Walmart

BENTONVILLE, Ark.- With the recent passage of the omnibus appropriations bill that delayed mandatory country-of-origin labeling for two years, an industry report says Wal-Mart is preparing to voluntarily label fruits and vegetables in its produce departments.

A dramatic shift in strategic assumptions has propelled the retailer's spectacular expansion since the death of founder Sam Walton.

Undaunted by today's intense competition, a number of creative independent operators are thriving on their innovation and their imagination.

Look for low-carb cocktails and packaging advances to re-energize the juice aisle in 2004.

WEST SACRAMENTO, Calif. - William J. Coyne, president of the supermarket chain Raley's since 2002, has been appointed c.e.o., according to the Sacramento Bee.

LOS ANGELES - An economic analysis by a Los Angeles think tank has found that Wal-Mart supercenters' entry into the Southern California grocery industry over the next five years, although it will result in changes and job losses, will increase overall employment in the region and save shoppers billions of dollars, the North County Times reports.

SAN FRANCISCO - California State Controller Steve Westly said on Tuesday he has urged Safeway Inc. to end the grocery workers' strike, according to Reuters.

PITTSBURGH - Giant Eagle last week announced it would lay off 115 management, administrative and clerical workers as part of a restructuring effort. The majority of the cuts are being made at the company's headquarters office in Pittsburgh.