Mars: rejecting proposals to relax chocolate definition

Mars' criticism of a possible relaxation of the rules on what defines a chocolate product in the US would appear to show the company has for once rightly predicted consumer opinion. With a growing consumer trend for premium snacks and a desire for authentic foods, a move into cheaper chocolate production could have prompted a consumer backlash against the company.

Published By Datamonitor

Tesco: losing share but riding high

Tesco is comfortably riding out the challenging trading conditions facing UK retailing, recording pre-tax profits of GBP2.95 billion for the 52 weeks to February 28. Although exposure to non-food and the impact of its Discounter brand have dented sales growth, the supermarket's international credentials and ability to diversify into new markets will see it continue to prove a formidable retailer.

Published By Datamonitor

US saving culture: the source of all problems?

Datamonitor's Financial Services Consumer Insights survey shows that the fundamental weakness in US savings behavior is a crucial driver of global imbalances. Despite the G20's intention to address the issue of imbalances in the world economy, US saving behavior must see a marked change if global imbalances are to be corrected and the $100 billion US current account deficit is to be paid back.

Published By Datamonitor

MicroSD-led NFC products may do more harm than good

DeviceFidelity's launch of an NFC-enabling cover for the iPhone follows hot on the heels of other developments to convert mobile handsets into contactless form factors. Given the sensitivity surrounding the NFC business model, this will provide added impetus for acquirers to build contactless acceptance but risks alienating mobile operators from future discussions around mobile payments.

Published By Datamonitor

Inditex to enter Australia and South Africa in 2011

After entering a number of new markets this year, Inditex is poised to enter the Australian and South African markets in 2011. Its plans for expansion, which include introducing global online retail platforms, will ensure that it keeps one step ahead of its international rivals, and will provide an opportunity for rejuvenation in the local clothing markets.

Published By Datamonitor

Profits are up at Diageo

Diageo's organic sales and profits increased by 2% in the 2010 fiscal year, driven by the growth of its key premium, super/ultra-premium and reserve brands. Despite the economic uncertainty, Diageo is confident about the future, predicting even stronger results in the coming year.

Published By Datamonitor

PLA Innovation of the Week: a pie baking kit with everything you need for a homemade pie

Published By Datamonitor

Visa enters new territory in the online payments sector with V.me

Visa has announced the launch of a new digital wallet, V.me, to compete directly with PayPal in the online payments sector. The digital wallet allows consumers to link their existing payment tools and make online transactions without having to reveal their card payment details to the merchant. Due to launch in early 2012, V.me will allow Visa to explore new territory as a digital wallet provider.

Published By Datamonitor

PLA Innovation of the Week: a novel new sorbet dessert that looks like sushi

Published By Datamonitor

Providers are delivering personalized marketing by using social media

Consumers are showing an increasing appetite for receiving suitable marketing material on social media. Indeed, suitable is the operative word, with providers using customers' social profiles to learn more about their likes and interests to tailor their marketing to individual customers.

Published By Datamonitor