By George Anderson
Interstate Bakeries, owner of the Wonder Bread and Hostess brands, reported a loss of $4.6 million for its fourth quarter. The company blamed higher ingredient and energy costs along with reserve outlays for workers' compensation as the reason behind its poor showing.
Moderator's Comment: What are the consumer dynamics impacting packaged bread/bakery sales? What will it take for retailers to invigorate the category?
Packaged bread is caught between the rising demand for artisan breads and Atkins devotees. On a recent trip to our favorite grocery store, we saw a good number of shoppers adding low-carb bread and rolls to their carts. [George Anderson - Moderator]