Bits and Pieces - A Closer Look - Private Label Buyer

Minneapolis-based Supervalu said it introduced a line of pet food and supplies under the WholeCare Pet private label. Intended to replace the chain's Happy Tails and NutriPlan brands, the national-brand-equivalent-or-better collection boasts nearly 100 dog and cat products, including both wet and dry dog and cat food, biscuits and treats, and cat litter. Available at all 10 Supervalu banners, as well as selected independent grocers served by the company, the new line is being introduced with banner and circular ads, direct mail, in-store displays and promotions.
Dollar General, Goodlettsville, Tenn., is promoting the return of its Bobbie Brooks brand on the company's Web site. Promising great value, comfortable fit and "quality that lasts wash after wash," the exclusive line of women's clothing is backed by a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.
Mauldin, S.C.-based Bi-LO recently announced a new partnership with the University of South Carolina and Clemson University that will allow customers to earn two free tickets to a Gamecocks or Tigers baseball game this spring. To qualify for "No Dough" admission, shoppers must purchase four participating Southern Home or Top Care brand items in a single transaction prior to May 19 or while supplies last.
Hy-Vee Inc., West Des Moines, Iowa, is using its Web site to explain the NuVal Nutritional Scoring System recently adopted by the chain. Developed by a team of doctors at Yale-affiliated Griffin Hospital, the system uses a patent-pending algorithm to translate the nutritional value of a particular food or beverage into a single number between 1 and 100. Hy-Vee said it hopes to eventually score all 50,000-plus products in its stores, including private label products.
To celebrate its 75th anniversary, West Sacramento, Calif.-based Raley's said it is sending a team of cupcake-toting "Frostinistas" in search of goodness in the Greater Sacramento area. The "Sweet Beat" team will reward 75 unsung heroes and non-profit groups with a surprise delivery of Raley’s limited-edition red velvet cupcakes. Customers can nominate deserving do-gooders on the company's Web site.
Tractor Supply Co., Brentwood, Tenn., said it launched a line of premium private label dog food under the 4health brand. Priced up to 20 percent less than premium-quality national brands, all six antioxidant-rich formulas list fresh meat as their first ingredient and contain no chicken or poultry by-products; artificial flavors or colors; or wheat, corn or soy.
Mississauga, Ontario-based Wal-Mart Canada announced several new environmental initiatives, including plans for an energy-efficient refrigerated distribution center near Calgary, reported the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (Little Rock). Expected to open this fall, the $115 million distribution hub will be 60 percent more energy-efficient than its predecessor, the company said.
Sweden-based clothing retailer H&M said it recently introduced a line of private label skincare products made with certified organic ingredients. Priced between $5 and $7, the Ecocert-approved collection includes shower gel, body lotion, body scrub, hand cream and lip balm, all of which come in recyclable packaging.