The Latest
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5 eye-catching tech innovations from NRF
From digital shelves to just-walk-out technology, a variety of solutions were on display as vendors aim to capitalize on grocery's digital transformation.
Technology -
Kroger's mobile truck tackles food access in Louisville
After finding success with a similar climate-controlled grocery truck in Milwaukee, the grocer will roll out another in Louisville alongside the city and a local food bank.
Fresh food -
Brandless launches subscription option
The service is a convenience play for consumers who don't want to think about reordering basics, and a savvy business move aimed at capturing reorders.
E-commerce -
Hy-Vee rolls out WW Fresh quick-prep meals in 200 stores
New two-person offerings like a lemon, chicken and kale salad come pre-chopped and pre-cooked, and range from $14 to $20.
Fresh food -
Amazon's online grocery sales growth slowed in 2018, report says
The company sold more than $3 billion worth of food and beverages, with snacks and coffee standing out while fresh foods struggled, according to Edge by Ascential.
E-commerce -
Study: 73% of consumers want self-service technology
A SOTI survey finds that as new tech sweeps through stores it's changing customer attitudes about engaging with staff.
Technology -
Albertsons reports strongest ID sales growth in more than 2 years
Same-store sales for the retailer grew 1.9% for the quarter ended Dec. 1 while its e-commerce business grew 73%.
Financial news -
Survey: 9 in 10 shoppers revisit stores that ignite the senses
Eight in 10 are more likely to recommend stores where sounds, scents and visuals proved complementary to the setting, a Mood Media survey of 10,000 global consumers found.
Center store -
Retailers brace for busy weekend as February SNAP benefits come early
Despite the federal shutdown, states can disperse next month's $4.8 billion worth of SNAP benefits until Jan. 20, leaving many grocers stocking up in preparation for the rush.
Financial news -
Kroger and Walmart outline digital transformations
Walmart plans to hire 2,000 tech workers this year while Kroger has positioned itself for growth through various partnerships and innovations, CEO Rodney McMullen said at the National Retail Federation's Big Show in New York.
Corporate -
Meal kits offer express options to woo consumers
Brands like Sun Basket and Purple Carrot are introducing quick-prep lines to get easy meals on the table faster and expand their customer base.
Fresh food -
Ahold Delhaize expands in-store robot use to 500 Giant/Martin's and Stop & Shop locations
The Netherlands-based grocery giant will start deploying the technology in these stores during the early part of 2019, while other banners will continue to test the autonomous devices.
Technology -
Whole Foods to shutter 365 store format: report
In a letter to employees, founder John Mackey said the separate brand is unnecessary due to price investments being made by Amazon.
Corporate -
Supreme Court to consider if SNAP sales data should be public
The appeal by the Food Marketing Institute follows a circuit court ruling last year that the data should be made available under the Freedom of Information Act.
Financial news -
ColumnPardon the Disruption: Can Kroger's 'connected store' connect with shoppers?
A tour of one of the company’s new futuristic locations in suburban Seattle reveals a trove of technology enhancements, from digital shelves to a new "guided shopping" tool.
Technology -
Plant-based steak: Will it be what's for dinner?
Impossible Foods CEO Patrick Brown said R&D at the California-based company has been "going at a blazing speed since Day One," and whole cuts of beef are its next big launch.
Fresh food -
Giant Heirloom Market readies for its Philadelphia opening
The 9,500-square-foot store will feature local foods, a produce chef and an "endless aisle" that allows shoppers to order anything that's not in-store for next-day delivery.
Alternative formats -
AI shopping cart ready to power stores over sensors
Startup Caper landed $3.5 million in funding to support the expansion of its new technology to more stores and the development of a smart basket.
Technology -
Target shuffles C-suite
Most notably, the mass merchant's CFO will retire once a successor is named, and its Food & Beverage category has a new leader.
Corporate -
Natural Grocers sharpens its positioning as a health resource
The company's six-week Keto Reset Program includes classes and product specials centered around the popular diet.
Fresh food -
California could ban paper receipts by 2022
The proposed legislation would require businesses to provide digital receipts unless customers explicitly request a paper version.
Technology -
Survey: Trader Joe's is once again the top grocery retailer
For the second year in a row, the grocer ranked first on dunnhumby's annual Retailer Preference Index, receiving high marks for its private label products, small format stores and customer service.
Corporate -
Micro-markets inside health centers could be just what the doctor ordered
A hospital in Kalamazoo, Michigan this week became the latest health care facility to open a full-service grocery store on its campus.
Financial news -
Sprouts to enter 3 new states in Q2
Four of the grocer's nine new stores will feature an "enhanced layout" focused on customer service, prepared foods and service departments.
Alternative formats -
Walmart adds another driverless car to its test fleet
Udelv, which offers driverless technology through its customizable cargo vans, joins the retailer's growing list of grocery delivery partners.
Technology