The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf expands its functional beverage offerings with a new line of Cold Brew Energy Teas and protein-infused horchata drinks for spring. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has announced its spring menu, highlighted by the debut of a new Cold Brew Energy Tea collection. The product launch signals a strategic move by the coffeehouse chain to capture market share in the rapidly growing functional energy and alternative beverage space, supplemented by an expansion of its popular horchata flavour platform. Formulation and Positioning of Energy Teas The Cold Brew Energy Tea line is positioned as a lighter, functional alternative to traditional coffee beverages. The base of the beverage utilises the brand's signature Ceylon tea, which is slow-steeped for five hours. To achieve the functional energy benefit without relying on synthetic caffeine, the formulation utilises a blend of green coffee and tea extracts infused with Vitamin B12. The beverages contain no added sugars and deliver a measured caffeine boost of 80 milligrams for a regular size and 120 milligrams for a large. The initial product lineup incorporates real fruit pieces to enhance texture and visual appeal, featuring three distinct flavour profiles: 🥭 Mango Passionfruit Energy Tea Blended with real mango pieces. 🫐🍓 Mixed Berry Energy Tea A combination of blueberry, strawberry, and raspberry flavours with real berry inclusions. 🍍 Pineapple Yuzu Energy Tea A citrus-forward blend featuring real pineapple pieces. Capitalising on Horchata and Functional Additives In addition to the new energy teas, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is expanding its horchata-inspired beverage line. The brand is utilising the established popularity of the cinnamon-spiced profile to introduce other functional ingredients, such as matcha and high-yield protein, to its menu. The spring horchata lineup includes: 🍵 Iced Matcha Horchata Latte A fusion of earthy matcha and traditional horchata spices. 💪 Iced Horchata Protein Latte A functional adaptation of the classic flavour, formulated to deliver 20 grams of protein per serving. ☕ Horchata Dry Iced Americano The return of a viral consumer favourite, featuring a dry iced Americano base with vanilla powder, half-and-half, and a caramel drizzle finish. Loyalty Program Rollout Strategy To drive digital engagement and reward customer retention, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is utilising a staggered rollout strategy for the spring menu. Members of the brand's loyalty program will receive exclusive early access to the new collections beginning March 11, acting as a digital driver ahead of the official nationwide launch on March 18. The Newsroom Beverage Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Targets Functional Beverage Space With Energy Teas News March 4, 2026 Coffee & Tea 7 Brew Coffee to Debut First On-Campus Walk-Thru at University of Arkansas Coffee & Tea Peet's Coffee Spring Menu Integrates Ube and Matcha Flavours Bakery Paris Baguette Expands Nutella Partnership for Spring Bakery Menu Coffee & Tea Costa Coffee Launches Spring Portfolio with Ube and Matcha Innovation New Products Beverage Foodservice Coffee & Tea Related news

Mondelēz International has completed a major investment at its Bern facility, installing a new production line to transform the site into a global Centre of Excellence for the Toblerone brand. Mondelēz International has reached a critical milestone in the modernisation of its Toblerone manufacturing facility in Bern, Switzerland. After a year of renovation, the company has officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art production line, marking one of the largest investments in the group’s chocolate production network over the last decade. The facility is being positioned as a global "Centre of Excellence" for Toblerone. The upgrade is intended to significantly increase production capacity and innovation capabilities, supporting the brand’s ambition to lead the global premium chocolate segment. Strengthening the "Swissness" of an Iconic Brand The new production line was officially inaugurated by Swiss Federal President Guy Parmelin, who highlighted the brand’s historical and economic significance to the region. Despite the brand's global reach, approximately 90% of all Toblerone production remains concentrated in Bern. This investment underscores Mondelēz’s commitment to Switzerland as the primary manufacturing hub for the 118-year-old brand. According to Iain Livingston, President of Toblerone and World Travel Retail, the move is essential for the brand to capitalise on its high global awareness and leadership within the World Travel Retail sector. Technical Upgrades and Infrastructure Modernisation The renovation encompasses more than just the new production line. Thomas Kauffmann, Bern Plant Manager, confirmed that the project included extensive modernisation of the site’s logistics and infrastructure. Key technical enhancements include: Expanded Production Facilities: Increased footprint for the manufacturing of chocolate and nougat components. Mass Production Scaling: Enhanced capacity to meet the demands of exports to more than 120 countries. Advanced Packaging Automation: Integration of new state-of-the-art packaging systems to improve throughput and efficiency. Strategic Growth in the Premium Segment The expansion in Bern aligns with Mondelēz International’s broader strategy to accelerate growth in the premium chocolate category. By concentrating innovation and high-volume production in a specialised Centre of Excellence, the company can more effectively manage quality control and product development for its flagship triangular chocolate brand. As global demand for premium confectionery continues to rise, the Bern facility's increased capacity ensures that Toblerone can maintain its market-leading position while exploring new product variations and formats for international markets. Featured in this news Confectionery Mondelēz International The Newsroom Facilities Mondelēz Finalises Major Production Expansion at Toblerone Plant in Bern News March 11, 2026 Business & Finance Hershey Launches ONE Hershey Unified U.S. Commercial Operating Model New Products Nestle Introduces Limited Edition Yorkie Salted Caramel Pretzel Duo Confectionery Tesco Unveils Premium Own-Brand Easter Egg Range with Dubai Pistachio and Sticky Toffee Flavours Confectionery Spring and Mulberry Expands Grocery Portfolio With Sea Salt Chocolate Facilities Confectionery Business & Finance Manufacturing Related news

Functional soda brand Cove Soda has announced a major overhaul of its executive leadership team, appointing industry veteran Bryan Crowley as Chief Executive Officer and Board Member. Functional soda brand Cove Soda has announced a major overhaul of its executive leadership team, appointing industry veteran Bryan Crowley as Chief Executive Officer and Board Member. Crowley is joined by Craig Olikiewicz as Chief Commercial Officer and Joe Lee as Chief Operating Officer. The appointments signal Cove’s transition from a breakout Canadian brand to a scaled North American contender, coinciding with the functional soda category's shift from niche trend to high-growth staple. Executive Pedigree: Scaling for Longevity Bryan Crowley brings over 25 years of leadership experience to the CEO role, with a résumé spanning both early-stage innovators and global category leaders. Recent Roles: Most recently served as CEO of G FUEL . Previously partnered with Lance Collins to launch Casa Azul Spirits and ZenWTR . Track Record: His background includes serving as CEO of Soylent , Chief Strategy Officer at KeVita (acquired by PepsiCo), and executive roles at Pabst Brewing Company and Mars, Inc. Crowley’s mandate is to apply operational rigour and strategic clarity to Cove's expansion, particularly as it pushes into the United States market where retailers are actively reallocating shelf space to low-sugar, functional alternatives. Bryan Crowley commented on the category dynamics: "Functional soda has moved from an emerging trend to a high-growth category that demands creative brand building and disciplined execution. The opportunity now is to scale that foundation thoughtfully and build a business designed for longevity." Commercial and Operational Leadership Supporting Crowley is a new C-suite bench designed to drive retail execution and supply chain efficiency. Craig Olikiewicz (CCO): Joining as Chief Commercial Officer, Olikiewicz was formerly Senior Vice President of Sales at Nutrabolt . He is tasked with leading national retail expansion and commercial execution, bringing deep experience in the energy and CPG sectors. Joe Lee (COO): Having joined in Spring 2025, Lee brings over 20 years of global operations and supply chain leadership. His role is critical in ensuring the brand can scale efficiently to meet accelerating demand. Financial Context and Momentum The leadership appointments follow a significant capital injection. In November, Cove announced a $15 million USD Series A financing round led by Vanterra Ventures. The round attracted a high-profile roster of investors, including RiverPark Ventures and The Palm Tree Crew, alongside celebrities and athletes such as Diplo, Miles Teller, and Jack Eichel. Founders John and Ryan MacLellan , who started the brand at a local farmers' market in 2017, remain integral to the company. Cove currently stands as the leading functional soda brand in Canada. The Newsroom People Cove Soda Appoints G FUEL Veteran Bryan Crowley as CEO to Lead US Expansion News January 15, 2026 People Diageo Names John O’Keeffe as CEO and President for North America People Wayne-Sanderson Farms Announces Executive Leadership Promotions Confectionery National Confectioners Association Announces Senior Leadership Promotions People Molson Coors appoints Will Meijer as President of Canada Sales People Business & Finance Beverage Soft drinks Related news

Wellness challenger brand Bloom Nutrition has announced a significant expansion of its functional portfolio, introducing Bloom Clear Protein. Wellness challenger brand Bloom Nutrition has announced a significant expansion of its functional portfolio, introducing Bloom Clear Protein . The new product line represents a modern evolution of the traditional protein powder category, formulated to deliver a lighter, juice-like consistency rather than the heavy, milky texture associated with standard whey shakes. The launch has secured a major retail foothold, debuting exclusively at Target . Formulation Strategy: Performance Meets Beauty The product is engineered to serve a dual function: muscle recovery and aesthetic wellness. Bloom differentiates the SKU by utilising clear whey isolate —a highly filtered form of whey that removes the majority of carbohydrates, fats, and lactose—blended with grass-fed collagen peptides . Key Technical Specifications: Protein Content: 20g per serving (meeting approx. 30% of daily needs). Texture Profile: "Juice-like" and easy to digest, avoiding the heaviness of whey concentrates. Nutritional Claims: Sugar-free, fat-free, and low-calorie. Functional Benefits: Supports lean muscle maintenance alongside "beauty benefits" derived from collagen. Flavour Architecture: The line launches with two fruit-forward profiles designed to mix clearly with water: Strawberry Watermelon Raspberry Lemon The development of the product was informed by research indicating that nearly half of American women fail to meet their daily protein requirements. Bloom aims to close this gap by removing the sensory barriers (texture and taste) that often deter consumers from the category. Mari Llewellyn , Co-Founder of Bloom, commented on the accessibility angle: "Getting enough protein shouldn't feel like a chore. With Clear Protein, we're expanding the ways to enjoy it by offering the Bloom community a refreshing, functional, and genuinely delicious option that makes hitting protein goals feel easier." Greg LaVecchia , Co-Founder and CEO of Bloom Nutrition, positioned the launch as a response to shifting consumption habits: "As the protein category evolves, there's a clear need for options that feel lighter, more digestible, and more aligned with how people actually consume nutrition today. Clear Protein represents where the category is headed and how Bloom continues to lead that shift." The Newsroom Health & Nutrition Bloom Nutrition Partners with Target to Launch Hybrid 'Clear Protein' Line News January 7, 2026 New Products Elmhurst 1925 Clean Protein RTD line delivers 27g protein without additives Coffee & Tea Dunkin’ Partners with Megan Thee Stallion to Launch 'Protein Milk' and Functional Winter Menu Beverage Mel Robbins Debuts 'Pure Genius Protein' with High-Potency 23g Shot Flavours & Colours New Products Health & Nutrition Beverage Related news

Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced the launch of its first-ever dedicated "High Protein Menu," scheduled to roll out across the U.S. and Canada on Tuesday, 23 December. Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced the launch of its first-ever dedicated "High Protein Menu," scheduled to roll out across the U.S. and Canada on Tuesday, 23 December. The initiative represents a strategic response to shifting dietary patterns, specifically the rising consumer prioritisation of protein intake and the growing influence of GLP-1 weight-loss medications on dining habits. The curated menu introduces a new snacking format—the High Protein Cup —alongside a range of bowls and burritos engineered to hit specific macronutrient targets. Market Drivers: The Protein Movement Chipotle cites data indicating that high-protein diets have remained the top dietary pattern in the U.S. for three consecutive years, with 70% of Americans reportedly prioritising the macronutrient. The launch is explicitly designed to cater to this demand, as well as the needs of users on GLP-1 regimens who require nutrient-dense, lower-volume options. "With the rise of GLP-1s and a broader focus on macronutrients, Chipotle's new High Protein Menu offers more ways for guests to get the protein they want in the portions that work for them," the company stated. Menu Architecture and Pricing The new menu features items ranging from 15 to 81 grams of protein. A key innovation is the High Protein Cup , a 4-ounce side of Adobo Chicken designed as a clean, protein-packed snack (weighted national average price: $3.82). The Core High Protein Menu (Available Dec 23): High Protein Cup: (32g protein, 180 calories) – 4oz Adobo Chicken. Double High Protein Bowl: (81g protein, 760 calories) – Double chicken, light white rice, black beans, veggies, fresh tomato salsa, cheese, extra romaine. High Protein-High Fiber Bowl: (46g protein, 14g fiber, 540 calories) – GLP-1 Friendly . Chicken, light brown rice, black beans, veggies, corn salsa, fresh tomato salsa, romaine. High Protein-Low Calorie Salad: (36g protein, 470 calories) – GLP-1 Friendly . Chicken, Supergreens, veggies, fresh tomato salsa, guac. Double High Protein Burrito: (79g protein, 840 calories) – Double chicken, fresh tomato salsa, veggies, cheese, romaine. Adobo Chicken Taco: (15g protein, 190 calories) – Soft flour tortilla, chicken, veggies, salsa, cheese, romaine. Influencer Partnerships To further validate the menu's appeal to fitness-conscious consumers, Chipotle is launching a "High Protein Built with Superfans" extension on 5 January. This phase features custom orders from creators and athletes, available digitally. Josh Hart's High Protein Burrito: (95g protein) – The professional basketball player's double chicken build. Smaller Sam's High Protein Tacos: (40g protein) – From health creator Samantha Milton (@SmallerSam_PCOS). Kylie's High Protein Chicken Bowl: (52g protein) – Curated by dietician Kylie Sakaida (@nutritionbykylie). The Newsroom Foodservice Chipotle Debuts 'High Protein Menu' and Cup Format December 18, 2025 Foodservice Disney Adventure World scales food and beverage footprint for Frozen expansion Foodservice Chipotle Leverages Internal Talent for New Cilantro Lime Sauce Launch Foodservice Johnny Carinos Unveils Modernised Prototype Restaurant in Texas Foodservice PepsiCo Enters Foodservice with Lays Restaurant Concept New Products Health & Nutrition Foodservice Related news

Lir Chocolates, the manufacturer behind Baileys Chocolate, has unveiled its seasonal strategy for Valentine's Day 2026, introducing a new range titled the "All You Need Is Love" collection. Lir Chocolates, the manufacturer behind Baileys Chocolate, has unveiled its seasonal strategy for Valentine's Day 2026, introducing a new range titled the "All You Need Is Love" collection. The launch aims to boost seasonal sales by blending new product innovations with returning favourites, specifically targeting the "affordable luxury" segment. The collection leverages the Baileys Irish Cream flavour profile to drive both impulse and planned gifting purchases across the retail sector. Customisation and Impulse Formats The 2026 lineup introduces two new SKUs designed to address specific consumer gifting behaviours, including the rising trend for personalisation. Baileys Chocolate Block and Gift Card (New) Format: 90g Milk Chocolate Block. Innovation: Presented in a unique gift card-style packaging that features a dedicated space for a handwritten message. Flavour: Infused with Baileys Original Irish Cream and a truffle filling. Pricing: RRP £2.75. Baileys Truffles Heart Gift Box (New) Format: 100g Box. Sustainability: Features fully recyclable paper twist wraps. Content: A selection of Original Baileys Chocolate Truffles (milk chocolate shell with truffle filling). Pricing: RRP £4.00. Baileys Hearts (Returning) Format: 90g. Content: Nine red-foil wrapped milk chocolate hearts with a Baileys Strawberries and Cream truffle centre. Pricing: RRP £5.00. Strategic Rationale and Performance Ethan Duffey , Brand Manager at Lir Chocolates, commented on the commercial positioning of the range: "The Baileys Chocolate All You Need Is Love collection combines indulgence with premium appeal, offering products that meet consumer demand for affordable luxuries and strong gifting credentials. It’s designed to drive Valentine’s Day sales while giving retailers the opportunity to capitalise on the seasonal surge in chocolate gifting." The launch builds on robust in-store performance metrics. The brand noted that its core Baileys Chocolate Original Irish Cream Truffles recently achieved promotional rate-of-sale highs of 47 units per store per week in Sainsbury's, validating the consumer appetite for the flavour profile. Commercial Availability The collection is rolling out to select retailers nationwide, positioned to offer accessible price points ranging from £2.75 to £5.00 to capture spend during the inflation-sensitive holiday window. The Newsroom Confectionery Baileys Chocolate Targets Seasonal Gifting with 'All You Need Is Love' Valentine's Collection News January 22, 2026 Bakery Krispy Kreme Unveils Seasonal Valentine’s Day Doughnut Collection Coffee & Tea BIGGBY® COFFEE Partners with TWIX® for Winter Menu; Unveils Red Velvet Valentine's Lineup Coffee & Tea Dunkin’ Revives 'Brownie Batter' Donut and Debuts 'Toxic Ex-Presso' in Expansive Valentine's LTO Coffee & Tea Paris Baguette Unveils 'Pink Velvet' Menu Featuring Ruby Chocolate and Heart-Shaped Cakes for Valentine's Day Confectionery New Products Marketing Food Related news

The product introduces a novel "balls-and-hoop" format to the confectionery aisle, engineered to offer a multi-textural and interactive consumption experience that gamifies the act of snacking. The Hershey Company has expanded its celebrity collaboration portfolio with the nationwide launch of Shaq-A-Licious SLAMS , a new gummy candy developed in partnership with basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal. The product introduces a novel "balls-and-hoop" format to the confectionery aisle, engineered to offer a multi-textural and interactive consumption experience that gamifies the act of snacking. Product Architecture and Flavour Profile Departing from standard uniform gummy shapes, SLAMS are designed to mimic a basketball play. The candy consists of two distinct components with contrasting textures: The "Balls": Three sweet, crunchy gummy spheres available in Watermelon , Strawberry , and Orange flavours. The "Hoop": A chewy, sour Mango ring. The format encourages consumers to physically interact with the product—lining up the balls or "dunking" them into the ring—before consumption, creating a unique sweet-and-sour flavour combination. Innovation Strategy: The 'Play' Factor The launch leans heavily into the "kidult" trend and the demand for multisensory snacking experiences. By explicitly encouraging consumers to "play with their food," Hershey aims to differentiate the product in a crowded gummy market often defined by static shapes. Vivek Mehrotra , Senior Brand Manager for Shaq-A-Licious at The Hershey Company, highlighted the R&D focus: "SLAMS is a game-changer for the Shaq-A-Licious brand and showcases our approach to candy innovation. Stacking crunchy gummy balls inside a sour mango ring creates a multi-textural bite unlike anything else in the gummy aisle. The balls-and-hoop format transforms candy into a hands-on experience—inviting fans to build, play, and personalise every piece." Shaquille O'Neal commented on the playful nature of the product, aligning it with his personal brand identity: "When I do something, I want it big! Big flavour, big fun, big everything. With Shaq-A-Licious SLAMS, you are not just grabbing a gummy and tossing it in your mouth. You're stacking the balls, aiming for the mango ring, shooting your shot, then going in for that big sweet-and-sour chew." Commercial Availability Shaq-A-Licious SLAMS are available immediately at retailers nationwide across the United States. Featured in this news Confectionery Hershey Company The Newsroom Confectionery The Hershey Company and Shaquille O'Neal Launch Interactive 'Shaq-A-Licious SLAMS' Gummies News January 7, 2026 New Products Pringles and Burger King UK Launch Limited Edition Burger Crisps Marketing Pepsi Unveils Pepsi Football Nation Platform to Integrate Sport and Lifestyle Culture Alcohol Athletic Brewing and Arsenal Debut Clock End Non-Alcoholic Red Ale Business & Finance Kraft Heinz and NFL announce five-year global strategic partnership People Flavours & Colours Snacking Confectionery New Products Marketing Related news

Coca-Cola İçecek has appointed COO Ahmet Kürşad Ertin as its new CEO, effective July, as the Turkey-based bottler navigates macroeconomic pressures and reports continued volume growth for 2025. Coca-Cola İçecek (CCI), the Turkey-based bottler for The Coca-Cola Company, has announced a significant executive leadership transition. Chief Operating Officer Ahmet Kürşad Ertin will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer effective July. Ertin succeeds Karim Yahi, who is stepping down from his duties and returning to the United States after leading the organisation since September 2023. The announcement coincides with the publication of CCI’s 2025 financial results, which demonstrate resilient volume growth despite complex macroeconomic headwinds across the company's primary operating regions. A Veteran Executive Takes the Helm Ertin steps into the CEO position with more than 25 years of tenure at CCI, which produces, distributes, and sells Coca-Cola and Monster Energy beverages across emerging markets, including Türkiye, Pakistan, and Kazakhstan. Joining the company in 1998 in a commercial capacity, Ertin has steadily advanced through the organisation's international ranks. His leadership experience includes serving as general manager in Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, as well as leading CCI Pakistan from 2019 to 2022. He subsequently operated as regional director for southern Asia and the Middle East before his promotion to group COO in January 2025. In a formal statement, CCI management acknowledged outgoing CEO Karim Yahi for his significant contributions during his tenure. Financial Performance and Hyperinflation Accounting CCI released its 2025 financial metrics against what management described as a challenging trading environment, marked by regional tensions and mounting pressure on consumer purchasing power. Despite these hurdles, the bottler grew its total volume by 8 percent year-over-year, reaching 1.62 billion unit cases. The company's financial reporting heavily reflects the impact of TAS 29 hyperinflation accounting. Key financial highlights include the following metrics: Unadjusted Basis (Excluding TAS 29): Net sales climbed 38.2 percent to T179.45 billion ($4.08 billion), with EBIT increasing 33.6 percent to T28.23 billion and net income rising 33.2 percent to T12.44 billion. Reported Basis (Under TAS 29): Net sales increased 3.9 percent to T187.18 billion, while EBIT saw a marginal increase of 1.8 percent to T25.15 billion. Net income declined 27.4 percent to T14.07 billion. Strategic Outlook for 2026 To sustain growth in a volatile landscape, CCI management emphasised a strategic balance between volume and value, with a continued focus on affordability to support consumers facing economic pressures. Looking ahead to 2026, the company anticipates continued macroeconomic and regional volatility. Consequently, CCI maintains its core strategic priorities, projecting low- to mid-single-digit growth within its domestic operations in Türkiye, and high-single-digit growth across its international markets. Accounting for inflation, the bottler forecasts its net sales revenue per unit case to remain broadly flat or increase by a mid-single-digit percentage, with the goal of maintaining a stable EBIT margin. The Newsroom People Coca-Cola İçecek Appoints COO Ahmet Kursad Ertin as New CEO News March 5, 2026 People Diageo Names John O’Keeffe as CEO and President for North America People Wayne-Sanderson Farms Announces Executive Leadership Promotions Confectionery National Confectioners Association Announces Senior Leadership Promotions People Molson Coors appoints Will Meijer as President of Canada Sales People Business & Finance Beverage Soft drinks Related news

The expansion marks a major milestone for the family-owned business as it enters a new category with the introduction of Milo's Fruit Punch, alongside a Zero Sugar Lemonade and a limited-edition Blackberry Sweet Tea. Milo's Tea Company , the leading refrigerated tea brand in the U.S., has announced a significant acceleration of its growth strategy with the launch of three new refrigerated beverages. The expansion marks a major milestone for the family-owned business as it enters a new category with the introduction of Milo's Fruit Punch , alongside a Zero Sugar Lemonade and a limited-edition Blackberry Sweet Tea . This strategic move is designed to disrupt categories traditionally dominated by shelf-stable, artificial options by leveraging Milo’s established supply chain for fresh, "real-ingredient" products. From Tea Brand to Beverage Portfolio The launch signifies Milo's evolution from a specialised tea manufacturer into a broader refrigerated beverage portfolio. By entering the $1.5 billion U.S. Fruit Punch category , Milo's aims to capture health-conscious consumers seeking "clean label" twists on nostalgic favourites. Tricia Wallwork , Chair and CEO of Milo's Tea Company, commented: "It was a natural next step in our growth journey to expand our portfolio to meet consumers' taste preferences. We're doing it the Milo's way by staying true to our values of using high-quality, real ingredients that don't sacrifice taste." Product Innovation & Specs The new lineup addresses specific consumer trends, including the demand for zero-sugar options and seasonal flavour rotation. Milo's Fruit Punch: Positioned as a "better-for-you" alternative to shelf-stable punches, featuring 100% natural ingredients with no preservatives or artificial colours. Milo's Zero Sugar Lemonade: Developed in response to social media demand, this SKU contains no sugar, preservatives, or added acids. Available in gallon, half-gallon, and 20 oz. single-serve formats. Limited Edition Blackberry Sweet Tea: A seasonal LTO available through May 2026 , blending the brand's core sweet tea with natural blackberry flavour. Commercial Distribution and Pricing The new products have secured immediate nationwide placement, launching in over 2,500 Walmart stores , with additional availability at select regional grocery retailers. Simultaneously, the brand is expanding its distribution across 1,400+ Publix Super Markets , underscoring its growing momentum in the refrigerated aisle. Key Retail Data: Formats: Gallon, Half Gallon (Fruit Punch/Lemonade), 20 oz. Single Serve (Lemonade). Suggested Retail Price (SRP): Gallons: Starting at $4.26 Single Serve/Smaller Formats: Starting at $1.75 Dan Weingart , Chief Commercial Officer, noted that the brand's 80-year heritage of "real ingredients" has provided the runway to "play in new channels and new formats to give shoppers more reasons to choose Milo's in the refrigerated beverage aisle." The Newsroom Beverage Milo’s Tea Company Enters $1.5B Fruit Punch Category in Major Portfolio Expansion News February 2, 2026 New Products Volvic Enters Functional Hydration with Vitamin+ Launch New Products Nestlé Waters UK Launches Inspired by Buxton Peak Functional Range New Products Syncron Expands Functional Portfolio with Elixir and Hydrate Launches New Products Spacegoods Introduces Coffee Hazelnut Rainbow Dust Flavour Business & Finance New Products Health & Nutrition Beverage Soft drinks Related news

Premium salumi specialist COLUMBUS® Craft Meats has announced a strategic expansion of its pre-packaged charcuterie portfolio, introducing the COLUMBUS® Entertaining Tray. Premium salumi specialist COLUMBUS® Craft Meats has announced a strategic expansion of its pre-packaged charcuterie portfolio, introducing the COLUMBUS® Entertaining Tray . The launch is designed to address the evolving dynamics of at-home hosting, specifically targeting the "convenience-first" mindset of younger demographics. The ready-to-serve format removes the preparation barrier for casual gatherings, ranging from game nights to "Galentine's Day" celebrations. The Rise of 'Micro-Moments' The product development is grounded in specific consumer insights regarding generational hosting habits. The brand cites data indicating that 61% of Gen Z and Millennials are utilising "micro-moments" to gather more frequently, moving away from formal dinner parties towards casual socialising. Crucially, 86% of these consumers identify convenience as an "extremely important" factor when choosing food for these occasions. By offering a pre-curated solution that requires zero prep, COLUMBUS® aims to capture the 35% of shoppers who express a willingness to purchase pre-made charcuterie boards over assembling their own. Product Architecture and Pairing Building on the success of its existing "Tasting Board" SKU, the new Entertaining Tray focuses on pre-validated flavour pairings to eliminate guesswork for the consumer. The Composition: 🥩 Premium Meats: Features two of the brand's top-selling SKUs: Italian Dry Salame and Peppered Salame . These are crafted from select cuts of pork, slow-cured with cracked black pepper, spices, and burgundy wine. 🧀 Cheese Pairings: Includes White Cheddar and Gouda , selected to complement the specific fat and spice profiles of the salame. Dietary: The entire tray is Gluten-Free . Katie Yan , Brand Manager for COLUMBUS® Craft Meats, commented on the accessibility strategy: "Consumers are gravitating toward convenience and looking for easy ways to serve delicious charcuterie. One-third of consumers incorporate charcuterie boards when entertaining or hosting... Products like this make charcuterie even more accessible to everyone." The launch reinforces the brand's position within the growing pre-made charcuterie segment, leveraging its San Francisco heritage and Italian craftsmanship to offer a premium trade-up option in the convenience aisle. The Newsroom New Products COLUMBUS Craft Meats Debuts Ready-to-Serve 'Entertaining Tray' to Capitalise on Gen Z Hosting Trends News January 21, 2026 Facilities Pilgrim’s Europe Invests in Pork Category Growth with New Innovation Hub New Products PepsiCo Foods Launches Good Warrior Protein Brand New Products SPAM and Bachans Launch Co-Branded Japanese Barbecue Sauce Flavour Logistics & Supply Chain Butcher's Bone Broth Scales National Retail Footprint Snacking New Products Meat & Seafood Food Related news

The strategy reflects a growing trend in the premium convenience sector: marketing nutritional balance not just for physical fitness, but as a critical tool for cognitive performance and professional productivity. Factor , the ready-to-eat meal delivery brand, has launched a targeted marketing offensive in Canada aimed squarely at the corporate workforce. The campaign, built around proprietary consumer research regarding the "mid-afternoon energy crash," utilises experiential marketing to position the brand's dietitian-approved meals as a direct solution to workplace productivity slumps. The strategy reflects a growing trend in the premium convenience sector: marketing nutritional balance not just for physical fitness, but as a critical tool for cognitive performance and professional productivity. The 'Convenience vs. Nutrition' Gap Factor's campaign is underpinned by new research highlighting a significant gap between consumer awareness and purchasing behavior during the lunchtime daypart. According to the brand's data, 94% of employed Canadians experience a mid-afternoon energy dip, with 77% stating it directly disrupts their productivity. However, despite 82% noticing a correlation between their diet and energy levels, only 22% report choosing their lunch with afternoon energy in mind. Crucially for operators in the food-to-go sector, the data reveals that 59% of consumers prioritise convenience, speed, and cost over nutrition when making midday meal decisions. Factor is leveraging this insight to position its two-minute, ready-to-eat meals as a bridge across this gap, removing the traditional trade-off between speed and macronutrient quality. Intercepting the Consumer To drive trial and brand awareness among its core target demographic—busy urban professionals—Factor is executing a high-visibility experiential activation in Toronto's financial district. On February 25 and 26 , the brand is hosting a pop-up at The PATH in Commerce Court , intercepting office workers during the critical 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. window. Activation Elements: Premium Sampling: Distributing full, chef-prepared meals including Bavette Steak Mac and Cheese , Beurre Monté Chicken , and Coconut Lime Curried Tofu . Value-Add: Meals are served in a branded cooler bag, increasing post-event brand visibility in office refrigerators and commutes. Expert Engagement: An on-site registered dietitian is available to answer nutrition questions, reinforcing the brand's clinical credibility. Gamification: Bold LED visuals featuring a near-live "3 P.M. Crashes Defeated" counter to drive urgency and social sharing. Formulating for Sustained Energy Factor's product architecture focuses on eliminating the refined sugars and artificial fillers that contribute to glycemic spikes and subsequent crashes, relying instead on complex carbohydrates, high protein, and healthy fats. Martina Luketich , Registered Dietitian at Factor, explained the clinical approach to the product positioning: "The 3 p.m. crash is something many people experience, and it's a common challenge I see when working with clients. While it's tempting to reach for caffeine or a quick snack, those options don't always provide lasting energy. Balanced meals that include protein, fibre, healthy fats, and carbohydrates are more likely to promote steady energy levels, which may contribute to improved focus and productivity in the afternoon." Market Context As employers and employees alike focus increasingly on workplace wellness, brands that can successfully merge the convenience of fast food with the nutritional profile of meal prep stand to capture significant market share. Factor's portfolio, which now boasts over 40 weekly menu options, uses campaigns like this to shift consumer perception of its products from a "fitness" niche to an "everyday professional" necessity. The Newsroom Food Factor Targets Office '3 P.M. Crash' with Data-Driven Campaign and Experiential Pop-Up in Toronto News February 25, 2026 Retail Factor Breaks into Retail with Strategic Target Partnership in Midwest New Products PuraVida Foods Partners with Disney for 'KidsLife' Frozen Meal Launch at Sprouts New Products Iceland launches age-restricted ready meals featuring world’s hottest chilli Health & Nutrition Food Related news

Costa Coffee has introduced its latest UK food and beverage menu, featuring a new line of hot milkshakes and an expanded range of plant-based options developed in collaboration with vegan brand Bosh!. Costa Coffee has unveiled its latest UK seasonal menu, executing a dual strategy of category innovation and dietary inclusivity. The launch is headlined by the chain's first-ever range of "hot milkshakes" and a significant expansion of its plant-based food portfolio, developed in partnership with vegan food brand Bosh!. The menu update underscores Costa’s continued focus on capturing a broader share of the UK’s competitive food-to-go market by catering to both indulgent and flexitarian consumer preferences. Beverage Innovation: Hot Milkshakes Marking a category first for the coffee chain, the new hot milkshake line is positioned as a premium indulgence. Each beverage is finished with a light whip and texture-rich toppings such as sprinkles, caramel vermicelli, or chocolate brownie crumbs. The New Range: 🍓🍫 White Chocolate & Strawberry 🧂☕ Salted Caramel Coffee 🍫🌰 Chocolate Hazel Expanded Food Proposition A key driver of this menu refresh is the collaboration with Bosh!, aimed at meeting the rising demand for high-quality vegan options. However, the chain has also bolstered its traditional meat offerings and bakery selection. Plant-Based Savoury (with Bosh!): 🌯 Saucy Chicken Fajita Wrap 🥪 Smokin’ BBQ Chicken Panini 🧀 Crackin’ Ham & Cheeze Toastie 🌭 Smashin’ Sausage Bap New Meat & Breakfast: 🐖🍎 Pork & Apple Sausage Roll 🥣 Raisin & Almond Granola Pot Sweet Treats & Bakery: 🍪 Caramelised Biscuit Rocky Road (Vegan) 🍫 Double Chocolate Cookie (Vegan) 🍌 Banana Loaf Cake (with banana purée and sugar glaze) 🍊🍰 Orange & Raspberry Victoria Sponge In addition to new lines, the chain has updated its Lemon Drizzle Loaf Cake recipe and brought back customer favourites, including the Hog Roast Toastie, Heinz Beanz & Cheese Toastie, and the Chocolate & Pecan Slice. Costa’s latest product development underscores its continued focus on menu innovation, with an emphasis on premium, indulgent, and plant-forward options designed to cater to a broadening consumer base in the UK’s competitive coffee and food-to-go market. Featured in this news Coffee & Tea Costa Coffee The Newsroom Coffee & Tea Costa Coffee expands UK menu with hot milkshakes and plant-based range January 4, 2024 Coffee & Tea Influencer Brand SIDES Coffee Scales Operations with New Online Launch Coffee & Tea Bellwether Coffee Enters Australian Market via Xtracted Espresso Solutions Partnership Coffee & Tea Chobani Invests $567M in West Michigan to Scale La Colombe RTD Coffee Production Foodservice Five Guys and Jimmy's Iced Coffee Partner for Iced Coffee Shake Plant-based Foodservice Coffee & Tea Related news