Getting packaging right can help convince a cynical consumer that a product’s ethical claims are real, according to new research from Datamonitor.A major study from the independent business analyst has found that although over half of consumers globally reported that protecting the environment is significantly more important to them now than two years ago, this is does not translate to their grocery purchasing behaviour except when it comes to packaging. 57% of consumers thought that it is... ...Read more »

While Australian’s are spoilt for choice when it comes to the abundance of quality local produce available at our supermarkets and specialty stores, figures from business information analysts IBISWorld reveal that in some fresh and processed food sectors we are increasingly selecting imports over those home grown.In 2010, IBISWorld is estimating a significant 30% of our total seafood consumption will be made up of imports – equating to close to $1.05 billion in dollar terms, and 20.4%... ...Read more »

A Mildura couple and a Melbourne man have been convicted and ordered to repay thousands of dollars after pleading guilty to Victoria’s largest ever illegal inland fishing racket. A court has heard between five and seven tonnes of native Murray cod and golden perch were caught and then sold on the black market in Melbourne, turning over almost $75000, which the court ordered be repaid. In the culmination of a five-year operation spearheaded by fisheries investigators at the Department of Primary... ...Read more »

Businesses across Australia will have the opportunity to learn about the commercial prospects in the $14.5 trillion United States market at seminars organised by Austrade (11-25 May), following the significant economic and policy changes in the US over the past two years.Austrade’s Regional Director for the Americas, Grame Barty, said with the United States recovery underway, the national seminar series entitled ‘New USA.Local Revival.Global Reach’ will highlight the opportunities in... ...Read more »

Peak horticulture body Growcom welcomed confirmation by the Federal Agriculture Minister Tony Burke at the Rural Press Club’s Post-Budget breakfast of some progress on national biosecurity reform and of a fresh approach to national drought policy. Growcom Chairman John Bishop said he welcomed the Minister’s commitment to the continuation of reforms to national biosecurity policy and the announcement of an additional $20 million in the budget to enhance biosecurity operations within AQIS. Mr... ...Read more »

US natural and organic retailer Whole Foods Market claimed that it is emerging from the recession “faster” than its peers as it booked a strong increase in sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2010. The company said that it had benefited from shoppers “selectively trading up” on Wednesday (12 May) when it unveiled a 13% increase in total sales, which rose to US$2.11bn in the three month period. Speaking to analysts during a conference call, co-CEO John Mackay emphasised... ...Read more »

US regional supermarket operator Bi-Lo announced yesterday (13 May) that it has completed its financial restructuring and emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.”Today is a great day for Bi-Lo, our team mates and our loyal customers,” said company president and CEO Michael Byars. “With our financial restructuring behind us, we are emerging from Chapter 11 with a strengthened balance sheet and enhanced financial flexibility that positions Bi-Lo for continued success in the... ...Read more »

Mars Food, producer of the MasterFoods, DOLMIO, KAN TONG and UNCLE BEN’S brands, has taken out top prize in the Industrial Water Project Of The Year category at the Global Water Awards, held in Paris earlier this month.Queen Noor of Jordan presented the coveted award to Mars’ Global Technology Staff Officer (Supply & Sustainability), Andrew Hobday at a gala dinner attended by 500 industry colleagues and dignitaries. The Global Water Awards are the most prestigious in the water industry.... ...Read more »

The Federal Government’s commitment to spend $900,000 over three years to make foods healthier in Australia has been applauded by the Australian Food and Grocery Council (AFGC) today. In this week’s Budget, the Government committed new funding to the Food and Health Dialogue to develop a rationale for food reformulation – which includes reducing salt, fat and increasing fibre in foods for all Australians. Under the Dialogue, leading food manufacturers are working to improve the... ...Read more »

Concerns that regulations are tightening on venues come after The West Australian today reports that a pub in Perth’s city centre will not be permitted to serve alcohol mixed with energy drinks in the closing two hours of operation on weekends. The ban comes from WA Liquor Commission and could be extended to other venues. The pub, Impact Bar has been banned from serving alcohol mixed with energy drinks between midnight and its 2am closing time on weekends. The restriction came with the pub’s... ...Read more »