the grocery industry. The hearing is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon in Room 112 of the State Capitol.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. -- Sears, Roebuck, and Co. here yesterday announced the launch of its newest off-mall format, Sears Essentials, which will leverage the best of Sears along with convenience-inspired goods such as pantry items, health and beauty supplies, pet food, and toys, plus pharmacy and other services.

SAN ANTONIO -- Roger Clemens, the Houston Texans cheerleaders, and two members of the San Antonio Spurs are among the many colorful Texas icons joining Charles Butt, chairman and c.e.o. of H-E-B Grocery Co., in a new television commercial that promotes the grocery chain's Centennial Celebration.

MINNEAPOLIS -- Supervalu, Inc. said yesterday that it had completed its cash tender offer for all outstanding shares of common stock of Milwaukee-based Total Logistics, Inc., a national provider of integrated third-party logistics services and manufacturer of refrigeration systems. The tender offer began Jan. 7 and expired at midnight EST on Feb. 4.