🤝 C&S Wholesale to Acquire SpartanNash in $1.77B Deal

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🗃️ What’s Shaping the Shelves?

C&S Wholesale Grocers has announced plans to acquire SpartanNash in a $1.77 billion agreement. The deal combines two major players in grocery distribution and retail, strengthening C&S's national footprint. With over 145 years of history, SpartanNash brings a mix of supply chain operations and owned retail banners to the table. The acquisition reflects increasing consolidation in the grocery sector as companies race to scale operations, improve supply chain efficiency, and stay competitive in pricing and reach. Read more.

🧙 Retail Masterclass

Even seasoned sales associates sometimes fail to close the sale. According to retail expert Bob Phibbs, it’s not about product knowledge—it’s about outdated habits. Staff often rely too much on features and ignore the emotional reasons people buy. Many forget to build trust or guide shoppers beyond what they think they want. This episode from Retail Doctor emphasizes training employees to engage, listen, and influence decisions—especially when shoppers arrive armed with research but lack direction.

Say Goodbye to Boring Coffee

Like many, my mornings started with bland grocery store coffee. Then Trade changed everything by connecting me with a curated selection of roasts perfectly matched to my tastes, crafted by passionate small-batch roasters. I took a quick quiz, and now I enjoy unique, freshly roasted coffees delivered straight to my door. Not only do they taste better than what I was buying before, but supporting local artisans makes me feel great about the money I’m spending on coffee each week. Plus, Trade is offering [Newsletter Name] readers an exclusive 30% off their first subscription when you sign up today. Trust us, you deserve the upgrade. Our only regret—not finding them sooner!

💡 An Everyday Market Hack

Most retailers rely on peak-hour data to assess performance. Instead, start monitoring the quieter hours—late mornings or early evenings—for patterns in browsing, trial behavior, or category visits. Shoppers during off-peak hours tend to be less rushed and more open to discovery. Use this data to test new product placements, signage, or even promotions without crowd pressure. It’s a low-noise window to learn what truly catches attention.

🧐 Shopper Insights

This study highlights the U.S. states with the highest rates of bacterial contamination in retail meat. The findings show that Salmonella and E. coli levels vary widely by location, influencing where and how shoppers choose to buy protein. Consumers are becoming more cautious, especially in high-risk states, leading to growing demand for transparency, better labeling, and trusted sourcing. Retailers operating in these markets must step up food safety communication and stocking strategies.

Retail Innovation

🏷️ Featured Brand - Furniture Mart USA

Furniture Mart USA has launched its own design studio, bringing concept creation and product development under one roof. The move aims to create faster turnaround, reduce dependency on outside vendors, and align products more closely with customer feedback. By designing in-house, the brand can better test color trends, scale up bestsellers, and refine craftsmanship. This step also signals a shift in furniture retail, where originality and speed-to-market are now business advantages.

🌱 Eco Trends

G.Cove has introduced a new line of sustainable packaging tailored for the retail sector in Australia and New Zealand. Their offering includes reusable, compostable, and recyclable packaging options designed for e-commerce and physical stores. As environmental concerns grow among consumers, brands in the region are under pressure to adopt packaging that aligns with sustainability goals.

Meet the Treadmill That Fits Into Your Summer

The Aviron Victory makes it easier to stay consistent, even during busy, sun-filled days. With science-backed, gamified workouts and endless entertainment options, it fits your life and keeps you moving. Explore scenic routes, compete in games, or stream your favorite shows — all from home.

Aviron’s July 4 sale is on now plus you get an extra $50 off with code VICTORY50 at avironactive.com.

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