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Economic reporting from around the world, filtered to the sectors and policy areas our members build in — part of the same intelligence stream behind the Global Economic Outlook and NiDCC's market reports.

Grainger and partners assemble 4,000 disaster relief kits to aid future recovery efforts in North America

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 10:15 PM · Pluang

Grainger and partners assemble 4,000 disaster relief kits to aid future recovery efforts in North America

Grainger, in collaboration with ToolBank USA and YouthBuild, organized an event where over 500 volunteers assembled more than 4,000 disaster relief kits containing essential cleanup and repair supplies. These kits are intended for distribution across North America to assist communities impacted by natural disasters. The initiative also provides YouthBuild students with valuable volunteer experience and career insights, reinforcing Grainger's commitment to community support and workforce development.

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Tractor Supply opens first Pacific Northwest distribution center in Nampa

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 9:52 PM · KIVI-TV

Tractor Supply opens first Pacific Northwest distribution center in Nampa

Tractor Supply Company has opened its first Pacific Northwest distribution center in Nampa, Idaho, representing an investment of over $200 million. The 865,000-square-foot facility is the company's 11th distribution center and will serve 123 stores across nine states, including 16 in Idaho, distributing products for farmers, ranchers, and pet owners. The center also incorporates new automated storage and retrieval technology and is expected to create approximately 200 full-time jobs in Nampa, contributing to the local economy.

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Walmart to pay California $16 million after selling expired baby formula

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 9:19 PM · The Mercury News

Walmart to pay California $16 million after selling expired baby formula

Walmart will pay California $16 million in a settlement after an investigation found the retail giant sold expired infant formula and other over-the-counter drugs. Authorities stated there was no evidence of harm to consumers, and Walmart has agreed to implement enhanced employee training and safety measures for its products. Alameda County will receive $2.2 million in penalties and $60,000 in cost recovery from the settlement.

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GRAINGER'S FIFTH ANNUAL BUCKET BUILD HELPS COMMUNITIES PREPARE FOR DISASTER RECOVERY

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 9:15 PM · PR Newswire

GRAINGER'S FIFTH ANNUAL BUCKET BUILD HELPS COMMUNITIES PREPARE FOR DISASTER RECOVERY

Grainger hosted its fifth annual Bucket Build, where over 500 volunteers assembled 4,000 disaster relief kits containing essential cleaning supplies and tools. These kits, designed for post-natural disaster recovery, will be distributed across North America by ToolBank USA. The event also provided YouthBuild students with valuable volunteer experience and exposure to skilled trades and supply chain careers.

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Hormel production facilities donate more than $330K for Hunger Action Month

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 9:13 PM · Austin Daily Herald

Hormel production facilities donate more than $330K for Hunger Action Month

Hormel Foods Corporation has announced that its production facilities have donated $332,000 to over 40 hunger-relief organizations across the U.S. This funding supports efforts to address food insecurity in local communities where Hormel operates, with each facility receiving $10,000. Hormel Foods also contributes to hunger relief throughout the year through product donations and partnerships with national nonprofits, having contributed over $53.6 million in cash and product since 2020.

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Tractor Supply Celebrates Grand Opening of 11th Distribution Center in Nampa, Idaho

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 8:58 PM · Tractor Supply

Tractor Supply Celebrates Grand Opening of 11th Distribution Center in Nampa, Idaho

Tractor Supply Company has opened its 11th distribution center in Nampa, Idaho, a state-of-the-art 865,000-square-foot facility representing an investment of over $200 million and creating 500 new jobs. This strategic "Gateway to the Pacific Northwest" will initially serve 123 stores across nine states and is the first in Tractor Supply's network to utilize KNAPP OSR/ASRS technology and integrate AI fundamentals into its operations. The facility was designed to LEED Silver standards, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency.

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Kontoor Brands adds two directors to board

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 8:51 PM · Investing.com

Kontoor Brands adds two directors to board

Kontoor Brands, Inc. (NYSE:KTB) has expanded its board of directors from seven to nine members by appointing Jamie Caulfield and Michael Skipworth. Caulfield, formerly CFO of PepsiCo, and Skipworth, current CEO of Wingstop Inc., bring extensive financial and operational experience to the company, and will serve on various board committees.

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Egg bites, burger bowls: McDonald’s aims to draw GLP-1 users

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 8:46 PM · Crain's Chicago Business

Egg bites, burger bowls: McDonald’s aims to draw GLP-1 users

McDonald's is developing new menu items like egg bites and burger bowls to appeal to customers using GLP-1 weight-loss drugs. This strategy aims to adapt to changing consumer dietary habits influenced by these medications. The move suggests a proactive approach by the fast-food giant to maintain its customer base in the face of evolving health trends.

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13 Cool Tractor Supply Gadgets You Might Not Realize Exist

retail_wholesale — September 23, 2026, 8:31 PM · SlashGear

13 Cool Tractor Supply Gadgets You Might Not Realize Exist

Tractor Supply, a major rural lifestyle retailer, offers a variety of unexpected gadgets beyond typical farm equipment. This article highlights 13 unique items available, ranging from an LED illuminated magnifier and digital angle locator for precision work to a metal detector, wireless weather station, and a diagnostic OBDII tester for vehicles. The selection also includes tools for outdoor maintenance, hunting, and camping, demonstrating the breadth of products available at Tractor Supply.

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