New Products

ORLANDO, Fla. — UrgentRx's line of fast-acting, flavored powder, nonprescription medications was named “Best New Product” by retailers attending the ECRM Health Care show held late last month.

“We’re pleased and excited to receive this honor from the retailer attendees of the ECRM Health Care show,” stated Jordan Eisenberg, president UrgentRx. “Recognition of this kind holds even greater meaning when it comes from such an informed, influential audience.”

It’s a little hard not to say “Oh, how the mighty have fallen” when a retailer announces that it will give away for free what was once the world’s top-selling drug. But for retailers, it also makes good business sense.


The hair care segment has lost some of its luster. However, manufacturers of ethnic hair care products have been working feverishly to bring greater innovation to 
the market. 


According to SymphonyIRI Group, sales of hair styling gel/mousse slipped about 1.5% during the 12 weeks ended July 8 at food, drug and mass (excluding Walmart). During the same period, sales of women’s hair coloring dropped 4.6%, and hair relaxer kits were 
down 12.5%. The double-digit drop in hair relaxer kits comes as little surprise as many ethnic beauty shoppers are choosing to 
go natural.


The overall foot care category was relatively flat — down 0.9% — with $587.2 million in sales for the 52 weeks ended Aug. 12 across food, drug and mass (excluding Walmart), according to SymphonyIRI Group data. However, almost 2-out-of-3 foot care products sold are insoles, which bodes well for sales 
going forward. 


LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Omron Healthcare on Tuesday introduced a new electrotherapy solution for muscle and joint pain relief called the Omron ElectroTherapy Pain Relief unit.

“There are as many as 100 million people in the U.S. with acute or chronic pain,” Omron senior product manager Maureen Perou said. “What’s different about this product is that it demystifies and simplifies a time-tested therapy. It’s like having a physical therapist by your side whenever you need it.”

Do you think that most consumers are using professional whitening services to brighten their smile? Think again.

According to recent research by Mintel, only 10% of those looking for whiter teeth took a seat in the dentist chair for a professional whitening service. Many consumers are actually turning to toothpaste, mouthwash or at-home whitening strips. That’s good news for retailers and suppliers.

SUPPLIER NEWS — Physicians Formula is being acquired by private equity firm Swander Pace Capital for $4.25 per share in cash, or approximately $65 million. Upon close of the merger, Physicians Formula will be privately owned and will continue to be operated by the company’s current management team and employees. The deal is expected to close later this year.


ATLANTA — Case-Mate has released a portfolio of cases for the new Apple iPhone 5.