AUSTIN, TX - As the oldest Gen Z members approach the ripe age of 27, the generation’s shopping power is beginning to increase, signaling an opportunity for retailers to tap into rising consumer trends. In its latest consumer survey by YouGov, Whole Foods Market revealed that Gen Z consumers are placing an overwhelming emphasis on both sustainability and quality in their grocery products, with many willing to spend more to support brands that reflect these values.

“Prioritizing a positive climate impact while continuing to meet our rigorous Quality Standards is part of our identity at Whole Foods Market. It’s not just what we do, it’s who we are as a company,” said Jason Buechel, Whole Foods Market Chief Executive Officer. “As Gen Z generates a higher demand for environmentally conscious products, we have continued to increase our efforts toward climate-smart agriculture and responsible sourcing practices. This generation gives me great optimism as we continue to protect our food systems for future generations to come.”

The national online survey sampled 1,032 adults between the ages of 18 to 27 in the U.S., according to a press release. Findings revealed that approximately 70 percent of Gen Z shoppers support climate-smart agricultural practices, and 55 percent are willing to pay more for environmentally sustainable products.

In addition, over 50 percent of Gen Z consumers prefer brands that prioritize lower environmental impacts or locally sourced foods.

“We know Gen Z cares deeply about how their food is grown and produced, and we are committed to providing products that support these values,” said Sonya Gafsi Oblisk, Whole Foods Market Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer. “We are proud to be a trusted grocer and inspire consumer confidence in the products they buy through our industry-leading quality standards and exclusive programs like Sourced for Good that support workers, communities, and the environment where our products are sourced.”

Quality is another determining factor in Gen Z shopping preferences, with 80 percent of the generation agreeing that food quality is important in purchasing decisions and 70 percent willing to spend more on food that is high-quality. As the release went on to note, the study reinforces a growing demand among younger generations for clear information about sustainability to make informed purchasing decisions.

More details from the survey can be found here. Keep reading ANUK as we bring you more retail news.

CANADA - Loblaw Companies Limited banner Shoppers Drug Mart® continues to display its support for its communities, raising funds each fall for the many women impacted by domestic violence. With its national Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health™ Giving Shelter fundraising campaign, the retailer donates to a variety of local charity partners to support women’s health and increase access to care in the wake of domestic violence.

Ashley Davidson, Peers Chair for Alberta and Associate-Owner of a Shoppers Drug Mart store in St. Albert, Alta, recently joined the foundation's Board of Directors, helping to further increase the company’s impact on women in need.

“As a Board Member for Shoppers Foundation for Women’s Health, I hope to be able to do even more to support women fleeing violence,” shares Davidson, who joined the Board in June 2024. “Being able to see the big picture goals, to help identify where we can create access points for women is really rewarding. I am thrilled to be at the table and to be able to help women across Canada get the care they need."

The Giving Shelter campaign runs until October 4, in-store and online, and 100 percent of donations made in-store stay within the local community, a press release explained. The campaign aims to provide vital support for women facing these situations, as resources and support are not always available where they are needed.

“In rural communities, there is often no local shelter—the nearest shelter to Morinville was in Edmonton, nearly 40 km away,” Davidson added. “And if there is a shelter, there’s no guarantee there will be room there if someone shows up.”

We applaud Loblaw and its Shoppers Drug Mart banner for this honorable effort to support its community. To read more about the campaign, click here.

LA CAÑADA FLINTRIDGE, CA - For those looking to diversify their trade show experience, linking up with leading transportation providers should be top of mind. At the International Fresh Produce Association’s (IFPA) upcoming Global Produce & Floral Show, Allen Lund Company (ALC) is one broker that will be ready to talk shop.

“ALC is excited to meet you at the IFPA’s Global Produce & Floral Show and share how our reliable transportation services can support your business,” shared Danny Garcia, National Sales Manager at ALC Dallas, in a video from the company. “As specialists in produce transportation, we understand the unique challenges of moving fresh, perishable products. With over 48 years of experience, we ensure that your produce is handled with care and arrives fresh and on time—any time, any place, any season, ALC has you covered.”

Garcia and other company reps will be at the show in booth #C1921 with ALC’s famous truck, Big Al.

For all of your upcoming show coverage, be sure to keep checking in with us at AndNowUKnow.

UNITED STATES - Operations at 14 United States ports are expected to cease on October 1, currently under a contract between the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) that expires at midnight, September 30. Currently, both sides are signaling the belief that a strike will occur and no new offers will be made prior to October 1.

The 14 ports include Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Hampton Roads, Houston, Jacksonville, Miami, Mobile, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, Savannah, Tampa, and Wilmington. The White House has indicated publicly that they are not considering the use of Taft Hartley provisions to prevent a work stoppage from occurring, the International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) shared in a release.

IFPA joined a broad business community effort earlier this year, raising concerns about the potential impact of a failure by the two parties to reach a labor agreement.

“Earlier this month, it became evident that negotiations were not proceeding at the pace necessary to avoid a shutdown, and a second letter was sent by IFPA and others to raise awareness and request White House intervention,” the organization stated in the release. “In just the last few days, IFPA has also worked more specifically with the agriculture community to seek intervention by the Administration.”

IFPA staff have been in communication with members in recent days, gathering data and information about the specific challenges our industry faces by this potential shutdown. The organization has already implemented efforts to mitigate the impact, however, concerns remain about the strike lasting for an extended period.

“This will directly impact both imports and exports via these 14 ports. We also believe there will be indirect impacts to ports not listed but that could see increases in cargo movements,” IFPA continued. “IFPA members should expect to see global repercussions for both businesses and consumers, especially if the stoppages linger.”

IFPA is also speaking directly to the Administration, including staff at the White House and USDA to relay its industry-specific concerns. As we move forward, IFPA will continue to seek additional avenues to urge the parties to reach a deal and to urge policy makers to intervene to prevent a strike.

ANUK will continue to report on this, so stay tuned.

CHICAGO, IL - RSM U.S. is on a journey of continuous improvement, which is why it came as little surprise that the industry partner was recently named to Consulting magazine’s Best Firms to Work For list for 2024 in the large firms category.

“I am thrilled to see our firm recognized on Consulting magazine's Best Firms to Work For list for 2024,” said Pat Vance, National Consulting Leader. “This accolade is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our consultants who embody our commitment to delivering the highest quality services to the middle market. It's their passion and expertise that make RSM a compelling place to work and a trusted advisor to our clients. We are proud to be acknowledged and will continue to foster a culture of excellence and inclusion that empowers every member of our team to thrive.”

Each year, Consulting magazine identifies the best firms to work for in the consulting profession. According to a press release, the rankings are based on responses to survey questions taken by a firm’s own consultants. Scores are measured against all qualifying firms.

Honorees were recognized during the publication’s awards ceremony on Thursday, September 12, 2024, at Chelsea Piers in New York.

Congratulations to RSM!