General Merchandise

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreens is celebrating Halloween with a new Facebook contest.

WHITING, Ind. — The wavering economy hasn't influenced spending on man's best friend, according to a new survey conducted by coupon website CouponCabin.com.

NEW YORK — The world's largest consumer-voted program that recognizes innovation in consumer packaged goods has extended its entry deadline to Oct. 31.

The Product of the Year USA awards — which honor consumer brands that participate in the survey conducted by custom research agency TNS — initially had an entry deadline of Aug. 31. The winners of these awards are given the opportunity to tout the Product of the Year logo on their packaging.

Winners still be will announced in February 2012.

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill. — Kmart has announced its list of the top toys for the 2011 holiday season.

Unveiling its third annual Fab 15 toy list, Kmart said that this year's list features the hottest toys of the season from such brands as Hasbro, Mattel and more. The listed items range from $29.99 to $99.99.

1. Let's Rock Elmo

2. Fijit

3. I am T-Pain microphone

4. Barbie Designable Hair Extensions and Doll

EDISON, N.J. — Greeting card publisher Designer Greetings announced the launch of more than 13 new collections, including:

SUWANEE, Ga. — The Brainy Brands Co. is showcasing the newest addition to its Brainy Baby line: Glowberry Bears.

Glowberry Bears are interactive, plush bears who can talk and even interact with each other, via an incorporated “chip” technology. Additionally, each bear model is programmed with its own information and “personality.” What's more, the bears giggle gently when tickled and also serve as a huggable "night-light," making them a unique bedtime companion.

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — One week after Sam's Club launched its three private-label brands, the company has delivered its Simply Right Baby Care brand, which will be part of its overall Simply Right health-and-wellness brand.

As previously reported, the Simply Right Baby Care line will include premium diapers, premium wipes and infant formula.

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Seattle-based regional retail pharmacy Bartell Drugs has replaced its in-store photo processing lab systems with Kodak Adaptive Picture Exchange, Kodak said.

The upgrade converts Bartell's processing lab systems from silver halide "wet lab" technology to APEX thermal dry labs.