It’s impossible to get a clear picture of private brand trends without recognizing the multi-tiered nature of the segment as well as the fact that sales trends have shifted across tiers and are likely to continue to do so. Overall—except for a dip in 2016—U.S. private label food and beverage products have enjoyed steady growth for the past several years as retailers have differentiated themselves with unique high-caliber, yet relatively affordable, store brand items that match or exceed the qual…