More than seven in 10 (71%) adult consumers, ages 18 and over, say they discover new products and brands in c-stores. Nearly four in 10 (38%) say they shop at c-stores two or more times a week, while overall, nearly two-thirds (62%) visit c-stores at least once a week.

Global bakery manufacturer and ingredients distributor Dawn Foods announced two additions to its North America leadership team. Ahmet Hepdogan joins the company as vice president of procurement in North America and Josh Bruketta has been promoted to Vice President of People, North America.

Walmart’s Sam's Choice™ oatmilk chocolate bar; Albertsons’ Signature Reserve™ ravioli with porcini mushrooms and truffle; and biodegradable household cleaner from Sprouts Farmers Market are among PLMA’s 2022 Salute to Excellence award winners for store brand innovation. 

This partnership represents a unique competitive lever for both players. Bel, true to its pioneering spirit, is pursuing its strategy of innovation for the future of food. Standing Ovation is accelerating the development of its technology and its concrete application.

The appointments of Wheeler and Heine are part of a long-term succession plan, and they position the company to accelerate innovation, strengthen customer experience, and fulfill the Purpose of Kalsec: unlocking the potential of people, nature, and science to nourish the world

The company opened the world's first cultivated meat production line in Israel in 2021, becoming the first company to immortalize animal cells without any genetic modification and has pioneered a culture medium recycling technology that can reduce production costs and waste. 

Walmart is an early pioneer in the social commerce space and is always testing and learning in new channels, including shoppable livestreams, with the goal of better serving customers by meeting them when and how they want to shop. 

In its fourth year, the 2022 Real California Milk Excelerator advances innovation in its truest state: open. As one of the biggest dairy competitions in the world, the program sought early-stage applicants with high-growth potential that create a 50% cow’s milk-based product or working prototype.

 In July, the Mind Blown Crab Cakes, Dusted Shrimp and Scallops became available nationwide at all Sprouts Farmers Market locations, marking the brand’s first national distribution.

In recognition of its breakthrough status as the first plant-based bacon to harness techniques providing the genuine flavor and texture of bacon, Thrilling Foods Bakon™ has been awarded a US Patent, with other US and international patents pending.