RETAIL NEWS

WALTHAM, Mass. — NeuroMetrix is aiming its wearable pain relief device Quell at a customer it believes is underserved. “Today, in terms of a serious therapeutic wearable device for chronic pain, we’re pretty unique,” NeuroMetrix SVP and general manager of consumer health Frank McGillin said. “There’s been an adoption of fitness trackers ... and obviously rapid growth of those primarily around the ‘worried well’ — they’re either active people trying to be even more active or they’re focused on their health.

HAYES, U.K. — Eyelashes and artificial nails are growing, and that isn’t wasted on PDC Brands, which last month scooped up the United Kingdom’s Original Additions. The deal brings PDC, known for fragrance and bath products, into two new categories. Most notable is the chance to expand into the artificial eyelash category with Original Additions’ Eylure London, the No. 1 cosmetics lash brand in the United Kingdom.

As consumer demand for more natural food products grows, many retailers are responding by adding healthier options, and the non-chocolate candy aisle is no exception.

The confluence of two trends — products for textured hair and natural formulas — has put a lift in hair care sales. With the exception of styling products and hair colors, all other hair care categories are showing sales that are on the upswing. While some of that positive traction comes from new launches, a great deal is attributed to fresh merchandising and marketing campaigns.

PRESTON, Wash. — Sparkling Ice has rolled out Sparkling Ice essence of sparkling water. The new collection is free of sweeteners, contains zero calories, has no artificial colors or preservatives, and delivers an “essence” of natural flavors. The new product line offers four SKUs: a non-flavored sparkling water and three lightly-flavored versions, featuring lemon lime, peach and tangerine. The new lightly-flavored Sparkling Ice collection will be available at Target stores nationwide beginning in May, and also in select Stop & Shop and Safeway stores.

WOONSOCKET, R.I. — Recently, CVS has been highlighting its exclusive line Enlite Super Face and Flawless Body. The collection reflects the industry’s efforts to offer consumers something the competition doesn’t have. In this case, the items are formulas not often found in mass retail.

RONKONKOMA, N.Y. — Piping Rock Health Products is taking advantage of what is fast becoming a piping hot aromatherapy line with a recently announced expansion that adds 15 new products.