An all-American classic of unhealthy food may be on its way out of existence. Hostess Foods, the maker of Twinkies, Ho Hos, Sno Balls, and Wonder Bread, has officially filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Several factors converged to weaken Hostess’ revenue. First, several large companies began offering competing products. Hostess wasn’t able to maintain the same popularity against similar snacks like Little Debbie Snack Cakes or Entenmann’s baked goods. Second, Hostess is a union company, unlike most of the competing bakeries. This means that they face much higher costs in labor and massive liabilities in pensions for past workers. Third, Hostess also failed to invest in modernizing their fleet and other equipment to keep pace with competitive changes.

But the most significant problem for the company is very simple—people don’t like their snacks anymore. Whether we notice or not, Americans are becoming more health conscious than they were 25 years ago. According to one study, as recently as the year 2000, 54 percent of American’s were eating white bread at home, compared to only 36 percent today. When it comes to snacks, more Americans are also looking for healthier snack alternatives like yogurt or energy bars.

Twinkies and Sno Balls, on the other hand, are considered the ultimate unhealthy food. No one reaches out for these products because we think eating them is a good idea; we only do it if we like them enough not to care about the ingredients. And therein lies Hostess’ problem. With fewer customers that even like their products and many others who choose not to eat them for health reasons, there isn’t much of a silver lining to look for.

In reality, bankruptcy will be a temporary thing for the company. This status allows companies to restructure their debt, escape union obligations, and default on some pension obligations. For the time being, there is still a market for snacks that are nearly void of nutritional value, but there still isn’t much of a future in this market. If Hostess hopes to grow or even exist for the longer-term it will need to respond to where the market is going rather than where it has been.

Is the bankruptcy a good thing? It certainly isn’t for the shareholders or workers. Hostess now has legal permission to make changes that will take money out of their pockets. But for the rest of us, the bankruptcy is probably positive. For one thing, it represents progress in our dietary habits—something that has needed to happen for a while. It might also force Hostess’ board and shareholders to look for healthier products and products that will actually sell. If Hostess can turn itself around, we may all benefit. If not, we’ll just buy our baked goods from someone else—exactly what most of us are already doing anyway.

Tim Cooley has worked in the health and fitness community for many years.  Although he is sad to see the company flounder it just goes to show if you don’t meet, they will walk right by.  You won’t catch him eating a Twinkie at his desk working for Cox Cable Deals.  You can follow Tim on Twitter @ TimlCooley

Many businesses are now using touch screen kiosks to promote their products or services in places that simply would not be reached without the use of kiosks. By setting up kiosks in key locations, such as inside malls or other high traffic areas, companies and even small businesses can reach a much wider demographic than they otherwise could if they solely operated out of conventional shops or offices. In this way, kiosks function as satellites to the main stores or offices.

Other businesses prefer to use kiosks within the actual stores. This can be very useful for retailers, because it allows them to free up storage space. Since the consumer can browse the business’ website on the kiosk and choose the items they wish to purchase, they can simply see a sample at the store and have the actual item delivered to them from the warehouse. Stores would only need to carry a single size if they are clothing store, for example, and the customer can find information on the item they are interested in and have the size they would prefer delivered to them. This eliminates the need to keep all sizes and styles in-stock at the store or showroom.

 Types Of Kiosks

Another great thing is that there are so many different types of electronic kiosks. There are retail kiosks that allow consumers to browse the products being offered by the company. There are also medical kiosks that can help to bring medical attention to far reaching areas. These kiosks can measure and deliver information about things like blood pressure and body weight.

And then there are educational kiosks that are used in schools and other learning centers. These interactive kiosks help students to learn using their own initiative and curiosity. It can make learning a lot more fun for younger children and also help develop computer technologic skills. All these different types of kiosks can help to promote your business in ways and places that would not otherwise be possible.

Stacey Cavalari is a technology specialist writer for Phoenix kiosk, a Kiosk Manufacturer firm in Tempe, AZ. Phoenix Kiosk specializes in custom kiosks for small to large size organizations.

No longer is Facebook the domain of media-savvy college students connecting across campus. In the last four years, Facebook has opened its doors to everyone – almost literally. For businesses, this presents an amazing opportunity. Why? Because there are over 800 million users on Facebook today, and each one could be converted into a customer.

In this way, Facebook presents a unique opportunity. A normal Facebook user has his or her personal profile that is used to connect with friends and interests. So, too, can a company. Similarly, the business is able to develop a persona.

Take away the digital aspect and think about it like this: if you are unsure about where to buy a nice dress for a special occasion, you probably turn to your best friend. If your best friend has a great recommendation, you are likely going to check it out. If your best friend says they don’t know for sure, but their close friend – who you’ve never met – has a tip for a good find, you would probably still trust that advice.

You trust your friends because you know them and presume that they would not steer you wrong. This is what your business can develop through Facebook. Through your Facebook page, you can interact with customers in a way that is impossible in your store or through your website. You, too, can begin to share likes and dislikes, give tips that are helpful, and develop trust.

Crowdspring gives us a more concrete statistic as to why your business needs to be on Facebook. They reported in 2011 that 51% of Facebook users “are more likely to buy the brands they…are a fan of.” Out of the 800 million users, that is quite a high number of people who buy products sold by pages they “like” on Facebook.

Your business cannot afford to not be on Facebook. It’s a simple way to grow your brand and develop a relationship with customers. The ultimate benefit is that, of course, it is free. Through diligent postings, you can convert Facebook users into clients without spending any money.

To get started, just set up a page. Be sure to post regularly, keep that persona you develop – don’t be a wishy-washy friend, and interact with customers. Results may not be instantaneous, but they will develop.

Liz Childers works at Apex Creative, helping clients with their social media needs.