TARGET: ARCHER FARMS CHEESY SPINACH DIP

SN Editorial Staff

Americans love to snack, and Target Corp.'s Archer Farms cheesy spinach dip doesn't disappoint.

Made with real parmesan and Monterey Jack cheeses plus a blend of herbs and spices, the frozen dip is designed to be used on its own or as a topping for potatoes, pasta or salmon.

In line with other convenience foods from Target, the dip is microwavable and comes packaged in its own heat-and-serve bowl. A 12-ounce box retails for $3.99.

Minneapolis-based Target has invested heavily in Archer Farms, its premium brand, as well its Market Pantry label. It grew the Archer Farms label 50% in 2004 to about 1,900 products, while Market Pantry doubled in size to 1,000 stockkeeping units.

The retailer also gives Archer Farms plenty of marketing attention. Target's Web site has offered $1 coupons for various Archer Farms products, and weekly store specials frequently have Archer Farms items.