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LONDON — Alliance Boots is expanding its network of independent pharmacists operating under the Alphega Pharmacy banner, according to a report published by RetailWeek Friday. 

CARLISLE, Pa. – Giant Food Stores is further expanding its partnership with sister company Peapod with the launch of a new pick-up spot at a store in a town near Philadelphia, the chain, also known as Giant-Carlisle, said.

Giant-Carlisle and online grocery service Peapod, both banners of Ahold USA, announced the launch of the pickup service in Huntingdon Valley, Pa. The store is the 10th Giant location in Pennsylvania to include a Peapod pickup spot.

Getting the flu shot prevented a flu-like illness for 6.6 million people last season, according to the CDC. In addition, it prevented  3.2 million medically attended illnesses and 79,000 hospitalizations. Not getting the flu shot can have adverse consequences, such as not going on that long-awaited vacation.

ZUG, Switzerland — Following reports in the media in Mexico and Chile of discussions between Alliance Boots and Grupo Casa Saba and its shareholders, Alliance Boots on Wednesday confirmed that it has stopped all discussions with Casa Saba and its shareholders in connection with an investment in Casa Saba or a purchase of certain of Casa Saba’s assets. 

Alliance Boots' decision not to invest has been based on its inability to determine the current financial situation of Casa Saba, the company reported. 

SECAUCUS, N.J. — Dog owners have two new reasons to rejoice this holiday season, thanks to Freshpet.

Freshpet, which makes fresh, refrigerated dog and cat food, has announced the introduction of two new products to the mix: Dog Joy Chicken Strips with Flaxseeds and Dog Joy Sausage Slices.

NEW YORK — A company that helps people shop for groceries is expanding into another city after a successful run in two others, according to published reports.

TechCrunch reported that Instacart had launched in Boston. The company already operates in the San Francisco Bay Area and Chicago, and it plans to serve the entire Boston area in the next few months.

PLEASANTON, Calif. — Safeway on Tuesday evening announced the appointment of Brian Baer to president of the company's Eastern Division.

"Brian's proven management skills and experience will serve our customer base well in the Eastern Division," stated Kelly Griffith, Safeway EVP retail operations.

ISSAQUAH, Wash. — Costco Wholesale Corp. had sales of $24.47 billion in first quarter 2014, the club retailer said.

The results, announced Wednesday, were an increase from the $23.20 billion reported in first quarter 2013 and produced a profit of $425 million, compared with the $416 profit last year.

Same-store sales for the quarter increased by 3%, including 3% in the United States and 1% in stores abroad.

While profits increased over the last quarter, the company's earnings per share of 96 cents fell short of the $1.03 expected by analysts.