Empire Company Limited has reported its financial results for the fourth quarter and full year ending in May 2024. The company’s net earnings for the quarter were $148.9 million, a decrease from last year’s $182.9 million, and adjusted net earnings also saw a decline, totaling $154.0 million compared to $184.9 million in the same period last year. (Source: empireco.ca)
Walmart is piloting agriculture technology in the U.S. and Mexico, collaborating with Agritask to gain real-time insights on blackberry and cherry crops. By implementing remote sensing and data analytics tools, Walmart aims to improve sourcing decisions and ensure the quality of the produce supplied by its partners. (Source: grocerydive.com)
Instacart observed a significant increase in purchases of yellow corn during the seven days leading up to July 4th, 2023, reaching a staggering 380% compared to the overall yearly average. Watermelon also experienced a surge in sales, with a 139% increase. (Source: instacart.com)
Skogen’s Festival Foods, a well-established grocery brand, is set to open two new stores in Wisconsin later this year. The Kimberly store will open on September 20, followed by the Hudson store on November 8, expanding the company’s presence in the region. (Source: progressivegrocer.com)
The Kroger Co. has announced solid financial results for the first quarter of 2024, highlighting growth in digital sales, enhanced household penetration, and better-than-expected performance in the grocery business. Total company sales reached $45.3 billion, reflecting the company’s positive momentum. (Source: progressivegrocer.com)
Over 600 warehouse workers represented by Teamsters Local 630 launched a strike at two Smart & Final grocery store warehouses in Southern California, citing unfair labor practices and mass layoffs. (Source: progressivegrocer.com)
Ocado faced a significant hit to its share price, declining by almost 15%, following the announcement that its partner, Sobeys, has paused the launch of a new warehouse in Vancouver. The decision is part of a strategic reallocation of resources between the two companies. (Source: grocerygazette.co.uk)
Uber Eats is transforming the grocery delivery experience by enabling customers to engage with couriers in real time as they navigate through shopping tasks. This innovative service has already been introduced in the United States and is set to roll out in Europe, starting with the United Kingdom. (Source: retaildetail.eu)
SPAR Kosova is celebrating its five-year anniversary since entering the market in 2019. With 9 company-owned stores nationwide, the brand has established a strong presence and is poised for additional expansion in 2024. (Source: spar-international.com)
In a bid to reduce plastic waste, Aldi is conducting a trial across selected stores in the UK to remove plastic packaging from its banana products. This initiative aligns with the company’s commitment to sustainable practices and could result in the removal of 234 tonnes of plastic packaging annually. (Source: aldipresscentre.co.uk)
S Group, a prominent Finnish retailer, is preparing to launch a robot-assisted collection centre for online grocery shopping in Pirkanmaa, leveraging the efficiency and speed of robotic systems to enhance order fulfilment. (Source: esmmagazine.com)
Carrefour has unveiled its first Atacadão store in France, featuring a cash-and-carry formula aimed at offering volume discounts and competitive pricing, positioning the brand as an affordable shopping destination. (Source: retaildetail.eu)
Euro zone consumer confidence experienced a 0.3-point increase in June compared to May, with a flash estimate showing improved morale at -14.0, up from -14.3 in the previous month. (Source: reuters.com)
Just Eat has spearheaded a movement calling for support from the next Government, endorsed by over 1,500 small restaurants, to address business rates relief and create an Office for Small Business. The initiative aims to bolster the resilience of small businesses in the hospitality industry. (Source: justeattakeaway.com)
Flipkart, a prominent e-commerce marketplace in India, has inaugurated its first grocery Fulfillment Center in Jaipur, Rajasthan, signalling the company’s commitment to expanding its grocery operations in the region. (Source: indianweb2.com)
In conclusion, the retail and grocery sector is witnessing a myriad of transformative developments, from innovative technology implementations to strategic expansion initiatives, all contributing to the dynamic landscape of consumer shopping experiences.