COVID-19

Having flawless-looking skin is not only a result of high-performing facial makeup that delivers exceptional coverage; it also really starts with clear, healthy skin. That’s why it comes as no surprise that sales of facial cleansers and acne treatments are still on the rise.

According to data from SymphonyIRI Group, sales of facial cleansers rose about 4%, as sales of acne treatments rose 3.4% at food, drug and mass (excluding Walmart) during the 12 weeks ended Nov. 27.

The recession has taken a toll on the pet category, according to some companies. A recent report from Cascadia Capital revealed that 35% of consumers said they curtailed pet expenditures in 2011 due to the economy. Spending on pets is expected to hit the $50 billion mark in 2011, an increase of 5% over 2010, according to the American Pet Products Association. Packaged Facts predicted that the industry will grow 5.9% in 2012.


WASHINGTON — A report released Thursday said that consumer confidence in the United States was little changed for a second week, holding at a level typically reached during past recessions.

The Bloomberg Consumer Comfort Index was at -50.3 in the period ended Dec. 4, after a reading of -50.2 the prior week. The gauge has been at-50 or worse for 11 of the past 12 weeks.

SEATTLE — The combined store count of the county's largest dollar store chains outnumbers that of the largest retail pharmacy chains as continued economic difficulties drive the channel's growth, according to a new study released Monday by Colliers International.

BRANCHBURG, N.J. — National Bio+Green Sciences has created HandSan, which is positioned as the first-ever alcohol-free, organic hand cleanser made solely from purified water and vitamins with no artificial preservatives.

“Like all Bio+Green Crystals products, our HandSan is an eco-friendly product created in America using local components whenever possible, supporting regional and national businesses, and creating quality manufacturing-based jobs,” stated Nik Renieris, founder and CEO of National Bio+Green Sciences.

The economy has caused consumers to eat at home more frequently. Products that make food prep easier are more popular than ever with consumers.

A recent study from Mintel International revealed that U.S. retail sales of cooking sauces and marinades saw a 20% spike between 2005 and 2010. Sales of the products are expected to increase by another 19% by 2015.

Ethnic sauces, barbecue sauces and refrigerated/frozen sauces are among the most popular.

BELLEVUE, Wash. — Shoppers that take advantage of Redbox rentals should expect to see a change in price.

Redbox's parent company Coinstar on Thursday said that the daily rate for standard DVD rentals will increase 20 cents to $1.20. Prices for Blu-ray format movie rentals and for video game rentals, however, will not change and continue to be $1.50 and $2, respectively.

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — Consumers may be concerned about picking up germs, but flu shot misconceptions are standing in the way of many consumers doing all they can to protect themselves and their loved ones, according to a recent CVS/pharmacy survey.

"It's always important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze, and avoid contact with those who are sick. But the No. 1 thing you can do to prevent the flu is get a flu shot," stated Papatya Tankut, VP pharmacy professional services for CVS/pharmacy.