Retailers taking part in the nomination process for SN's 2010 Category Excellence Award issue applauded trading partners for breathing new life in the center aisles, whether with a unique product mix, clever merchandising strategy or other means for keeping shoppers engaged. Featured in the following pages are manufacturers like Kimberly-Clark and Procter & Gamble who are improving shoppers' quality of life by cutting their household utility bills. While Nestlé Purina Petcare Co. is recognized for strengthening the bond between pet owners and retailers by customizing cause marketing programs based on the unique shopper base served by a chain. Vendor partners are also enhancing the Center Store experience by creating shelf efficiencies through reduced packaging. ConAgra has cut packaging by 25%, and P&G has reduced cartons of powdered detergent by 33%.
