2017-01-24



Kroger to Hire 10,000 Employees in 2017
Source USA Today

Kroger announced yesterday that it plans to hire 10,000 permanent employees across its different chains as it continues to expand.

The Cincinnati-based company currently employs more than 430,000 workers nationwide. Kroger (KR) has store chains such as Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Dillons, Smith's, King Soopers, Harris Teeter and Food 4 Less.

As we see a change in consumer market place, chains like Kroger are responding by providing an internet based shopping experience (ClickList).  This appeals to busy consumers as a time saver.  Additional workforce has been needed at ClickList stores to respond to demand.   Expect retail market space to continue to evolve in 2017.

Restaurants Continue to Struggling 2017
Chain restaurants have seen a decline in sale over the last 18 months according to USA Today.

Chains such as sandwich maker Panera and Starbucks continue to do well while groups like Logan's Roadhouse have filed for bankruptcy protection.  As an industry, there has been at lest a 14% decline in chain restaurant dining since 2008 (height of the recession).

What does this mean for Restaurants?  Restaurants will need to find new ways to bring interest back to their locations.  Expect to see some locations update their look and their menus.  Prices will continue to be a factor as minimum wage limits increase and cost of goods fluctuates.

What does that mean for consumers?  Consumers who dine with their pocket book in mind will need to be on the look out for deals.  Sign up for rewards and email alerts from your favorite chains and follow our Restaurant Deals Page.  This is also a great opportunity to look at local non-chain restaurants in your area.  Often you will find comparable or even better prices and fresher ingredients.  Snag a Groupon deal to save on that local dining experience.

Sierra Nevada Recall
Source USA Today

Sierra Nevada Brewing announced Sunday it has issued a recall in the Midwest, South and East Coast of some of its bottled beer after detecting a flaw that could allow glass to break and fall inside.

The recall applies to certain varieties of beer in 12-ounce bottles produced at Sierra Nevada's brewery in Mills River, N.C., the brewer said on its website.

Company expects recall to effect less than 1% off product bottled.  Sierra Nevada says the glass shard could break loose and fall into the bottle. It says it has not received any customer complaints or reports of injuries from the flaw.

The recall applies to Sierra Nevada's Pale Ale and several other varieties. All of the beer was bottled at the North Carolina facility between Dec. 5 and Jan. 8, in the case of the Pale Ale, and Dec. 5 to Jan. 13 for the others.  Arkansas and all boarding states are included in this recall (along with several others).

Tips to Save on Your Super Bowl Party

Looking forward to the big game?  Here are some easy tips to keep your party on budget.

1.  Make it a potluck party ~ Eases the financial burden and the stress for the host to prepare for party.  Great way to show case some of your friend's culinary skills.

2.  Skip the party trays and make your own ~ When you use generic and sale items and a little "elbow grease" you can come out ahead on price for party trays.

3.  Shop sales and use coupons ~ This time of year your Super Bowl favorites (chips, crackers, etc) are on sale.  Match with a coupon or rebate (Ibotta is my favorite) to save even more.

4.  Take advantage of the SAM's Club Membership ~ Great way to save on meat and other party items.  Remember size does matter so keep that in mind when pricing vs. regular grocery store.

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