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Nielsen's Convenience Track Data Expanded in the USA
ACNielsen in the USA has recently announced that it will add local market data for meat snacks to its convenience channel sales information service, Convenience Track. Information about the category will expand beyond a "Total US reporting" category and will be available for 30 major markets beginning in the first quarter of 2002.
Convenience Track research is based on scanning data and traditional store audits and delivers in-store product sales. Since only 40% of convenience stores use point-of-sale scanners, it is essential that audits be conducted in non-scanning stores to derive the most accurate measurement of sales in the convenience store universe. The data also provide sales information for the convenience channel on a local market level, with reporting in 30 markets for non-alcoholic beverages, candy, other tobacco, ice cream, frozen novelties, energy bars, and, in 2002, meat snacks. Information on beer sales is included but in a more limited fashion.
John Petrakis, senior vice president, marketing, ACNielsen U.S, commented "This category has seen dramatic growth in recent years and convenience is one of its most important distribution channels. For all players in the convenience channel, knowing how local market conditions impact sales is a key to success. With Convenience Track, our clients gain a better understanding of the important local variables that impact category and brand development, including pricing, promotion and assortment. We are committed to maintaining our position as the gold standard information service for the convenience channel, and we will continue to expand the service into new categories, such as this one, and into new markets."

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