RETAIL NEWS

Procter & Gamble and Unilever (and its subsidiaries) led the hair conditioner category in the food channel with $110 million and $86 million, respectively. L’Oréal and its subsidiary, Garnier Fructis, came in third with $66 million. The category showed modest growth versus last year at 1.7%, driven in part by a significant increase in sales for Vogue International (OGX), up 14.4%.

LOS ANGELES -- The makers of a premium bottled water line are rolling out an innovation in the low-calorie, fruit-infused beverage category.

I often use the expression and encourage others to “Look around the corner.” My intent is to reinforce the importance of not becoming too comfortable with the status quo. New opportunities present themselves everyday – but you may have to stretch your imagination a bit and connect dots that are not yet formally established.

Ahold’s Giant Carlisle newspaper insert ad

AUSTIN -- Consumers looking for healthier snacks are getting some new options from SkinnyPop.

The brand is introducing Dusted Dark Chocolate and Jalapeño. These two new flavors join SkinnyPop's existing portfolio of four popular flavors, including Original, White Cheddar, Sea Salt & Pepper and Naturally Sweet. 

NEW YORK -- Virtual makeover app YouCam is expanding its functionality to improve the customer experience at cosmetic counters.

YouCam Makeup has added a Consultation Mode to its app. This new mode will allow cosmetic brands to provide highly personalized counseling to their customers in stores, and at salons and events. The global launch of Consultation Mode expands on YouCam Makeup’s suite of offerings for beauty brands and beauty retailers, and opens up possibilities for future collaborations, the companys says.

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Online resources are now available to help retailers and suppliers get the most out of the 2016 National Association of Chain Drug Stores (NACDS) Total Store Expo in Boston in August.