Cologne-based startup Eternal.Ag raises €8 million to deploy AI-powered autonomous harvesting robots, tackling a 30% decline in greenhouse labour availability across Europe. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Eternal.Ag has raised €8 million in a new funding round to accelerate the development and deployment of its AI-powered autonomous harvesting robots. The investment addresses one of the most critical challenges in controlled-environment agriculture (CEA): a deepening global labour shortage. The funding round, led by Simon Capital, Oyster Bay Venture Capital, EquityPitcher Ventures, and Backbone Ventures, will be used to expand commercial operations across Europe, enhance product capabilities, and extend automation to additional crop types. Labour crisis in agriculture The greenhouse farming sector is increasingly vital for ensuring a stable, year-round food supply amid climate volatility and land constraints. However, the industry is currently facing a structural risk due to the lack of manual labour. According to data cited by Eternal.Ag, greenhouse labour availability in Europe has declined by as much as 30% since 2010. The company’s solution involves fully autonomous robots designed to perform repetitive and physically demanding harvesting tasks without human intervention. By enabling continuous operations, the technology aims to improve reliability, productivity, and cost efficiency for commercial growers. Technical Harvester system The company’s flagship system, 'Harvester,' is specifically engineered for tomato greenhouses. The robot is capable of operating for up to 22 hours per day, using artificial intelligence to maintain consistent harvesting quality while adapting to the natural variability of plant structures and growing conditions. A key differentiator for the startup is its development process. Renji John, co-founder and CEO of Eternal.Ag, explained the company's approach to system validation and improvement. "We train and validate our systems in virtual greenhouse environments, reducing development cycles from months to days," said John. "Once deployed, each robot continuously feeds operational data back into the system to improve performance over time." Roadmap toward fully autonomous greenhouses Founded in 2025 by John and Sherry Kunjachan, Eternal.Ag has grown into a 26-person team with operations in Germany and India. The long-term vision for the company is the realisation of fully automated greenhouses by 2040, where robotic systems handle all major operational tasks to minimise reliance on manual labour. Niklas Leske of Simon Capital emphasised the importance of the technology for the future of food production. "Labour shortages pose a structural risk to one of the most efficient and sustainable methods of food production," Leske stated. "Robotics offers a scalable solution to ensure consistent, decentralised food production in the face of rising demand and climate pressure." The modular design of the platform allows for future expansion into tasks beyond harvesting, supporting a comprehensive automation strategy for the CEA market. The latest capital injection will support continued hiring and commercial rollouts across key European greenhouse markets. Agriculture Eternal.Ag secures €8m to scale autonomous greenhouse harvesting News March 23, 2026 Agriculture Beanstalk AgTech Launches Monsoon Ventures to Scale Southeast Asian Agtech Agriculture General Mills, ADM and Walmart Partner to Accelerate Wheat Regenerative Agriculture Technology McCain Foods Partners with Ceres AI to Launch Ag-Tech Grower Programme Agriculture Puratos Scales Regenerative Agriculture Across US Wheat Supply Chain Agriculture Business & Finance Fresh Produce Technology Related news

BrewDog CEO James Taylor has stepped down from his role following the company's acquisition by Tilray Brands. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom BrewDog CEO James Taylor has left the Scottish brewer following the business's recent takeover by US-based Tilray Brands. The leadership change marks the next stage of the company's integration into the wider Tilray portfolio. Taylor, who previously served as CFO, was promoted to chief executive in March 2025 following the departure of James Arrow. His exit coincides with the finalisation of agreements that have seen Tilray Brands acquire significant portions of BrewDog’s operations in the UK, Ireland, the US, and Australia. The company has confirmed that it will not recruit a direct replacement for the CEO role. Instead, operational oversight will be managed by Lauren Carrol, BrewDog’s chief commercial officer. Carrol will report directly to Rajnish Ohri, the president of Tilray's operations business. In a statement regarding the departure, a company spokesperson said: “James successfully led BrewDog through its ownership transition. We thank him for his contributions and wish him every success in the future.” The leadership change follows the acquisition of BrewDog’s global brand and 11 of its brewpubs out of administration by Tilray in March 2026 for a reported £33 million. This acquisition has significantly altered the management structure of the business as Tilray moves to integrate the brewer into its existing international operations. Separately, former BrewDog co-founder James Watt is preparing to re-enter the beer sector with a new venture, Second Best. Watt has indicated plans to offer up to 19.3% of the new business to former BrewDog investors. People BrewDog CEO James Taylor Steps Down Eddie Sanders July 2, 2026 Marketing Mars Ice Cream Launches Chief Online Chill Officer Campaign for SNICKERS Minis Business & Finance Primo Brands Restructures Leadership and Eliminates Chief Operating Officer Role People Jennifer Mann to Step Down as President of Coca-Cola North America Retail Co-op Group Departure of Managing Director and Two Leadership Members Beverage Business & Finance Alcohol People Related news

Khalifa Kush has partnered with Scofflaw Brewing to enter the ready-to-drink category with its initial hemp-derived THC beverage, Khalifa Kush & Orange Juice. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Khalifa Kush, founded by recording artist and entrepreneur Wiz Khalifa, has entered the ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage sector with the launch of its hemp-derived THC beverage platform. Developed in partnership with Atlanta-based Scofflaw Brewing, the debut release introduces a citrus-forward formulation titled Khalifa Kush & Orange Juice. The launch enters the expanding non-alcoholic and hemp-derived cannabinoid beverage markets, translating established lifestyle brand equity into a portable, single-serve RTD format. Exclusive US Licensing and Production Agreement Under an exclusive licensing and commercialisation agreement in the United States, Scofflaw LLC leads product development, beverage manufacturing, commercial strategy, and distribution for the Khalifa Kush RTD line. The manufacturing process is centred at Scofflaw's facilities in Atlanta, Georgia, combining craft beverage production infrastructure with national distribution channels. Trade distribution and commercial partner enquiries are directed through Nakatomi Beverages. Brent Albin, Partner at Scofflaw LLC, stated that every operational decision, spanning formulation, production, and commercial execution, was structured to protect brand standards while establishing a foundation for long-term category growth. Wiz Khalifa, Founder of Khalifa Kush, added that the brand's entry into the beverage category responds to long-standing consumer demand for authentic, social-ready formats. Dosage Formulations and Flavours The initial release draws inspiration from Wiz Khalifa's 2010 mixtape Kush & Orange Juice , translating the cultural project into an active consumer product. Formulated using hemp-derived delta-9 THC, the RTD platform debuts across two distinct strength variations to accommodate different consumer experience levels: 🍊 Khalifa Kush & Orange Juice 5mg THC: A lower-dose hemp-derived beverage delivering 5mg of THC per 12-ounce can, engineered for social, sessionable consumption. 🍊 Khalifa Kush & Orange Juice 10mg THC: A higher-potency hemp-derived beverage delivering 10mg of THC per 12-ounce can, designed for higher-tolerance consumer occasions. Both variants are packaged in 12-ounce cans and formulated to deliver a smooth, citrus-led taste profile without synthetic off-notes. Additional flavour extensions and functional product varieties are scheduled to follow the initial launch window. New Products Khalifa Kush Partners with Scofflaw Brewing to Launch THC Beverages Eddie Sanders August 26, 2026 New Products G&Tea Launches Spirit-Based Sparkling Hard Tea Line in Chicago New Products Shottails Launches Ready-to-Drink Canned Shot Range for UK Retailers New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Beverage James Watt Unveils Fools Fix Detoxification Drink Beverage New Products Related news

PepsiCo Philippines has launched Pepsi Extra Fizz across retail channels, supported by an integrated marketing campaign created by agency BBDO Guerrero. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom PepsiCo Philippines has expanded its carbonated soft drink portfolio in the domestic market with the commercial launch of Pepsi Extra Fizz. The new product offering enters retail channels accompanied by a multi-channel promotional push developed in partnership with advertising agency BBDO Guerrero. Built around the brand platform #PepsiExtraFizz, the campaign targets Gen Z consumer demographics and seeks to position the beverage alongside daily mealtime consumption occasions. Carbonated Formulation The development of Pepsi Extra Fizz introduces an updated taste and sensory profile to the company's core cola line, engineered specifically to enhance everyday dining routines. Key product specifications and sensory characteristics include: 🥤 Enhanced Carbonation: Formulated with an elevated carbonation level to deliver a higher degree of effervescence and bursting bubbles. 💥 Intensified Flavour Profile: Blended with a richer, bolder cola taste designed to complement food pairings. The product formulation aims to overcome standard soft drink pairing routines by encouraging consumers to incorporate higher-fizz beverages into regular meals. Marketing and Engagement The commercial rollout combines digital video, social media challenges, original music, and experiential physical activations. At the centre of the push is a promotional campaign film starring P-pop group SB19 alongside digital creator Mimiyuuuh. SB19 composed an original soundtrack specifically for the release, while Mimiyuuuh led social-first content including the official Pepsi Extra Fizz Dance Challenge. To drive physical trial and consumer engagement, PepsiCo Philippines hosted a large-scale public activation at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall on 25 and 26 July 2026, featuring interactive installations and live performances. Retail Availability The launch generated significant social media engagement, recording more than 16,000 user-generated video uses across digital platforms alongside trending status on social media platform X. Pepsi Extra Fizz has commenced commercial distribution across supermarkets, convenience stores, and retail stockists throughout the Philippines. New Products PepsiCo Philippines Launches Pepsi Extra Fizz Eddie Sanders August 14, 2026 Soft drinks Beverage New Products Related news

Soft drink challenger brand Candy Can has expanded its novelty portfolio through a new licensing agreement with Perfetti Van Melle, bringing the Bubblicious bubble gum brand into the ready-to-drink beverage category for the first time. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Soft drink disruptor Candy Can has announced a new licensing partnership with global confectionery giant Perfetti Van Melle. The collaboration introduces the iconic Bubblicious brand into the ready-to-drink (RTD) space, debuting with a special-edition Bubble Gum flavour inspired by Bubblicious’s heritage product, "The Original One." The launch represents a strategic intersection of nostalgia and beverage innovation, reflecting a broader industry trend where familiar confectionery experiences are being reimagined as modern, carbonated liquid formats. Confectionery to Beverage Crossover For Perfetti Van Melle, the partnership underscores a continued push to extend its core intellectual property into adjacent, high-growth categories. Bubblicious joins a roster of globally recognised brands—including Chupa Chups and Mentos—that the company is actively developing through licensing agreements across the food, beverage, and lifestyle segments. Carla Fernández-Moreno, Food and Beverage Licensing Manager at Perfetti Van Melle, stated that the collaboration provides an exciting new format for the Bubblicious brand. She noted that the partnership makes perfect sense given that both brands share a core spirit of fun, creativity, and innovation. For Candy Can, the deal highlights the company’s evolution from a niche novelty producer into a highly structured innovation platform. The brand has successfully built commercial momentum through limited-edition drops and aggressive flavour experimentation, leveraging social media engagement to drive consumer interest. Product Profile and Innovation Pipeline The special-edition Bubble Gum beverage translates the signature sweet-and-juicy profile of traditional chewing gum into a carbonated soft drink. The product is designed to evoke strong childhood associations while appealing to contemporary consumers who are actively seeking playful, limited-edition retail offerings. Sander de Jonge, founder of Candy Can, emphasised the brand's commitment to surprising consumers in unexpected ways. To maintain this momentum, Candy Can has already confirmed a robust pipeline of future SKU launches for 2026, including: Bubblicious Watermelon 🍉: A planned extension of the Perfetti Van Melle collaboration. Ice Pop 🧊🍦: A retro flavour profile inspired by North America’s classic rocket popsicles, designed to resonate across multiple generations. Retail and Canadian Rollout The Bubble Gum beverage began its rollout across major Canadian retailers in April. To maximise shelf visibility in the competitive soft drink aisle, the product features bold, energetic packaging that seamlessly merges the vibrant, youth-oriented visual identity of Bubblicious with Candy Can’s colourful design language. As the beverage industry continues to lean into "kidult" trends—where adults seek out nostalgic, indulgent flavours in modern formats—Candy Can’s cross-category licensing strategy positions it as a leading innovator in the novelty RTD segment throughout 2026. New Products Candy Can With Perfetti Van Melle Launches Nostalgic Bubble Gum Flavour Eddie Sanders April 20, 2026 New Products Gerber Launches Paediatric Organic Oral Rehydration Solution New Products PepsiCo Brand bubly Launches Mocktail-Inspired Sparkling Waters Soft drinks Fanta Partners with Ghost Face for Halloween 2026 Haunted Universe Launch New Products Suntory Launches -196 Limited Edition Kiwi Flavour New Products Beverage Soft drinks Flavours & Colours Related news

The brand has unveiled Pillsbury™ Moist Supreme® Pistachio Cake Mix alongside a complementary Whipped Pistachio Frosting. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Pillsbury™ Baking has announced a strategic expansion of its baking portfolio, introducing a new pair of products designed to capitalise on the enduring consumer demand for nostalgic flavours. The brand has unveiled Pillsbury™ Moist Supreme® Pistachio Cake Mix alongside a complementary Whipped Pistachio Frosting . The launch targets the home baking demographic seeking convenient, modern formats for classic recipes, positioning pistachio as a "timeless taste" that resonates with family traditions. Product Specifications and Versatility The new lineup offers a cohesive flavour system designed to simplify the creation of pistachio-based desserts, from standard sheet cakes to more complex formats like bundt cakes or cake pops. Pillsbury™ Moist Supreme® Pistachio Cake Mix Format: 15.25 oz box. Yield: Produces one 13" x 9" cake or 24 cupcakes. Profile: A rich, subtly sweet pistachio flavour engineered for a moist crumb structure. Application: The packaging promotes versatility, featuring a recipe for "Spumoni Ice Cream Cake" to drive cross-category ingredient usage. Pillsbury™ Whipped Pistachio Frosting Format: 12 oz tub. Texture: Light, airy, and ready-to-use. Functionality: Designed for easy spreading, layering, and crumb coating without weighing down the bake. Dan Anglemyer , Chief Operating Officer at Hometown Food Company (parent company of the Pillsbury Baking brand), explained the emotional hook behind the flavour choice: "Pistachio is one of those timeless flavours that instantly brings people back to the joy of homemade baking. With our new Pistachio Cake Mix and Whipped Pistachio Frosting, we're giving families an easy, delicious way to recreate that nostalgic taste in their own kitchens — with the quality and fun they expect from Pillsbury Baking." Commercial Availability and Rollout The new products have secured immediate shelf space at major retailers Walmart and H-E-B . Distribution is scheduled to expand significantly in the coming months, with Kroger and AWG confirmed to stock the line in February and March . Bakery Pillsbury Taps into Nostalgia Baking Trend with New Pistachio Cake Mix and Frosting Duo News January 7, 2026 New Products Crooked Pop Launches Newstagic Flavoured Zero-Sugar Hard Soda New Products f'real and Good Humor partner for nostalgic Orange Creamsicle launch New Products GHOST and General Mills Expand Protein Partnership With New Cereal Milk Flavours New Products Culture Pop Soda Launches Functional Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade Bakery Food New Products Flavours & Colours Related news

The company confirmed today that McGuinness’s responsibilities will be assumed immediately by a three-member executive leadership team, rather than a single direct replacement. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Plant-based Impossible Foods The Newsroom Impossible Foods has announced a significant leadership transition with the departure of Chief Executive Officer Peter McGuinness after nearly four years at the helm. The company confirmed today that McGuinness’s responsibilities will be assumed immediately by a three-member executive leadership team, rather than a single direct replacement. This governance shift comes as the company seeks to maintain its momentum in a challenging plant-based meat category. The new leadership triumvirate consists of: Jason Gao: Chief Legal & Operating Officer Meredith Madden: Chief Demand Officer Robert Haas: Chief Supply Officer Market Performance and Strategic Legacy McGuinness leaves the company in what the board describes as a "position of strength." Under his tenure, Impossible Foods has reportedly outperformed the broader plant-based protein sector, securing the #2 position in U.S. market share . A key element of McGuinness's strategy was evolving the brand's identity from a "Silicon Valley tech company" to a "consumer-centric food company." This pivot involved a total packaging overhaul and a shift in messaging designed to target the broad "flexitarian" demographic rather than niche vegan audiences. "Over the last four years we’ve expanded, evolved and invested in both the company and the brand. We constructed a sustainable business that could support our sustainable mission," McGuinness stated. Diversification and Partnerships The transition aims to support a new chapter of "long-term value creation." Impossible Foods plans to leverage its existing portfolio of beef, chicken, and pork alternatives while expanding into adjacent categories. Earlier this month, the company signaled this intent through a strategic partnership with food-tech startup EQUII . This collaboration aims to co-develop high-protein, grain-based products—such as hamburger and hot dog buns—to complement Impossible’s core protein range. Fedele Bauccio , a long-standing member of Impossible’s Board of Directors, commented on the transition: "Impossible is primed to further strengthen its position in the marketplace as a respected food company built for long-term success. We have the utmost confidence in Jason, Meredith, and Rob to lead the company into its next chapter of growth." McGuinness will remain on the Board of Directors to support the transition. Business & Finance Impossible Foods CEO Peter McGuinness Departs; Executive Team to Lead News January 31, 2026 New Products Quorn Expands Frozen Takeaway Portfolio with Hot and Spicy Bites Foodservice LEON Partners with Fable Food Co to Reformulate LOVe Burger New Products Plenish Launches Clean-Label Protein Oat Drink in UK New Products Califia Farms Debuts Horchata and Peppermint Bark Almond Creamers for Autumn People Business & Finance Plant-based Related news

Salty snack brand Like Air has expanded its retail portfolio with the national launch of its allergen-free Drizzled Rice Cakes. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Salty snack brand Like Air has announced its expansion into the functional sweet snacking segment with the launch of its new Drizzled Rice Cakes line. The product rollout introduces a sweet alternative to traditional savoury puffed snacks, marking a major category expansion for the family-owned brand, which previously established its market presence through its signature puffcorn offerings. The launch is timed to address the rapid acceleration of the rice cake category within the broader salty snacks sector. According to market data, the rice cake segment has recorded a 74 per cent increase in volume sales over the past two years, establishing it as the fastest-growing category in salty snacks. By introducing a sweet-drizzled, portion-controlled format, the company aims to capture incremental market share across mainstream grocery, mass-merchandise, and warehouse club channels. Technical Formulation and Allergen Standards To meet the nutritional standards expected by modern, wellness-focused households and consumers managing dietary restrictions, the new range has been developed with a focus on portion control, allergen elimination, and clean-label ingredient standards. The manufacturing process combines a light, crispy, seasoned rice cake base with a delicate, decorative frosting drizzle and sprinkle inclusions. From a nutritional and technical standpoint, the product range delivers several key attributes: Caloric Control – Formulated to contain only 80 calories per 24-piece serving to appeal to weight-conscious consumers. Dietary Exclusions – Certified gluten-free and Non-GMO Project Verified. Allergen Traceability – Manufactured to be completely free from the top nine major food allergens, allowing for safe consumption in school, travel, and workplace environments. Sweet Flavour Portfolio The product rollout comprises four sweet, dessert-inspired flavour configurations designed to offer an indulgent sensory profile in a light format: 🎂 Birthday Cake – A sweet vanilla-cake flavour base topped with a light drizzle and colourful sprinkles. 🍪 Cookie Dough – A sweet biscuit-dough-inspired formulation layered with a delicate frosting drizzle. 🧁 Cinnamon Bun – A warm, aromatic cinnamon-spiced flavour profile with a sweet drizzle accent. 🍫 Brownie – A rich, chocolate-forward cocoa flavour base formulated for chocolate snackers. The bite-sized formats are engineered for immediate out-of-the-bag consumption, eliminating crumb mess and providing a convenient alternative to traditional large-format rice cakes. Logistics and Retail Rollout To support the commercial launch and manage early volume scale-up, Like Air is executing a multi-tiered, regional distribution strategy across physical and digital channels. The product is entering national e-commerce distribution immediately, with physical retail placements systematically scaling throughout the summer trading window: Costco Wholesale – Launched an exclusive, multi-serve multipack format across Costco warehouses in the Texas region on 16 June 2026. Conventional Grocery Banners – slating physical shelf placement across Albertsons, Publix, ShopRite, Wegmans, and Hy-Vee by 4 July 2026 to capture high-volume holiday weekend transactions. Mass and Club Scaling – Expanding physical distribution later this summer to encompass all Kroger locations and select Sam's Club stores nationwide. According to Allison Lin, Co-Founder of Like Air, the introduction of the drizzled rice cakes is designed to bridge the gap between low-calorie dietary options and premium sensory performance. She noted that the sweet-drizzled, bite-sized format addresses a distinct consumer request for zero-compromise sweet treats, providing retail partners with a highly differentiated product line to drive average basket values in the snack aisle. New Products Like Air Enters Rice Cake Segment with Dessert-Inspired Line Eddie Sanders June 17, 2026 Foodservice Taco Bell Partners with Salt & Straw to Launch Churro Ice Cream Taco Soft drinks Pepsi Announces Pop-up Ice Cream Parlour Experience in Soho Featuring Ice Cream-Inspired Range New Products Mars Expands Galaxy Portfolio with Dessert-Inspired Chocolate Bars Retail 7-Eleven Japan Launches Fruit Sandwich with Cocoa Bread Food New Products Snacking Related news

Functional snack brand Khloud has made its club channel debut at select California Costco locations with a new value-sized version of its White Cheddar pack. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Functional snack brand Khloud has entered the club retail channel through an agreement with multinational retailer Costco. The brand, co-founded by Khloé Kardashian, is introducing its first-ever value-size product format to select store shelves. Beginning today, shoppers at more than 50 Costco warehouses across Los Angeles and Orange County, California, can purchase Khloud’s White Cheddar Protein Popcorn in a new 12-ounce (approximately 340g) packaging size. The product rollout represents the brand's largest format to date and serves as a test market for its high-volume retail strategy. Retail Expansion and Club Channel Strategy The Costco partnership is a milestone in the brand's physical distribution expansion. Khloud is currently tracking to surpass 32,000 retail doors across the United States by August 2026. This rapid growth includes distribution across grocery, convenience, and speciality retail channels. The new club-format packaging is positioned at a retail price of US$9.99. By offering a larger portion size at a competitive price point, the brand aims to appeal to family households and bulk-buying demographics. The regional California launch is scheduled as a limited-time offering, allowing the brand to assess sales velocity and consumer demand in the club channel before potentially pursuing a wider regional or national footprint. Product Formulation and Clean Label Standards The Costco offering maintains the same nutritional specifications and ingredient standards as the brand's standard retail lines. Developed as a functional alternative to conventional ready-to-eat popcorn, the product is formulated to meet growing consumer demand for high-protein, clean-label snacks. Key technical and nutritional specifications of the popcorn include: Protein Content: Each serving provides seven grams of protein. Real Cheese Sourcing: The formulation utilises 100 per cent real cheddar cheese to deliver a savoury flavour profile. Clean Label Profile: The snack is produced without seed oils, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), or gluten, aligning with modern dietary preferences. Khloé Kardashian, co-founder of Khloud, stated that securing a listing with Costco has been a long-term goal for the company, noting that the larger format is intended to help families stock up on functional snack options during routine shopping trips. About Khloud Khloud is a fast-growing US functional snack brand co-founded by Khloé Kardashian. The company specialises in the development of high-protein savoury snacks, including its core lineups of Protein Popcorn and Protein Chips. The brand's product development strategy is focused on eliminating common additives, such as seed oils and gluten, whilst maintaining traditional snack flavours and textures. Snacking Khloud Launches at Costco with Value-Size White Cheddar Protein Popcorn Eddie Sanders July 20, 2026 New Products Co-op Launches Halloween 2026 Confectionery and Snack Range New Products Milk Bar Partners with Beyond Meat to Launch Savoury Plant-Based Range Foodservice Chomps Expands Distribution Footprint at Starbucks and Costco Snacking Little Bites Launches Mystery Muffin and Naming Contest Food Snacking Business & Finance New Products Related news

The Kroger Co. has expanded its private-label frozen portfolio with the launch of the All-American Ice Cream Collection comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom United States grocery retailer The Kroger Co. has expanded its own-label frozen dessert portfolio with the national rollout of its limited-edition Kroger Brand All-American Ice Cream Collection. To drive physical footprint traffic and accelerate digital channel engagement, the retailer is supporting the product launch with a large-scale promotional campaign. On Friday 19 June 2026, the company will distribute 100,000 free pints of ice cream through its proprietary digital coupon database, timed to capitalise on peak consumer demand ahead of the summer solstice on 21 June. The campaign highlights a growing retail trend where major supermarkets utilise high-volume product giveaways and targeted seasonal promotions to encourage app downloads, capture first-party consumer data, and drive physical store visits during critical summer trading weeks. Nostalgic Flavour Formulations and Inclusions The limited-edition seasonal lineup comprises three distinct, heritage-inspired dairy formulations developed under the retailer's primary private label brand, Kroger Brand: 🍿 Seventh Inning Swirl – A caramel popcorn flavoured ice cream base integrated with praline peanuts and sweet caramel swirls. 🍒 Sweet As Cherry Pie – A cherry pie flavoured formulation featuring tart cherry swirls and baked pie crust pieces. 🍌 Banana Split Social – A dual-flavoured strawberry banana ice cream base blended with sweet pineapple chunks and rich chocolate swirls. The products are packaged in standard retail pint formats, positioned as a value-tier alternative to premium national brands in the frozen aisle. According to Ann Reed, Group Vice President of Our Brands at Kroger, the company has scaled its annual summer solstice promotion to increase shopper frequency and brand loyalty in the frozen category. By expanding the giveaway to 100,000 pints, the grocery chain is elevating its customer-acquisition efforts through a unified digital-to-physical experience. To secure the promotion, shoppers must access a dedicated campaign landing page to download a single-use digital coupon. The logistics of the campaign are structured as follows: Coupon Availability: The single-use digital coupon will be released exclusively on Friday 19 June 2026, starting at 12:00 PM EST, on a first-come, first-served basis. Redemption Window: The downloaded digital offer is redeemable across the Kroger family of stores from 19 June through 3 July 2026. Product Eligibility: The coupon can be redeemed for any of the new All-American flavours or classic Kroger Brand pints, such as Cookies 'N Cream and Rocky Road. Private Label The private-label sector remains a key margin driver for grocery retailers, with corporate brands like "Our Brands" playing a critical role in customer retention during periods of persistent food inflation. By offering exclusive, seasonal formulations at accessible price points, Kroger can differentiate its frozen assortment from mass-merchant competitors. The completion of the All-American Ice Cream Collection rollout aligns with early summer purchasing patterns, where retailers leverage nostalgic snack and dessert categories to increase basket sizes ahead of major holiday weekends. New Products Kroger Launches All-American Ice Cream Collection Eddie Sanders June 5, 2026 New Products Ben & Jerry's Launches Limited Batch Razz Up Flavour Foodservice Haagen-Dazs Shops Launches New Sundae Series Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Opens Research and Innovation Centre in India Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Invests €10M in Hungarian Production Facility Dairy New Products Related news

Behavioral healthcare provider Rula and Van Leeuwen Ice Cream partner for "Therapy in a Pint" to bridge the gap between awareness and mental health action. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Rula, a national behavioural healthcare platform, has announced a landmark partnership with the premium ice cream brand Van Leeuwen to debut "Therapy in a Pint." Launching during May for Mental Health Awareness Month, the initiative replaces traditional dessert with a QR code that unlocks access to professional therapy, reimagining the "comfort food" ritual as a gateway to clinical self-care. The collaboration represents a strategic move by Rula to meet potential patients in high-frequency, positive retail environments, simplifying the path to professional support through a familiar consumer interface. Integration of Healthcare and Retail The primary objective of the partnership is to address the "action gap" in the US mental health sector. While public awareness of mental health is at an all-time high, Rula’s 2026 State of Mental Health Report indicates that over half of Americans who recognise the importance of care have yet to engage with professional services. Josh Bruno, CEO and Founder of Rula, stated that "Therapy in a Pint" is designed to turn a moment of "reaching for a little comfort" into a meaningful first step toward lasting progress. By leveraging the brand equity of Van Leeuwen, an organisation synonymous with indulgence and happiness, Rula is attempting to destigmatise the act of seeking therapy. Product Architecture and Activation The "Therapy in a Pint" bundle is priced at $7.95, a tactical price point that aligns with a standard premium ice cream purchase. The bundle includes: The Digital Gateway: An "empty" limited-edition pint featuring a scannable QR code to redeem a therapy session on the Rula platform. Immediate Gratification: A physical scoop of any Van Leeuwen flavour, ensuring the consumer still experiences the brand's core product. Omnichannel Presence: Available at select Van Leeuwen scoop shops nationwide and via a mobile activation truck in Zuccotti Park, New York City. Ben Van Leeuwen, co-founder and CEO of Van Leeuwen, noted that a "good state of mind" is a core corporate value for the brand. The partnership allows the retailer to offer its customers a deeper level of well-being that extends beyond the sensory experience of its products. The Turn Off the Talk Track Campaign The partnership is a central component of Rula’s broader "Turn Off the Talk Track" marketing strategy. This campaign focuses on the internal dialogue that prevents individuals from seeking help, such as minimising feelings or delaying care. By placing a therapy referral directly into a physical ice cream pint, Rula is bypassing the traditional digital or clinical entry points for healthcare. This "tangible" approach to a service-based industry allows for higher cultural resonance and provides a physical reminder of the commitment to mental health. As the definition of "wellness" continues to expand, we are seeing a maturation of partnerships between clinical healthcare providers and lifestyle brands. For CPG companies like Van Leeuwen, these collaborations provide a way to demonstrate social responsibility and functional purpose. For healthcare providers like Rula, retail partnerships offer a scalable mechanism for patient acquisition that feels organic rather than clinical. Marketing Rula and Van Leeuwen Partner for Therapy in a Pint Campaign News May 6, 2026 Marketing SNICKERS Launches Hungr.AI Interactive Campaign Marketing TABASCO Launches Marketing Campaign with Actor Iñaki Godoy as Chief Hot Ideas Person Marketing Kewpie Launches Covent Garden Pop Up for KEWPIE IT Campaign in London Foodservice McDonald's UK and Ireland Partners with Xbox for Gaming-Inspired Menu Dairy Food Marketing Related news

By leveraging accessible technologies—specifically microcontrollers and modular components based on platforms like Arduino—the company is building custom solutions tailored to the nuances of tea handling. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom U.S.-based manufacturer Caraway Tea Company is challenging the capital-intensive norms of the food processing sector, implementing a strategic "affordable automation" programme designed to modernise its production capabilities without the prohibitive costs associated with large-scale industrial systems. Operating within a highly competitive manufacturing environment, the small business has adopted a practical, in-house approach to engineering. By leveraging accessible technologies—specifically microcontrollers and modular components based on platforms like Arduino —the company is building custom solutions tailored to the nuances of tea handling. The 'DIY' Engineering Approach Rather than procuring expensive, proprietary automation suites, Caraway has developed purpose-built machinery internally. This strategy allows for targeted automation of repetitive tasks while maintaining the flexibility required for short-run production. Key Innovations: Tea Bag Counting Conveyors: Custom-built units that automatically count and stage tea bags for insertion into retail pouches, significantly reducing manual handling and improving packing consistency. Loose Tea Portioning: Engineered compact machines designed to portion and pack loose leaf tea into small-format pouches, supporting diverse product configurations. Michael Caraway , Founder of Caraway Tea Company, explained the competitive logic behind the strategy: "Our goal is to be efficient, adaptable, and competitive without taking on the cost structure of much larger manufacturers. By building our own automation solutions, we can improve throughput and consistency while remaining flexible enough to serve customers with specialised or short-run production needs." The approach has resulted in a "hybrid manufacturing model" that blends traditional blending expertise with modern, cost-effective production tools. By focusing on scalable, accessible technology, Caraway Tea Company aims to enhance its operational execution for private-label and co-packing partners. The strategy allows the firm to remain responsive to changing market needs while avoiding the rigidity and debt burden often associated with heavy industrial automation. Coffee & Tea Caraway Tea Company Deploys Low-Cost 'In-House' Automation to Modernise Production Lines News January 20, 2026 New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Coffee & Tea The Spice & Tea Exchange Secures Five New Southeast Franchise Deals New Products Yorkshire Tea Launches Fruit Herbal and Green Tea Infusions Range New Products Clearspring Expands Japanese Tea Range with Organic Hojicha Powder New Solutions Manufacturing Packaging Beverage Technology Coffee & Tea Related news