Sep 2008
Smoked Salmon Recall
30/09/08 18:33 Filed in: In the News
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --Brooklyn, NY -- Sept. 26, 2008 --- NY FISH INC. of Brooklyn, NY, is recalling I ♥ NY FISH brand IMPERIAL-EUROPEAN STYLE SMOKED SALMON, vacuum packed, in 3 oz., 8 oz., 16 oz., and whole sides (“to be weighed at time of sale”) sizes with lot numbers 513 1340, 514 1340, 515 1340, and 516 1340, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
I ♥ NY FISH brand IMPERIAL-EUROPEAN STYLE SMOKED SALMON was distributed in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Washington, and California to wholesale distributors and retail food stores, but has also been found at retail in Florida.
The product is packed sliced or whole sides on aluminum coated cardboard in a clear plastic, vacuum packed bag with a red, black, and gold sticker label with gold lettering and a small white sticker label with lot codes 513 1340, 514 1340, 515 1340, 516 1340.
There have been no confirmed illnesses to date.
This recall is the result of samples of IMPERIAL-EUROPEAN STYLE SMOKED SALMON collected from a retail store in Florida by the Florida State Department of Agriculture. These samples revealed the presence of Listeria monocytogenes. As a precaution, the company is recalling I ♥ NY brand IMPERIAL-EUROPEAN STYLE SMOKED SALMON bearing the above lot codes. No other codes are being recalled at this time.
Consumers who have purchased I ♥ NY brand IMPERIAL-EUROPEAN STYLE SMOKED SALMON with the above lot codes should return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with any questions may contact the company at (718) 342-4100.
Print Media Too Fast on the Draw
30/09/08 11:44 Filed in: In the News
Don’t believe everything you read. A number of weekly news magazines and papers printed completely false information. In a crunch to get papers to print, some editors made the regretful decision to ASSUME legislation for the huge AIG bailout would happen before Monday. It didn’t, but the magazines and papers were already beyond print and in the mail with references to the bailout written past tense -- as though it was a historical fact.
Inserting references to the bailout gave more color and substance to articles that referenced sales forecasts for the coming holiday season. But as of today, the bailout has not happened, and Wall Street is actually rebounding as I write. What will happen this afternoon, tomorrow, or the rest of the week is still an unknown.
Embed this event of incorrect news reporting in your mind and use it to background economic news and predictions for the coming holiday season. Don’t believe everything you read or you just might read yourself into a depression! Focus less on “the news” and more on the worthiness and promise of your business.
Inserting references to the bailout gave more color and substance to articles that referenced sales forecasts for the coming holiday season. But as of today, the bailout has not happened, and Wall Street is actually rebounding as I write. What will happen this afternoon, tomorrow, or the rest of the week is still an unknown.
Embed this event of incorrect news reporting in your mind and use it to background economic news and predictions for the coming holiday season. Don’t believe everything you read or you just might read yourself into a depression! Focus less on “the news” and more on the worthiness and promise of your business.
Catalogers Upbeat but Cautious
30/09/08 11:30 Filed in: In the News
At the recent fall conference of the New England Mail Order Association, attitudes were generally upbeat about the coming holiday season, according to a report in Direct Marketing News. Although expectations of growth have been rolled back against the backdrop of Wall Street woes, forecasts for sales remain optimistic. Despite a handful of bankruptcy filings by major catalogers (Lillian Vernon, Sharper Image, Red Envelope), Direct Marketing News reports that catalogers that survived the past year are “weathering the current economic situation”.
Internet spending on advertisements is expected to rise as catalogers and other retailers move from traditional media outreach to more affordable online marketing efforts. With consumer confidence showing a slight decline over the past five months, catalogers and retailers are preparing for what may be a slower-paced season of sales.
Internet spending on advertisements is expected to rise as catalogers and other retailers move from traditional media outreach to more affordable online marketing efforts. With consumer confidence showing a slight decline over the past five months, catalogers and retailers are preparing for what may be a slower-paced season of sales.
White Rabbit Candy Recall
28/09/08 15:05 Filed in: In the News
September 26, 2008 -- QFCO, Inc. of Burlingame, California is recalling White Rabbit Candy because it may be contaminated with Melamine.
Product was distributed to the states of CA, GA, HI, IL, MN, NY, OR, TX, WA through wholesale distributors to retail stores.
The White Rabbit Creamy Candy is sold in 8 or 16 oz packages. All other flavors of White Rabbit Candy, including Assorted (Chocolate, Coconut, and Coffee), Red Bean, Coffee, Corn, Lychee, Mango and Strawberry are sold in 7 oz. packages. All packaging has a logo of a white rabbit on the front with the words "White Rabbit".
No illnesses associated with this product have been reported to date.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product was contaminated with Melamine.
Consumers who have purchased White Rabbit Candy are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or discard it in their trash. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (650) 697-6633.
Product was distributed to the states of CA, GA, HI, IL, MN, NY, OR, TX, WA through wholesale distributors to retail stores.
The White Rabbit Creamy Candy is sold in 8 or 16 oz packages. All other flavors of White Rabbit Candy, including Assorted (Chocolate, Coconut, and Coffee), Red Bean, Coffee, Corn, Lychee, Mango and Strawberry are sold in 7 oz. packages. All packaging has a logo of a white rabbit on the front with the words "White Rabbit".
No illnesses associated with this product have been reported to date.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product was contaminated with Melamine.
Consumers who have purchased White Rabbit Candy are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or discard it in their trash. Consumers with questions may contact the company at (650) 697-6633.
Grilling Sauce Recall
25/09/08 08:24 Filed in: In the News
September 24, 2008 -- CaJohns Fiery Foods Company is recalling a total of 103 individual bottles of HDH Grillin' Sauce sold between the dates of 01/01/07 and 09/15/08. This recall is initiated due to the possibility of non-declared contents on the Ingredient Declaration. The products contain the listed Worcestershire Sauce, but may not be parenthetically listed as to it's ingredients one of which is Anchovies, a serious allergen to specific individuals. These products also contain the listed Soy Sauce, but may not be parenthetically listed as to it's ingredients. Soy Sauce contains Soybeans and Wheat which are serious allergens to specific individuals.
The recalled barbeque sauces were distributed nationwide through retailers, mail order and web sites.
The products come in 16 ounce glass bottles. The lot numbers affected are 249242, 249298, 249304, 249154, 249181, 249197. These are found on a label on the bottle bottom.
No consumer problems have been reported to either the manufacture or the retailers.
The problem was discovered during a routine inspection by FDA officials.
CaJohns Fiery Foods will be issuing a new label to those affected distributors and retailers. All deliveries of product after 09/15/08 contain the new labeling. All stores affected by this recall should contact the manufacturer to acquire new labels. Consumers or retailers with questions should contact the manufacturer at 888-703-3473.
The recalled barbeque sauces were distributed nationwide through retailers, mail order and web sites.
The products come in 16 ounce glass bottles. The lot numbers affected are 249242, 249298, 249304, 249154, 249181, 249197. These are found on a label on the bottle bottom.
No consumer problems have been reported to either the manufacture or the retailers.
The problem was discovered during a routine inspection by FDA officials.
CaJohns Fiery Foods will be issuing a new label to those affected distributors and retailers. All deliveries of product after 09/15/08 contain the new labeling. All stores affected by this recall should contact the manufacturer to acquire new labels. Consumers or retailers with questions should contact the manufacturer at 888-703-3473.
Mom's Food Recall
24/09/08 08:59 Filed in: In the News
September 23, 2008 -- Mom's Food Products, Inc. of Ft Worth, TX is recalling all Tuna Salad sandwiches, Pimento Cheese sandwiches, and potato salad because they may contain eggs in the salad dressing. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
Product was distributed in the Texas area through retail stores or direct delivery.
The tuna salad and pimento cheese sandwiches are packaged in black plastic wedges and the potato salad is in clear round containers included as part of Mom's Big Sub sandwich packages.
There have been no illnesses reported to date.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that an ingredient change in salad dressing was not reported by Mom's supplier.
The products involved are: Mom's Pimento Spread 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00114) Race Trac Pimento Spread 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00114) Crosby Food & Vending Pimento Spread 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00114) Outtakes Pimento Spread 4.0 oz black wedge (No UPC) Mom's Tuna Salad 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00108) Race Trac Tuna Salad 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00108) 2 Podner's Tuna Salad 5.0 oz Clam shell (UPC 83898 00108) Canteen (Outtakes) Tuna Salad Croissant 4.5 oz Poly Sealed (No UPC) Mom's Big Sub with 4.0 oz Potato Salad round opaque container (No UPC)
Consumers who have purchased these items are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Mom's Food Products at 1-800-743-0010.
Product was distributed in the Texas area through retail stores or direct delivery.
The tuna salad and pimento cheese sandwiches are packaged in black plastic wedges and the potato salad is in clear round containers included as part of Mom's Big Sub sandwich packages.
There have been no illnesses reported to date.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that an ingredient change in salad dressing was not reported by Mom's supplier.
The products involved are: Mom's Pimento Spread 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00114) Race Trac Pimento Spread 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00114) Crosby Food & Vending Pimento Spread 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00114) Outtakes Pimento Spread 4.0 oz black wedge (No UPC) Mom's Tuna Salad 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00108) Race Trac Tuna Salad 5.0 oz black wedge (UPC 83898 00108) 2 Podner's Tuna Salad 5.0 oz Clam shell (UPC 83898 00108) Canteen (Outtakes) Tuna Salad Croissant 4.5 oz Poly Sealed (No UPC) Mom's Big Sub with 4.0 oz Potato Salad round opaque container (No UPC)
Consumers who have purchased these items are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Mom's Food Products at 1-800-743-0010.
Pumpkin Seed Recall
24/09/08 08:58 Filed in: In the News
September 22, 2008 -- Fine Land Corp of 239 Bay 20th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11214, is recalling Ying Feng Foodstuffs Brand Pumpkin Seeds because it contains undeclared sulfites. Consumers who have severe sensitivity to sulfites run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume this product.
Ying Feng Foodstuffs Brand Pumpkin Seeds is sold in a 10 ounce, clear plastic package with the following code: EXP 03 25 2010 and was distributed nationwide. It is a product of China.
The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of sulfites in Ying Feng Foodstuffs Brand Pumpkin Seeds which were not declared on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites.
No illnesses or allergic reactions involving this product has been reported to date. Consumers who have purchased Ying Feng Foodstuffs Brand Pumpkin Seeds are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-714-1850.
Ying Feng Foodstuffs Brand Pumpkin Seeds is sold in a 10 ounce, clear plastic package with the following code: EXP 03 25 2010 and was distributed nationwide. It is a product of China.
The recall was initiated after routine sampling by New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Inspectors and subsequent analysis by Food Laboratory personnel revealed the presence of sulfites in Ying Feng Foodstuffs Brand Pumpkin Seeds which were not declared on the label. The consumption of 10 milligrams of sulfites per serving has been reported to elicit severe reactions in some asthmatics. Anaphylactic shock could occur in certain sulfite sensitive individuals upon ingesting 10 milligrams or more of sulfites.
No illnesses or allergic reactions involving this product has been reported to date. Consumers who have purchased Ying Feng Foodstuffs Brand Pumpkin Seeds are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 718-714-1850.
Gift Show Calendar
18/09/08 10:04 Filed in: Trade Shows
2009 Gift Show Calendar
Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market January 6 - 14
LA Mart Gift Show January 13 - 16
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market January 14 - 20
Chicgo Market: Living & Giving January 15 - 21
California Gift Show January 16 - 19
Philadelphia Gift Show January 17 - 20
NASFT Winter Fancy Food Show January 18 - 20
Oasis Gift Show (Glendale, AZ) January 22 - 24
Minneapolis Gift Show January 23 - 27
Kansas City Gift Show January 23 - 27
Seattle Gift Show January 24 - 27
Orlando Gift Show January 24 - 26
New York Int. Gift Fair January 25 - 29
Salt Lake Gift Show January 29 - 31
San Franciso Int. Gift Fair February 7 - 10
Minneapolis Gift Show March 13 - 17
Atlanta Spring Gift & Home Furnishings Market March 14 - 17
Kansas City Gift Show March 20 - 23
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market March 26 - 29
Boston Gift Show March 28 - 31
Chicago Market: Living and Giving March 29 - 31
The Gourmet Housewares Show (Las Vegas) May 5 - 7
New York Stationery Show May 17 - 20
Kansas City Gift Show June 5 - 9
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market June 24 - 30
Atlanta Int. Gift & Home Furnishings Market July 7 - 15
Chicago Market: Living & Giving July 16 - 22
California Gift Show (Los Angeles) July 17 - 20
Oasis Gift Show (Glendale, AZ) July 23 - 25
Kansas City Gift Show July 31 - Aug. 4
Salt Lake Gift Show Aug. 6 - 8
San Francisco Int. Gift Fair Aug. 8 - 11
New York Int. Gift Fair Aug. 15 - 20
Seattle Gift Show Aug. 22 - 25
Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market January 6 - 14
LA Mart Gift Show January 13 - 16
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market January 14 - 20
Chicgo Market: Living & Giving January 15 - 21
California Gift Show January 16 - 19
Philadelphia Gift Show January 17 - 20
NASFT Winter Fancy Food Show January 18 - 20
Oasis Gift Show (Glendale, AZ) January 22 - 24
Minneapolis Gift Show January 23 - 27
Kansas City Gift Show January 23 - 27
Seattle Gift Show January 24 - 27
Orlando Gift Show January 24 - 26
New York Int. Gift Fair January 25 - 29
Salt Lake Gift Show January 29 - 31
San Franciso Int. Gift Fair February 7 - 10
Minneapolis Gift Show March 13 - 17
Atlanta Spring Gift & Home Furnishings Market March 14 - 17
Kansas City Gift Show March 20 - 23
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market March 26 - 29
Boston Gift Show March 28 - 31
Chicago Market: Living and Giving March 29 - 31
The Gourmet Housewares Show (Las Vegas) May 5 - 7
New York Stationery Show May 17 - 20
Kansas City Gift Show June 5 - 9
Dallas Total Home & Gift Market June 24 - 30
Atlanta Int. Gift & Home Furnishings Market July 7 - 15
Chicago Market: Living & Giving July 16 - 22
California Gift Show (Los Angeles) July 17 - 20
Oasis Gift Show (Glendale, AZ) July 23 - 25
Kansas City Gift Show July 31 - Aug. 4
Salt Lake Gift Show Aug. 6 - 8
San Francisco Int. Gift Fair Aug. 8 - 11
New York Int. Gift Fair Aug. 15 - 20
Seattle Gift Show Aug. 22 - 25
New Christmas CD
11/09/08 11:59 Filed in: Gift Buyer Review
North Star Music is ready for holiday gift buyers with a new line of CD’s. The new We Three Strings, by Johannes Linstead, will be hard to resist -- especially if you play it in your store. As editor of Gift Basket Review Online, I listen to many new releases and this is one of the best holiday CD’s I’ve heard this year. We Three Strings is twelve of your all-time favorite Christmas songs performed by three of today’s finest guitarists with World, Latin, and Smooth Jazz rhythms. It features Billboard-charting recording artist Johannes Linstead, Bryan Lubeck, and Tomas Michaud. Put it in your best holiday gift baskets! Beautiful packaging -- great music.
Contact: www.northstarmusic.com
Candle Safety Notes
11/09/08 11:47 Filed in: Success Scoop
Orla Soy Candle company offers safety notes and helpful hints for using candles. Be sure to pass these along to customers.
- To maintain your candle, sharp scissors are a must as you must trim the wick to 1/4” before you light the candle for the first time. A metal utensil (spoon or butter knife) to center the wick and clean the melt pool are also helpful.
- Keep the wick trimmed 1/4” and centered for a cleaner burn. Keep wax free of wick trimmings.
- On the first burn let the melt pool reach the edge of the container. If the candle is burning to one side, push the wick towards the opposite side and/or turn the candle away from the draft.
- Always place candles (warmers or melters) on a heat resistant surface. Keep away from drafts, open windows, ceiling fans, vents, pets, children and flammable objects. Keeping the burning candle away from drafts will help prevent uneven burning and sooting.
- Do not burn under a cupboard or shelf. This inhibits the amount of oxygen that is getting to the wick and will cause black soot to form. It is also dangerous.
- Mushrooms sometimes found on top of the wicks, are carbon deposits usually appearing after long burning cycles. Always trim these off and keep them out of the melt pool for more efficient burn.
- If the wick becomes too long, or an air current disturbs the flame, small amounts of unburned carbon particles will escape from the flame as a visible wisp of smoke. Any candle will soot if the flame is disturbed or the wick needs to be trimmed. Keep the wick trimmed to 1/4”. If soot builds up on the glass, clean with a paper towel and glass cleaner. (When soot starts to build up on the glass it means your candle needs attention and you may need to trim the wick, move the candle out of the draft or away from the ceiling fan.)
- 100% soy wax candles may look and burn differently than candles made from wax blends or paraffin. You may see subtle frosting on the top and sometimes on the insides of the candle, bubbles around the edge of the melt pool, and a waxy film around the edge of glass. If candles are left in artificial light for long periods of time they may darken or change color. It is rare and depends on the type and amount of essential oils in the fragrance. None of the above will affect the performance, enjoyment or safety of your candle. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candle before going to sleep!
Information provided by Orla Soy Candle www.orlasoycandle.com
- To maintain your candle, sharp scissors are a must as you must trim the wick to 1/4” before you light the candle for the first time. A metal utensil (spoon or butter knife) to center the wick and clean the melt pool are also helpful.
- Keep the wick trimmed 1/4” and centered for a cleaner burn. Keep wax free of wick trimmings.
- On the first burn let the melt pool reach the edge of the container. If the candle is burning to one side, push the wick towards the opposite side and/or turn the candle away from the draft.
- Always place candles (warmers or melters) on a heat resistant surface. Keep away from drafts, open windows, ceiling fans, vents, pets, children and flammable objects. Keeping the burning candle away from drafts will help prevent uneven burning and sooting.
- Do not burn under a cupboard or shelf. This inhibits the amount of oxygen that is getting to the wick and will cause black soot to form. It is also dangerous.
- Mushrooms sometimes found on top of the wicks, are carbon deposits usually appearing after long burning cycles. Always trim these off and keep them out of the melt pool for more efficient burn.
- If the wick becomes too long, or an air current disturbs the flame, small amounts of unburned carbon particles will escape from the flame as a visible wisp of smoke. Any candle will soot if the flame is disturbed or the wick needs to be trimmed. Keep the wick trimmed to 1/4”. If soot builds up on the glass, clean with a paper towel and glass cleaner. (When soot starts to build up on the glass it means your candle needs attention and you may need to trim the wick, move the candle out of the draft or away from the ceiling fan.)
- 100% soy wax candles may look and burn differently than candles made from wax blends or paraffin. You may see subtle frosting on the top and sometimes on the insides of the candle, bubbles around the edge of the melt pool, and a waxy film around the edge of glass. If candles are left in artificial light for long periods of time they may darken or change color. It is rare and depends on the type and amount of essential oils in the fragrance. None of the above will affect the performance, enjoyment or safety of your candle. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish candle before going to sleep!
Information provided by Orla Soy Candle www.orlasoycandle.com
New Candle Fragrances
11/09/08 11:39 Filed in: Gift Buyer Review
New candle fragrances are on the market -- ready for fall and holiday gift baskets. Cedar and saffron are popular again this year, and Orla Soy Candles has a good one with packaging matched perfectly to fall colors. Named Weeked in Tuscany, the candle has a distinctively fresh scent with a sensation of texture and warmth. It contains bottom notes of sandalwood, cedarwood, amber and musk with alluring top notes of bergamot, lavender and coriander. Website: www.orlasoycandle.com
Finger Lickin' Cooks?
10/09/08 11:01 Filed in: In the News
Finger-licking cooking is one thing, but finger-licking cooks?
A new Texas Tech University study on food safety measures found that some Food Network stars may inadvertently be teaching the wrong lessons during their popular shows.
Last year researchers sat down to analyze food-safety practices used on the Food Networks’ heavy hitters – 30 Minute Meals with Rachael Ray, The Essence of Emeril, Everyday Italian, Paula’s Home Cooking and Semi Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee.
The results weren’t exactly savory: 118 positive food-safety measures and 460 poor food handling incidents. Among the most noticeable bad behaviors were not washing fruits, vegetables and herbs properly, as well as a lack of hand washing in general.
Researchers analyzed 49 shows airing over a two-week period and used 17 different coded categories: six positive and 11 negative. Positive categories included hand washing, cleaning equipment, washing fruits and vegetables, adequate refrigeration, use of a thermometer or other positives.
Negative behaviors include food from unsafe sources, failure to use a thermometer, use of food from the floor, failure to refrigerate perishables, failure to wash fruits or vegetables, inadequately washing equipment, sampling food or licking fingers, cross-contamination of ready-to-eat or raw foods, touching the face and failing to wash hands.
“These are important behaviors because if they’re not followed you can become ill,” said Mindy Brashears, associate professor and director of Texas Tech’s International Center for Food Industry Excellence. “Many food-borne illnesses can be prevented by proper food handling, and that’s why it’s important these popular stars follow good safety practices.”
The Food Network is distributed to more than 85 million households in the United States and is considered the giant in food programming, ranked number one out of 50 cable channels.
A new Texas Tech University study on food safety measures found that some Food Network stars may inadvertently be teaching the wrong lessons during their popular shows.
Last year researchers sat down to analyze food-safety practices used on the Food Networks’ heavy hitters – 30 Minute Meals with Rachael Ray, The Essence of Emeril, Everyday Italian, Paula’s Home Cooking and Semi Homemade Cooking with Sandra Lee.
The results weren’t exactly savory: 118 positive food-safety measures and 460 poor food handling incidents. Among the most noticeable bad behaviors were not washing fruits, vegetables and herbs properly, as well as a lack of hand washing in general.
Researchers analyzed 49 shows airing over a two-week period and used 17 different coded categories: six positive and 11 negative. Positive categories included hand washing, cleaning equipment, washing fruits and vegetables, adequate refrigeration, use of a thermometer or other positives.
Negative behaviors include food from unsafe sources, failure to use a thermometer, use of food from the floor, failure to refrigerate perishables, failure to wash fruits or vegetables, inadequately washing equipment, sampling food or licking fingers, cross-contamination of ready-to-eat or raw foods, touching the face and failing to wash hands.
“These are important behaviors because if they’re not followed you can become ill,” said Mindy Brashears, associate professor and director of Texas Tech’s International Center for Food Industry Excellence. “Many food-borne illnesses can be prevented by proper food handling, and that’s why it’s important these popular stars follow good safety practices.”
The Food Network is distributed to more than 85 million households in the United States and is considered the giant in food programming, ranked number one out of 50 cable channels.
Black Licorice Recall
10/09/08 10:39 Filed in: In the News
September 5, 2008 -- Lucky Country Inc. of Lincolnton, NC is recalling all of its natural black licorice products from California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, and Washington State due to elevated levels of lead.
Recent tests performed by the California Department of Public Health and the Food and Drug Administration showed that Lucky Country Aussie Style Soft Gourmet Licorice Black (All Natural) in 1.5 lb bags contained a lead level exceeding the level permitted in candy. Because of this finding, Lucky Country is voluntarily recalling all of its Lucky Country Aussie Style Soft Gourmet Licorice Black (All Natural) from the market. In addition to the 1.5 lb bags, Lucky Country also manufactures this natural black licorice product in 6 oz and 3 lb bags, and in a 1 lb tub. Consumers are advised to check to see if they have this product in their possession and should either dispose of it or return it to their retail outlet for a full refund.
Lucky Country is cooperating with the California Department of Public Health and the Food and Drug Administration to conduct the recall. Consumers with questions may contact the company at customerservice@lucky-country.com, or 828 428-8313 during business hours.
Recent tests performed by the California Department of Public Health and the Food and Drug Administration showed that Lucky Country Aussie Style Soft Gourmet Licorice Black (All Natural) in 1.5 lb bags contained a lead level exceeding the level permitted in candy. Because of this finding, Lucky Country is voluntarily recalling all of its Lucky Country Aussie Style Soft Gourmet Licorice Black (All Natural) from the market. In addition to the 1.5 lb bags, Lucky Country also manufactures this natural black licorice product in 6 oz and 3 lb bags, and in a 1 lb tub. Consumers are advised to check to see if they have this product in their possession and should either dispose of it or return it to their retail outlet for a full refund.
Lucky Country is cooperating with the California Department of Public Health and the Food and Drug Administration to conduct the recall. Consumers with questions may contact the company at customerservice@lucky-country.com, or 828 428-8313 during business hours.
Going for Gamma Women?
05/09/08 11:56 Filed in: In the News
Are you targeting your marketing toward Gamma Women? Maybe. But who and what are Gamma Women? According to a Meredith Corporation study, Gamma women are everyday women with lots of friends who like to ‘share information within their social network.’ In other words, Gamma women are like you and me, for the most part, and they (we) like to talk about what we like, what we don’t like, what works, what doesn’t, and, in general -- well, you know what we do!
Marketers say they have tapped more into the Alpha Women in the past. Alpha Women are leaders who ‘selectively pass along information in a top-down manner, with an eye toward status and popularity.’ That is changing, in favor of the ‘everyday woman’ who was not considered to be capable of influencing a large body of buyers.
Blogs have changed the definition and pool of women who can influence large numbers of buyers. The way women share information -- and word-of-mouth endorsements -- has changed drastically in the last few years. Marketers recognizie this and want to tap into this market of everyday Gamma Women. The challenge is making the approach look and feel genuine.
Marketers say they have tapped more into the Alpha Women in the past. Alpha Women are leaders who ‘selectively pass along information in a top-down manner, with an eye toward status and popularity.’ That is changing, in favor of the ‘everyday woman’ who was not considered to be capable of influencing a large body of buyers.
Blogs have changed the definition and pool of women who can influence large numbers of buyers. The way women share information -- and word-of-mouth endorsements -- has changed drastically in the last few years. Marketers recognizie this and want to tap into this market of everyday Gamma Women. The challenge is making the approach look and feel genuine.
Brief Decline of Internet Sales?
05/09/08 11:36 Filed in: In the News
In a report issued by Direct Marketing News, catalog/Internet retailers reported a slide in Internet sales as a percentage of total direct sales (Direct Marketing Association’s 2008 State of the Catalog Industry report). This is puzzling marketing experts because Internet sales have been on a continual climb for over a decade.
But the stat may be misleading, since survey respondents may not have counted sales driven by search marketing and social networking activity. But even if the results are on the mark, the decline of Internet sales in the total direct sales dropped by only 2%. In 2004, Internet sales were reported as 38% of that year’s total direct sales; the 2007 survey lists Internet sales as 36%.
Sales may have been lost -- if they were -- because many major catalogers chose to significantly cutback or forego mailing printed catalogs to Internet customers, relying on past data that indicated pure Internet customers were not as reponsive as retail customers to catalogs. In terms of overall sales, 68% of catalog/Internet retailers reported an increase in 2007, a one point decline from 2006.
But the stat may be misleading, since survey respondents may not have counted sales driven by search marketing and social networking activity. But even if the results are on the mark, the decline of Internet sales in the total direct sales dropped by only 2%. In 2004, Internet sales were reported as 38% of that year’s total direct sales; the 2007 survey lists Internet sales as 36%.
Sales may have been lost -- if they were -- because many major catalogers chose to significantly cutback or forego mailing printed catalogs to Internet customers, relying on past data that indicated pure Internet customers were not as reponsive as retail customers to catalogs. In terms of overall sales, 68% of catalog/Internet retailers reported an increase in 2007, a one point decline from 2006.
Hershey Recalls Chocolate
05/09/08 11:33 Filed in: In the News
The Hershey Company today announced a voluntary recall of 7.25-ounce plastic bottles of Hershey's Chocolate Shell Topping because they contain undeclared almonds. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to almonds run the risk of serious or life threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.
The only 7.25-ounce bottles of Hershey's Chocolate Shell Topping affected have the code 69N printed on the back of the bottle below the UPC symbol. The UPC/Bar Code is 346000. The item in question was available for purchase nationwide after July 8, 2008.
No Hershey confectionery items or other shell toppings are involved in this recall. No illnesses have been reported to date. The product is completely safe for consumers who do not have an allergy or sensitivity to almonds.
Hershey issued the voluntary recall after a consumer reported the issue. The company immediately investigated and found that a small portion of a Heath's Shell Topping production run used bottles labeled Hershey's Chocolate Shell Topping.
Consumers who have purchased the item in question should contact Hershey Consumer Relations at 1-800-468-1714.
The only 7.25-ounce bottles of Hershey's Chocolate Shell Topping affected have the code 69N printed on the back of the bottle below the UPC symbol. The UPC/Bar Code is 346000. The item in question was available for purchase nationwide after July 8, 2008.
No Hershey confectionery items or other shell toppings are involved in this recall. No illnesses have been reported to date. The product is completely safe for consumers who do not have an allergy or sensitivity to almonds.
Hershey issued the voluntary recall after a consumer reported the issue. The company immediately investigated and found that a small portion of a Heath's Shell Topping production run used bottles labeled Hershey's Chocolate Shell Topping.
Consumers who have purchased the item in question should contact Hershey Consumer Relations at 1-800-468-1714.
Winter Holiday Spending
05/09/08 11:05 Filed in: Success Scoop
Clap your hands and say “thank goodness”! The Winter Holidays are finally in view, bringing with it -- we trust -- much needed revenue.
Typical of a Presidential election year, sales may have been sluggish the past few months. But after November, when future national leadership concerns are set to rest, retail sales are likely to enjoy a robust return to more normal patterns. Keeping the election in mind, Winter Holiday sales may start slow, so don’t panic.
Remember that, historically, Winter Holiday sales make cash registers jingle with joy. In 2007, The National Retail Federation reported that consumers spent $469.9 BILLION during the Winter Holiday sales period (Christmas). But, you really have to see the breakdown of other holiday sales to get the big picture. According to the National Retail Federation, this is the breakdown:
St. Patrick’s Day $3.6 billion
Halloween $5.1 billion
Super Bowl $9.5 billion
Father’s Day $9.6 billion
Easter $14.4 billion
Mother’s Day $15.8 billion
Valentine’s Day $17.0 billion
Back to School/College $51.4 billion
Winter Holidays $469.9 billion
In a pie chart, the Winter Holidays visually represent about three quarters of the total. That’s a nice thought to keep in mind as you head into the most lucrative time of the year -- and the most joyful season.
There is some wisdom in being cautious with wholesale buying (noting the election and slight rise in unemployment numbers), but do remember that you can only sell as much as you buy.
Typical of a Presidential election year, sales may have been sluggish the past few months. But after November, when future national leadership concerns are set to rest, retail sales are likely to enjoy a robust return to more normal patterns. Keeping the election in mind, Winter Holiday sales may start slow, so don’t panic.
Remember that, historically, Winter Holiday sales make cash registers jingle with joy. In 2007, The National Retail Federation reported that consumers spent $469.9 BILLION during the Winter Holiday sales period (Christmas). But, you really have to see the breakdown of other holiday sales to get the big picture. According to the National Retail Federation, this is the breakdown:
St. Patrick’s Day $3.6 billion
Halloween $5.1 billion
Super Bowl $9.5 billion
Father’s Day $9.6 billion
Easter $14.4 billion
Mother’s Day $15.8 billion
Valentine’s Day $17.0 billion
Back to School/College $51.4 billion
Winter Holidays $469.9 billion
In a pie chart, the Winter Holidays visually represent about three quarters of the total. That’s a nice thought to keep in mind as you head into the most lucrative time of the year -- and the most joyful season.
There is some wisdom in being cautious with wholesale buying (noting the election and slight rise in unemployment numbers), but do remember that you can only sell as much as you buy.