Nonfoods

While snacks, beer, and soft drinks score biggest for Super Bowl, retailers can gain yardage with many nontraditional products, too.

FISHERS, N.Y. -- The New York Apple Association in September will roll out a crisp consumer advertising and public relations campaign to promote the 2005 crop.

AUSTIN, Tex. -- As the seasonal flavors of the summer harvest become increasingly accessible, Whole Foods Market based here launched a campaign to publicize locally grown fruits and vegetables brought directly to its stores from the field.

NEW YORK -- In a sign that manufacturers have upped the ante on their coupon promotions, FSI coupon use was on the rise in the first half of the year, led by a 15.7 percent jump in personal care product coupons, according to the latest Marx FSI Trend Report issued yesterday.

SALISBURY, N.C. -- Food Lion, a unit of Delhaize America, based here, said yesterday it has named Brad Smith v.p. of accounting, and Paul LaCroix v.p. of dry category management.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- Overcoming lower sales with expense reductions, Spartan Stores' profit climbed 71 percent in the fiscal first quarter ended June 18, while earnings rose to $2.7 million, or 12 cents per share, from $1.6 million, or 8 cents per share, a year earlier.

MCLEAN, Va. -- The American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI), based here, yesterday issued a heartfelt tribute to one of its own -- Gerald E. "Gerry" Thomas, inventor of the TV dinner, who died in Paradise Valley, Ariz. this week of cancer at the age of 83.

STILLWATER, Minn. -- Cub Foods will once again partner with the Minnesota State Fair as the event's exclusive grocery retailer and exclusive ticket outlet in the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota.