Chobani has raised $650 million in new funding, valuing the Greek yogurt leader at $20 billion, as it embarks on an ambitious $1.7 billion infrastructure and expansion programme across the US. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Chobani has raised $650 million in new funding, valuing the Greek yogurt leader at $20 billion, as it embarks on an ambitious $1.7 billion infrastructure and expansion programme across the US. The investment marks one of the largest private equity rounds in the food and beverage sector in recent years and will support Chobani’s continued diversification beyond its core yogurt portfolio. Record valuation and strong financial growth Chobani projects $3.8 billion in net sales for 2025, representing a 28% year-on-year increase. The performance underscores the company’s sustained ability to expand market share in a competitive landscape increasingly dominated by private-label and health-focused brands. Founded in 2005, Chobani has become a category-defining player in the US dairy industry, with its valuation milestone reflecting both its financial resilience and its capacity to drive innovation within premium, health-centric food segments. Major infrastructure expansion The capital injection will finance two key infrastructure projects designed to strengthen Chobani’s US manufacturing network: New York: A $1.2 billion investment to establish a third dairy processing facility — the largest in Chobani’s history. Idaho: A $500 million expansion of its Twin Falls facility to boost capacity and operational efficiency. Together, these projects aim to enhance production flexibility and meet rising demand for high-protein and functional food products across North America. Diversification beyond yogurt Chobani continues to broaden its portfolio through a mix of organic innovation and strategic acquisitions. Recent moves include the $900 million acquisition of La Colombe in 2023 and the purchase of plant-based meal company Daily Harvest earlier this year. The company has also expanded into ready-to-drink and high-protein beverages, including its Chobani Protein line, targeting consumers seeking functional nutrition. These initiatives reflect Chobani’s long-term goal of becoming a multi-category food and beverage platform spanning dairy, coffee, and plant-based products. Industry impact and strategic outlook Chobani’s funding success underscores the strong investor confidence in agile, founder-led food brands that can combine innovation with scale. The move is expected to intensify competition in the premium dairy and functional nutrition segments while setting a benchmark for growth-driven private brands. CEO Hamdi Ulukaya has previously emphasized the company’s mission to “make better food more accessible to all,” a vision that continues to guide its strategic evolution. With its strengthened capital position and infrastructure expansion underway, Chobani is now positioned to accelerate product innovation, streamline operations, and reinforce its leadership in the evolving health and wellness segment of the US food industry. Dairy Chobani secures $650m funding, reaching $20bn valuation to drive major US expansion October 20, 2025 Facilities Novonesis Invests €600M in Indian Enzyme Facility Business & Finance Medici Brands Secures $250M Series B to Scale David Protein and HallPass Business & Finance Nestlé to Divest Mainstream Supplements Business to Yellow Wood Partners for $1B Business & Finance Chobani Acquires KDP Allentown Facility in $1.2B Dairy Expansion Business & Finance Dairy Related news

Mars Snacking has partnered with Love Island USA Season 8 as its exclusive confectionery partner, launching limited-edition M&M'S comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mars Inc The Newsroom The intersection of streaming entertainment and Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) continues to evolve as manufacturers look beyond traditional linear television advertising. Mars Snacking North America has announced that its flagship brand, M&M'S, will serve as the exclusive confectionery partner for the upcoming eighth season of the reality television series Love Island USA , premiering on Peacock on 2 June 2026. To translate this high-visibility sponsorship into direct commercial transactions, Mars is debuting a limited-edition product line called the M&M'S Play Along Packs. This strategic move highlights a broader trend within food and beverage marketing: "second-screen gamification." By creating a physical, interactive game that synchronises with real-time broadcast moments, the brand aims to establish itself as the definitive snack for shared viewing experiences, directly capturing the attention of millennial and Gen Z demographics. For brand managers and digital marketers, the commercial significance of the Love Island USA partnership lies in how it addresses changing consumer media consumption behaviours. Co-viewing and "second-screen" media consumption, wherein viewers actively engage with social media, messaging apps, or digital games on their mobile phones while watching television, has become the standard mode of entertainment for younger audiences. By formalising this dual-screen behaviour into a structured physical game, Mars Snacking is converting passive viewers into active brand participants: Capturing Co-Viewing Occasions: The Play Along Packs include four distinct game boards, actively encouraging communal viewing parties, group discussions, and high-volume product sharing. Sustaining Consumer Attention: Restricting the game mechanics to specific, unpredictable on-screen events ensures that the brand remains top-of-mind throughout the entire duration of the broadcast season. Social Media Multiplier Effects: The interactive nature of the product naturally incentivises user-generated content, driving organic brand visibility across platforms like TikTok and Instagram as consumers share their watch party experiences. This active engagement strategy represents a highly sophisticated alternative to standard, easily ignored fifteen-second advertising spots, securing a deeper emotional connection with the target market. Gamified Packaging Design From a product development and manufacturing standpoint, the campaign showcases how large-scale confectionery lines can execute highly agile, customised production runs to support short-term promotional campaigns. The core of the limited-edition package is a 10-ounce sharing pouch of custom milk chocolate M&M'S. These candies feature custom printing on their shells, substituting the standard "M" logo with iconic catchphrases and terminology popularised within the Love Island franchise, such as "pull for a chat" and "bombshell arrives." Integrating these custom, localised phrases onto the actual product serves multiple commercial purposes: Enhanced Sensory Integration: Merging the physical consumption of the chocolate with the visual and auditory cues of the broadcast elevates the sensory experience of the snack. Premium Product Positioning: By offering a highly customised, thematic product, Mars can justify premium pricing structures and command stronger product margins compared to standard retail assortments. Low Operational Complexity: The base product utilises the standard milk chocolate formulation, meaning the manufacturing adjustments are isolated entirely to the printing and packaging phases, mitigating broader supply chain disruptions. To maximise profit margins and capture highly valuable first-party consumer data, Mars is bypassing traditional mass-market grocery channels for the initial product rollout. The M&M'S Play Along Packs will be sold exclusively through the brand's proprietary e-commerce storefront, MMS.com, at a retail price of USD 15.99. By routing transactions through its direct-to-consumer platform, Mars Snacking achieves several operational advantages: Database Expansion: Transitioning television viewers into online buyers allows the company to collect verified first-party email addresses and purchasing profiles, facilitating automated marketing campaigns for future product launches. Inventory Control and Scarcity: By marketing the bundles as a highly limited, seasonal offering, the brand creates immediate purchasing urgency, driving rapid early adoption while lowering the risk of post-campaign excess inventory. Optimised Brand Margin: Retaining the entirety of the retail margin without retail slotting fees or wholesale discount structures ensures that the digital activation remains highly profitable. To support the physical retail launches, Mars Wrigley is deploying a comprehensive, multi-channel marketing campaign throughout the summer. This program will feature digital influencer integrations, exclusive social media content, and real-time commentary from the brand’s signature characters, sustaining consumer excitement throughout the high-demand summer trading period. Confectionery Mars Snacking Announces Love Island USA Gamified Candy Eddie Sanders May 27, 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 Food Confectionery Marketing New Products Related news

The collaboration centers on a three-part web series, releasing between February 2 and 9, designed to promote the retailer's newest plant-based menu innovation: the falafel ball. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom IKEA Retail (Ingka Group) has announced a strategic content partnership with the popular stop-motion character Tiny Chef to headline its 2026 marketing focus on "Cooking & Eating." The collaboration centers on a three-part web series, releasing between February 2 and 9 , designed to promote the retailer's newest plant-based menu innovation: the falafel ball . This campaign represents a shift in IKEA's food marketing strategy, utilising "edutainment" and character-led storytelling to demystify plant-based options for mass-market consumers. By leveraging Tiny Chef—a character with a dedicated following known for vegan advocacy—IKEA aims to position its sustainable food offerings as "joyful and creative" rather than solely functional or ethical. The Plant-Rich Falafel Ball At the core of the campaign is the commercial rollout of IKEA's new falafel ball . Made primarily with chickpeas, the product is engineered to sit alongside the retailer's iconic Swedish meatball, offering a familiar form factor to encourage trial among flexitarian shoppers. Lorena Lourido Gomez , Global Food Manager at IKEA Retail (Ingka Group), framed the launch within the company's broader scope of influence: "Serving over 600 million guests annually , we have the privilege and responsibility to make healthier, sustainable food choices accessible and affordable for the many. We are excited to partner with Tiny Chef, showing people that plant-based eating should be joyful, creative, and full of flavour, not just better for the planet." Campaign Narrative: ‘Tiny Chef’ as Brand Ambassador The digital campaign follows a narrative arc where Tiny Chef visits an IKEA store and transitions from a shopper to a "Food Co-worker" and ambassador for the new product. This storytelling approach humanises the retail experience and provides a platform to showcase the versatility of IKEA’s kitchenware and food products simultaneously. In a statement reflecting the character's unique voice, Tiny Chef commented on the alignment: "It's a dweam come twue to pawtner wif mi fwends at Blikea! We bof want to bwing good fwends bland good food to da table. Ash a herbivowr, myself, Bly was sho excited to hep shawr da dewicious fwavor of Blikea's new fawafel balls wif da whole world!" Strategic Outlook: 2026 Focus This partnership underscores IKEA's 2026 operational focus on the "Cooking & Eating" category. By integrating a new plant-based SKU with high-engagement digital content, the retailer is executing a dual strategy: driving footfall to its restaurants (a key revenue and retention driver) and reinforcing its sustainability credentials through accessible product innovation. Foodservice IKEA Partners with ‘Tiny Chef’ to Drive Plant-Based Strategy and Launch New Falafel News February 2, 2026 Foodservice Wagamama Unveils 26 Dishes and 15 Drinks in US Menu Overhaul Foodservice TGI Fridays Expands into Balkans with Devolli Group Franchise Agreement Foodservice Hoogland Restaurant Group Acquires Five Marco's Pizza Locations Foodservice Biscuit Belly Acquires 34 Maple Street Biscuit Company Outlets Food Marketing Foodservice Related news

The US Senate has introduced a continuing resolution that could delay the federal ban on hemp-derived THC food and beverage products. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The US Senate has released a continuing resolution (CR) that, if passed, will extend the implementation date of the federal hemp THC ban from 12 November to 11 December. The proposed extension provides federal lawmakers, agricultural producers, and beverage manufacturers additional time to negotiate a long-term regulatory strategy for hemp-derived cannabinoid products across the United States. Proposed Regulatory Timeline and Restrictions The initial restriction, included in last year's spending bill, places severe limits on food and beverage products containing hemp-derived tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Under the federal policy framework, hemp products would be capped at a maximum of 0.4mg of THC per container. This threshold would effectively remove the majority of commercial THC drinks from retail distribution, as standard commercial formulations typically contain between 2mg and 5mg of THC per can. If the new continuing resolution is enacted: Synthetic Cannabinoid Ban: The prohibition targeting synthetic cannabinoids will remain scheduled to take effect on 12 November. Naturally Derived Hemp THC Delay: The restriction on naturally derived hemp THC products will be deferred until 11 December. Legislative Window: The temporary extension maintains government funding through mid-December, creating an additional window for statutory adjustments. A St. Louis liquor store hung a sign announcing Gov. Mike Parson’s executive order to ban intoxicating hemp beverages (Rebecca Rivas/Missouri Independent). Legislative Negotiations and Industry Impact The temporary stay has drawn support from agricultural representatives, craft brewers, and industry trade organisations seeking clear regulatory standards rather than an outright market prohibition. The US Hemp Roundtable expressed appreciation for the bipartisan effort to extend the timeline, noting that the delay allows Congress to evaluate the broader economic impact on domestic agriculture, small businesses, and adult consumers before enacting sweeping restrictions. US Democratic Senator Tina Smith of Minnesota highlighted the local commercial consequences of federal intervention, pointing to established state-level regulatory systems. Smith noted that an abrupt federal ban would disrupt hemp farmers and local breweries that have integrated low-dose THC beverages into their product lines, emphasising the need for a comprehensive long-term policy framework. “Adults should be allowed to have a THC beverage if they so choose. Minnesota has created one of the strongest, most carefully regulated systems in the country to allow the sale of hemp products. The initial ban set to take place was ill-advised and would have hurt both hemp farmers and Minnesota breweries alike.” Legal US Senate Proposed Legislation Delays Hemp THC Beverage Ban Eddie Sanders August 4, 2026 New Products Khalifa Kush Partners with Scofflaw Brewing to Launch THC Beverages New Products BLNCD Naturals and Foundry Nation Launch Low THC Beverage Line Business & Finance Foundry Nation Announces Portfolio Refresh and New THC Formulations New Products Craft and Art Wine and Spirits Enters THC Beverage Market With Woodstock Ingredients Alcohol Beverage Legal Related news

M&S Food has reintroduced four 1980s retro chocolate bars across its UK store network, reviving the original St Michael branding. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom UK retailer M&S Food has expanded its confectionery portfolio with the relaunch of four retro chocolate bars originally introduced in the 1980s: Jet, Sparks, Now!, and Coconut Grove. The commercial rollout follows the positive consumer reception of the retailer's Take 4 wafer bar relaunch last winter. The initiative addresses broader retail market trends in the UK, where consumer research indicates that one in five adults identifies chocolate as the primary food item they would most like to see brought back from childhood. Nostalgia and Confectionery Trends The return of the four SKUs reflects ongoing demand across the UK confectionery sector for nostalgic product formats and retro branding. By tapping into archived product IP, retailers can drive impulse purchases among older consumer demographics seeking familiar products, while introducing legacy formats to younger shoppers. To reinforce the heritage positioning of the range, M&S Food has reproduced the original St Michael packaging design utilised during the 1980s. The packaging retains the original colour palettes, typography, and brand names from the period. An M&S Food spokesperson noted that following the performance of Take 4 last year, the business revisited its product archives to reintroduce additional heritage chocolate lines, offering a combination of nostalgic recall for returning consumers and discovery for first-time buyers. Product Portfolio and Flavour Profiles The four reintroduced bars incorporate traditional confectionery elements including nougat, caramel, biscuit, and coconut, all encased in Fairtrade-certified milk chocolate: 🍫 Jet: Combines chewy nougat, roasted peanuts, and soft caramel, coated in Fairtrade milk chocolate. ⚡ Sparks: Pairs a chewy nougat foundation with soft caramel, wrapped in Fairtrade milk chocolate. 🍪 Now!: Features a crisp biscuity caramel centre encased in Fairtrade milk chocolate. 🥥 Coconut Grove: Filled with a smooth coconut centre and coated in Fairtrade milk chocolate. Packaging and Retail Availability The four retro chocolate bars have commenced commercial availability across M&S Foodhalls nationwide. The range is positioned within the retailer's core confectionery aisles, leveraging original retro aesthetics and Fairtrade ingredient certification to capture top-up and impulse snacking occasions. New Products M&S Food Relaunches Four 1980s Retro Chocolate Bars Eddie Sanders July 26, 2026 New Products Reese's Expands UK Portfolio with Caramel Block and White Cups New Products McVitie's Launches Chocolate Christmas Treat Range with Penguin and Jaffa Elf Confectionery M&M'S Partners with Practical Magic 2 for Halloween Spell and Snack Packs Confectionery Ghirardelli Relaunches Seasonal Jack O'Lantern Chocolates across US Retail Retail New Products Confectionery Snacking Food Related news

FrieslandCampina Ingredients has announced a 90 million euro investment programme to strengthen its global position in high-value whey proteins, upgrading three key Dutch production sites to meet accelerating demand in the medical, performance, and active nutrition sectors. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Dairy FrieslandCampina The Newsroom FrieslandCampina, one of the world’s largest dairy co-operatives, has unveiled a strategic investment programme exceeding 90 million euros. The capital is earmarked for the modernisation and expansion of its ingredients production network in the Netherlands, specifically targeting the high-growth segment of advanced whey proteins. The programme represents a major step in the company's broader "Doing Dairy Right" strategy, focusing on the valorisation of whey, a natural by-product of cheese production, into premium nutritional solutions for global food and beverage manufacturers. Technical Upgrades and Advanced Protein Portfolio The investment focuses on three core production facilities in Bedum, Veghel, and Workum. By implementing state-of-the-art processing technologies, FrieslandCampina is increasing its capacity to manufacture specialised ingredients that require high technical precision. The expanded portfolio will support the production of several key advanced protein products: WPC80 🥛: A high-protein whey concentrate used extensively in sports and lifestyle nutrition. Instantised Whey Proteins ⚡ Engineered for rapid solubility in high-protein beverage applications. Nutri Whey™ ProHeat 🔥 A proprietary microparticulated whey protein designed to remain stable under high-heat processing, ideal for medical nutrition and shelf-stable clinical feeds. Anne Peter Lindeboom, President of FrieslandCampina Ingredients, stated that the programme is the next phase in a global strategy to lead in high-value proteins. The move follows recent capacity expansions in Borculo and the strategic acquisition of Wisconsin Whey Protein in the United States, creating a more resilient and flexible global supply chain. Sustainability and Operational Excellence A significant portion of the 90 million euro investment is dedicated to environmental efficiency. The programme involves the phase-out of legacy production lines in favour of modern, resource-efficient infrastructure. Operational sustainability highlights include: Emission Reductions: The upgrades are projected to reduce Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 16 kilotonnes of CO2e. Resource Efficiency: Implementation of energy- and water-efficient technologies to ensure long-term compliance with evolving Dutch and European Union environmental standards. Optimised Logistics: Strengthening the Dutch network enables more efficient processing of internally sourced whey, reducing the carbon footprint of raw material transport. Market Outlook for High Value Nutrition Global demand for advanced protein solutions is accelerating as the "active nutrition" and "healthy ageing" demographics expand. Manufacturers of high-protein drinks, bars, and yoghurts are increasingly seeking ingredients that offer both functional performance, such as heat stability or neutral taste, and a transparent, sustainable supply chain. By investing in its domestic manufacturing hub, FrieslandCampina is ensuring its facilities remain technologically advanced and capable of producing the complex fractions required for medical and early life nutrition. The phased investment will continue over the coming years, with the company aiming for full operational output across all three sites by 2028. This move reinforces FrieslandCampina’s role as a primary infrastructure provider for the global nutrition industry, leveraging its "circular" dairy model to create more value from its internal milk and whey streams. Manufacturing FrieslandCampina Invests €90 Million to Expand Dutch Whey Protein Production Eddie Sanders May 5, 2026 Facilities Novonesis Invests €600M in Indian Enzyme Facility Business & Finance Medici Brands Secures $250M Series B to Scale David Protein and HallPass Business & Finance Nestlé to Divest Mainstream Supplements Business to Yellow Wood Partners for $1B Business & Finance Chobani Acquires KDP Allentown Facility in $1.2B Dairy Expansion Facilities Manufacturing Business & Finance Ingredients Sustainability Related news

Upstate Elevator has introduced the first dual kanna and kava beverage line, featuring Zembrin kanna, noble kava root. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Upstate Elevator has expanded beyond its core cannabinoid portfolio with the launch of the beverage industry's first dual-infused kanna and kava drink line. Rolling out across direct-to-consumer digital channels and select physical retail partners in the United States, the collection introduces non-alcoholic, zero-proof functional spritzes and sodas engineered with a combination of clinically studied Zembrin® kanna, noble kava root extract, and L-theanine. The launch enters the rapidly evolving functional beverage sector, offering non-intoxicating botanical alternatives for mood elevation, relaxation, and cognitive focus without reliance on hemp-derived cannabinoids or alcohol. Functional Formulation and Botanical Ingredients The development of the new beverage platform combines three active botanical ingredients into a single liquid matrix, establishing a distinct sub-segment within non-alcoholic functional beverages. Each zero-proof product is formulated without artificial preservatives, synthetic dyes, or THC, utilising organic ingredients and low-sugar profile standards: 🌿 Zembrin® Kanna: A standardised extract of Sceletium tortuosum researched for its cognitive and mood-supporting functional properties. 🌱 Noble Kava Root Extract: A traditional Polynesian botanical ingredient utilised for physical relaxation and stress management. 🧠 L-Theanine: An amino acid included to support mental clarity, calm focus, and sensory balance. Dylan Raap, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Upstate Elevator, stated that developing functional beverages using alternative botanical ingredients enables the enterprise to expand consumer choices beyond cannabinoids while maintaining product formulation standards. Product Portfolio and Flavour Lineup The dual-infused range enters commercial distribution with two initial stock-keeping units (SKUs), with a third flavour variant scheduled for release later in the month: 🍊 Pink Grapefruit Uplift Spritz: A 40-calorie, low-sugar sparkling spritz formulated with 50mg Zembrin® kanna, 20mg noble kava extract, 90mg L-theanine, and 40mg potassium, delivering a bright citrus flavour profile. 🫐 Blackberry Zinger Unwind Soda: A kava-forward botanical soda combining 100mg noble kava extract, 15mg Zembrin® kanna, and 90mg L-theanine with bold blackberry and citrus notes. 🥭 Lychee Blood Orange Uplift Spritz: An upcoming tropical spritz extension joining the brand's functional collection later in the month. Retail Distribution The launch expands Upstate Elevator's botanical portfolio, following the company's recent introduction of dual kanna and kava functional gummies. By diversifying its active ingredient base into alternative botanicals, the manufacturer aims to mitigate supply chain and regulatory friction associated with the domestic hemp and cannabinoid sectors while establishing a presence across mainstream zero-proof retail sets. Commercial distribution for the Pink Grapefruit Uplift Spritz and Blackberry Zinger Unwind Soda has commenced through the company's primary direct-to-consumer e-commerce portal at upstateelevator.com , with physical retail replenishment across select US stockists underway. New Products Upstate Elevator Launches First Dual Kanna and Kava Beverage Line Eddie Sanders August 12, 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

Kroger has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, aiming to expand its regional footprint in the US grocery comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Kroger Co. has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Giant Eagle, Inc., a prominent family-owned food and pharmacy retailer. The transaction, valued at approximately $1.65 billion, consists of $1.25 billion in cash and the assumption of roughly $400 million in outstanding liabilities. The acquisition is expected to close in 2027, pending regulatory clearance and customary closing conditions. Giant Eagle operates 197 supermarkets and 11 standalone pharmacies across northern Ohio, western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Maryland, and Indiana, generating approximately $9 billion in annual sales. Kroger leadership identified the retailer as a high-quality strategic fit, citing its reputation for fresh products, private label strength, and established customer loyalty. By integrating Giant Eagle’s regional store base with Kroger’s digital eCommerce solutions, data analytics, and operational scale, the company aims to: Accelerate growth across both in-store and online channels. Enhance the overall customer experience through improved personalisation. Extend the reach of Kroger’s "Zero Hunger | Zero Waste" impact programme into new communities. Financial and Operational Impact Kroger plans to finance the transaction through cash and expects to maintain its net total debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio in the range of 2.3x – 2.5x following the close. The company stated it remains committed to its existing dividend and share repurchase programmes. Kroger anticipates the deal will be accretive to adjusted earnings per share (EPS) by the second full year following completion. Regulatory Process and Integration The transaction has received unanimous approval from Kroger's Board of Directors. To satisfy regulatory requirements, Kroger and Giant Eagle have indicated that they expect to divest a limited number of Giant Eagle stores. The deal remains subject to antitrust review and other customary closing conditions before finalisation in 2027. Retail Kroger Announces $1.65B Agreement to Acquire Giant Eagle Eddie Sanders July 1, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products Retail Tesco Expands Frozen Aisle with 150 New Products Retail Asda Completes £7.5M Digital Shelf Label Rollout across Express Stores Retail Co-op Introduces 7am Online Delivery across 1200 Stores for Back to School Rush Retail Business & Finance Related news

The partnership marks the first time the two brands have collaborated on this scale, rolling out a space-themed campaign titled "Planet McDonald's." comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice McDonald's Corporation The Newsroom In a significant global collaboration, Crayola has teamed up with fast-food giant McDonald's to launch a new, expansive Happy Meal experience. The partnership marks the first time the two brands have collaborated on this scale, rolling out a space-themed campaign titled "Planet McDonald's." The initiative is designed to transform the traditional Happy Meal into a creative platform, blending physical play with digital interaction across more than 60 markets in EMEA, the UK, Asia, and Canada. Campaign Architecture and Availability The limited-edition "Planet McDonald's" Happy Meal features an exclusive lineup of co-branded activity kits and toys. The central theme revolves around space exploration, designed to encourage hands-on creativity for families. Availability: Rolling out now through March 2026 (varying by market). Markets: Over 60 countries across EMEA, the UK, Asia, and Canada. Digital Integration and 'Phygital' Play The campaign incorporates a robust digital component to extend engagement beyond the restaurant. Children can scan their physical creations to activate an interactive digital experience, watching their artwork come to life in a vibrant, space-themed virtual environment. Supply Chain Milestone A distinct commercial element of this partnership is a shift in the supply chain relationship. In a first for the company, Crayola has officially become a supplier of coloured pencils for McDonald's. This integration of Crayola's creative IP extends across all marketing touchpoints, reinforcing the brand's position as the leader in children's creative expression products. Anna Roca , Head of Global Partnerships at Crayola, commented on the strategic alignment: "Crayola's mission has always been to inspire and empower creative exploration, discovery, and self-expression in every child. This partnership with McDonald's brings that mission to life in a bold, unexpected way... Together, we're empowering kids to take a giant leap into creativity and fill the universe with colour." Sheila Hamilton , Senior Director of Global Brand Marketing at McDonald's, highlighted the focus on personalised narrative: "This unique partnership with Crayola allows us to deliver personalised, interactive experiences that connect culture and creativity through a space-themed journey that puts kids in control of their own narrative." Foodservice McDonald's and Crayola Launch Global 'Planet McDonald's' Happy Meal Experience News December 28, 2025 Foodservice Wagamama Unveils 26 Dishes and 15 Drinks in US Menu Overhaul Foodservice TGI Fridays Expands into Balkans with Devolli Group Franchise Agreement Foodservice Hoogland Restaurant Group Acquires Five Marco's Pizza Locations Foodservice Biscuit Belly Acquires 34 Maple Street Biscuit Company Outlets Marketing Foodservice Business & Finance Packaging Related news

Harpak-ULMA has launched the ULMA VTC 840 WD Washdown Vertical Packaging System, an IP66-certified vertical form-fill-seal platform comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Harpak-ULMA has introduced its latest vertical form-fill-seal packaging platform, the ULMA VTC 840 WD Washdown Vertical Packaging System. The machinery is designed to address rising operational costs, resource consumption, and strict sanitation requirements within the food manufacturing sector. Engineered for demanding environments such as protein, poultry, cheese, and frozen food processing, the packaging system combines a full washdown design with automated controls. The platform was designed to simultaneously improve cleanability, resource sustainability, operator usability, and production throughput. Resource Optimisation and Sanitation Performance The packaging platform features a full IP66-certified washdown architecture designed to withstand high-pressure sanitation from all angles. By redesigning the mechanical and pneumatic systems, the manufacturer has reduced both electrical and compressed-air consumption during operation. Additionally, the physical layout of the system has been simplified. The film path has been shortened to reduce the number of reel rollers from 30 down to five, minimising wear points and reducing the time required for cleaning and maintenance. Key technical specifications and features of the new platform include: 💧 IP66 Washdown Protection : Full 360-degree washdown capability built to withstand rigorous high-pressure sanitation procedures. ⚡ Electrical Efficiency : Redesigned electrical systems that lower power consumption by nearly 20% compared to conventional models. 💨 Pneumatic Optimisation : Updated pneumatic engineering that reduces overall compressed-air consumption by more than 30%. ⚙️ Simplified Film Path : A streamlined mechanical design that reduces the total number of reel rollers to five. 📊 Smart Monitoring : Built-in sensors and software for real-time tracking of overall equipment effectiveness and utility consumption. Automated Control and Operational Usability To address ongoing labour shortages and operational consistency challenges in food processing facilities, the system incorporates high levels of automation. The platform utilises barcode-driven recipe selection and automatic adjustments to key machine parameters, reducing operator dependency and improving setup repeatability. Mike Marchand, Senior Product Manager at Harpak-ULMA Packaging, noted that food processors have historically had to accept higher utility bills and extended downtime as the trade-off for improved sanitation standards. Marchand stated that the packaging system was designed from the ground up to eliminate this compromise, allowing processing plants to maintain aggressive cleaning regimes while running a highly efficient operation. The system also includes zone-specific alarm visualisation and automated film tracking, helping operators quickly identify and resolve issues on the line to maintain consistent production throughput. New Solutions Harpak-ULMA Launches ULMA VTC 840 WD Washdown Vertical Packaging System Eddie Sanders July 8, 2026 New Solutions Patco Products Launches Starplex Nova Clean Label Emulsifier Platform Facilities Cargill Doubles Production Capacity for FR3 Dielectric Fluid in Türkiye Alcohol Asahi Beer USA Installs High Speed Bottling Line at Wisconsin Facility Technology KPM Analytics Launches MCT700 Series In Line NIR Sensors for Food Processing Packaging Manufacturing New Solutions Technology Related news

ADM has launched eight new soy and pea protein ingredients across North America and Europe, targeting the high-growth functional beverage. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Ingredients ADM The Newsroom ADM, a prominent global leader in human and animal nutrition, has announced a significant expansion of its plant-based protein estate with the launch of eight new soy and pea protein products across North America and Europe. The dual-region rollout is engineered to provide food and beverage manufacturers with highly functional, regionally sourced solutions that resolve common formulation barriers while meeting the evolving nutritional expectations of modern consumers. The initiative represents a calculated portfolio expansion, leveraging ADM's extensive global research and development infrastructure to deliver tailored, application-specific ingredients to the fast-growing active nutrition, meat alternative, and dairy-free sectors. In a mature and increasingly professionalised plant-based market, the consumer approach to protein is undergoing a structural shift. Shoppers are moving away from basic, single-source protein intake in favour of diversified, multi-source dietary patterns that support specific wellness and environmental goals. Global market data compiled by the organisation highlights the scale of this commercial opportunity: Sought-After Nutrition: Sixty-six per cent of consumers globally report actively looking to increase their daily protein intake. Source Diversification: Eighty-six per cent of consumers state that they believe it is healthier to obtain their protein from a wide variety of sources. Greg Dodson, Vice President of Protein in North America for ADM, characterised the plant-based category as one of the most dynamic areas of modern nutrition, noting that manufacturers are facing unprecedented demands for variety, functionality, and clean-label transparency. Dodson emphasised that by expanding its manufacturing capabilities and ingredient portfolio, ADM is positioned to meet this demand at scale whilst actively shaping the future of global food systems. Technical Formulation and the Eight Innovation Lineup Replicating the precise textural and sensory profiles of animal-derived products whilst maintaining competitive cost-in-use metrics represents a significant food-science milestone. The eight new additions to ADM's portfolio are engineered as highly targeted functional tools, calibrated for specific applications: ProFam 883: A premium soy protein isolate designed for high solubility, rapid dispersibility, and a clean taste profile. This SKU is formulated to eliminate the chalky texture common in high-protein beverages and powders, delivering a smooth mouthfeel. ProFam 894: A medium-viscosity soy protein isolate featuring a light colour and clean flavour. The ingredient is optimised specifically for Greek-style yoghurt alternatives, drinkable yoghurts, and general dairy-alternative formulations. Arcon IH: A low-viscosity, functional soy protein concentrate designed to manage formulation cost-in-use. The ingredient supports moisture retention and juiciness in whole-muscle meat products, such as ham and pork chops, without altering structural bite. Arcon SB: A cost-effective soy protein concentrate engineered to improve product yield and texture in emulsified and ground meat systems, including sausages, meatballs, and taco meat. Arcon 412: A highly versatile soy protein concentrate formulated to maintain optimal juiciness and bite in breaded poultry applications like chicken nuggets, alongside deli meats. Pea Flour: A clean-label, gluten-free, and non-GMO ingredient that requires no allergen labelling in key markets. Offering a neutral colour and flavour profile, it is fortified with natural dietary fibre, making it highly applicable for batters, breadings, breakfast cereals, and baked goods. European-Sourced Arcon R: A multi-format soy protein concentrate available in coarse, 100 mesh, and 200 mesh sizes. It is engineered to support both high- and low-moisture extrusion, meat extensions, and dry extrusion across European bakery and alternative-protein channels. European-Sourced Arcon T: A new portfolio of textured soy protein concentrates providing diverse structural choices and a clean taste, designed to enhance the mouthfeel of extended meat products and plant-based alternatives. Regional Sourcing and Global R and D Infrastructure A primary differentiator for the new product range is ADM's commitment to "regional sourcing." By cultivating and processing raw materials closer to primary consumption hubs, the company is establishing a more resilient and sustainable B2B supply chain, reducing shipping lead times and de-risking operations against global transport volatility. To support this localised model, ADM utilises a sophisticated global network of technical facilities: Decatur, Illinois: A state-of-the-art, 36,000-square-foot protein solutions centre driving North American innovation. Wageningen, Netherlands: An advanced innovation centre situated at Wageningen University, focusing on European-sourced crop development. Serbia (SojaProtein): A dedicated facility specialising in the high-volume processing of non-GMO European soy. Hortolandia, Brazil: A Customer Creation and Innovation Center driving regional development for the South American market. Tony Payne, Senior Director of Creation, Design, and Development at ADM, stated that this expanded footprint allows the company to provide B2B clients with highly precise, functional solutions. Payne noted that by combining decades of plant-based expertise with global innovation centres, ADM is giving food manufacturers the exact tools they need to bring differentiated products to retail shelves more efficiently. New Solutions ADM Expands Plant Protein Portfolio with Eight New Soy and Pea Solutions Eddie Sanders May 21, 2026 New Products Z Natural Foods Launches Chocolate Goat Whey Protein Concentrate Business & Finance Actus Nutrition and Darigold Partner to Expand Speciality Protein Production New Products Levels Launches Strawberry Whey Protein New Products Khloé Kardashian’s Khloud Brand Launches Protein Chips Plant-based Health & Nutrition Ingredients New Solutions Related news

Marks & Spencer has overhauled its own-label beer portfolio with agency Thirst, debuting stamp-inspired Continental lagers and brewery-partnered beer. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom UK retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S) has completed a major redesign of its own-label beer portfolio across retail stores nationwide. Developed in collaboration with specialist drinks-branding agency Thirst, the refresh replaces traditional own-brand packaging conventions with two distinct design architectures: a story-driven Continental lager range and a partner-centric craft beer platform. The rollout reflects a shift in own-label beverage design, moving away from generic regional styling toward detailed provenance storytelling and elevated brewery collaboration. Dual Range Packaging Strategy The redesign encompasses two distinct product pillars within M&S's beer aisle, addressing different consumer segments while establishing clear visual tiering across standard, premium, and low-and-no alcohol offerings. To balance regional heritage with modern craft credentials, M&S and Thirst established two differentiated visual frameworks: 🍺 Continental Lager Range: A storytelling system inspired by vintage postage stamps, featuring etched-style national animal illustrations, distinct typography, and vibrant colour palettes to verify authentic country-of-origin brewing. 🍺 Craft Beer Collaboration Range: A contemporary badge-led packaging structure that elevates partner breweries to the top of the can, combining co-branding credentials with style-specific typography and flavour-driven colour coding. Vintage Postage Stamp Concept A core challenge for the Continental range was verifying authentic provenance on shelf, as every lager in the line is brewed directly in its country of origin. To communicate this without relying on standard geographical tropes, Thirst developed a collectable stamp-based design language. Each variant functions as a visual destination, incorporating bespoke typography and modern etched illustrations of native animals to reflect traditional stamp engravings. Due to production constraints across four different international printing sites, the design team avoided metallic foils or embossing, relying entirely on composition, detailed illustration, and colour theory to deliver a premium feel. Matt Burns, Executive Creative Director at Thirst, noted that the Continental line relies on detailed storytelling to celebrate regional origin, creating an own-label offer that competes with global beer brands. Craft Beer Line The craft beer redesign prioritises brewery transparency and style recognition across core, premium, and alcohol-free variants. The design centres on a bold top-of-can badge system that puts the partner brewery name first, anchored by the M&S mark as a seal of quality assurance. The visual language adapts according to beer style and flavour profile: 🌾 Session Beers: Utilises relaxed, approachable lettering and bright palettes. 🌫️ Hazy and IPA Styles: Features fluid, wavy typography complemented by fine line work. 🇺🇸 American-Style Brews: Incorporates bold, classic Americana-inspired typography. ✨ Premium and No-Alcohol Tiers: Premium SKUs adopt dark, restrained tonal palettes to indicate higher intensity, while alcohol-free variants incorporate white and blue visual cues to align with category standards. Packaging Realisation The updated beer range has commenced commercial availability across M&S Foodhalls and retail stores throughout the UK. Dave Bond, Designer at M&S, stated that the simultaneous redesign of both the craft and Continental ranges establishes a contemporary visual presence across the retailer's beer aisle. Maddie Love, Product Developer at M&S, added that the collaboration streamlined decision-making across complex multi-format printing and recipe development pipelines. About Thirst Thirst (Thirstcraft) is an international drinks-branding agency operating out of Glasgow and New York, specialising in brand strategy, packaging design, and identity systems for global beverage brand owners and craft producers. Alcohol M&S Partners with Thirst to Redesign Craft Beer Packaging Dan Bunt July 21, 2026 New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer Packaging deltaH Innovations and Brains Brewery Launch Self-Cooling Beer Can Alcohol Hall & Woodhouse Partners with James May to Launch The Spanner Cask Ale Alcohol BrewDog Launches Liquid Visions Premium Craft Beer Range Marketing Packaging Alcohol Retail Beverage Related news