06/28 PHIL LEMPERT, MARTITA JARA, STEVE EVENS

PHIL LEMPERT - SUPERMARKET GURU®

Every year, new products are introduced into the marketplace causing shoppers to spend an extraordinary amount of time analyzing prices and features. Choosing between products which look nearly identical can be a challenge, but according to the Supermarket Guru® Phil Lempert, one way shoppers can be assured that they are choosing wisely is to look for the “Product of the Year” award winners on their local supermarket shelves.  Now in its 5th year in the United States and 26th year worldwide, the Product of the Year seal has proven to make brands stand out in the marketplace, and has helped shoppers choose wisely.

Product of the Year USA has consistently increased in popularity as the largest consumer product award that rewards innovation. Chosen by 50,000 consumers, Product of the Year USA will honor the nation’s most innovative consumer packaged goods of 2013. The purpose of the POY awards is to guide consumers to the best new products in the market and also reward manufacturers for quality and innovation.  POY winners are selected in categories such as food, beverages, personal care, household items and pet care.  

On Friday, June 28, Phil Lempert will be available to discuss more about the 2013 Product of the Year Award winners as well as provide valuable tips on how to navigate your local supermarket like a pro!

About Product of the Year: Product of the Year is the only consumer product award that rewards innovation and is voted on by real consumers. Established 26 years ago in France, POY currently operates in 38 countries with the same purpose: Guide consumers to the best products in their market and reward manufacturers for quality and innovation. Backed by the votes of 50,000 consumers, the distinct red POY logo serves as shortcut for shoppers in the supermarket, saving them time and money. For manufacturers of the winning products, the award is a powerful marketing message proven to increase retail distribution and sales by an average of 10-15%. Product of the Year accepts entries every year from consumer packaged goods that demonstrate innovation and were launched within the previous year. Entered products are then placed into specific categories such as food, beverages, personal care, household care, etc. with a product then being chosen as a winner in its category through a nationally representative online study. For more information please visit: www.productoftheyearusa.com


More About Phil Lempert:  For more than 25 years, Phil Lempert, an expert analyst on consumer behavior, marketing trends, new products and the changing retail landscape, has identified and explained impending trends to consumers and some of the most prestigious companies worldwide.  Lempert is a distinguished author and speaker who alerts consumers and business leaders to impending trends, and empowers them to make educated purchasing and marketing decisions. As one of America's leading consumer trend-watchers and analysts, Phil Lempert is recognized on television, radio and in print. He has appeared as the food trends editor and correspondent for NBC News' Today show for over 20 years, where he reports on consumer trends, food safety and money-saving tips, as well as showcases new products. He has appeared on The View, CNN, 20/20, The Oprah Winfrey Show, CNBC, Discovery Health and MSNBC, as well as on local television morning and news programs throughout the country. Lempert is the author of Being the Shopper and Healthy, Wealthy & Wise. His previous books include: Phil Lempert's Supermarket Shopping & Value Guide, Top Ten Trends for Baby Boomers and Crisis Management: A Workbook for Survival.


MARTITA JARA - TV Chef Spices Up Your Summer BBQ With a Latin Flair!

Summertime means grilling and backyard parties.  But, if you’re burgered-out and need something creative to wow your palate and your pals, TV Chef Martita Jara has just what you need.  This culinary artist brings her self-proclaimed California cuisine with Mexican flavor to your picnic table.  She’s sharing tips on everything from prepping your grill to her favorite recipes and what she packs in her cooler. See how pro plans a party no one will soon forget! Martita Jara began working in her family’s restaurant business at a young age, and her mom’s authentic Mexican home cooking inspired Martita’s culinary passion. Her parents moved to the U.S. two years before she was born, and Martita credits them with her work ethic and perseverance. A vivacious newlywed who loves to entertain, Martita cooks with loads of Latin flavor and lots of love.

Martita Jara is a self-taught professional chef who last season showed off her skills on the Next Food Network Star”.  Now, Martita is sharing her signature flavors to spice up your backyard barbecue.   Have you ever wondered what some of those unusual peppers are in the produce section?  Martita knows and she will share which ones can add a real kick to your summer feast.

STEVE EVANS - "THE MOVIE GUY"

GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND AND BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY. GET SET FOR THE WEEKEND.