Ups and downs

(ups) to the introduction of S&H greenpoints by Shop ‘n Save, a twist on the savings stamps concept. An old idea with a digital turn might be enough to shake up the local retail food marketplace, gain an “advantage” on market leader Giant Eagle and bring a little excitement to grocery shopping. Time will tell if customers give it their stamp of approval.

(downs) to Jones Brewing Co.’s fall into bankruptcy. There’s trouble brewing for the little company that’s struggled for years to stay afloat. If it’s forced to continue making beer at its Smithton facilities, Jones might not survive, but the bankruptcy court hasn’t looked favorably on a waiver of a labor contract to allow Pittsburgh Brewing Co. to produce the Jones brands.

(ups) to FreeMarkets for beating analysts’ estimates — even if Amazon.com got most of the ink — and posting an operating profit while some of its competitors are taking a shellacking in the market. The dot-com revolution is alive after all, and in Pittsburgh, of all places.