Pharmacy

CHICAGO -- Dollar sales of cosumer packaged goods grew just 1.6 percent in 2005, an extraordinarily challenging year marked by a devastating hurricane season and uneven economy. But while industry growth was disappointing, trends across specific channels and categories were encouraging, said Information Resources, Inc. (IRI), a provider of enterprise market solutions for the CPG, retail, and healthcare industries.

BOULDER, Colo. -- Natural and organic foods chain Wild Oats Markets, Inc. here is gearing up to enter the Tampa, Fla. market with its latest prototype, which offers its signature perishables, an extensive organic and natural product selection, and energy-conserving equipment. The 37,000-square-foot store, located in Walters Crossing at 1548 N. Dale Mabry Highway (Dale Mabry at I-275), above a Target store, will open April 5.

Louisiana's Rouses Supermarkets leverages local expertise and a blend of old and new in its latest store.

Some supermarket operators are gaining the expertise needed to make their stores more health-minded destinations -- but there's no miracle diet plan.

HARLEYSVILLE, Pa. -- The Natural Marketing Institute (NMI) said yesterday that retail sales in the U.S. consumer packaged goods health and wellness industry reached $79 billion in 2005, accounting for total growth of 15 percent over 2004.

McLEAN, Vir. -- Susan Nicolais has been named new e.v.p. of Retail Bakers of America. Nicolais, who assumed control on January 1, now oversees all operations of RBA. Her primary focus will be the organization's ongoing reorganization that focuses on membership development and growth.

NEW YORK -- A handful of food retailers are among on Fortune Magazine's list of The 100 Best Companies to Work For, and the most prominent, Wegmans Food Markets, came in at No. 2, one off its lead position on last year's list.

A solid connection to health, as well as an increased emphasis on specialty fruit, should help citrus turn in a strong peak season.