Nonfoods

Improved perishables and private label sales helped Weis Markets, Inc. post an 18.5 percent increase in its second-quarter net income vs. the same period a year ago, while its basic and diluted earnings per share increased eight cents to 56 cents per share. During the 13-week period ended June 27, 2009, the Sunbury, Pa.-based regional retailer saw same-store sales gain 2.4 points alongside a 2 percent sales increase of $615.4 million from 603.4 million a year ago, and higher net income of $15.2 million vs. $12.8 million for the same period a year ago.

Harveys Supermarkets has won its second straight Georgia State Best-Bagger Championship, with Danny Goodwin of Augusta, Ga., taking the top prize at this year’s Georgia Food Industry Association (GFIA) competition.

According to a new study published by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) finds, soyfoods and soy isoflavone supplements have no significant impact on male reproductive hormone levels in men. The literature review indicates that soy doesn’t lower testosterone levels.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. and Mi Pueblo Food Centers will receive 2009 Hispanic Retail Excellence Awards at next month’s fifth Hispanic Retail 360 Summit, set to take place Aug. 9 to Aug. 11 in Las Vegas. The world’s largest retailer and the 12-store, northern California-based independent will be feted at the annual trade event for their strong commitment to serving the fast-growing Hispanic community in the United States.

Canadian grocer Loblaw Cos., Ltd. is thanking customers for their continued support of the company’s popular private label product line, President’s Choice, with a PC Sale on selected items running until Aug. 7.

Market of Choice has garnered two awards for its recent Web site redesign, which included enhancements such as Web-only specials, unique recipes, food-and-beverage-focused blogs, and interactive forums.

To meet increasing consumer demand for ethnic flavors, Pacific Natural Foods has added two gluten-free, high- fiber offerings to its line of 32-ounce aseptic creamy soups: All-Natural Spicy Black Bean and All-Natural Tuscan White Bean.

Consumers are eager for innovation when it comes to packaged goods, household and personal products, according to a new study from New York-based Ipsos Marketing, Consumer Goods.