The food industry is among the most competitive and globally-linked of all business sectors. For example, many of America s best-known food packagers, such as Heinz, get 30%, 50% and even higher percentages of their total revenues from outside the U.S. Plunkett's Food Industry Almanac will be your guide to the entire food business, from production to distribution to retailing. On the supermarket side, giant, nationwide supermarket chains like Albertson's and Kroger are battling the ever-increasing market share and incredibly low retail prices offered in the immense grocery departments at Wal-Mart Supercenters. Many retailers are learning how to successfully combine bricks-and-clicks, taking grocery orders online and then fulfilling those orders through existing supermarkets. Moreover, food producers, distributors and retailers are using the latest in e-commerce methods to manage their supply chains and replenish their inventories. This exciting new book (with database on CD-ROM) covers everything you need to know about the food, beverage and tobacco industry, including: Analysis of major trends and markets; Historical statistics and tables; Major food producers such as Kraft and Frito Lay; Retailers of all types, from convenience store operators to giant supermarket chains; Emerging technologies including genetically-engineered foods; Giant distributors such as Sysco; Beverage companies such as Coca-Cola; Wine, liquor and beer producers; Tobacco, candy and gum ; and much, much more. You'll find a complete overview, industry analysis and market research report in one superb, value-priced package. This book also includes statistical tables, a food industry glossary, industry contacts and thorough indexes.