Center Store

After strong growth, the cereal/granola bar category is showing slower growth. A report on “Food Bars in the U.S.” by Packaged Facts estimated U.S. sales of 
cereal/granola bars at $3.1 billion in 2011, with flat sales for the overall category, despite some growth in premium granola bars. Experian Simmons data showed that 40% of adults use cereal/granola bar products overall, said David Sprinkle, research director at Packaged Facts.

Experts said that despite competition from electronic cards and rising postal fees, there still is a future for the paper greeting card category. Sean O’Malley, an analyst for Wedge Capital, estimated the industry saw 1% unit volume growth last year. He estimated 2011 greeting card sales were $2.5 billion to $3 billion. Nearly 80% of category sales are driven by women ages 30 to 50 years whose “habits die hard,” according to O’Malley. Premium cards and value cards are performing best.

HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. — Mars Chocolate is putting its candy bars on a diet, according to published reports.

The company is said to limit the calories on its well-known candy brands, including Snickers and Twix. According to a Reuters report, candy bars will tout no more than 250 calories by 2013. What's more, the report said, such items as the 540-calorie king-size Snickers bar will be pulled from the market by 2014.

BROOMFIELD, Colo. — Avery Brewing has tapped can manufacturer Ball to create unique packaging for Avery's brands.

The company said it partnered with Ball's Graphics Center of Excellence and utilized the latter's Eyeris Enhanced Graphics printing technique to create a 360-degree miniature billboard with every can for distinctive, on-the-shelf differentiation of Avery's brands, including India Pale Ale, White Rascal, Ellie's Brown Ale and Joe's Premium American Pilsner.

PRINCETON, N.J. — Arm & Hammer has introduced a new type of cat litter that's aimed at busy cat owners who don't have time to clean the litter box every day.

New Ultra Last clumping cat litter contains Arm & Hammer baking soda-coated granules and special odor neutralizers that continuously eliminate even the worst litter box odors, the company said. It also creates rock solid clumps that give way for easy removal of the source of odors and the moisture activated fresh scent deodorizes the litter every time the cat uses the litter box.

NEW HOLLAND, Pa. — Alouette has launched two new spreadable cheeses.

Available in ready-to-serve 6 oz. containers, the sharp cheddar cheese and bacon cheddar cheese flavors are available in the deli section of supermarkets nationwide for a suggested retail price of $4.99.

LOS ANGELES — Marley Coffee has inked a distribution agreement that will expands its line's availability on the East Coast, as well as in Hawaii.

ATLANTA — Barq's is paying homage to its Gulf Coast heritage by introducing a new design on all of its products' packaging.

The root beer brand said that while the cans will maintain their distinctive silver color, the new look features a diamond pattern reminiscent of the drink's original 1898 12-oz. glass bottle packaging. Additionally, the label helps celebrate the brand's 114-year history by keeping the simple slogan "It's Good. Since 1898."