Consumables


Continued product innovation in the sugarless gum segment helped push dollar sales ahead nearly 5% for the 12 weeks ended Nov. 28, 2010, according to SymphonyIRI Group.


“Constant newness has been driving the category, and as manufacturers continue to invest in advertising, consumer interest remains high,” said Lisbeth Echeandia, VP trade marketing for consulting group Frey Enterprises.


DALLAS — Toilet tissue brand Cottonelle is encouraging consumers to try something new in their bathrooms.

To promote its brand, Cottonelle announced the launch of its "Make the Ultra Switch" sweepstakes. By giving away 90 prizes in 90 days, the company hopes shoppers will seek to purchase Cottonelle's thick toilet paper, the company stated.

WASHINGTON — Hershey is facing accusations that it has not helped efforts to end child labor, which potentially could impact the sales of its products during one of the biggest sale seasons of the year.

New twists on classic candy brands helped propel dollar sales in the chocolate candy segment ahead nearly 10%. An increase in prices contributed to the dollar sales gain, but a big boost came from line extensions and limited-edition flavors.

“The old standbys are comfort brands for consumers, and manufacturers continue to trade off their following with new products,” said Lisbeth Echeandia, VP trade marketing of consulting firm Frey Enterprises.

NEW YORK — The National Hockey League and diaper brand Huggies have teamed up for a month-long campaign to collect diapers and donations for families and babies in need across North America.

DEERFIELD, Ill. — A Novato, Calif.-based corporate brand beer supplier has launched a private-label beer for Walgreens, according to published reports.

Winery Exchange is the producer behind Big Flats 1901, a lager brewed by Genesee Brewing Co., based in Rochester, N.Y. Big Flats 1901 sells for around 50 cents per can at most Walgreens stores, according to reports.

Winery Exchange's retail partners include Supervalu, Kroger, Costco, Delhaize and more.

LAS VEGAS — A company that develops wireless power technology is bringing that technology to consumer packaging.

At the Consumer Electronics Show earlier this month at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Fulton Innovation unveiled eCoupled intelligent wireless power, demonstrating it in a number of applications, including an electric car.

NEW YORK — Bazooka, which is part of The Topps Co., has strengthened its portfolio with the acquisition of Sharkies organic fruit chews, according to published reports.

Sharkies organic fruit chews, which currently have retail distribution in such chains as H-E-B, Safeway and Target, among others, will boost The Topps Co.'s snacks business.

The Topps Co.'s current candy lineup includes Bazooka chewing gum, Baby Bottle Pop, Push Pop and Ring Pop.