Orders for big-ticket items like autos and appliances surged 9.2% in March in rush to beat tariffs at CNBC. “Excluding defense, the increase was even higher, at 10.4%, though the ex-transportation number was flat. Transportation equipment orders surged 27%…” Read more

 

…Three-quarters of the public expect tariffs to increase consumer prices at APNORC

 

Tractor Supply Q1 comparable sales down 0.9%; comp average transaction growth of 2.1% Press release

 

P&G Q3 net sales down 2% Press release

 

…Procter & Gamble CEO says price hikes are ‘likely’ at CNBC. “He added that price hikes tied to the tariffs would occur in the next fiscal year, which starts in July…” Read more

 

Food Additives Could Combine to Boost Health Threats at WSJ. “In recent years, scientists have found that some additives, like emulsifiers, dyes and artificial sweeteners are linked to health problems. Studies have generally focused on the impact of one substance or type of additive. But that isn’t the way people generally consume them. Ultra-processed foods often contain a cocktail of additives. And many people eat more than one ultra-processed product in a day.” WSJ subs.

 

Pastor calls for ‘full Target boycott’ over concerns about diversity, equity, inclusion at AP

 

Capital One CEO says US consumers are in ‘good shape,’ but there are ‘worrying signs’ at Fox Business

 

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Ulta Beauty says online shopping habits are changing. Here’s how the retailer invests in tech to keep up at Fortune/Yahoo. “Known as Project SOAR (short for “strengthen, optimize, accelerate, and renew”), the recently-completed, multi-year initiative is described as the most significant IT-led overhaul in the company’s 35-year history…” Read more

 

Hudson’s Bay to sell off all merchandise at 6 stores previously spared from liquidation at CBC. “…effectively ending the retail empire’s reign and significantly dimming the possibility that the business dating back to 1670 will stay alive. Canada’s oldest company is making the move because “it is unlikely” that it will find a buyer for the remaining locations…” Read more

 

Buc-ee’s logo lawsuit legal battle ends with shut down of Barc-ee’s at My San Antonio

 

Hasbro, Inc. Q1 revenue increased 17% driven by 46% growth in the Wizards and Digital Gaming segment. Consumer Products declined 4% Press release

 

Walmart, Target and Home Depot — privately warned Trump that his tariff and trade policy could disrupt supply chains, raise prices and empty shelves, according to sources familiar with the meeting at Axios

 

Canada 100: Most Valuable Canadian Brands (Circle K #3, Lulu #15…) List

 

Ahold Delhaize USA Appoints Sanja Krajnovic Chief Supply Chain Officer Press release

 

Walgreens Debuts PharmStart to Strengthen the Tech to Pharmacist Pipeline Press release

 

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