General Merchandise

CINCINNATI — Procter & Gamble has brought innovation to the laundry detergent category with Tide Pods, a three-chamber unit 
liquid-dose detergent that cleans, fights stains and brightens all in one premeasured product. Tide Pods, the first product of its kind on the market, contain three chambers that separate the components so they remain stable and potent until the moment they mix in the wash. The 3-in-1 product reduces steps, making laundry simpler and less time-consuming.

SOUTH DEERFIELD, Mass. — Yankee Candle is rolling out new scented candles for summer 2012.

The five new scents, Loves Me, Loves Me Not, pink dragon fruit, wild passion fruit, Fruit Fusion and Oceanside, are inspired by one of three distinct experiences: the joy of youth, the tenderness of romance or the simplicity of the outdoors.

"Summer is a season all about having fun," Yankee Candle SVP brand, design and innovation Hope Margala Klein said. "Our new scents provide a delightful way to bring the best the season has to offer into your home."

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ST. LOUIS — Energizer is making its Ultimate Lithium last longer than ever with a new retooled formula.

The Ultimate Lithium AA batteries now last up to nine times longer in digital cameras (compared with Energizer Max batteries), while Ultimate Lithium AAA batteries also last up to nine times longer in high-drain digital cameras. Similarly, Energizer Advanced Lithium AA and AAA batteries last up to six times longer in digital cameras.

The improved Ultimate Lithium AA batteries now are appearing on store shelves nationwide, the company said.

DALLAS — Eighty-two-year-old independent Dougherty’s Pharmacy is operating a pharmacy inside the Forest Park Medical Center, which it opened in August. The pharmacy’s decor includes Italian tile wall treatments, a wavy wall behind the cash wrap and works by local Dallas artists.

Consumer electronic accessories are a big business, and drug stores increasingly are grabbing more share. In 2011, mobile phone accessories sales totaled $1.24 billion, up 10% from 2010, according to NPD Group.


LOS ANGELES — Two critically acclaimed films are making their Blu-ray debut on June 5.

"The Grapes of Wrath," starring Henry Fonda, and "Zorba the Greek," starring Anthony Quinn, will arrive on Blu-ray from 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment for the first time.

Both films were nominated for and won Academy Awards, 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment noted.

ERLANGER, Ky. — Bicycle playing cards is launching a new playing card deck designed to support an organization whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors.