Trading Partners

WILTON, Conn. -- Wal-Mart and Procter & Gamble topped the "best of the best" in the industry for collaborating with trading partners to best meet consumers' needs, and bolster their own performance, said consultancy Cannondale Associates here, which on Firday released it 2005 PoweRanking Survey.

WASHINGTON -- Seven suppliers to Ahold's Columbia, Md.-based U.S. Foodservice division this week surrendered to federal authorities and agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges for helping the company overstate its earnings targets, according to published reports. The men could face up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine each. The charges were brought by the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York.

CHICAGO --It looks like consumers are demanding even more robust convenience-based products than ever, with attributes such as better nutritional benefits, according to a study released yesterday by Information Resources, Inc. (IRI).

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. -- The California grocery industry has joined forces with the city government to reduce, reuse, and recycle grocery store checkout bags.

Exclusive-brand programs in fresh categories are paying off for retailers that have a clear, premium point of difference -- but they've got to hit the mark.

From bratwurst to single-serve packages and spicy snacks, the packaged meat category can tap into consumer demand for zestier flavors and greater convenience.

KEENE, N.H. -- C&S Wholesale Grocers here said yesterday it has promoted three executives in merchandising positions. Tracy Moore has been promoted to v.p., marketing, merchandising, and trade relations. Zena Tessier has been promoted to v.p. of merchandising. Dan Fudger has been promoted to senior director of merchandising and trade relations.

Store brands are getting bigger than ever, and premium is tops as a global private label trend.