French retailer Auchan last week became the latest multinational player to announce investment in India. The market, meanwhile, can prove a challenge and Hershey’s local partner has admitted the future of their venture is uncertain. Elsewhere, Wal-Mart, which this week reported higher quarterly sales, faced more claims of financial impropriety in Mexico. And two bread manufacturers, Australia’s Goodman Fielder and US firm Flowers Foods, spoke of the challenging nature of the sector. Click on the headlines for more.
BRICs and beyond: Auchan bets on India’s potential
The French retailer has become the latest multinational to enter India. We look at its new partnership with local player Max Hypermarket.
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INDIA: Godrej confirms Hershey JV under scrutiny
Indian group Godrej Industries has admitted it could sell its stake in its local venture with Hershey, a business it described as “potentially sick”.
US/MEXICO: Congressmen outline more Wal-Mart Mexico allegations
Two US Congressmen have said they have obtained internal Wal-Mart documents that they say claim staff at the retail giant’s Mexican unit might have evaded tax and laundered money.
Talking shop: Is Wal-Mart’s EDLP focus enough to drive sustained growth?
Wal-Mart’s EDLP strategy has successfully driven sales growth in the second quarter, as shoppers across the globe increasingly seek out low prices. Significantly, the company was able to report that comparative sales were up in every market in which it operates. However, Katy Askew asks, is a focus on price alone enough to maintain this momentum in the longer-term?
Comment: US outlook remains mixed despite rebound in retail sales
Much has been made of the rebound in US retail sales seen in July. However, Katy Askew suggests, with high levels of unemployment and the growing prospect of food price inflation, the US economy is far from out of the woods.
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By GlobalDataOn the money: Promotional activity hits Flowers bottom line
Flowers Foods has indicated an increased level of promotional activity is expected to have a negative impact on margins as US bakers struggle to shore-up volumes in a down market.
On the money: Goodman Fielder “confident” of baking unit turnaround
Australian food manufacturer Goodman Fielder has said it is “confident” it can turn around its baking division following another “disappointing” year for the unit.
Comment: Wyke Facebook campaign suggests new supplier tactic
The decision by Wyke Farms to launch a Facebook campaign to get its cheddar re-listed at Morrisons could signal a new tactic from suppliers in getting their voices heard.
just the answer – Ella’s Kitchen CEO and founder Paul Lindley
UK baby food group Ella’s Kitchen has rapidly expanded to become a household name and pantry staple for parents with pre-school children. New product development coupled with international expansion and moves into complementary categories has continued to fuel growth, while the brand is rumoured to have attracted interest from the likes Nestle. In this month’s just the answer, Ella’s Kitchen founder and CEO Paul Lindley talks to Katy Askew about the development of the brand and what the future might have in store.
On the money: Brasil Foods plans price hikes
Brazilian food group Brasil Foods has said it will look to increase prices to offset the recent spike in commodity costs.
