Center Store

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Save-A-Lot, a discount grocery chain based in St. Louis, opened its first store here today.

MATTHEWS, N.C. - Discount chain Family Dollar Stores, Inc. experienced solid sales increases in August and its fourth quarter, although sales in existing stores were down slightly due in part to slower-moving softlines, the Matthews, N.C.-based company said yesterday.

NEW YORK - Retailers from grocery, drug, and mass now have a forum to discuss the booming health, wellness, and self-care movement with key suppliers. Sponsored by Retail Merchandiser magazine, in cooperation with Progressive Grocer and Convenience Store News, the Health & Wellness Summit '04 is being held Oct. 25 and 26 in Miami.

At Bloom, Food Lion's new concept for the future, putting customers first means turning several retail rules upside down.

CHICAGO - Recent consumer research, media reports, and food industry watchers have been questioning the longevity of the low-carb trend, but new sales data reported in Information Resources, Inc.'s latest Times & Trends report, "Carb-Cutting Shoppers," suggest that the popularity of cutting carbs has not yet waned.

Union leaders face the same formidable foe as independents and regional chains, so it makes sense for them to work together for survival.

Consumers are turning to the deli for healthy protein-rich meats, cheeses, and meals, sparking what some hope is the start of the department's day in the sun.

'If you can't beat 'em, join 'em' is the cereal category's modus operandi in the face of the low-carb movement.