It's interesting how a food scare on the other side of the world can create ripples right around the globe, writes Sue Kedgley.

A caffeine overload brought on by drinking up to 10 litres of Coca-Cola a day was a contributing factor in a woman's death, a coroner has ruled.

Retail spending charged to electronic cards rose 0.3 per cent last month, driven by food and fuel, according to data from Statistics New Zealand.

Kiwis lifted spending on their credit, debit and charge cards last month, led by consumables such as food and liquor, and fuel.

New Zealand shoppers spent more on their debit and credit cards last month, according to figures out today.

It may still be only establishing itself on home turf but The Shopping Channel has already struck a deal to move into Australia.

Shoppers can now buy nearly $80 worth of goods on a credit card at many shops without having to sign or use a Pin number.

Briscoe Group says annual profit climbed at least 9 per cent after a good Christmas sales period.

The undeniable pleasure of shopping will ensure central-city shops' survival, writes Bob Jones. But smaller towns are doomed.

This year is shaping up to be a very busy one for new sharemarket listings...

They've created a monster. But few who order the Jumbo Burger from Waihi Beach's Angelo's Pizzas know what they're getting themselves in for until the behemoth stack of meat, bread and veges is presented to them on a large plate that barely contains it.

Food watchdogs in Britain have launched an urgent inquiry into beef produce after a number of products were found to contain horse meat.

Retailers enjoyed only a modest improvement in spending patterns over December, according to Paymark.

The new owner of the Mr Whippy master franchise, Chris Dorn, thinks it is time to jazz up the traditional tune.

Retailers might be enjoying a post-Christmas spending bonanza, but an economist warns the sales boom can't last.

Shoppers took to the Boxing Day sales with gritted teeth yesterday, battling full carparks, queues and crowds to snap up bargains.

While most New Zealanders spent Christmas afternoon napping off their lunch or playing with their new toys, others listed their unwanted gifts on Trade Me.

Veritas Investments chairman Mark Darrow says many opportunities exist for expanding the Mad Butcher retail chain.