The USDA will use just over $4 billion in contingency funds to partially fund the program, but a top official expects payments to take weeks or even months to reach consumers in some states.

Mass merchants and club retailers are gaining market share in a mission-critical category that supermarket operators have long controlled.

The Kansas City-based grocer plans to acquire Schulte’s Fresh Foods and keep the store’s name, bringing its banner count up to five.

This year is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable holiday seasons yet, as economic uncertainty lingers due to persistent inflation and the potential ripple effect of tariffs.