Whole Foods Market, Inc.Austin, TX, United States (NASDAQ (GS): WFMI)

Stores Deal with North American Food Costs - Specialty stores are being forced to pay more for many food items, and experts say that high prices will continue at least through 2010. The global food crisis is driven by increased competition for food and more use of biofuels, among other factors. While shortages aren't expected in the US, high prices will continue until the food supply meets demand, according to industry experts.

Organic Food Specialists Not Immune from Increases - Price increases that are forcing up retail prices at all types of food stores are also hitting organic specialty stores and bakeries. While organic food prices face similar drivers to non-organic, the market hasn't increased at the same pace as for non-organic, according to industry experts, at least not until recently. Organic food retailers are concerned about consumer buying fewer organic products, given that organic products are generally pricier than traditional food items.

Definitions Vary, but Local May Outweigh Organic - Specialty food stores that specialize in local food appear to have a growing customer base, according to <em>The Natural Foods Merchandiser</em>. The report indicates that in some instances consumers prefer local food to organic, though consumer definitions of local vary widely, especially with regard to how far the food travels from farm to retail store. Still, as more consumers become aware of local food options, in large part due to media coverage, the trend may impact specialty food stores that offer local foods or that are considering such offerings.