UK supermarkets gradually eliminating expiration dates on perishable items

UK supermarkets are gradually getting rid of expiration dates on a range of perishable items in favor of shoppers’ judgment. While the chain retailers say the move will save customers money and cut waste, it marks a new turn in a grim consumer battle with rampant inflation, according to an article by Bloomberg. Morrisons kicked off […]

Rewe’s Stephan Weist brings broader perspective on global grape marketing

We have been fortunate to have Stephan Weist of Rewe in Germany participate here on the Pundit and in many of our events: Wonky Fruit, Regionality, Omni-Channel, Sustainable Packaging… All Come To The Fore In Presentation At Global Trade Symposium By Stephan Weist Of REWE Group And Patricia Brunn Of Penny Market Announcing Thought-Leader Breakfast […]

Ripening is a science, but it also an art that is underappreciated

Ripening is an integral component of the fresh produce supply chain. Some of today’s most-consumed fresh produce items are ripened or conditioned at certain points in their product life cycle. Ripening has continued to evolve over time with advancements in technology, equipment and construction. As today’s consumer continues to become more dynamic and expects a […]

In an effort to trim food waste, Waitrose cuts out ‘best before’ dates

Waitrose is one of the many retailers in UK heeding the call to prevent food waste, and to that end, it is planning to remove “best before” dates on 500 of its products including fresh fruits and vegetables starting in September. The hope is that consumers won’t be so quick to toss away perfectly good […]

Fresh produce finding its place more frequently on pizza

Platforms. Everyone in menu research and development thinks about platforms for serving a wide variety of menu items. Platforms can be breads, tortillas, biscuits, baked potatoes or pizza crusts, and each of these platforms is a perfect perch for fresh produce. Pizza especially. Crispy or doughy crust, a savory sauce, melted cheese, and a blank […]

Boldly British recyclable packaging on vine tomatoes hits the mark for M&S

M&S has given its British Collection vine tomato packaging a beautiful and more sustainable upgrade, switching from plastic sleeves to a recyclable cardboard format. The new covers feature an open look at the tomatoes on top, with a much smaller film footprint, while the rest of the package is wrapped in the sustainable material and […]

Inflation, prices and profits: It’s a slippery slope

As we move forward in these inflationary times, the pressure increases on prices and, ultimately, sales and profits. Because of these pressures, upper management demands for increased sales and profits are reaching crisis levels. These financial measures become the total focus for upper management (especially those who are publicly held) and command the utmost attention […]