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  • Biotech stocks drop after Trump promises to ‘bring down drug prices’
    NEW YORK — Biotech stocks closed largely down on Tuesday, following a day of trading that began with a 2.5% drop in the SPDR S&P Biotech XBI index. The XBI closed down 4.02% and iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF IBB closed down 2.94%. This is as the S&P closed up 1.32% and the Nasdaq closed up 1.14%. 
     

  • Navigating the health-and-wellness trend

    Health-and-wellness trends are taking the CPG and retail industries by storm, and that is no less the case when it comes to the confectionary industry specifically.

    As consumer dietary habits have shifted in recent years, confectionary companies in particular have had a tougher task of finding ways to drive growth in the candy aisles. Candy sales have been trending down, with consumers opting for better-for-you snacks.

    The bright spot for candy manufacturers and retailers has been novelty and seasonal confections.

  • Kroger drives Q3 sales up 5.9% in 'difficult operating environment'

    CINCINNATI -- Kroger on Thursday reported a total sales increase of 5.9% to $26.6 billion for the third quarter ended Nov. 5. Total sales, excluding fuel, increased 7.1% in the third quarter compared to the same period last year. Total supermarket sales, excluding fuel and Roundy's, increased 1.6% in the third quarter compared to the same period last year.  

  • Positive Q3 comps, e-commerce momentum lifts Walmart sales ahead of holiday season

    BENTONVILLE, Ark. - Walmart is already realizing the benefits of its focus on a scaled e-commerce operation. Reporting third-quarter results Thursday the company noted that e-commerce has contributed 50 basis points to its comparable growth of 1.2%, which is the strongest contribution, yet.

    And the company is still a week away from Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Which means, Walmart, along with its recent Jet.com acquisition, is still just revving its engines.

  • Healthy juice drinks drive dollar growth

    While price, taste and convenience continue to be key influencers of food-shopping behavior, U.S. consumers are increasingly prioritizing health and wellness in their decision-making, and this is especially true when it comes to beverages.

    (To view the full Category Review, click here.)

  • Loblaw Q3 revenue up 1.4% on better price strategy

    BRAMPTON, Ontario - Loblaw Companies on Wednesday posted revenue gains of 1.4% to $10.5 billion.

    "We lowered prices and consumers responded," stated Galen Weston, executive chairman and president, Loblaw Companies Limited. "In the third quarter we continued to gain momentum, improving our sales performance, while remaining focused on executing our financial plan."

    Same-store sales across Shoppers Drug Mart outlets were up 2.8%, with same-store pharmacy sales increasing by 1.6% and same-store front store sales increasing by 3.9%.

  • Hard sodas, flavored beers make a splash

    Beer is still America’s No. 1 alcoholic beverage, but retail experts say that U.S. consumers are buying less of it as they turn to other alcohol types, such as hard soda, cider and wine.

    (To view the full Category Review, click here.)

  • Report: Trump victory could boost pharmaceutical stocks
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