Nonfoods

WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2007 farm bill proposals released this week prompted applause from specialty crop growers across the country, who signaled appreciation for what they consider important first steps to address the needs of specialty crop producers.

NEW YORK -- As they finally shake off old associations with substandard "brand x" items, private label or store brand food and beverage sales are climbing steadily, according to "Private Label Food and Beverages in the U.S.," a report from market research firm Packaged Facts here. The report puts 2006 sales at over $48 billion, and forecasts that sales will pass $56 billion by 2011.

ATLANTA -- The Coca-Cola Co. here said yesterday that it has signed an agreement to buy fast-growing Fuze Beverage, LLC, manufacturer of Fuze enhanced juices and teas. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

NEW YORK -- As they finally shake off old associations with substandard "brand x" items, private label or store brand food and beverage sales are climbing steadily, according to "Private Label Food and Beverages in the U.S.," a report from market research firm Packaged Facts here. The report puts 2006 sales at over $48 billion, and forecasts that sales will pass $56 billion by 2011.

ALBANY, N.Y. -- A coalition of New York state grocers, labor groups, and other businesses is preparing to do battle against a new grocery tax proposed by Gov. Eliot Spitzer in yesterday's budget announcements, in an effort to get him to focus efforts on what the group calls "real recycling reform."

WASHINGTON -- Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns yesterday unveiled the U.S. Department of Agriculture's 2007 farm bill proposals, which feature more than 65 items that correspond to the 2002 farm bill titles, with additional special focus areas, including specialty crops, beginning farmers and ranchers, and socially disadvantaged producers.

At two distinctive grocers, upstart brands help to enliven the CSD business.

At two distinctive grocers, upstart brands help to enliven the CSD business.