Aldi Gear Returns—Now for Kids!

Aldi’s cult-favorite Aldi Gear apparel collection is making a comeback on March 19—with a new addition: Aldi Gear for kids! The 2024 collection features:

• Soft pullovers, joggers, and vests in classic Aldi colors
• Everything under $20, making it budget-friendly
• Sneakers in white and navy for men and women
• Unisex kids’ pullovers (sizes 3T to XL) so little Aldi fans can match their parents
• A new tote bag collection and the always-popular quarter holders

Joan Kavanaugh, Aldi’s VP of National Buying, noted that demand for Aldi-branded merchandise continues to rise, and this year’s drop is expected to sell out quickly.

Sam’s Club Expands into Golf

Sam’s Club is catering to the rising popularity of golf by introducing Member’s Mark golf balls. With millennials and Gen Z now making up over a quarter of U.S. golfers, the retailer is meeting demand with:

• Affordable, high-quality golf gear, including gloves and activewear
• A three-layer golf ball designed for optimal control, distance, and feel
• Performance-driven features, such as soft compression for better feel and lower spin for straighter shots

Christine Sharp, Group Director of Member’s Mark Product Development, emphasized that this launch aligns with Sam’s Club’s goal of providing high-value performance gear for recreational and competitive players alike.

Waitrose Invests £500,000 in Sustainable Farming

Waitrose is taking a bold step toward net zero farming by launching a £500,000 fund to help British farmers cut their carbon footprint. This initiative supports:

• Rainwater capture tanks, sustainable fertilizers, and low-carbon heating systems
• Waitrose’s goal to reach net zero across UK farms by 2035 and its full supply chain by 2050
• Economic resilience for farmers facing rising costs and climate challenges

James Bailey, Executive Director at Waitrose, said this investment reinforces the retailer’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring its private-brand supply chain is both ethical and environmentally responsible.

Loblaw’s President’s Choice Redefines Frozen Pizza

Loblaw’s President’s Choice (PC) brand is elevating the frozen pizza aisle with premium restaurant-quality options at an affordable price. The new PC Black Label and Woodfired Pizzas offer:

• Authentic Italian ingredients and traditional baking methods
• Wood-fired cooking for a crisp, charred crust
• A focus on flavor innovation and premium-quality toppings

According to PC Executive Chef Allison Jones, private brands are no longer just budget-friendly alternatives—they’re now setting the standard for quality and taste.

Kroger Expands Its Private Brand Strategy

Kroger continues to drive private brand innovation, with retailer-owned brands generating $30 billion in annual sales. In 2024, Kroger:

• Launched 900+ new private brand products
• Expanded its Field & Vine regional produce and Simple Truth organic lines
• Revamped packaging to enhance the shopping experience

Todd Foley, Interim CFO at Kroger, reported that 69% of shoppers now see private brands as equal to or better than national brands. With a 20% price advantage over national brands, Kroger plans to continue expanding its private label lineup in 2025.