Are You on Top of the Latest Trends?
In the latest issue of GPN’s Big Grower, Becky Roberts at the Produce Marketing Association takes a look at some of the megatrends our industry needs to keep on top of in 2019
In the article, Roberts reports that “there’s a new ‘me’ mindset [for consumers] that’s taken over — one dominated by well-being, a new take on value, and a desire to have a lower impact on the environment.”
She says the it is “our collective job … to capitalize on [these] consumer behaviors and maximize plant and floral sales.”
She adds, “Consumers are investing in themselves, and their homes, to feel healthier, content and more relaxed.” And that is good news for our industry because the products you produce are the perfect solution for those “investments.”
In the article, Roberts also addresses how millennials are really embracing plants and flowers at home and online. She quoted PMA’s CEO Cathy Burns who said, “Millennials are a key target for plants and floral because they engage more with experiential products and live in the moment — especially on social media platforms” with their plant purchases. These young plant influencers are creating “plantspiration” and “lifestyle envy” to their peers and others.
These are just a few of the topics that Roberts discusses in her article. Premiumization, healthy living and wellness, and ethical living are some of the other trends that she addresses and that you need to know about.
So be sure to check out Roberts’ article, “Megatrends for 2019,” by clicking here.
Monday is the Deadline
Just a quick reminder … this Monday (01.21.19) is the deadline to nominate someone for GPN’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2019.
If you know an industry up-and-comer who you think belongs in this year’s class, then we want to know about that person.
It’s easy to nominate an individual; just go to www.gpnmag.com/40-under-40-nomination and fill out the online form.
Lowe’s to Add 65,000+ Jobs in 2019
Earlier this month, Lowe’s announced plans to hire more than 65,000 associates this year to improve customer service and product availability. Supporting the growth strategy recently announced by the company’s leadership, Lowe’s hiring investments include adding more than 50,000 seasonal positions; nearly 10,000 permanent associates as part of a Merchandising Service Team; approximately 6,000 full-time assistant store manager and department supervisor roles; and more than 2,000 technology roles, including software engineers, data scientists and other digital positions.
Walmart to Open High Tech Consolidation Center
In July, Walmart plans to open its first 340,000-square-foot high-tech consolidation center in Colton, California. The center will be the first in Walmart’s supply chain to receive, sort and ship freight. This automated technology will enable three times more volume to flow throughout the center and helps Walmart deliver the right product to the right store, so customers can find the products they need. The Walmart-owned center will open with 150 full-time associates and will grow to employ more than 600 associates by 2021.
Amazon to Discontinue Whole Foods 365 Concept
Amazon.com reportedly plans to discontinue its 365 by Whole Foods Market store concept of smaller, less expensive stores. According to Yahoo Finance, Whole Foods CEO John Mackey told employees the company was shifting its small store strategy because the price difference between the company’s two store formats “has become less relevant.” The existing 12 Whole Foods 365 stores will remain open.
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