Kyle Colona

Texas Roadhouse has been gaining momentum as sales are on the rise while the chain continues to open new locations. The casual steakhouse is poised for solid growth in 2014 like other retail restaurants in this space.

Consumers are demanding organic and healthy food. And consumers and investors could benefit by considering companies like WhiteWave Foods.

Medical device company Medtronic, Inc. is planning for the future now that the patent infringement matter with Edwards Life Sciences has been resolved. The recently announced acquisition of Ireland-based Covidien plc is the next step in Medtronic’s long term strategy.

Snack and beverage companies have customarily relied on brand names to ensure their earnings growth. But as consumers become more health-conscious, these businesses need to offer healthier alternatives.

Kroger’s recent financial report and announcement of a new $500 million share repurchase program are good news for long-term value investors in the retail grocery sector.

Gap Inc. recently reported first-quarter 2014 financials and sales results for May. This might be the time for long-term investors to consider the specialty retailer.

Corporate social responsibility has become a growing concern for some investors. Many choices in the consumer goods sector balance ethics and profits.

CVS Caremark recently announced a fundraising campaign to benefit Lung Force. This effort dovetails with the company’s plan to stop selling tobacco products in October 2014.

Sneaker sales were once an up and downhill run. But sports apparel companies have moved far beyond sneakers and this has been good for consumers and investors alike.

Deep-discount retail stores continue to gain market share as more consumers buy into these brands. But investors should choose carefully in a sector with uneven performance.

The harsh winter weather affected sales and earnings in the home goods sector. Now, the question for these retailers and investors is if and when these shops will recover.

Summer’s here and the time is right for cold beverages for consumers and investors alike. This makes companies like Coca-Cola, Keurig Green Mountain, and SodaStream worth a look.

Rising steak and ground beef prices will be seen on menus of retail restaurant chains in 2014 and these costs will take a bite out of profits if consumers tighten their belts.

Whole Foods Market’s share price has been punished by traders after three consecutive disappointing quarters and lowered guidance. However, the company will recover and remains a good choice for long-term investors.

Arabica coffee prices have spiked because of bad weather in Brazil. However, Starbucks has many initiatives in place to steer itself around this surge in costs.

CVS recently posted mixed first-quarter results; but investors should focus on continued growth in the retailer’s pharmacy benefit management and pharmacy services segments.

Yum! Brands’ Taco Bell division launched its national breakfast meals in March. The move is designed to take McDonald’s head-on in the breakfast wars.

Home Depot’s overdue entry into the world of e-commerce this year may be a bit late. But the retail renovator’s move will support future growth.

Rite Aid is shoring up its brand, and its earnings report last week excited some analysts. But the question remains whether the company can sustain the momentum against its rivals CVS and Walgreen.

Last week Wal-Mart announced a strategic alliance with Wild Oats to offer consumers more organic food products. However, it remains to be seen what effect this will have on the organic grocery sector.