Long reads – Page 338
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Analysis & Features
Asda is the most successful at keeping inflation in check
The latest Grocer Price Index figures show Asda keeping its prices at the same level as a year ago. Not so at the other big multiples.
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Analysis & FeaturesAcid Test: Thirst Pockets Multi Cloth
The new “super-strong kitchen towel” aims to wow consumers and shake up the sector
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InterviewsThe value engineer: Heineken UK's Stefan Orlowski
After beer and cider was again refused a lifeline in last week’s Budget, Britain’s biggest brewer is making its own plans to inject life into the sector. And they involve a ladder. Nick Hughes speaks to Heineken UK MD Stefan Orlowski
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Analysis & FeaturesThe royal bandwagon: what Wills and Kate's wedding means for grocery
Last year’s World Cup didn’t quite live up to the promise as far as merchandising went – for obvious reasons. But with the Royal Wedding nearly upon us, brands and retailers have another chance to strike gold. So who’s poised to cash in? Rob Brown reports
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Analysis & FeaturesIn the world of off-licences, is Bargain Booze a bargain?
Wine Cellar and Threshers went bust. Oddbins is on the brink of a CVA. So who would want to buy Bargain Booze and why? Elinor Zuke reports
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Analysis & FeaturesAcid Test: Playboy Energy Drink
The new energy drink is positioned as “a great-tasting product that is energy and more”
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Analysis & FeaturesWhat effect will Japanese crisis have on tuna prices?
Uncertainty reigns in tuna, as Japan cuts back on bluefin imports. But the humanitarian crisis might also trigger more demand, reports Julia Glotz
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Analysis & FeaturesWhat the Big Society means for grocery
David Cameron’s vision for a ‘Big Society’ has met with scepticism and confusion, not least from retailers and manufacturers who, for years, have been engaged in community and corporate social responsibility-based initiatives. But it’s the Localism Bill that provides most food for thought. Nick Hughes reports
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Analysis & FeaturesBig deal? The pledges that might make Brits healthier
More than 170 signatories have committed to voluntary pledges under the Responsibility Deal, but what practical results can be expected, asks Hannah Stodell
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Analysis & FeaturesFarmers take global gamble with plans for powder plant
Is Farmers for Action’s plan to abandon supermarket milk and play the global commodities markets a smart move, ask Richard Ford and Julia Glotz
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Analysis & FeaturesAcid Test: Kit Kat Four Finger 70% Dark
The higher cocoa content and sleeker look will help the brand tap into the popularity of dark chocolate
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Analysis & Features
Commodities: Detergent ingredients soar, threatening retail prices
Detergent brands have been relying on consumer loyalty and large ad spends, says Mintec’s Robert Miles. But cost increases are threatening their dominance
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Analysis & FeaturesThe death of the paperboy
The paper round has been a source of pocket money for generations of youngsters, reports Beth Phillips. But with newsagents’ profits being squeezed, are we about to witness the death of the paperboy?
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Analysis & FeaturesHugh won his fish fight. But how will discards ban work?
Brussels responded with uncharacteristic speed to the chef’s campaign to ban fish discards, but how will the new system work, asks Richard Ford
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Analysis & FeaturesLansley out of his mind over ‘blank cheque’ for criminals
Retailers fear unscrupulous gangs will undermine all the government hopes to achieve with a display ban and plain packaging, says Ronan Hegarty
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Analysis & FeaturesAcid Test: Original Sin hard cider
The 5.5% abv lightly carbonated cider provides “an easy-drinking, fresh apple taste”, according to maker Vertical Drinks
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Analysis & Features
Promo Dynamic: Confectioners make most of extra-long Easter season
Mars has finally joined the Easter promotion party, but it is rival Cadbury that led the way in confectionery promos this month. Hannah Stodell reports
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Analysis & FeaturesMe-too: Tesco hits back with the sincerest form of flattery
After deriding the Asda Price Guarantee as misleading and overly complex, is Tesco’s version better in any way, asks James Halliwell
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Analysis & FeaturesRed meat good, red meat bad... confused, anyone?
Last week saw the publication of two apparently contradictory reports on the health risks of red meat. Julia Glotz assesses their potential impact on sales
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Analysis & Features
Retail Prices: Is Asda managing to wean itself off heavy promotions?
Morrisons has been left as clear leader in the promotional stakes, as Asda finally starts to scale back its activity. Ronan Hegarty reports