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Traditional or contemporary, German cuisine has a greater influence on American cuisine than you might have thought possible. German specialty foods have become a part of our everyday lives, but unfortunately, accolades for German foods have taken a back seat to the Italian, French, and even Spanish cuisines enjoyed so frequently in restaurants and homes across the U.S.  »

Just when you thought it prudent to label yourself a food expert, you add a wine department, and now a whole new world presents itself and it's back to the drawing board. Of course, with liquor laws varying from state to state, and in some cases, from city to city, you're fortunate if you can carry wine in your food store at all. Nevertheless, you are faced with merchandising challenges that can daunt even veteran retailers.  »

For a country that consumes so much cheese, often melted over everything from pizza to tuna fish sandwiches, it's surprising that we are so reticent about indulging in an after-dinner cheese course. In Europe, especially in France, it is very common, even at an informal meal, to enjoy after dinner some good cheese as you finish your wine, accompanied by a light salad and warm bread. Indeed, many prefer this to eating dessert, saving the pastries for special occasions. »

Few items in the specialty food pantry have achieved the kind of status to which olive oil can lay claim. »

The French themselves are making it easier to promote and merchandise the products of France. Their ad campaign that invites consumers to experience the "oui" hours and "Say 'Yes' to Foods and Wines from France" has generated a great deal of excitement. In fact, it has been so successful that the entire campaign is being used as a textbook case in university marketing programs across the country.  »

Traditionally, the attitude in the specialty food business toward the freezer has always been, well, chilly. It's been viewed as the machinery of either those who buy their beef one cow at a time, hunters, or the TV-dinner generation. It was not for those who actually cook. After all, the whole idea of such long-term preservation was anathema to serious food and cooking. Of course, it was necessary to have one. Where else would one keep their ice cream and homemade veal stock?  »

Tea is a beverage which has had great influence on many cultures through the ages. Throughout history tea has received positive endorsements from emperors to the literary set, but its modern-day accolades have come more frequently in the form of news reports noting its healthful aspects. »

The produce department is likely to make the first and most lasting impression in your store. If your produce is bountiful, beautiful, and fresh, your customers are likely to remember your entire store in that positive light. »

In the 5th century, Buddha popularized vegetarianism. Its practice, however, can be traced as far back as the Greek Pythagoreans in the 4th century A.D. It wasn't until the 1800s that Americans became aware of the inherent health benefits of a vegetarian diet. »

One of the strongest growth categories in organic, the dairy department, has seen and, if industry experts are correct, will continue to see substantial expansion in terms of new product introductions and sales. »