Cookie makers bake up new twists

Article Abstract:

Cookie makers are competing for a larger share of the $4.5 billion industry. The frenzy is marked by consolidation, including Kellogg Co's bid to be the leading player in the industry by buying Keebler Co, and the encroachment of rivals from other sectors such as candy bars, nutrition bars and even pastries from Starbucks. Grabbing any crumb of market share does not involve more of new products but more of line extensions or packaging twists disguised as brnad-new products. This is swhy Keebler is selling mini versions of top brands Chips Deluxe, Vienna Cremes and Sandies in resealable packs.

Cookie and Cracker Manufacturing, Cookies & Wafers

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From rags to niches: catalogs thrive on Net

Article Abstract:

The $111-billion catalog industry sales is growing at twice the rate of retail sales due to the Internet. Instead of killing the catalog business, the Internet seems to have only given it new life by bringing like-minded enthusiasts together. Thus, catalogers know precisely who their customers are and how to reach them. Some dot-coms have also become catalogers by publishing catalogs which offer products such as cosmetic surgery aids, live lobsters, animal-rights products, kid safety products, autographs, Wall Street creations and cows.

Electronic Shopping and Mail-Order Houses, Mail Order Houses

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1998 wasn't a very fun year for toy sellers

Article Abstract:

Toy industry sales in 1998 dropped by 1.5% for the period Jan to Nov 1998 compared with the same period in 1997, partly due to the increasing video game and computer game business. According to the publisher of The Toy Book, Jim Silver, no new toy attracted consumers into toy retailers during the first half of 1998. The toy industry is seeing 1999 as a turnaround year due to Star Wars: The Phantom Menace-related toy sales that is projected to surpass $500 million.

Sales & consumption, Game, Toy, and Children's Vehicle Manufacturing, Hobby, Toy & Games Stores, Hobby, Toy, and Game Stores, Toys

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