General Merchandise

OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. — Redbox, with the help of Orville Redenbacher's gourmet popping corn, is encouraging Facebook fans to go head-to-head with film critic Richard Roeper to predict this season's movie award winners.

FROSTBITE FALLS, Minn. — Classic Media and Bullwinkle Studios are bringing the complete series "Rocky & Bullwinkle & Friends" to DVD in a collectible-edition box set.

Supplier News — Pampers is looking to provide new resources and support for Latina moms and their babies through its latest initiative. The company announced the creation of the Madrinas Network, which will offer moms the opportunity to opt-in to receive tips and information on their baby’s development through a mobile messaging platform, and to join the Pampers Madrinas network at 
Facebook.com/PampersLatino.



WASHINGTON — The Food Marketing Institute and the Grocery Manufacturers Association on Wednesday announced their support for a research study about how consumers use brand websites and how the use of these websites impacts shoppers’ in-store buying behavior.

NEW YORK — Retailers who stick with proven characters should see the strongest sell-through in the toy category. Charles Riotto, president of the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association, said that, in addition to value, consumers want evergreen licenses to carry the assurance of quality that consumers desire in this economy.


Disney Princesses remained strong and got a boost from the recent release of “Tangled.” 
“Toy Story 3,” “Cars” and “Thomas the Tank Engine” 
are still huge.


LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Pactiv is rolling out a line of compostable paper plates for its Hefty brand.

Hefty Basics are disposable paper plates that have the strength to support almost any meal. The plates are biodegradable in home composting and are microwavable, Pactiv said.

The plates are available at select grocery stores throughout the Northeast region of the United States in 45-count, 8 and 5/8-in. lunch plate packages and 24-count, 10 and 1/4-in. dinner plate packages.

LAS VEGAS — Energizer is unveiling its latest long-lasting power products at the Consumer Electronics Show this week.

Energizer said Wednesday that it will showcase:

• New Energi To Go products, which include various portable power packs;

• Energizer Inductive and Recharge Smart chargers;

• A new line of electronic accessories, including an all-in-one travel adapter and an extended flash case for the iPhone; and

Americans still are spending on their pets. The American Pet Products Association projected that consumers spent $47.7 billion on their furry friends in 2010, an increase of 4.9% over 2009.


Sales of pet beds, leashes and inexpensive toys still were strong sellers. Treat-dispensing toys, such as Premier Pet Products’ Busy Buddy, are must-have items. When priced right, they generate strong impulse purchases.