CHICAGO — Assortment, marketing and merchandising are the three main components of an effective health and wellness sales strategy, according to a new “Times & Trends” report issued by Information Resources Inc. The study notes that retailers and CPG companies can accelerate consumer transitions to more healthful lifestyles through initiatives that address consumer hurdles to better eating, including price, taste and information. Growth opportunities for functional foods and beverages are especially promising, according to the report. IRI found substantial dollar sales increases among several categories. For example, in beverage, enhanced-water dollar sales increased 42% over the prior year; refrigerated teas were up 31%; and energy drinks increased 26%.

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