Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Naloxone now easier to obtain in nearly 200 Walgreens pharmacies throughout Indiana

DEERFIELD, Ill., 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of Walgreens comprehensive national plan to combat drug abuse, Walgreens today announced it has made naloxone, a potentially lifesaving opioid antidote, available without a prescription in all of its Indiana pharmacies in accordance with state pharmacy regulations.

Naloxone is now more accessible and easier to obtain in nearly 200 Walgreens pharmacies throughout Indiana. The medication can be used in the event of an overdose to reverse the effects of heroin or other opioid drugs, and is administered by injection or nasal spray.

“By making naloxone available without a prescription, we are making it easier for Indiana families and caregivers to help their loved ones in need,” said Chris Creamer, Walgreens Regional Healthcare Director in Indiana. “We are committed to making naloxone more accessible in the communities we serve.”

Earlier this month, Walgreens announced plans to make naloxone available without a prescription in 35 states and Washington D.C. in accordance with each state’s pharmacy regulations. In states where a prescription is required, Walgreens is available and eager to work with regulators to help update rules to allow for dispensing of naloxone without a prescription.

The medication is available in Rhode Island and Massachusetts without a prescription in accordance with state regulations. Walgreens began expanding the program earlier this month at Walgreens pharmacies throughout the state of New York, and has now expanded that access to Indiana and Ohio. When implementation of the program is complete, naloxone will be available without a prescription in more than 5,800 of Walgreens nearly 8,200 stores.

“We need all hands on deck to stop the unrelenting wave of opioid drug and heroin overdose deaths,” said Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller, creator and co-chair of the Indiana Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Task Force. “I’m particularly grateful Walgreens has stepped up to keep naloxone stocked in its stores, available for loved ones and others who may be in a position to save the life of someone struggling with addiction. Walgreens rollout of safe medication disposal kiosks is also key to encouraging people to clear out medicine cabinets and changing the perception that these powerful painkillers and other opioids are safe.”

When naloxone is dispensed instructions are provided on how to administer the medication, which includes calling 911 as naloxone is not a substitute for medical care, and anyone who is administered the medication should seek immediate medical attention.

Drug abuse continues to be a public health and safety risk. In 2014, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a total of 47,055 drug overdose deaths, which include prescription and illicit drugs. That is a 6.5 percent increase from 2013 and a 140 percent increase since 2000.

Walgreens also will be installing safe medication disposal kiosks in more than 500 pharmacies in 39 states, including Indiana. The medication disposal kiosks allow individuals to safely and conveniently dispose of their unwanted, unused or expired prescriptions, including controlled substances, and over-the-counter medications, at no cost. The kiosks at Walgreens pharmacies will be available during regular pharmacy hours (24 hours a day at most of these locations) and will offer one of the best ways to ensure medications are not accidentally used or intentionally misused by someone else. The initial installation of the safe medication disposal kiosks has begun in California and is expected to be completed at more than 500 Walgreens locations this year.

About Walgreens
Walgreens (www.walgreens.com), one of the nation’s largest drugstore chains, is included in the Retail Pharmacy USA Division of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (NASDAQ: WBA), the first global pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing enterprise. More than 8 million customers interact with Walgreens each day in communities across America, using the most convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and advice. Walgreens operates 8,173 drugstores with a presence in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Walgreens digital business includes Walgreens.com, drugstore.com, Beauty.com, SkinStore.com and VisionDirect.com. Walgreens also manages more than 400 Healthcare Clinic and provider practice locations around the country.

Contact(s)

Walgreens
Phil Caruso, 847-315-2936
philip.caruso@walgreens.com
http://news.walgreens.com
@WalgreensNews
facebook.com/Walgreens

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Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Naloxone now available without prescription in all Walgreens pharmacies in Ohio

DEERFIELD, Ill., 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — As part of Walgreens comprehensive national plan to combat drug abuse, Walgreens today announced it has made naloxone, a potentially lifesaving opioid antidote, available without a prescription in all of its Ohio pharmacies in accordance with state pharmacy regulations.

Naloxone is now more accessible and easier to obtain in more than 240 Walgreens pharmacies throughout Ohio. The medication can be used in the event of an overdose to reverse the effects of heroin or other opioid drugs, and is administered by injection or nasal spray.

“By making naloxone available without a prescription, we are making it easier for Ohio families and caregivers to help their loved ones in need,” said Chris Creamer, Walgreens Regional Healthcare Director in Ohio. “We are committed to making naloxone more accessible in the communities we serve.”

The medication is available in Rhode Island and Massachusetts without a prescription in accordance with state regulations. Walgreens began expanding the program earlier this month at Walgreens pharmacies throughout the state of New York, and has now expanded that access to Ohio and Indiana. When implementation of the program is complete, naloxone will be available without a prescription in more than 5,800 of Walgreens nearly 8,200 stores.

“Heroin took the lives of more than 2,400 Ohioans in 2014,” said Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. “By making naloxone available to customers without a prescription, Walgreens will help make this lifesaving drug available to those who need it.”

Walgreens also will be installing safe medication disposal kiosks in more than 500 pharmacies in 39 states, including Ohio. The medication disposal kiosks allow individuals to safely and conveniently dispose of their unwanted, unused or expired prescriptions, including controlled substances, and over-the-counter medications, at no cost. The kiosks at Walgreens pharmacies will be available during regular pharmacy hours (24 hours a day at most of these locations) and will offer one of the best ways to ensure medications are not accidentally used or intentionally misused by someone else. The initial installation of the safe medication disposal kiosks has begun in California and is expected to be completed at more than 500 Walgreens locations this year.

Contact(s)

Walgreens
Phil Caruso
Phone: 847-315-2936
philip.caruso@walgreens.com
http://news.walgreens.com
@WalgreensNews
facebook.com/Walgreens

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Naloxone now available without prescription in all Walgreens pharmacies in Ohio

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

WALGREENS: TOP TEN DMAS WITH FLU ACTIVITY FOR THE WEEK OF 2/21/2016

DEERFIELD, Ill., 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Walgreens Flu Index™ is a weekly report developed to provide state- and market-specific information, and ranking of those experiencing the highest incidences of influenza across the country. This week, Walgreens Flu Index data is tracking increased flu activity in the South and West regions of the U.S.

The Walgreens Flu Index does not provide data measuring actual levels or severity of flu activity, but rather, illustrates which populations are experiencing the most incidences each week based on Index methodology.

With the ability to generate hyper-local data across most U.S. markets, the Flu Index is an online, interactive resource allowing anyone to search and find information regarding the most current state of influenza in their community.

To view this week’s Walgreens Flu Index, maps and other online features, click here.

Top Ten DMAs with Flu Activity
Week of 2/21/2016

El Paso, Texas (Las Cruces, N.M.)
Harlingen – Weslaco – Brownsville – McAllen, Texas
Phoenix (Prescott), Ariz.
Tucson (Sierra Vista), Ariz.
Memphis, Tenn.
San Diego, Calif.
Beaumont – Port Arthur, Texas
Dallas – Ft. Worth, Texas
Tallahassee, Fla. – Thomasville, Ga.
Myrtle Beach – Florence, S.C.

Top Ten States with Flu Activity
Week of 2/21/2016

Arizona
Texas
Tennessee
Mississippi
Florida
New Mexico
Utah
South Carolina
Louisiana
California

Top Ten DMAs Flu Activity Gains
Week of 2/21/2016

El Paso, Texas (Las Cruces, N.M.)
Harlingen – Weslaco – Brownsville – McAllen, Texas
Memphis, Tenn.
San Diego, Calif.
Beaumont – Port Arthur, Texas
Charleston, S.C.
Myrtle Beach – Florence, S.C.
Phoenix (Prescott), Ariz.
Dallas – Ft. Worth, Texas
Albany, Ga.

Top Ten States Flu Activity Gains
Week of 2/21/2016

Arizona
Texas
Mississippi
Tennessee
South Carolina
New Mexico
Louisiana
Florida
Kentucky
Alabama

Methodology

The Walgreens Flu Index™ is compiled using weekly retail prescription data for antiviral medications used to treat influenza across Walgreens locations nationwide. The data is analyzed at state and geographic market levels to measure absolute impact and incremental change of antiviral medications on a per store average basis, and does not include markets in which Walgreens has fewer than 10 retail locations.

For more on the Walgreens Flu Index visit http://arcg.is/1HA3vGp.

About Walgreens
Walgreens (www.walgreens.com), one of the nation’s largest drugstore chains, is included in the Retail Pharmacy USA Division of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA), the first global pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing enterprise. More than 8 million customers interact with Walgreens each day in communities across America, using the most convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and advice. Walgreens operates 8,173 drugstores with a presence in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Walgreens digital business includes Walgreens.com, drugstore.com, Beauty.com, SkinStore.com and VisionDirect.com. Walgreens also manages more than 400 Healthcare Clinic and provider practice locations around the country.

Contact(s)

Walgreens
Emily Hartwig
(847) 315-3316
http://news.walgreens.com
@WalgreensNews
facebook.com/Walgreens

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

WALGREENS: TOP TEN DMAS WITH FLU ACTIVITY FOR THE WEEK OF 2/14/2016

The Walgreens Flu Index is a weekly report developed to provide state- and market-specific information, and ranking of those experiencing the highest incidences of influenza across the country. The Flu Index does not provide data measuring actual levels or severity of flu activity, but rather, illustrates which populations are experiencing the most incidences each week based on Index methodology.

To view this week’s Walgreens Flu Index, maps and other online features, click here.

Top Ten DMAs with Flu Activity
Week of 2/14/2016

1. El Paso, Texas (Las Cruces, N.M)
2. Harlingen – Weslaco – Brownsville – McAllen, Texas
3. Phoenix (Prescott), Ariz.
4. Tucson (Sierra Vista), Ariz.
5. Tallahassee, Fla. – Thomasville, Ga.
6. Memphis, Tenn.
7. Dallas – Ft. Worth, Texas
8. Tyler – Longview (Lufkin & Nacogdoches), Texas
9. Miami – Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.
10. Palm Springs, Calif.

Top Ten States with Flu Activity
Week of 2/14/2016

1. Arizona
2. Texas
3. Utah
4. Florida
5. Nevada
6. California
7. Idaho
8. Oklahoma
9. Illinois
10. New Mexico

Top Ten DMAs Flu Activity Gains
Week of 2/14/2016

1. El Paso, Texas (Las Cruces, N.M)
2. Phoenix (Prescott), Ariz.
3. Tucson (Sierra Vista), Ariz.
4. Palm Springs, Calif.
5. Harlingen – Weslaco – Brownsville – McAllen, Texas
6. San Diego, Calif.
7. Memphis, Tenn.
8. Dallas – Ft. Worth, Texas
9. Lexington, Ky.
10. Corpus Christi, Texas

Top Ten States Flu Activity Gains
Week of 2/14/2016

1. Arizona
2. Texas
3. Utah
4. Wyoming
5. Idaho
6. California
7. Nevada
8. Illinois
9. New Mexico
10. Louisiana

Methodology

For more on the Walgreens Flu Index visit http://arcg.is/1HA3vGp.

About Walgreens
Walgreens (www.walgreens.com), one of the nation’s largest drugstore chains, is included in the Retail Pharmacy USA Division of Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. (Nasdaq: WBA), the first global pharmacy-led, health and wellbeing enterprise. More than 8 million customers interact with Walgreens each day in communities across America, using the most convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and advice. Walgreens operates 8,173 drugstores with a presence in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Walgreens digital business includes Walgreens.com, drugstore.com, Beauty.com, SkinStore.com and VisionDirect.com. Walgreens also manages more than 400 Healthcare Clinic and provider practice locations around the country.

Contact(s)

Walgreens
Emily Hartwig
(847) 315-3316
http://news.walgreens.com
@WalgreensNews
facebook.com/Walgreens

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Publix opens on Pinterest and Instagram

LAKELAND, Fla., 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Publix Super Markets extended the company’s online social presence with fourth quarter soft launches to Pinterest (December 2015) and Instagram (October 2015). The company currently has more than 14,000 Followers on Instagram and almost 1,000 on Pinterest.

Pinterest provides a platform for Publix customers to discover the company’s expertise and services while Instagram allows for engagement in a fun and unique way. “As a retailer passionately committed to serving our customers, our social media presence has always been about engaging with our customers where they are and extending our in-store service online,” said Maria Brous, Publix media and community relations director. “Pinterest allows us to inspire and entertain with recipes and holiday and event planning ideas. Instagram will further our connection with our online community through photos and videos showcasing our brand personality and strong company culture.”

Customer interest in Publix Instagram and Pinterest accounts was high prior to the company becoming active on the platforms. Customers had long been pinning Aprons recipes each day from www.publix.com/recipes to Pinterest and had been using #publix on Instagram to share their experiences with products, services and love for Publix in a visual way. There have been more than 300,000 photos shared on Instagram using #publix.

The company launched its social media presence in July 2011 debuting on Facebook with more than 10,000 Fans within the first 24 hours. Twitter followed in February 2013 with @Publix and @PublixHelps to offer customers brand content and customer service. Currently, the company has 2.4 million Fans on Facebook and more than 190,000 Followers on Twitter. Both communities are well established with engaging and fun content.

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

10 million meals donated for the 3rd international food bank collection campaign coordinated by the Carrefour Foundation

Boulogne-Billancourt, FRANCE, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — 10 million meals donated in 10 countries for this 3rd international food bank collection campaign coordinated by the Carrefour Foundation, with support from the European Food Bank Federation and the Global FoodBanking Network.

Last year, from October to December, from Beijing to São Paulo, customers, volunteers and employees from the various countries in which Carrefour operates helped collect nearly 4953 tonnes of foodstuffs. They then redistributed the equivalent of 10 million meals – all as part of the 3rd international collection campaign.

Over 1400 Carrefour volunteers lent a helping hand to Food Bank volunteers in more than 2217 stores across 10 countries: Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Spain, France, Italy, Poland, Romania, China and Taiwan.

Well done to the Carrefour teams who were part of this wave of generosity which will help society’s poorest people.

And thank you to all the customers who worked alongside them as part of this aid initiative!

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Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

The Walt Disney Company COO Thomas O. Staggs: James Pitaro to become Chairman of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media

GLENDALE, Calif., 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — James Pitaro, currently Co-Chair of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media and President, Disney Interactive, has been named Chairman of Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media, it was announced today by Thomas O. Staggs, Chief Operating Officer, The Walt Disney Company.

Mr. Pitaro assumes additional responsibilities following DCPI Co-Chair Leslie Ferraro’s departure from the Company to pursue marketing and consumer engagement projects, with Disney as her first client. Mr. Pitaro will continue to report directly to Mr. Staggs and Disney Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert A. Iger.

“Jimmy’s strong and successful leadership makes him the natural choice to run DCPI at this dynamic and exciting time,” Mr. Staggs said. “He brings to this expanded position his keen eye for technological innovation and deep familiarity with the brands and franchises that continue to drive the segment’s growth.”

“I’m incredibly honored to lead such a talented team as we combine our technology-driven efforts and our more traditional product lines and retail operations to deliver amazing new merchandise and experiences that will build on Disney’s record for consistently exceeding consumer expectations,” Mr. Pitaro said.

“I know that Jimmy will continue to lead the team to new levels of success, and I am excited to pursue my long-term passion for marketing, branding and creating winning consumer engagement strategies,” Ms. Ferraro said.

“Having worked with Leslie throughout her 17-year career at Disney, I have great respect for her abilities and appreciate her contributions to the Company, which include creating many of our Parks & Resorts’ most successful marketing strategies and iconic campaigns,” Mr. Staggs said. “Given her proven marketing savvy, I know she’ll have great success in her new endeavor.”

In addition to his role as Co-Chair of DCPI, Mr. Pitaro served as President of Disney Interactive, leading the Company’s multi-platform games business and overseeing a suite of premium web and app experiences that serve as the online and mobile gateways to Disney and its brands. At Disney Interactive, Mr. Pitaro has led the Company’s social media efforts across all platforms and spearheaded digital video projects that extend Disney storylines. Additionally, he has established Disney Interactive as a center of digital excellence within The Walt Disney Company.

Prior to joining Disney Interactive in 2010, Mr. Pitaro served as Vice President of Yahoo Media, where he was responsible for guiding the strategic growth and continued development of Yahoo’s media properties.

Before that role, Mr. Pitaro was Vice President and General Manager of Yahoo Sports, and Vice President and Head of Business Affairs for Yahoo Music. Prior to joining Yahoo, he was Vice President of Business Affairs for LAUNCH Media, Inc. and practiced law at several New York firms.

Mr. Pitaro holds a Bachelor of Science in economics from Cornell University and a Juris Doctor from St. John’s University School of Law.

Contacts:

Zenia Mucha
Corporate Communications
(818) 560-5300

Tasia Filippatos
Disney Consumer Products and Interactive Media
(818) 544-0009

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Whole Foods Market® opens its second New Hampshire store

Store will be company’s second New Hampshire location

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market (NASDAQ: WFM), America’s Healthiest Grocery Store®, will open its newest location, at 121 South River Road in Bedford, New Hampshire, on Friday, April 8, following a 9:45 a.m. bread-breaking ceremony.

The 40,000-square-foot store, Whole Foods Market’s second New Hampshire location, will employ approximately 150 full- and part-time team members. It is part of the Goffe Mill Plaza on the former site of the historical Wayfarer Inn.

In addition to offering outstanding value on the highest quality natural and organic groceries available, and many yet-to-be-unveiled features, Whole Foods Market Bedford will boast a variety of convenient prepared foods offerings made by in-house chefs in an on-site, full-production kitchen and bakery. Coffee and fresh juice bars round out the convenience offerings.

Whole Foods Market is known for its strict product quality standards, which include prohibiting the use of artificial preservatives, flavors, sweeteners and colors, as well as hydrogenated fats in the products it sells. The company is also known for responsible and transparent sourcing, and for supporting local producers.

The store’s opening-day celebration will continue through the weekend with special activities for all ages. The community market’s regular store hours will be 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.

For the latest updates on Whole Foods Market Bedford, N.H., follow @WholeFoodsNH on Instagram and Twitter; and Whole Foods Market New Hampshire on Facebook.

For employment opportunities log on to www.wholefoodsmarket.com/careers

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Whole Foods Market® opens new store in the Milwaukee area

Newest Whole Foods Market Offers Gourmet Sausages, 20-Tap Tavern, and Juice Bar for Shoppers

DALLAS, TX, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market^® (Nasdaq: WFM), the world’s leading natural and organic grocer, opened its newest store in the Milwaukee area, Wednesday, Feb. 24. The new 47,563 square-foot store at 11100 W. Burleigh Street in Wauwatosa celebrated the grand opening with over a thousand shoppers, lively music and tasty food samples.

“We received such a warm welcome from the Tosa community today,” says Ted Beres, Whole Foods Market Wauwatosa, Store Team Leader. “It is such a privilege to serve all the amazing people in our new community and hope they enjoy the many high-quality natural and organic foods, and the warm, inviting venues featured in this store.”

Whole Foods Market Wauwatosa features a variety of new, chef-driven prepared food offerings as well as classic Whole Foods Market fare for shoppers to choose from including:

The Juice Bar serving fresh juices and smoothies, and for the first time in Whole Foods Market Midwest stores, Farmstand Freeze – a simple frozen treat made with freshly pureed fruits and vegetables, slightly sweetened with dates or honey.
The Tosa Tavern’s 20 taps pour a rotating selection of rare and hard to find brews such as Gumball Head from Three Floyds Brewery, Pentagram and Darkness from Surly Brewing, Abyss from Deschutes Brewery, Fantasy Factory IPA from Karben4 Brewing and Peanut Butter Victory at Sea by Ballast Point, Brutus and Outboard Cream Ale infused with Cinnamon Plum Tea from Milwaukee Brewing Company, Sweet Potato Stout from Bell’s Brewery, Bourbon Barrel Aged Stout from Central Water’s Brewing, Infectious Groove by O’so Brewing, and two handles of New Glarus.
The Coffee Bar offers light, medium and dark roasted coffees, espresso drinks, blended coffee beverages, cold brew coffee and house made Vietnamese cold brew, as well as delicious frozen custard.
Cookshack featuring burgers, sausages, sandwiches and fried fish selections.
Other exciting features include: self-serve pizza station, hot bar, salad bar, sushi, and many other grab-and-go meals and sides.

With a large variety of custom-cut meats, organic and local produce, and pantry staples, Whole Foods Market Wauwatosa is the go-to grocer for every level of food explorers. Highlights include:

Responsibly grown, fresh fruits and vegetables
Gourmet sausages made in-house with Lakefront Brewery Riverwest Stein Amber Ale
Full scratch bakery making fresh baked breads daily
In-house smoked bacon and seafood, and dry-aged steaks
Over 150 back-to-basics bulk pantry items and over 60 bulk spices
Over 1000 wines, 400 beers, and 200 cheeses

To celebrate opening day, Whole Foods Market hosted its version of a ribbon cutting called a “Bread-Breaking Ceremony” with the Mayor of Wauwatosa, Kathleen Ehley; Whole Foods Market Team Members and Wauwatosa neighbors. Gift cards with a mystery value ranging from $5 to $50 were passed out to the first 500 customers. One lucky customer received a mystery gift card with a value of $500. Doors officially opened at 9 a.m.

Whole Foods Market’s Wauwatosa store will also empower Team Members and customers to support local causes. In celebration of opening week, the store will hold five “Days of Community Giving,” where 1 percent of each day’s sales will go toward a local not-for-profit including:

Wednesday, Feb. 24 – Education Foundation of Wauwatosa
Thursday, Feb. 25 – Friends of Boerner Botanical Gardens
Friday, Feb. 26 – Eisenhower Elementary School PTA
Saturday, Feb. 27 – Zoological Society of Milwaukee
Sunday, Feb. 28 – Wauwatosa Historical Society

Whole Foods Market’s One Dime at a Time program provides an incentive to customers who bring their own bags for shopping and helps develop stronger communities. At the register, customers will have the option to receive a 10-cent per bag refund as cash back off their purchase or they can choose to donate it to that month’s selected charity organization. Whole Foods Market Wauwatosa’s first One Dime at a Time recipient will be West Suburban YMCA.

Whole Foods Market Wauwatosa joins two other locations in Wisconsin: 2305 N. Prospect Ave. in Milwaukee, and 3313 University Ave. in Madison.

Whole Foods Market hired approximately 120 Team Members for the new location.

EXPERTS

Michael Bashaw
President – Midwest Region

Michael Bashaw’s career with Whole Foods Market started 20 years ago as a Bread and Circus Team Member in the North Atlantic Region.

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

7‑Eleven launches two new Melt sandwiches

Text to Taste: Free Breakfast Melt with Coffee Purchase Feb. 23-26

DALLAS, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — 7‑Eleven, Inc. is heating up its breakfast menu with the launch of two new Melt sandwiches – the Bacon, Egg and Cheese Breakfast Melt and Maple Sausage, Bacon and Cheese Breakfast Melt. Suggested retail price is $2.99 at participating stores.

To encourage customers to try the new Breakfast Melts, 7‑Eleven is offering a free Breakfast Melt sandwich with any coffee purchase from Feb. 23-26. To receive a free Breakfast Melt sandwich, customers will need totext “Breakfast” to 711711 for a coupon link sent to their smartphone (limit one per customer).

Available in the fresh-foods case at participating 7‑Eleven^® stores, the new toasted breakfast sandwiches are toasted fresh and come in two flavors:

Bacon, Egg and Cheese – Fluffy egg, topped with thick-cut, hickory-smoked bacon, melted aged cheddar cheese and garden vegetable cream cheese, all on a fresh artisan ciabatta roll
Maple Sausage, Bacon and Cheese – Maple sausage and thick-cut, hickory-smoked bacon topped with melted aged cheddar cheese on a fresh artisan ciabatta roll

“Our goal was to create a high quality, great tasting toasted breakfast sandwich that is best in class in the market,” said Nancy Smith, senior vice president of fresh food and proprietary beverage merchandising. “Through careful selection of premium ingredients with our partners, I believe we more than achieved that goal.”

“Instead of an English muffin or toast, our breakfast Melt is served on authentic artisan ciabatta bread. We use smoked cheddar instead of American cheese, plus thick-cut hickory-smoked bacon and maple sausage. Taste tests indicate our customers recognize the quality and great taste.”

As with all Melt sandwiches at 7‑Eleven stores, both can be purchased and toasted fresh at any time of day or night.

7‑Eleven’s Breakfast Melt sandwiches are made fresh daily in our local kitchens and delivered daily to participating 7‑Eleven stores.

Breakfast sandwiches are one of the most convenient ways to enjoy a protein-rich breakfast. Three out of four consumers say they eat one at least once a month, with four in 10 saying they have one at least once a week, according to research by NPD Crest. And most consumers say they prefer a hot breakfast over cold.

“All-day breakfast is heating up at quick-serve restaurants,” Smith said. “While some food outlets are just now realizing the importance of offering all-day breakfast, 7‑Eleven has long offered its fresh foods – and every product – morning, noon and night.”

7‑Eleven added toasted Melt sandwiches to its menu less than a year ago following the success of hot foods like pizza, chicken tenders and wings, and mini-tacos. The Melt sandwiches were in development for almost a year, during which every ingredient, each recipe, even the packaging was researched, sourced, tested and, if necessary, refined to improve taste and quality.

Already, the retailer sells well over 1 million Melt sandwiches each month, and the number is growing.

About 7‑Eleven, Inc.
7‑Eleven, Inc. is the premier name and largest chain in the convenience retailing industry. Based in Irving, Texas, 7‑Eleven operates, franchises and licenses more than 10,700 7‑Eleven® stores in North America. Globally, there are some 57,900 7‑Eleven stores in 17 countries. 7‑Eleven has been honored by a number of companies and organizations. Accolades include placing #7 on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list for 2016, #1 on Entrepreneur magazine’s 2014 Top Global Franchise list; #10 spot on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list for 2015; #1 on “Best Retail Franchises” list for April 2015 by FranchiseRankings.com; #3 on Forbes magazine’s Top 20 Franchises to Start; and is among GI Jobs magazine’s Top 100 Military Friendly Employers for 2016. 7‑Eleven is franchising its stores in the U.S. and expanding through organic growth, acquisitions and its Business Conversion Program. Find out more online at www.7‑Eleven.com.

Contact:

Stephanie Shaw
7‑Eleven, Inc.
972-828-5837
stephanie.shaw@7-11.com

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7‑Eleven, Inc. launches two new Melt sandwiches – the Bacon, Egg and Cheese Breakfast Melt and Maple Sausage, Bacon and Cheese Breakfast Melt. Suggested retail price is $2.99 at participating stores.

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Best Buy held company-sponsored career workshop to help students from Best Buy Teen Tech Center at Little Black Pearl in Chicago

CHICAGO, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — When it comes to applying for a first job — or any job for that matter — many people stress over writing their resume and preparing for the interview process.

Best Buy recently helped 25 students from the Best Buy Teen Tech Center at Little Black Pearl in Chicago learn how to turn that stress into success during a company-sponsored career workshop.

The goal: to give the students pointers on professionalism and how to stand out as a job candidate.

“It was amazing to see the “ah-ha” moments when they learned to look at things differently” said Frank Barciak, a human resource manager for Best Buy Mobile.

The workshop, run by five members of Best Buy’s Human Resources team, put students in interview situations. They were given feedback based on their responses, appearance, attitude and professionalism.

Students were led through a series of topics to help them learn how to identify and share their best skills, attributes and experiences to a potential employer.

The topics included:

learning the importance of a professional online presence
the impact of a poor professional persona
how to convey professional experiences
how to diversify a resume

As an extension of the event, the students will visit a local store to learn more about Best Buy outside of the Teen Tech Center. They also will present an updated resume to an interview panel and going through another mock interview.

“This was such a fulfilling experience for me as a new hire to be able to give back and work for a company that is committed to paying it forward to the next generation of employees,” said Janine Pipkin, a talent sourcer for Best Buy Specialty Brands.

Little Black Pearl is one of eight Best Buy Teen Tech Centers across the United States. The centers provide a safe place for students to experiment, collaborate and play with cutting-edge technology and develop skills for their future success.

Visit our Community Relations website to learn more about how Best Buy supports communities.

Check out the Best Buy Careers website to learn more about working at the company.

SOURCE: Best Buy

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Best Buy held company-sponsored career workshop to help students from Best Buy Teen Tech Center at Little Black Pearl in Chicago

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Albert Heijn lanceert 100 nieuwe bewuste & feel good producten

Zaandam, Netherlands, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Vanaf volgende week breidt Albert Heijn het schap met bewuste & feel good producten flink uit. Het gaat om ruim 100 nieuwe producten die inspelen op de behoeften van klanten met een bewuste levensstijl. Het nieuwe assortiment varieert van ontkiemde producten en pasta’s op basis van peulvruchten, oergranen en zeewier, tot pure fruit- en groente snacks en repen.

Variatie en nieuwe smaken

Consumenten zijn steeds meer op zoek naar pure producten die minder zijn bewerkt. Ze gaan voor meer plantaardig en minder vlees, en lekkere en voedzame tussendoortjes. Daarom biedt Albert Heijn hierin steeds meer keuze. Met heel veel verse producten op de groente- en fruitafdeling, met een breed assortiment biologische producten en met bewuste en feel good producten in het houdbare schap. Dit schap wordt vanaf volgende week flink uitgebreid. Sophie Alkemade, category manager bewuste voeding: “Met deze producten kunnen onze klanten nog meer variëren in hun dagelijks eetpatroon en volop nieuwe smaken ontdekken”.

Houdbare producten zonder toevoegingen

Het nieuwe assortiment met bewuste en feel good producten wordt in één keer flink uitgebreid met ruim 100 nieuwe producten in vier categorieën:

Pasta’s op basis van peulvruchten, zoals rode linzen of kikkererwten. En pasta’s op basis van haver, quinoa en boekweit – deze zijn van nature vezel- en eiwitrijk en bevatten geen gluten. Ook nieuw is de pasta van zeewier.
Ontkiemde producten – dit zijn producten van zaden en noten die net na het ontkiemen zijn geoogst. Hierdoor bevatten ze een hogere concentratie voedingsstoffen.
Fruit- en groente chips – een goed alternatief voor chips omdat er pure fruit en groenten inzitten zonder toevoegingen van suiker en vet. Denk aan chips van appel, perzik, paprika of bietjes. Of combinaties als appel met banaan of aardbei.
Repen van geperst fruit of granen, noten en zaden. Zoals bijvoorbeeld repen samengesteld uit dadels, amandelen en cashewnoten. In sommige repen is extra proteïne toegevoegd voor mensen met een actieve levensstijl.

Bijgaande foto’s zijn rechtenvrij te gebruiken. Het betreffen:

Sprouted muesli appel en zaden Merk: SUN Organic Biologische muesli op basis van gekiemde tarwe- en havervlokken, met gedroogde appelstukjes en zes soorten zaden. Verkrijgbaar vanaf 29 februari in 33 winkels. Verkoopprijs: €4,25 Download afbeelding

The Beetroot bar Merk: Rude Health Glutenvrij tussendoortje op basis van rode biet, dadel, cashewnoot en zonnebloempitten. Verkrijgbaar vanaf 29 februari in 908 winkels. Verkoopprijs: €1,39 Download afbeelding

Apple Crisps Merk: Crispy Gevriesdroogde knapperige appelstukjes. 1 zakje staat gelijk aan 1 appel. Verkrijgbaar vanaf 29 februari in 908 winkels. Verkoopprijs: €0,99 Download afbeelding

Kikkererwtenpasta Merk: Fit ‘n Free Glutenvrije fusilli pasta op basis van 100% biologische kikkererwten Verkrijgbaar vanaf 29 februari in 421 winkels. Verkoopprijs: €3,59 Download afbeelding

Quinoa pasta curvo rigate Merk: Pereg Glutenvrije macaroni op basis van quinoa. Verkrijgbaar vanaf 29 februari in 869 winkels. Verkoopprijs: €2,99 Download afbeelding

Zeeweer tagliatelle Merk: I Sea Pasta Tagliatelle op basis van biologische wilde zeewier. Verkrijgbaar vanaf 14 maart in 250 winkels. Verkoopprijs: €4,95 Download afbeelding

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Sprouted muesli appel en zaden Merk: SUN Organic Biologische muesli op basis van gekiemde tarwe- en havervlokken, met gedroogde appelstukjes en zes soorten zaden. Verkrijgbaar vanaf 29 februari in 33 winkels. Verkoopprijs: €4,25

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

GCH Retail (Malaysia) expands its distribution centre to support export to Singapore and Cambodia

SEPANG, MALAYSIA, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — GCH Retail (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd is expanding its distribution centre, here, which would provide local manufacturers with a platform to market their products internationally at a lower cost.

GCH Retail Malaysia and Brunei regional director Datuk Tim Ashdown said the extension of the facility, which housed a warehouse of local produce for export to Singapore and Cambodia, was aimed at strengthening its process efficiency to two million containers per week from 700,000 currently.

“This facility, which comes with the latest technology, has enabled us to reduce logistics costs for our suppliers substantially. This was the re-sult of the accelerated turnaround time of delivery lorries to the warehouse by as much as 50 per cent,” he said at the launch of Phase 2 of the distribution centre on Monday.

GCH Retail, a subsidiary of Dairy Farm International, manages Giant hypermarket, Mercato. Cold Storage and Jason Food Hall.

Phase 2, which will begin operations on April 1, will house 760 Giant brand products and 5,300 internationally-sourced products made in Malaysia for export to Singapore and Cambodia.

Ashdown said the expansion would support the growth of Giant for the next 12 years and provide world-class operations for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

“We believe that by supporting the local SMEs, we will create an opportunity for them to showcase their products and provide an established platform for them to communicate their brand to the targeted consumers,” he said.

Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hannah Zainuddin, who officiated at the launch, said the ware-house would also create 206 jobs in the transport industry.

Mezzanine Floor,
Giant Hypermarket Shah Alam Stadium,
Lot 2, Persiaran Sukan, Seksyen 13,
40100 Shah Alam,
Selangor Darul Ehsan,
Malaysia
Phone Number +603-5544 8888
Fax +603-5544 8646

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Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editors

Hypermarket chain Giant to double the number of home-grown suppliers to support Malaysian SMEs

Giant to couple procucts to support SVEs

SEPANG, MALAYSIA, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — The owner of hypermarket chain Giant hopes to double the number of home-grown suppliers to support the growth Malaysian small-medium enterprises (SMEs).

Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin said 15% of products sold by Giant, which is owned by GCH Retail Sdn Bhd, are from homegrown SMEs.

“Currently, 15% of GCH Retail’s products are from Malaysian SMEs and in a discussion with them several months back, I asked if this number could be increased to 20% by this year

‘They have agreed and we also hope by 2020, at least 30% of their products are by local SMEs. “A few years ago, the number was only 7% but they have done well to reach 15%. ‘This is in support of Malaysia’s aim to become a high-income nation by 2020,” said Hamzah, after launching the GCH Retail’s new distribution centre here yesterday.

Hamzah, however, said increasing the participation of local SMEs would not be straight-forward as they had to adhere to the stand-ards set by GCH Retail

“GCH Retail told me they have their own set of standards and criteria for products. I am confident that if any SMEs can market their products with GCH Retail, it is of high quality as the products are also marketed in their overseas stores in Singapore and Cambodia.

Hamzah also urged local SMEs to visit GCH Retail’s new distribution centre to learn a thing or two about supply chains and logistics.

Located in Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi, the new distribution centre is in fact an extension to an existing 450,000sq ft facility which was completed in 2010.

The new 155,000sq ft building will house a bonded warehouse of local produce for export to Singapore and Cambodia.

GCH Retail regional director for Malaysia and Brunei Datuk Tim Ashdown said the new facility will allow the centre to hanxdle more than two million cases per week.

“Having this facility that comes with the latest technology, we manage to reduce logis-tic costs for our suppliers, a result of the accelerated turnaround time of delivery truck to the warehouse by as much as 50%,” he said.

Mezzanine Floor,
Giant Hypermarket Shah Alam Stadium,
Lot 2, Persiaran Sukan, Seksyen 13,
40100 Shah Alam,
Selangor Darul Ehsan,
Malaysia
Phone Number +603-5544 8888
Fax +603-5544 8646

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Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editor

Dollar Tree, Inc. to host conference call for investors and analysts for its fourth quarter ended January 30, 2016 on March 1, 2016

CHESAPEAKE, Va, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Dollar Tree, Inc. (NASDAQ: DLTR), North America’s leading operator of discount variety stores, will host its conference call for investors and analysts to discuss financial results for the fourth quarter ended January 30, 2016.


WHEN:			Tuesday, March 1, 2016 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time

PARTICIPATE:			At least 5 minutes prior to the conference call, please dial 800-768-6563 for USA and Canadian calls or 785-830-7991 for international calls.


WEBCAST:			Available on the investor relations section of the Company’s website at www.dollartreeinfo.com/investors/news/events.


REPLAY:			A recorded version of the call will be available until midnight Tuesday, March 8, and may be accessed by dialing 888-203-1112. Please enter Passcode # 3402665.

CONTACT:

Dollar Tree, Inc., Chesapeake
Randy Guiler
757-321-5284
www.DollarTree.com
DLTR-E

Source: Dollar Tree, Inc.

Posted on February 25, 2016 by EPR Retail News Editor

Hot Dog Bill of Rights

IRVING, 2016-Feb-25 — /EPR Retail News/ — Ladies and gentlemen of the press and social mediasphere, a proclamation from 7‑Eleven, who has provided Americans a hot dog standard based on freedom of choice since the 1970’s:

WHEREAS, we’re not about to let any King threaten that juicy, American liberty by limiting the people to just two pre-determined menu options; and

WHEREAS, 7‑Eleven has provided Americans the highest standard and best taste¹ in hot doggery for more than 40 years, resulting in annual sales of over 80 million at over 7,900 stores; and

WHEREAS, this monarch has the audacity to tell Americans how much chili and other toppings we can put on our hot dogs – and during an election year, no less;

NOW, THEREFORE, we, 7‑Eleven, do hereby proclaim the following “Hot Dog Bill of Rights,” to wit:

I. The right to buy a tasty, 100% beef hot dog 24/7, 365 days a year.

II. The right to customize your hot dog with a variety of toppings, including FREE chili and cheese.

III. The right to a ¼ Pound Big Bite® and Big Gulp® combo for just $2.00, any time of day.

IV. The right to believe in totally made up, but totally tasty constitutional rights.

“7‑Eleven is clearly America’s choice for hot dogs. Our customers get more bang for their buck, more topping options and tasty 100% beef — small wonder we sell a Big Bite hot dog every 2.7 seconds of the day!,” said Dennis Phelps, vice president of fresh food and proprietary beverages. “While we relish the competition, we are confident that this monarchical outlier has a long way to go to ketch-up with 7‑Eleven’s All-American hot dog.”

Good old Yankee ingenuity has made the 7‑Eleven hot dog a fan favorite. In an online consumer survey¹ that compared more than 10 retailers offering hot dogs, 7‑Eleven was rated the highest as “favorite place to buy hot dogs” and they cited taste as one of the main reasons.

So, too, the results of the same survey¹found that consumers credit 7‑Eleven’s hot dogs for being tasty, flavorful and a great value. In addition, consumers love the condiment selection, including free chili and cheese, and the ability to add as much or as little as they like to customize their hot dog.

Added Phelps: “We’re 7‑Eleven … and we approve of this message.”

Join the conversation online and show us how you top your Big Bite hot dog by using #hotdogdemocracy to keep up with the deliciousness.

¹ Online survey fielded by Nielsen Consumer and Shopper Analytics, April 2014; Total Sample n=10,982

7‑Eleven, Big Bite, ¼ Pound Big Bite, Slurpee and Big Gulp are all registered trademarks of 7‑Eleven, Inc.

CONTACT:

Stephanie Shaw
7‑Eleven, Inc.
972-828-5837
stephanie.shaw@7-11.com

SOURCE: 7-Eleven, Inc

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7‑Eleven calls for Americans to exercise their freedom of choice to top their hot dogs just how they want.