KEITH’S TAKE: Produce is the winner on the day

The decision by Coles and Woolworths to fight their increasingly intense battle with IGA in the fresh food and produce sector is more evidence, if that was needed, that fresh is where the war for grocery will be won and lost. By dropping the price of milk dramatically, Aussie supermarkets have indicated that they are prepared to go toe to toe to gain customers in the area of pristine profits that is fresh, and if this rubs off on New Zealand there is a risk that producers may be more exposed to crushed margins.

New phone application guides consumers to true green products

A new mobile phone application that identifies products’ green credentials is spreading across Europe. The free app, branded barcoo, is now available in the United Kingdom and France after being launched in Germany last year. The plan is for it to ultimately service all European markets with sustainability information on a general range of consumer goods, as well as retailers.

NZ Association of Convenience Stores responds to criticism

By Roger Bull, Chairman, NZACS

I read your comments “Government bullies small businesses over alcohol abuse” and agree that this Government is demonstrating a lack of support towards small business owners, particularly when dealing with products that generate controversy.

The days of buying wine and beer at the corner store are over

The Minister of Commerce, Simon Power, signalled the Government’s antipathy towards convenience stores selling beer and wine at the NZFGC conference in Sydney last week. He made the point that small c-store operators will carry the cost of changes to liquor laws currently being processed through Parliament.

The countdown is on

It is your last chance to send in your nomination for the Countdown Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2011, with entries closing on Friday 22 October.
This category of the New Zealander of the Year Awards 2011 offers a fantastic opportunity to thank those senior people in our wider community for their tireless efforts, inspiration and encouragement, or just simply for being them.

C-Stores need to get smart with healthy foods

New research in the United Kingdom shows that C-Store customers are actively seeking better quality and choice of healthy foods from their convenience stores. The results, from foodservice consultancy, Technomic, claim that 52% of C-Store regulars want more healthy food options, and 47% want more from the healthy beverage selection as well.