Daily Archives: October 10, 2017

Posted on by

Tesco raised funds for Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation during Land’s End to John O’Groats charity walk

Thousands of Tesco colleagues have walked in relay from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise funds for Diabetes UK and the British Heart Foundation

Welwyn Garden City, UK, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Tesco colleagues from across the UK have completed their epic charity walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

The massive month long event was put together to raise funds for Tesco’s National Charity Partnership with Diabetes UK (DUK) and the British Heart Foundation (BHF). The route was unique to Tesco and specifically designed to take in as many stores and distribution centres as possible. It passed 150 stores along the way.

More than 4,000 Tesco colleagues from stores, offices and distribution centres across the UK all took part, with the route broken down into 51 ‘legs’ of 5km, 10km, 25km and 50km. Separate walks also took place in Wales and Northern Ireland. Overall the walk is expected to have raised more than £1 million.

As well as Tesco colleagues from all parts of the business, Olympic Gold Medallist Greg Rutherford joined walkers for their head office leg in Welwyn Garden City, alongside Tesco UK CEO Matt Davies.

Tesco UK CEO, Matt Davies said: “I couldn’t be more proud of colleagues from across the UK who have joined this fantastic event and raised important funds for our National Charity Partnership. I have loved joining colleagues at a number of walks and hearing the stories of others as the walk has made its way from Land’s End to John O’Groats.

“Over the last few years we’ve managed to raise an incredible £21m for our National Charity Partnership and this event has again demonstrated our commitment and the wonderful spirit of Tesco colleagues in going the extra mile for these fantastic causes.”

Chris Askew, Chief Executive of Diabetes UK, said: “Huge congratulations to all Tesco colleagues for completing their epic challenge and raising such an incredible amount of money for our partnership. Type 2 diabetes is a serious and potentially devastating condition; it can double your risk of heart and circulatory disease and lead to other complications such as sight loss and nerve damage, but the majority of cases are preventable. Thanks to Tesco’s support and fundraising, our National Charity Partnership is able to continue its vital work in preventing as many future cases of Type 2 diabetes and heart and circulatory disease as possible – two of the biggest health threats in the UK today.”

Simon Gillespie, Chief Executive of the British Heart Foundation, said: “People living with diabetes are 2-3 times more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke and this figure is set to increase as the population ages and levels of obesity rise. There is an urgent need for more research to better understand, treat and prevent heart disease, and money raised through our National Charity Partnership will help us deliver those breakthroughs. At the same time, we are providing practical support to help families reduce their risk of developing these conditions. We simply could not do this without the commitment of every single Tesco colleague and are immensely grateful for their support.”

Money raised for Tesco’s National Charity Partnership is helping to fund the vital and ongoing work of Diabetes UK and the BHF. It is also funding a series of online and community-based initiatives to help people make small, positive changes to their lifestyle to boost their health and reduce their risk of Type 2 diabetes and heart and circulatory disease. So far, the partnership has reached more than 17 million people with its healthy lifestyle messages, helped around one million people get more active and supported thousands of families to enjoy nutritious meals made from scratch.

You can find out more about Tesco’s Great Walk at thegreattescowalk.com and about their National Charity Partnership at tescocharitypartnership.org.uk.
#TheGreatTescoWalk

Notes to editors:

• Tesco is committed to helping its colleagues, customers and communities live healthier lives.
• In 2016, Tesco was the first retailer to launch the Free Fruit for Kids initiative in the UK, which offers free fruit to children in store while their parents shop. The initiative is now available in more than 800 stores nationwide. In January 2015, Tesco was the first major retailer to remove sweets and chocolate from checkouts across all its stores.

Source: Tesco

Posted on by

Sainsbury’s rolls out fuelService app to enable disabled drivers pre-book refuelling assistance

Sainsbury’s rolls out fuelService app to enable disabled drivers pre-book refuelling assistance

 

Sainsbury’s has rolled out an app with not-for-profit organisation fuelService to enable drivers to pre-book assistance when refuelling their cars at a Sainsbury’s petrol station

  • fuelService app enables disabled and vulnerable drivers to ask ahead for assistance
  • Sainsbury’s hopes to give disabled drivers the flexibility to travel with the confidence of knowing someone will be there to assist them
  • The service will initially be available at over 300 Sainsbury’s petrol stations 

London, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sainsbury’s has rolled out an app with not-for-profit organisation fuelService to enable drivers with disabilities or impairments to pre-book assistance when refuelling their cars at a Sainsbury’s petrol station. Drivers are no longer at risk of being left waiting, or forced to drive to other petrol services unsure if a member of staff has seen them.

fuelService is an app or telephone service that enables customers to locate a petrol station that offers assistance and ask staff if they will be able to help before driving there, it then lets the station know when they arrive. Sainsbury’s colleagues can quickly respond to a request from drivers and let them know if they will be available to help within the next 30 minutes.

On acceptance of the request, the station will be notified when the customer parks up and which pump they are at. By simply pressing a button, staff can acknowledge their arrival and inform the customer how long they will be.

Following a successful trial in 58 stations, fuelService and Sainsbury’s will now roll the service out to over 300 petrol stations across the UK, including areas such as London, Manchester, Cardiff and Edinburgh.

The service is available primarily via an app on IOS, Android or Windows Phones, with an interactive telephone line, SMS and online booking options also available. It will be open to customers seven days a week at all participating stations.

Sainsbury’s is the first UK supermarket to offer this service and hopes to give disabled drivers the flexibility to travel with the confidence of knowing someone will be there to assist them.

Tim Fallowfield, Company Secretary, Corporate Services Director & Board Sponsor for Disability, Age and Carers at Sainsbury’s said, “We are delighted to be working with fuelService to make this option available to as many of our customers as possible. We want to be the most inclusive retailer, making all our customers feel welcome when they shop with us. Sainsbury’s is focusing on delivering great service that works for everyone, which is why it’s important we offer an alternative interactive telephone service alongside the app for those without smartphones. We hope people spread the word to make sure those that need it most are aware the service is available.”

Niall El-Assaad, founder of fuelService commented, “It’s fantastic that Sainsbury’s is the UK’s first supermarket to offer this service to its customers. Refuelling has always been a frustrating issue for disabled drivers. While you have your independence in being able to drive, the limited options to pump your own petrol can leave you with a very restricted route. Often the only option is to beep your horn, flash your lights and wave your blue badge about – a method which can be very embarrassing and also offers no guarantee of service. By providing customers with the option to quickly check for assistance in advance we hope to give them more freedom to travel without any constraints.”

Graham Footer, Chief Executive, Disabled Motoring UK added: “Refuelling continues to be a daily struggle for disabled motorists and it’s a challenge that has been going on for far too long. Everyone with a disability or impairment can benefit from a solution like this and it’s great to see Sainsbury’s leading the way and making it easily accessible to thousands of its customers.”

Contact:

press_office@sainsburys.co.uk
020 7695 7295

Source: Sainsbury

###

Posted on by

Louis Vuitton opened the doors to its new Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme in Paris

Louis Vuitton opened the doors to its new Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme in Paris

 

Paris, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Louis Vuitton opened the doors to its new Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme at 2 Place Vendôme in Paris on October 4th. The full array of Louis Vuitton savoir-faire – travel accessories and luggage, ready-to-wear, jewelry, watches, leather goods, shoes, fragrances, accessories, plus artisanal workshops – has now been brought together in a single place. The opening marks the Maison’s grand return to the location where the young Louis Vuitton opened his first store over 160 years ago.

Louis Vuitton has returned to  Place Vendôme, where the trunkmaker’s story began. It was in the streets neighboring the celebrated Parisian square that Louis Vuitton honed his craft and opened his first store in 1854. On October 4th the Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme continued the story with a sumptuous space that welcomes the full array of Louis Vuitton savoir-faire and métiers in two hôtels particuliers that have been elegantly united.

The former Hôtel Baudet de Morlet and Hôtel Heuzé de Vologer, two private mansions built in 1714, have been meticulously restored and returned to their former glory by architect Peter Marino. Behind the original façade, the Maison has been designed to create an airy ambiance filled with natural light. Extensive use of glass, light-colored stone and artisanal wall coverings are set off by beautiful parquet and stone flooring, giving each floor a unique character while remaining part of a coherent whole.

Leather goods, accessories, textiles, fragrances, jewelry and watches – the entire world of Louis Vuitton for women and men has been brought together at a single address.

Objets Nomades – a collection of travel and home objects by renowned designers – will for the first time be available on a permanent basis at the Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme. A space on the second floor is also home to the Appartement where clients can be invited to private viewings of products. Embodying Louis Vuitton’s ancestral savoir-faire, the Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme features two working ateliers, the Atelier Haute Joaillerie and the Atelier Rare & Exceptionnel, where very important clients and celebrities have a chance to discover exceptional pieces from the latest collections, which can be fitted and personalized to their taste.

Maison Louis Vuitton Vendôme celebrates art as well, exhibiting a curated selection of 33 contemporary works, some of them specially commissioned for the site, including creations by Laurent Grasso, Yan Pei Ming, Stephen Sprouse, Serge Alain Nitegeka and Paul Nabulumo Namarinjmak.

Contact:

LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton
22, avenue Montaigne, 75008 Paris – France
Tel: +33 (0)1 44 13 22 22
Fax: +33 (0)1 44 13 22 23

Source: LVMH

###

Posted on by

Asda: ‘Audrey’s Tiger Bread’ named after loyal 85-year-old customer Audrey Bond

Asda: ‘Audrey’s Tiger Bread’ named after loyal 85-year-old customer Audrey Bond

 

Audrey’s Tiger Bread’ named after loyal 85-year-old customer, Audrey Bond, who has been giving tips and hints to Asda bakers for years on how to improve the product. Audrey captured the hearts of customers after her story hit social media, with fans of the nan urging Asda to honour her. Recognising her keen eye for baking, the leading retailer has invited Audrey to give her stamp of approval on future products

LEEDS, UK, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — An 85-year-old Asda customer has had her favourite product named in her honour – ‘Audrey’s Tiger Bread’ – after she gave tips to her local baker, and now close friend, at the Asda Barking store. The loveable nan captured the hearts of Asda customers when her story was shared on social media, with people urging Asda to honour her.

Audrey Bond has helped baker Gary Gordon to improve his bakery teams’ Tiger Chest Bread over the last few years and thanks to her invaluable tips and advice, they have mastered ”perfect” in-store baked bread.

The keen home baker and grandmother of two spotted that some of the bread would come out of the ovens shaped more like a big kidney bean, whilst some loaves would have a parting in the middle. Audrey taught the Barking bakery team how to improve their loaves and believes they are now “as good as they possibly can be”.

Audrey gets the bus to the store pretty much every day of the week without fail and brings in her home-baked goodies for Gary and the team, with the favourite being her banana and walnut cake, which Gary says is “just the best”.

In recognition of her pivotal role in helping Gary and his team improve their products, Audrey has been invited to form part of the Asda Tasting Panel. She has given her seal of approval across the retailer’s bakery selection, including breads and cakes, selecting her favourites from the range and ensuring products meet her high standards. Some of her stand out lines are Extra Special Olive Bread which she says is “delicious” and the in-store baked lemon muffins.

Audrey said: “I can’t believe Asda have renamed their tiger bread after me – it’s such a shock! I’m looking forward to sharing the news with my son who lives in Cyprus and sending him a loaf of Audrey’s Tiger Bread. I get people stopping me on the bus on the way to Asda or saying hello to me in the store after they saw me with Gary online, it really makes my day.”.

An Asda spokesperson said: “Our colleagues often go the extra mile for customers, but on this occasion Audrey has helped us to improve our products and we can’t thank her enough. As a loyal customer and passionate baker, we were delighted to put Audrey’s name on the side of our Tiger Bread. We think we have found our very own Queen of Baking.”

About Asda Stores Ltd.
Founded in the 1960s in Yorkshire, Asda is one of Britain’s leading retailers. It has more than 165,000 dedicated Asda colleagues serving customers across 606 stores, including 33 Supercentres, 336 Superstores, 33 Asda Living stores, 204 Supermarkets, and we’ve 26 depots and 18 Stand Alone Petrol stations. Its main office is in Leeds, Yorkshire and its George clothing division is in Lutterworth, Leicestershire. More than 17 million people shop at Asda stores every week and 98 per cent of UK homes are served by https://protect-eu.mimecast.com/s/ADgYBhleJGps1?domain=protect-eu.mimecast.com. Asda joined Walmart, the world’s number one retailer, in 1999.

About Asda’s Price Guarantee
Asda’s Price Guarantee (APG), launched in 2011, gives customers the reassurance that a basket of groceries will always be 10 per cent better value than competitors, otherwise Asda will refund the difference. Powered by MySupermarket.co.uk, the APG is the only independent, transparent online grocery price-checker in the world.

For further details, interviews or high-res imagery, please contact: mailto: mailto:asda@mischiefpr.com for more details.

Source: ASDA

###

Posted on by

Asda: Customers can enjoy British tomatoes all-year-round thanks to innovative LED technology

Asda: Customers can enjoy British tomatoes all-year-round thanks to innovative LED technology

 

Asda leads the way in technological innovation for tomatoes, which will see British tomatoes available all-year-round. Just over 200 million tomatoes are plucked from the LED-laden vines for Asda each year

LEEDS, UK, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Customers can enjoy British tomatoes at Asda all-year-round thanks to innovative light technology, which is tipped to set the precedent for produce across the nation in the next decade. Typically, between December and March, retailer’s source tomatoes from Spain or Morocco, but this new technology will lead to thousands more tonnes of tomatoes grown on British soil every year, reducing food miles and ensuring optimum freshness on shelf.

The light technology is currently being used by a farmer in Southport across 31 acres of glasshouses growing tomatoes. Installed between the vines and coloured bright pink, the LED lighting supplements natural daylight so that crops can be grown efficiently at all times of the year, no matter what the weather.

In addition to ensuring British tomatoes can be stocked every month, the LED technology helps reduce the total energy required to run the greenhouse by up to 35% through mitigating the need for excessive heating and ventilation, meaning the tomato growing process remains environmentally friendly.

Andy Roe, Tomato Production Manager, who has supplied Asda with tomatoes for over 20 years, comments: “I can say with confidence that by using this technology, I could grow a tomato absolutely anywhere – underground, in a Tube carriage, on the Moon. The beauty of this technology is that it hands complete control over to the growers, who can monitor levels and adjust accordingly to ensure the best quality products possible are hitting Asda’s shelves. Whilst we may be the first UK growers to work with the technology, this is the way forward for horticulturalists across the globe.”

Each year, Andy and his team of growers pick just over 200 million tomatoes.

Ian Harrison, Asda Technical Director, comments: “We pride ourselves on working closely with growers to make sure together we provide the best quality produce possible for our customers. Beyond the benefits to UK growers, this forward-thinking technology means not a single ounce of quality, taste or appearance is diminished in our tomatoes. This year alone, we’ve seen 40 million punnets of tomatoes sold from our shelves.”

Asda stocks 11 different varieties of British tomato, including Extra Special Aromatico, to its award-winning Extra Special Tomkin.

Notes to editors

* Number based on average tomato yield picked for supermarket

About Asda Stores Ltd.

Founded in the 1960s in Yorkshire, Asda is one of Britain’s leading retailers and helps customers save money and live better in stores, online and through their mobile devices.
Each week more than 18 million customers visit its 645 stores – including 30 Supercentres, 392 Superstores, 155 Supermarkets, 33 Asda Living stores, and 35 standalone petrol stations – and websites, and are served by 153,000 colleagues. www.asda.com and www.george.com deliver to 99% of the UK’s homes and to its 538 click and collect sites across the UK.
Its main office is in Leeds, Yorkshire and its George clothing division is in Lutterworth, Leicestershire. Asda joined Walmart, the world’s number one retailer, in 1999.

Source: ASDA

###

Posted on by

Asda introduces the Cheese Advent Calendar this Christmas

Asda introduces the Cheese Advent Calendar this Christmas

 

  • Fromage lovers rejoice as Asda launches Cheese Advent Calendar
  • Complete with 24 delicious cheeses, including Applewood, Mexicana and Jarlsberg

LEEDS, UK, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — From chocolate to beauty and even gin – it’s not a true Christmas without an advent calendar. And now, brie-lieve or not, all our Christmas prayers have been answered as Asda launches the holy grail of all advent calendars and it’s good, very good.

Introducing the Cheese Advent Calendar, sure to see cheese lovers around the country rejoicing this festive season. Behind each of the magical 24 doors, you’ll find a different delicious cheese variety, including Applewood, Mexicana and Jarlsberg.

An Asda spokesperson said: “The Cheese Advent Calendar is a revolution for cheese enthusiasts this Christmas. We’re becoming famous for our award-winning cheese and the Cheese Advent Calendar is the latest innovation handpicked by our team of experts.”

Asda’s new Cheese Advent Calendar will be available in Asda stores from 6th November with a RRP of £10.

More information about our award winning cheeses can be read here: https://corporate.asda.com/blog/2017/10/03/judges-at-the-global-cheese-awards-name-asda-as-retailer-of-the-year

About Asda Stores Ltd.
Founded in the 1960s in Yorkshire, Asda is one of Britain’s leading retailers and helps customers save money and live better in stores, online and through their mobile devices.

Each week more than 18 million customers visit its 645 stores – including 30 Supercentres, 392 Superstores, 155 Supermarkets, 33 Asda Living stores, and 35 standalone petrol stations – and websites, and are served by 153,000 colleagues. www.asda.com and www.george.com deliver to 99% of the UK’s homes and to its 538 click and collect sites across the UK.

Its main office is in Leeds, Yorkshire and its George clothing division is in Lutterworth, Leicestershire. Asda joined Walmart, the world’s number one retailer, in 1999.

Please contact:

asdafoodanddrink@mischiefpr.com for more information.

Source: ASDA

###

Posted on by

National Retail Federation: Retail industry employment saw a modest decline in September

WASHINGTON, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Retail industry employment saw a modest decline in September, decreasing 4,600 jobs from revised August figures, the National Retail Federation said today (October 6, 2017). The number excludes automobile dealers, gasoline stations and restaurants. The economy overall saw a loss of 33,000 jobs in September.

“The recent hurricanes have caused distortions to economic figures and September employment numbers are likely to undergo dramatic revisions,” NRF Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said. “The silver lining is that hourly wages continue to gradually increase, giving households more spending power as the all-important holiday season approaches. Overall, the underlying momentum of the economy and the strength of the labor market remains firm.”

Kleinhenz noted that retail job numbers reported by the Labor Department don’t paint an entirely accurate picture of the industry because they count only employees who work in stores while excluding retail workers in other parts of the business like corporate headquarters, distribution centers, call centers and innovation labs.

Economy-wide, average hourly earnings have increased by 74 cents – 2.9 percent – over the past 12 months.  The Labor Department said the unemployment rate decreased to 4.2 percent, down from 4.4 percent in August.

About NRF
NRF is the world’s largest retail trade association, representing discount and department stores, home goods and specialty stores, Main Street merchants, grocers, wholesalers, chain restaurants and internet retailers from the United States and more than 45 countries. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, supporting one in four U.S. jobs – 42 million working Americans. Contributing $2.6 trillion to annual GDP, retail is a daily barometer for the nation’s economy.

Contact:

Robin Roberts
press@nrf.com
(855) NRF-Press

Source: NRF

Posted on by

Maxima moves up to 5th place as Most Beloved Brand in the Baltics in 2017

Vilnius, Lithuania, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — The most beloved brands in Latvia and in the Baltic States were announced during the Most Beloved Brand 2017 award ceremony last week at Riga. In competition of 50 different companies “Maxima” was announced as the 5th Most Beloved Brand in the Baltics in 2017 (8th place in 2016). The Most Beloved Brand TOP in Latvia is organised for 13 years now while the most beloved brands in the Baltic States are recognised since 2012.

The aim of the Most Beloved Brand TOP is to determine the value and factors affecting it to the biggest national and international brands. The brand value is made by the number of loyal customers in the society and measured with two indicators – planned purchase and emotional attraction. The research looks at a wide range of topics regarding the brands but only three factors are publicly available – uniqueness, quality and value of the brand. These three factors therefore can also be used for evaluation of marketing activity performance implemented by the company. The most beloved brands are determined by DDB Brand Capital TM research methodology practised in more than 30 countries. More information is available here: www.zimolutops.lv

Meanwhile “Maxima Latvija” was announced as the 9th Most Beloved Brand in Latvia and the winner in category “Most Value For Money brands” (Most affordable brand) for the second year. Our efforts have been also recognised in social media where “Maxima Latvija” has been awarded with 5th place in the category “Most influential brands on social media”

Congratulations to everyone – we all make our company likeable to our customers!

Source: MAXIMA GRUPE

Posted on by

JAPAN: Rakuten and Lawson to trial initiative that combines drone deliveries and convenience store mobile sales

JAPAN: Rakuten and Lawson to trial initiative that combines drone deliveries and convenience store mobile sales

 

Trial to begin at Lawson’s Minamisoma-Odaka store on October 31

Tokyo, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Rakuten, Inc. and Lawson, Inc. today (October 6, 2017) announced that the two companies will begin a trial initiative that combines mobile sales via dedicated vehicles and product deliveries through the use of drones. The trial will operate out of Lawson’s Minamisoma-Odaka Store (Minamisoma City, Fukushima Prefecture) and will launch on Tuesday, October 31, 2017. This initiative, which pairs drone deliveries with convenience store mobile sales, will be the first of its kind in Japan.

Odaka District in Minamisoma City was designated as a district under evacuation orders due to the effects of the nuclear accident at the TEPCO Fukushima Dai-Ichi Nuclear Power Plant. This designation was rescinded in July 2016, and the town is starting to regain its former liveliness as its residents continue to return home. However improving the shopping environment for daily necessities, food, and other products represents a high-priority challenge.

Lawson’s Minamisoma-Odaka Store opened in October 2016. It was the first convenience store to resume operations in the Odaka District. With this collaboration, mobile sales will be made twice a week to the Odaka District from the store. One of these will involve the delivery of fried foods, such as “Kara-age Kun” fried chicken, and other items that are unable to be loaded onto the mobile sales vehicle, by Rakuten Drone delivery drone to the mobile sales destination from the store*1. This service trial will be carried out for six months after which consideration will be given to the official launch of the service.

* The drone may not be able to fly due to weather conditions such as rainfall, wind, or extreme temperature.

Lawson began offering mobile sales in 2013, and now has approximately 80 stores in 28 prefectures engaged in such sales, primarily in rural, mountainous regions and to elder-care facilities in urban areas. Through mobile sales, Lawson is aiming to create “local shopping communities” that provide the joy of shopping and create connections with the community through mobile sales.

In May 2016, Rakuten lauched Rakuten Drone (then called Sora Raku), a service for providing drone delivery solutions. Since then, the company has earned a strong track record in drone delivery through the use of its drones at golf courses and joint demonstration experiments with local governments and other organizations. In February, Rakuten concluded a comprehensive cooperation agreement with Minamisoma City in Fukushima Prefecture part of which includes the development of a new distribution system utilizing drones. This current initiative will serve as the first step towards the introduction of drone delivery via a collaboration with Lawson, which has previously partnered with other Rakuten Group services.

Through this collaboration, Rakuten and Lawson will work to improve the shopping environment in Minamisoma City, aiming to jointly contribute to the development of the local community.

Source: Rakuten  Inc.

###

Posted on by

Whole Foods Market voluntarily recalls 365 Everyday Value Organic Raisin Bran that contains undeclared peanuts

Whole Foods Market voluntarily recalls 365 Everyday Value Organic Raisin Bran that contains undeclared peanuts

 

Austin, Texas, United States, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market stores is voluntarily recalling 365 Everyday Value Organic Raisin Bran because the product contains undeclared peanuts that were not listed on the product label. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.

The affected product was sold in Whole Foods Market stores in the U.S. and online at Amazon.com. The product was packaged in 15 oz. boxes labeled 365 Everyday Value Organic Raisin Bran with UPC code 9948243903 and best-by date of June 4, 2018. The issue was discovered after Whole Foods Market determined the packaging contained Peanut Butter Cocoa Balls instead of Organic Raisin Bran. All affected product has been removed from store shelves and online. No reactions have been reported to date.

Customers who purchased this product at Whole Foods Market can bring a valid receipt into stores for a full refund. Customers who purchased the product online will receive additional information via email. Consumers with additional questions can call 1-844-936-8255 between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday, or 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Saturday through Sunday.

Consumers Contact:

1-844-936-8255

Media Contact:

Betsy.Harden@wholefoods.com
512.542.3198

Source: FDA

###

Posted on by

CarMax opens its 17th location in Texas

Company announces contributions to local nonprofit

RICHMOND, Virginia, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — CarMax, Inc. (NYSE: KMX), the nation’s largest retailer of used cars, is celebrating the grand opening of the company’s first location in the Tyler area and 17th location in the state of Texas. The store is located at 3015 SSW Loop 323 and has the capacity to stock approximately 140 used vehicles of nearly every make and model. Customers can also request transfers to the Tyler CarMax of almost any vehicle from other CarMax locations throughout the country.

In celebration of the Tyler store opening, CarMax and The CarMax Foundation awarded $7,500 in donations and grants to the Tyler Independent School District Foundation. Support for this organization came at the recommendation of the Tyler CarMax associates.

“Supporting youth education is important to our associates and we’re honored to contribute to the Tyler Independent School District Foundation,” said Eric Scott, location general manager of the Tyler CarMax. “We’re excited to get to work and serve the Tyler community through the easy, transparent car-buying experience CarMax offers.”

CarMax disrupted the industry more than 20 years ago by offering a high integrity car-buying experience customers want that’s transparent and stress-free. Since that time, CarMax has continued to revolutionize the experience through customer-focused technology innovations. Approximately 90% of CarMax purchasers start on CarMax.com or the CarMax mobile app. Customers can browse CarMax’s nationwide inventory of nearly 50,000 vehicles, hold a vehicle for a test drive, schedule an appraisal, and even get pre-qualified for financing before visiting the store. CarMax stands behind their vehicles with a 5-Day Money-Back Guarantee and a 30-Day Limited Warranty (60-Day in CT, MN & RI, 90-Day in MA, NY and NJ).

About CarMax
CarMax is the nation’s largest retailer of used cars and operates more than 180 stores in 39 states nationwide. CarMax revolutionized the auto industry by delivering the honest, transparent and high-integrity car buying experience customers want and deserve. For more than 20 years, CarMax has made car buying more ethical, fair and stress-free by offering a no-haggle, no-hassle experience and an incredible selection of vehicles. CarMax makes selling your car easy too, by offering no-obligation appraisals good for seven days. At CarMax, we’ll buy your car even if you don’t buy ours®. CarMax has more than 24,000 associates nationwide and for 13 consecutive years has been named as one of the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For®. During the 12 months ending February 28, 2017, the company retailed 671,294 used cars and sold 391,686 wholesale vehicles at its in-store auctions. For more information, access the CarMax website at www.carmax.com.

Media Contact:
CarMax Public Relations
(855) 887-2915
pr@carmax.com
@CarMax
facebook.com/CarMax

Source: CarMax

Posted on by

SONIC recognized franchisees and operators at the 2017 SONIC National Convention

SONIC recognized franchisees and operators at the 2017 SONIC National Convention

 

Gary Kinslow, SONIC Franchisee, wins the restaurant chain’s most prestigious award

OKLAHOMA CITY, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — SONIC® Drive-In (NASDAQ: SONC), the nation’s largest chain of drive-in restaurants, presented ten awards to franchisees and operators at the 2017 SONIC National Convention in Denver, Colo. Every year, SONIC recognizes exemplary individuals and franchise groups to honor those who have a proven track record of strong leadership skills and led the brand.

Troy Smith Hall of Fame: Gary Kinslow

Named after SONIC’s founder, induction into the Troy Smith Hall of Fame is SONIC’s most prestigious award, given to a franchisee who has worked with SONIC for a notable amount of time while making a significant contribution to the brand in terms of leadership, growth and positive influence. This year, SONIC presented the Troy Smith Hall of Fame Award to Gary Kinslow, second generation SONIC franchisee and leader of Kinslow SONIC Group. Based in Prague, Okla., Kinslow SONIC Group owns and operates 40 SONIC Drive-Ins in Oklahoma, Texas and Mississippi. In 1969, Kinslow started his career at SONIC as a cook for his father when he was just 14 years old. Now, Kinslow leads his team to provide guests with a remarkable SONIC experience every day.

“Gary has lived and breathed SONIC his entire life and has vast knowledge of the brand,” said Clifford Hudson, Sonic Corp. CEO. “He truly captures the spirit of Troy Smith and the inspiring entrepreneurial spirit of SONIC’s founder.”

Chain Leader Award: Steve Gonzalez

The SONIC Chain Leader Award was presented to Steve Gonzalez, director of the Warren Group in recognition of his success in exerting both leadership skills and a positive influence on his organization and the SONIC brand. Based in Lubbock, Texas, and operating 24 drive-ins, Gonzalez focuses on retaining good people and building a solid infrastructure through his strong leadership.

Turnaround Operator Award: Norm Kaufman

Norm Kaufman, SONIC franchisee and leader of Brand Ventures, LLC was presented with the SONIC Turnaround Operator Award. This award honors an individual or group responsible for turning around operations, sales and profit performance of one or more SONIC Drive-Ins. Based in St. Louis, Mo., Kaufman focused on two areas: guest service and people development. The group has built strong, long-lasting relationships with their employees, demonstrating Kaufman’s belief that developing great people can help turnaround any aspect of business.

Great People Award: Buddy McClain

SONIC presented Buddy McClain, franchisee and leader of McClain, Vaughn and Partners franchise group, with the SONIC Great People Award. This award is given to an individual or group who has made the recruitment, training, development and retention of people a top priority and strategy for growth. Based in Jackson, Miss., McClain developed an innovative management program and is reaping rewards in his 100 drive-in locations across Mississippi, Texas and Florida.

Operational Excellence Awards: Eddie Frey and Jeff Simmons

The SONIC Operational Excellence Award was presented to Eddie Frey, operating partner for the D.L. Rogers Group, and to Jeff Simmons, general manager for the Jimmy Hodges franchise group. This honor is awarded to individuals responsible for supervision of less than five drive-ins with a proven track record of upgrading talent and growing sales and profits. Based in Elizabeth City, N.C., Frey started his career with SONIC as a manager trainee in 2003, and worked his way up to operating partner at three drive-ins located in Hartsville, S.C., Fayetteville, N.C., and Elizabeth City, N.C.Simmons, based in Mandeville, La., started his career with SONIC in 2011 in the kitchen and is now a general manager. Both Frey and Simmons make it a priority to attract guests, build loyalty and make a positive difference in their local communities.

Multi-Unit Leader Awards: Justin Chandler and Dora Simonds

Justin Chandler, director of operations for MHR Group, and Dora Simonds, director of operations for the Rubyhill Group are recipients of the Multi-Unit Leader Award. This honor is awarded to individuals responsible for supervising more than five drive-ins with a proven track record of upgrading talent, delivering outstanding guest service and growing financial performance of their drive-ins. Based in Dallas, Texas, Chandler oversees 16 drive-ins in the MHR Group and is known for his leadership and drive to constantly look for ways to improve in every aspect of the business, from people development to achieving great results. Simonds is the director of operations for 11 drive-ins in the Rubyhill Group across Denver, Colo. In 2000, Simonds started her career at SONIC as a cook and has grown to become a strong leader with a proven track record of developing talent while growing sales and profits.

Newcomer Award: Cinos, LLC

The Newcomer Award was presented to Cinos, LLC located on Long Island, N.Y. Cinos, LLC owns and operates three SONIC Drive-Ins in the state ofNew York. This award is given to an individual or franchise group new to the SONIC brand who delivers the SONIC promise to guests every day while achieving strong sales and profits.

Mason Development Award: Mason, Harrison, Ratliff, LLC (MHR)

The Mason Development Award was presented to MHR, a SONIC franchise group led by partners Ralph Mason, Chuck Harrison and Reeder Ratliff, who own and operate 288 drive-ins across 13 states with their partners. MHR has made outstanding contributions to the development of new drive-ins as we remodeled, rebuilt and relocated existing drive-ins. Based in Oklahoma City, Okla., and founded in 1974, MHR is one of SONIC’s largest franchise groups and credits its longtime success to their partners and operators, some of whom have been with the group for more than 30 years.

About SONIC®, America’s Drive-In®

SONIC, America’s Drive-In is the nation’s largest drive-in restaurant chain serving approximately 3 million customers every day. Nearly 94 percent of SONIC’s 3,500 drive-in locations are owned and operated by local business men and women. For 64 years, SONIC has delighted guests with signature menu items, 1.3 million drink combinations and friendly service by iconic Carhops. Since the 2009 launch of SONIC’s Limeades for Learning philanthropic campaign in partnership with DonorsChoose.org, SONIC has donated $8.5 million to public school teachers nationwide to fund essential learning materials and innovative teaching resources to inspire creativity and learning in today’s youth. To learn more about Sonic Corp. (NASDAQ/NM: SONC), please visit sonicdrivein.com and please visit or follow us on Facebook and Twitter. To learn more about SONIC’s Limeades for Learning initiative, please visit LimeadesforLearning.com.

Contact:
Rebeka Mora
512-542-2804
rebeka.mora@cohnwolfe.com

Source: SONIC Drive-In

###

Posted on by

Whole Foods Market 365® Concord to feature Next Level Burger and Urban Remedy

CONCORD, California, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Whole Foods Market 365 will be joined by Next Level Burger and Urban Remedy when it opens on December 6 in Concord.

The 29,200-square-foot store will feature Next Level Burger, a 100% plant-based burger joint founded by husband and wife team Cierra and Matthew de Gruyter, and Urban Remedy, a local, certified organic food company that is harnessing the healing power of food, making fresh and ready-to-eat meals, cold pressed juices, and snacks. Urban Remedy and Next Level Burger share Whole Foods Market’s quality standards and have demonstrated a unique expertise in a cuisine, concept or product.

Friends of 365 is a program within our stores that introduces shoppers to innovative food and lifestyle brands outside our company. By partnering with these outside vendors, Friends of 365 provides customers with an additional fun, high-quality experience within Whole Foods 365. “Friends” partners vary from store to store.

Shoppers can sign up for the 365 Rewards program for personalized offers and to save 10 percent on more than 100 products every day. The Concord location will be the seventh Whole Foods Market 365 to open nationally.

For more, visit the Whole Foods Market 365 website, Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Contact:
NEmedia@wholefoods.com

Source: Whole Foods Market

Posted on by

Apple appoints Katherine Adams as general counsel and SVP of Legal and Global Security

Bruce Sewell Retires as Apple’s General Counsel

Cupertino, California, 2017-Oct-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Apple today (OCTOBER 6, 2017) announced that Katherine Adams, formerly senior vice president and general counsel of Honeywell, will join Apple as general counsel and senior vice president of Legal and Global Security, reporting to CEO Tim Cook and serving on Apple’s executive team.

The company also announced Bruce Sewell, who has served as Apple’s general counsel since 2009, will be retiring at the end of the year.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kate to our team. She’s a seasoned leader with outstanding judgment and that has worked on a wide variety of legal cases globally. Throughout her career she’s also been an advocate on many of the values we at Apple hold dear,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “Bruce has our best wishes for his retirement, after eight years of dedicated service to Apple and a tremendously successful career. He has tirelessly defended our IP, our customers’ right to privacy and our values. Bruce has set a new standard for general counsels, and I am proud to have worked with him and proud to call him a friend.”

“Apple has had a tremendous impact on the world and it’s an honor to join their team,” said Kate Adams. “I’m excited to help Apple continue to grow and evolve around the world, protecting their ideas and IP, and defending our shared values.”

“To have worked with this amazing executive team and all the incredibly smart people at Apple, especially my colleagues in legal and global security, has been the honor of a lifetime,” said Bruce Sewell. “The years I have spent in this job have been the most gratifying of my career. I’m delighted Kate is joining and I know she will be a huge asset.”

Before joining Honeywell in 2003, Adams was a partner at Sidley Austin LLP in New York. Earlier in her career, she served as a law clerk for Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor; as trial attorney for the United States Department of Justice, Appellate Section, Environment and Natural Resources division; and as law clerk for Stephen Breyer, then chief judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.

Adams earned a bachelor’s degree in Comparative Literature from Brown University and a law degree from the University of Chicago Law School.

Apple revolutionized personal technology with the introduction of the Macintosh in 1984. Today, Apple leads the world in innovation with iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch and Apple TV. Apple’s four software platforms — iOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS — provide seamless experiences across all Apple devices and empower people with breakthrough services including the App Store, Apple Music, Apple Pay and iCloud. Apple’s more than 100,000 employees are dedicated to making the best products on earth, and to leaving the world better than we found it.

Press Contacts:
Kristin Huguet
Apple
khuguet@apple.com
(408) 974-2414

Apple Media Helpline
media.help@apple.com
(408) 974-2042

Source: Apple Inc.