Frozen Foods

U.S.-based store brands are benefiting big time from the current economic downturn. As consumers continue to turn to better prices and value, retailers have clearly stepped up their game by enhancing their brands’ overall product quality and by adding strong marketing muscle behind store-brand initiatives.

The U.S. market for ice cream and related frozen desserts, including frozen yogurt and frozen novelties, grew 2 percent to $25 billion in 2009, in spite of a recession that adversely affected frozen dessert sales, according to “Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts in the U.S.: Markets and Opportunities in Retail and Foodservice, 6th Edition,” a report from New York-based market research publisher Packaged Facts.

In a bid to help grocers score with health-focused New Year’s shoppers, Mann Packing is rolling out multiple promotions in January and February to further bolster sales.

Super 1 Foods stores have started a new savings program to help shoppers stretch their dollars, while the chain’s parent company, Brookshire Grocery Co. (BGC), has introduced the “Food Club Frenzy” program this month, which offers participating customers the opportunity to win up to $3,000.

Regional independent HEB said this week it’s strengthening its support of the Texas communities it serves by building new stores and creating new job opportunities, lowering prices on a wide range of items, and continuing its community involvement.

A new slate of members has been appointed to the USDA’s Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee.

Community-based independent Maywood Market plans to install a new point-of-sale (POS) and back-office solution to provide a faster and more convenient shopping experience, and to run in-store promotions more effectively.

Health-conscious consumers can add the finishing touch to their favorite desserts or snacks with TRUwhip, an all-natural whipped topping option featuring no GMOs, hydrogenated oils, trans fats, high-fructose corn syrup or gluten.