Kiid Coffee has achieved two million dollars in annualised sales and expanded into 400 retail locations by creating a new category of caffeine-free functional beverages for children. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom One year after securing an investment on the television program Shark Tank, Kiid Coffee has transitioned from a niche startup into a seven-figure brand. Founded by nine-year-old Ethan Sanborn, the company is now distributed in more than 400 retail stores across the United States. While the brand has reached a two million dollar annualized sales run rate, the primary industry shift lies in its development of a functional beverage category specifically designed for the pediatric market. Strategic Expansion and Retail Growth Following a 50,000 dollar investment from Daniel Lubetzky, founder of KIND Snacks and Camino Partners, Kiid Coffee has significantly scaled its operations. Within ten months of the investment, the company exceeded the two million dollar revenue milestone. The brand's physical footprint now includes over 400 specialty and conventional retail locations. Key partnerships include regional grocery chains such as Raley’s in the Northwest and Fresh Thyme Market in the Midwest. This rapid expansion reflects a growing retail appetite for health-focused children's products that offer more than traditional nutritional profiles. Addressing Nutrition Gaps in the Pediatric Market The brand was developed to address specific nutritional deficiencies in U.S. children, particularly regarding calcium intake. Peer-reviewed research indicates that over 63% of children between the ages of 9 and 18 fail to meet recommended daily calcium levels, a critical nutrient during peak bone development years. "I remember watching my Dad drink coffee every morning, and I just wanted to have some with him," says Ethan Sanborn, Founder. "Even though I wasn't allowed to drink regular coffee, I loved the taste of coffee in milk. When I wanted to make something of my own, my parents said it was okay if we removed the caffeine and added certain nutrients." Unlike traditional coffee substitutes, the product is 99.9% caffeine-free and fortified with vitamin D, magnesium, and fiber, positioning it as a functional health drink rather than a novelty item. Functional Beverage Trends Among Modern Parents The growth of Kiid Coffee aligns with broader shifts in consumer behavior among Millennial and Gen Z parents. These demographics increasingly prioritize ingredient transparency and functional benefits over simple organic alternatives. Industry data suggests that parents are moving away from products with high sugar content and weak nutrient profiles in favor of those that support overall well-being. "When Ethan had his second leg break, we weren't looking to start a business; we were simply trying to get our picky eater more essential nutrients," says David Sanborn. "Improving kids' overall wellbeing through education, awareness, and significantly more nutritious food is something that will always inspire me as a parent." Product Innovation and Category Development The brand has expanded its product line to include five distinct SKUs: Choco'latte, Caramel, Original, S'mores, and Minty Mocha. By utilizing a 12-serving bag format, the company provides a scalable solution for household consumption and retail shelf space. Beyond its current coffee-flavored line, the company has announced plans to launch a caffeine-free tea line next month. This move suggests a strategy of continuous category creation within the functional beverage space, leveraging the ritual of morning beverages to deliver essential nutrients to a younger demographic. Beverage Kiid Coffee Scales to Two Million Dollars Post Shark Tank Appearance News March 12, 2026 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Sells Two Million Unicorn Frappuccinos in Record Weekend Business & Finance Millow Secures €2M to Scale Clean Label Oat and Mycelium Protein Alcohol Heineken Cuts 3,000 Roles As First-Half Operating Profit Rises 6.7% Business & Finance Ingredion Completes Sale of Majority Stake in Pakistan Business Rafhan Maize Health & Nutrition Beverage Coffee & Tea Related news

Lactalis Canada has agreed a deal to acquire Agropur Cooperative’s fine cheese division, adding Quebec-made brands OKA, Monsieur Gustav, and L’Extra comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Canadian dairy sector is set for further consolidation as Lactalis Canada Inc. has reached a definitive agreement with Agropur Cooperative to acquire the assets of its fine cheese division. The transaction includes several established Quebec-made brands, two manufacturing facilities, and the cooperative’s fine cheese import operations. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory clearance from the Competition Bureau Canada. The financial terms of the agreement have not been disclosed. Portfolio Expansion The addition of Agropur’s artisanal and fine cheese assets is designed to enhance Lactalis Canada’s existing dairy portfolio, which currently features brands such as Galbani, Président, Balderson, and Cracker Barrel. The acquisition includes several prominent Canadian cheese brands: 🧀 OKA: A historic, heritage-rich Quebec cheese range with deep regional roots. 👨🍳 Monsieur Gustav: A premium selection of versatile speciality cheeses. ⭐ L’Extra: An award-winning brand featuring Quebec-made fine cheeses. The transaction also includes the transfer of two major production facilities located in Oka and Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec. Through the integration of these operations, Lactalis Canada expects to add approximately 400 employees to its national workforce of 4,500. Mark Taylor, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lactalis Canada, stated that the transaction represents a significant milestone in the company’s regional growth. He noted that the company is committed to preserving the heritage and production standards of the newly acquired brands while maintaining active roles in the Oka and Saint-Hyacinthe communities. Industrial Footprint Since 2018, Lactalis Canada has significantly expanded its operational footprint through targeted investments and acquisitions. This strategy has established the company as one of the largest consumer packaged goods players in the Canadian food industry. Prior major investments and structural developments include: The 1.62 billion CAD acquisition of Kraft Heinz’s natural cheese business in Canada, alongside the subsequent acquisitions of Ultima Foods Inc. and Marie Morin Canada. More than 900 million CAD in capital investments to upgrade capacity across 19 manufacturing sites, including the development of a 379,000-square-foot, zero-carbon-ready distribution centre in Oshawa, Ontario. The processing of approximately 2.2 billion litres of Canadian milk annually supports regional agricultural supply chains. Emmanuel Besnier, Chairman of France-based parent company Lactalis Group, added that the transaction builds on established Quebec cheesemaking expertise and aligns with the global group's strategy to expand high-quality dairy operations in priority international markets. Dairy Lactalis Canada Agrees Deal to Acquire Agropur Speciality Cheese Assets Dan Bunt July 15, 2026 Foodservice KFC Canada Launches Kwench Beverage Brand New Products PepsiCo Canada Launches bubly POP Soda Exclusive Low Sugar Innovation Business & Finance Empire Strengthens Quebec Presence with Acquisition of Mayrand Food Group Food JonnyPops Expands Distribution Launching into Canada Business & Finance Dairy Related news

German sports nutrition heavyweight ESN continues to scale its United Kingdom operations, announcing the expansion of its portfolio with two new performance-focused innovations comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom German sports nutrition heavyweight ESN continues to scale its United Kingdom operations, announcing the expansion of its portfolio with two new performance-focused innovations: Ultrapure Creatine Gummies and the comprehensive ‘Crank’ pre-workout formula. Following the brand's strategic entry into the UK market in January 2025, this product drive aims to address rising consumer demand for high-convenience, science-backed supplementation. ESN—which headquarters its operations in Germany—stated that the development of these SKUs was heavily influenced by feedback loops involving both recreational consumers and professional athletes. Addressing Format and Efficacy The expansion targets two distinct categories: pre-training energy and muscle endurance. The newly developed Crank pre-workout solution is engineered as a "3-in-1" blend designed to deliver energy, focus, and hydration simultaneously. The formulation features a 200mg caffeine dosage alongside beta-alanine, taurine, and GBB to drive energy without the associated "crash." To support physical performance, the blend includes a volumising pump matrix consisting of l-citrulline, l-arginine, theobromine, betaine, potassium, and natural sea salt. Cognitive function is addressed through the inclusion of l-tyrosine, huperzine A, and vitamin B6. Simultaneously, the Ultrapure Creatine Gummies are designed to overcome the traditional palatability issues of powdered creatine. Each serving delivers 3.4g of stabilised creatine monohydrate, verified for quality and efficacy. The peach-flavoured gummies target a broad demographic, from weightlifters to lifestyle consumers seeking health benefits. Strategic Commentary Mike O’Leary, Head of Product at ESN, emphasised the R&D focus on solving consumer pain points regarding supplement formats. “Creatine is one of the most effective supplements for improving physical performance, but for years, the format has been a barrier, alongside a lack of education on creatine’s wide-ranging benefits,” O’Leary said. “We wanted to create something that not only works but that people actually enjoy taking.” Regarding the pre-workout category, O’Leary added: “Further, our UK community told us they wanted more than just a caffeine rush with a crash. They want a pre-workout that truly fuels performance and sustained energy, the kind you can feel in your focus, endurance and pump, which we’ve delivered with Crank.” Commercial Availability and Pricing The new range is positioned for pan-European distribution, available online in the UK as well as across the DACH region, the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy. Crank: Retails at £27.99 for a 370g tub (20 servings). It is available in Fruit Punch and Blue Raspberry flavours and is suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. Ultrapure Creatine Gummies: Priced at £23.90 for a 600g pouch (120 gummies), with a recommended intake of four gummies per day. Health & Nutrition ESN Strengthens UK Market Position with Launch of Advanced Performance Supplements December 12, 2025 New Products AdvoCare Launches Limited Edition Rehydrate Black Cherry Flavour New Products Cizzle Brands Launches Limited Edition CWENCH Flavour After Top Draft Selection New Products Bodyarmor Enters Carbonated Segment with First Sparkling Sports Drink New Products CCEP Launches Limited Edition Powerade FIFA Playstyles in the UK Health & Nutrition New Products Related news

deltaH Innovations has partnered with Brains Brewery to launch Cool>Can, a fully recyclable, push-button self-cooling beer. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Welsh packaging technology company deltaH Innovations has partnered with Cardiff-based Brains Brewery to launch Cool>Can, a push-button self-cooling beverage can. Billed as the world's first commercial self-cooling beer can, the format will make its market debut with Brains' Bayside Welsh Lager. The technology enables beverages to chill on demand by 10°C to 15°C without refrigeration, ice, or external electrical power, while remaining fully recyclable within standard aluminium streams. The commercial partnership follows two years of research and development, with the finished product scheduled for its first public industry showcase at London Packaging Week at ExCeL London on 16 and 17 September 2026. Push-Button Endothermic Cooling Technology The Cool>Can is engineered to solve the operational limitations of static cooling infrastructure, offering cold beverage delivery for on-the-go consumption, outdoor events, festivals, and travel environments. The base of the can incorporates an integrated push-button mechanism. When depressed, it initiates an endothermic chemical reaction between water and a patented salt-based cooling agent, designated as DC15, housed within the base module. The reaction draws thermal energy away from the liquid, cooling the contents by approximately 10°C to 15°C within minutes, depending on ambient starting temperatures. Key technical specifications and functional attributes of the platform include: ❄️ On-Demand Temperature Reduction: Drops beverage temperatures by 10°C to 15°C at the push of a button without external cooling aids. 🧪 Patented DC15 Coolant: Utilises a proprietary salt-based endothermic compound calibrated specifically for food contact compliance and thermal efficiency. 🥫 Can-Within-a-Can Engineering: Houses beverage liquid in an internal slimline aluminium can, isolated from the outer reaction chamber. ♻️ Recyclability Compliance: Manufactured entirely from materials compatible with standard aluminium recycling infrastructure. 💷 Speciality Pricing Alignment: Positioned commercially within price tiers comparable to value-added can architectures, such as widget-nitrogenated draught cans. Can-within-a-Can Architecture A primary development hurdle for self-cooling packaging has historically centred on industrial filling compatibility and production costs. To prevent disruption to existing contract canning lines, deltaH engineered a dual-chamber "can-within-a-can" layout: Primary Filling: The beverage brand fills and seams its liquid into a standard slimline aluminium can through established co-packing infrastructure. Secondary Enclosure: The filled slimline can is inserted into a modified standard outer can shell. Mechanical Sealing: The inner and outer cans are mechanically crimped together before the chemical reactant and water module are affixed to the base. The multi-stage assembly is currently operating on deltaH's pilot manufacturing line in Wales. The modular structure allows beverage brand owners to adopt the format without altering existing brewery filling speeds, canning machinery, or seaming tolerances. Welsh Heritage and Scaling The commercial launch with Brains Brewery carries historic significance for the UK canning sector. In 1935, Llanelli-based Felinfoel Brewery became the first brewery outside the United States to package beer in a can, introducing canned beer to the British market. Partnering with Cardiff's Brains Brewery anchors the debut of the Cool>Can in Wales before the enterprise scales distribution into broader international markets. Vyse confirmed that deltaH has held exploratory discussions with multinational beverage brands in the United States and Japan, with plans to expand commercial supply agreements across international territories following the London trade showcase. The official industry debut will take place on 17 September 2026 at the Discovery Theatre during London Packaging Week, where attendees will observe live operational demonstrations of the temperature-reduction mechanism. Packaging deltaH Innovations and Brains Brewery Launch Self-Cooling Beer Can Dan Bunt September 8, 2026 Packaging Ball Home Canning Teams Up with David Chang for Limited Edition Kit Packaging AB InBev Reclaims Full Ownership of US Metal Container Plants in $3bn Buyback Packaging Royal Swinkels and CANPACK Unveil 2025 'Tattoo' Limited Edition Cans Using Quadromix Technology Packaging Ball Corporation invests $60m to expand aluminium can production in India Packaging Technology Alcohol New Solutions Beverage Related news

Tesco, the UK’s leading retailer, has unveiled its property roadmap for 2026, confirming an aggressive expansion of its convenience footprint and a strategic bolstering of its London presence through the acquisition of competitor sites. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Retail Tesco The Newsroom Tesco , the UK’s leading retailer, has unveiled its property roadmap for 2026, confirming an aggressive expansion of its convenience footprint and a strategic bolstering of its London presence through the acquisition of competitor sites. The supermarket giant announced it is on track to deliver over 70 new Express stores before March 2027, following the successful opening of 60 units in 2025. This expansion targets high-footfall local communities across the UK, including confirmed pipeline sites in Bickington (Devon), Pontrhydyrun (Torfaen), Strabane (County Tyrone), and Wallyford (East Lothian) . Converting Amazon Fresh Sites In a significant move for the London convenience market, Tesco has boosted its capital growth by acquiring five former Amazon Fresh stores . These high-profile locations—situated in Kensington High Street, Hounslow, Moorgate, Aldgate East, and Wembley —are scheduled to reopen as Tesco Express stores before the summer. This acquisition signals Tesco's ability to capitalise on the rationalisation of the "checkout-free" sector, securing prime real estate in competitive metropolitan zones to strengthen its last-mile dominance. Large Format Resilience and Sustainability While focusing heavily on convenience, Tesco continues to invest in its large store estate. Following recent superstore openings in Ripon and Harrogate , the retailer has confirmed plans to open two further large stores in Scotland in 2026, located in Pitlochry and Heartlands . The new Harrogate site serves as a blueprint for future large-format construction. Billed as a "low carbon concept superstore," it incorporates innovative sustainable building methods, including: Timber Frame Construction: Selected to reduce embodied carbon compared to traditional steel frames. Energy Generation: Extensive solar panel arrays. Efficiency Systems: Advanced heating and lighting infrastructure to minimise operational energy consumption. Nick Johnson , Tesco Group Property Director, framed the expansion as a commitment to accessibility and service. “We are hugely excited about the year ahead and looking forward to meeting our customers where they are with great quality, exceptional value and brilliant customer service,” Johnson stated. “As we grow our store network we’re delighted to have the opportunity to serve even more people, in even more communities.” The expansion is expected to generate significant employment, with the Harrogate site alone creating approximately 120 new jobs , reinforcing the retailer's role as a key local economic driver. Retail Tesco Announces 70+ New Express Stores and Acquisition of Amazon Fresh Sites News February 9, 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 Facilities Business & Finance Retail Related news

Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of restaurant brands Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has appointed Paul Damico as chief executive officer, effective immediately. The appointment positions the company for its next phase of growth and modernization under the leadership of a seasoned industry executive. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Four-decade hospitality veteran to lead growth strategy for Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co. parent company Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of restaurant brands Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has appointed Paul Damico as chief executive officer, effective immediately. The appointment positions the company for its next phase of growth and modernization under the leadership of a seasoned industry executive. Damico brings over four decades of extensive food and beverage experience within the hospitality industry, with particular expertise in overseeing multi-brand operations. His appointment comes as Ascent seeks to build on its established foundation while exploring strategic expansion opportunities. Strategic Leadership Vision As CEO, Damico will spearhead Ascent's growth strategy, focusing on modernization initiatives while maintaining the company's core mission of bringing people together around great food and supporting franchisee success. His mandate includes exploring opportunities to expand Ascent's portfolio through strategic acquisitions of additional brands that align with the company's growth strategy, vision, and values. The appointment reflects Ascent's commitment to leveraging experienced leadership to navigate the evolving restaurant industry landscape and capitalize on emerging market opportunities. Proven Track Record in Multi-Brand Operations Damico's extensive background includes a distinguished career marked by significant achievements in operational efficiency, guest satisfaction, and profitability enhancement. He has demonstrated a proven track record of driving growth with some of the industry's most recognized brands. Prior to joining Ascent, Damico served as chief executive officer at several prominent restaurant companies, including Fuzzy's Taco Shop, Global Franchise Group, and Naf Naf Middle Eastern Grill. His experience also encompasses multiple senior leadership positions at Focus Brands, Inc. (now GoTo Foods), where he honed his expertise in franchise operations and brand development. Portfolio Strength and Market Position Under Damico's leadership, Ascent Hospitality Management will continue to operate its portfolio of nearly 600 locations across the United States and Canada. The company's brands, Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., represent established names in the casual dining and family restaurant segments. Huddle House, known for its 24-hour comfort food offerings, and Perkins American Food Co., recognized for its family-friendly dining experience, provide Ascent with a diversified portfolio serving different market segments while maintaining complementary operational synergies. Industry Context and Growth Opportunities Damico's appointment comes at a pivotal time for the restaurant industry, as operators navigate post-pandemic recovery, evolving consumer preferences, and technological advancement opportunities. His multi-brand operational expertise positions Ascent to capitalize on industry consolidation trends and franchise growth opportunities. The focus on potential acquisitions suggests Ascent's strategic intent to expand beyond its current two-brand portfolio, leveraging Damico's experience in integrating and optimizing multiple restaurant concepts under unified operational frameworks. Franchise Development Focus With nearly 600 locations already established, Ascent's emphasis on supporting franchisee success under Damico's leadership indicates a commitment to sustainable growth through strong franchise relationships. His experience with franchise operations across multiple brands provides valuable insight into balancing corporate growth objectives with franchisee profitability and satisfaction. The company's dual-brand approach allows for operational efficiencies while serving diverse market segments, positioning Ascent for continued expansion in both existing and new markets. Foodservice Ascent Hospitality Management Appoints Industry Veteran Paul Damico as CEO News October 27, 2025 Foodservice Related news

The biscuits feature McVitie’s signature golden-baked Digestive base topped with a raspberry and cream-flavoured pink coating. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Pladis is adding a playful twist to its iconic McVitie’s Digestives range with the launch of Raspberry & Cream Pink Digestives, a limited-edition flavour created to mark the 100th anniversary of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives. The biscuits feature McVitie’s signature golden-baked Digestive base topped with a raspberry and cream-flavoured pink coating, designed to tap into growing consumer demand for nostalgic flavours and visually striking treats. “As we continue to celebrate 100 years of McVitie’s Chocolate Digestives, we wanted to mark the next chapter in our history by reinventing the nation’s favourite,” said Benazir Barlet-Batada, Marketing Director for Pladis UK & Ireland. She added: “Consumers are embracing nostalgic flavours across food and drink, but nostalgia today is about rediscovering classics in new, exciting ways. With pink still trending as a popular colour, our new Pink Digestives are fun, fresh and packed with fruity flavour — designed to delight both loyal fans and new audiences.” McVitie’s Raspberry & Cream Pink Digestives will launch exclusively in Sainsbury’s from 16 June, followed by a wider rollout to major retailers, convenience stores and wholesalers from July 2025. The launch continues Pladis’ strategy of leveraging heritage brands through innovation, blending tradition with contemporary consumer appeal in the competitive sweet biscuits category. New Products McVitie’s Unveils Limited-Edition Raspberry & Cream Pink Digestives News June 16, 2025 Food New Products Snacking Related news

Functional prebiotic soda brand poppi has secured a strategic partnership as the official soft drink sponsor for Love Island UK Series 13. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The international expansion of disruptive North American beverage brands into the United Kingdom continues to accelerate as operators look beyond traditional marketing frameworks to capture market share. Prebiotic soda brand poppi has announced that it has secured a high-profile sponsorship agreement as the official soft drink partner for the upcoming thirteenth series of the reality television show Love Island UK . This collaboration represents a significant commercial milestone for the brand, following its initial retail launch in the United Kingdom earlier this year. Rather than relying on standard retail activation pathways, poppi is leveraging a prime-time television asset to build immediate brand equity amongst highly lucrative Gen Z and young millennial demographics. In a saturated carbonated soft drinks market, younger consumers are actively redefining their purchasing criteria, prioritising functional ingredients, low sugar content, and visual aesthetic appeal. By embedding itself into a culturally dominant television property, the brand aims to accelerate its domestic footprint and establish itself as a primary option in the "better-for-you" beverage sector. Functional Beverages The partnership highlights a broader macroeconomic shift in the global non-alcoholic beverage industry, where functional sodas are rapidly disrupting legacy carbonated soft drink categories. Traditional sodas are experiencing volume declines as health-literate consumers reject high sugar counts and synthetic chemical additives. The poppi product line addresses these changing wellness standards through clean-label formulations: Prebiotic Fibre Delivery: Each serving incorporates apple cider vinegar and dietary prebiotic fibre to actively support gut health and digestive wellness, providing a functional benefit that traditional soft drinks cannot replicate. Controlled Sugar Profiles: The range delivers a full-flavoured, sparkling experience with significantly less sugar and fewer calories than standard commodity sodas, removing common purchasing barriers for health-conscious shoppers. Targeted UK SKU Selection: To support the UK rollout, poppi is deploying five core flavours, including Strawberry Lemon, Raspberry Rose, Wild Berry, Orange, and Lemon Lime. Notably, the brand is managing inventory complexity and market expectations by keeping its highly demanded US-exclusive "Punch Pop" variant out of the initial UK distribution pipeline, allowing the production teams to optimise supply chain efficiency for the core European range before executing broader line extensions. In Show Integration For brand managers and digital marketers, the commercial significance of the Love Island partnership lies in the execution of its bidirectional, multi-channel promotional loop. Standard television commercials are increasingly bypassed by modern streaming audiences, forcing brands to invest in highly integrated, organic product placement: Contextual In-Show Integration: Rather than relying on external ad slots, poppi will be placed directly within the physical environment of the Villa. The product will be integrated into the daily routines of the show's participants, ensuring consistent, high-frequency visual exposure during key broadcast moments. Social Media Multiplier Effects: The bright, pastel-heavy visual identity of poppi's packaging is engineered to drive high-volume user-generated content. The brand plans to support the broadcast run with extensive behind-the-scenes content, influencer activations, and digital engagement campaigns, translating television viewership into online community growth. Channel Specific Consumer Conversion: By positioning the drinks as lifestyle accessories associated with leisure, fashion, and social currency, the campaign aims to drive immediate impulse purchases across key UK retail channels, including mass-market supermarkets and high-traffic convenience chains. As the summer trading period commences, the commercial performance of this high-visibility campaign will serve as a key industry indicator of whether premium, US-born prebiotic soda brands can successfully replicate their domestic success in the competitive European grocery landscape. Soft drinks Poppi Partners with Love Island UK to Drive Functional Soda Awareness Eddie Sanders May 28, 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 Soft drinks Beverage Marketing Related news

Morinaga America, Inc. has announced the seasonal return of its limited-edition HI-CHEW Halloween Mystery Mix. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Alcohol Heineken The Newsroom Morinaga America, Inc. has announced the seasonal return of its limited-edition HI-CHEW Halloween Mystery Mix, targeting impulse snack purchasing and autumn confectionery sales. The seasonal SKU combines established brand favourites with an unrevealed mystery flavour to drive consumer engagement across grocery, mass retail, and convenience channels during the peak Halloween trading window. The limited-time offering reflects growing consumer demand for experiential and gamified snacking, where novelty and surprise elements serve as primary purchasing triggers alongside traditional flavour profiles. Flavour Profiles and Formulation The Halloween assortment features four distinct varieties, led by three established fruit and confectionery favourites alongside an all-white mystery chewlet designed to encourage consumer taste-testing and speculation. The mix includes: 🍏 Green Apple: Crisp and tart fruit profile delivering signature chew elasticity 🍦 Orange Creamsicle: Citrus and vanilla cream balanced confectionery flavour 🍭 Cotton Candy: Sweet carnival-inspired formulation designed for seasonal appeal ❓ Mystery Flavour: Specially disguised all-white chewlet featuring an undisclosed formulation HI-CHEW chewlets are produced using concentrated fruit juices with both natural and artificial flavourings, formulated entirely without colours from synthetic sources. Each piece is individually wrapped to accommodate trick-or-treating distribution, party sharing, and on-the-go snacking occasions. Packaging Configurations and Retail Distribution To support diverse retail merchandising footprints and price tiers, Morinaga America is rolling out the Halloween Mystery Mix across two core packaged formats: 🛍️ 5.6-Ounce Stand-Up Pouch: Compact peg-bag format tailored for high-impulse confectionery racks and grab-and-go displays 📦 11.6-Ounce Stand-Up Pouch: Larger value bag designed for family sharing, trick-or-treat bowls, and multipack displays Both pack sizes feature seasonal packaging showcasing brand mascot Chewbie in a Frankenstein-inspired character treatment to maximise shelf standout in Halloween-themed seasonal aisles. The range is available across major US retail chains including Kroger, Target, and Albertsons, as well as online via the brand’s direct-to-consumer platform. Morinaga America is complementing the retail rollout with an integrated digital engagement campaign, launching a nationwide flavour-guessing competition on 15 September across social media platforms. Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), Chief Representative for the USA and President & CEO of Morinaga America, Inc., commented: "Today's consumers are looking for more than just flavour innovation. They want fun, engaging snacking experiences that spark curiosity and excitement. HI-CHEW Halloween Mystery Mix delivers both, combining bold flavours with an element of surprise that transforms candy into a playful guessing game. The excitement of not knowing which flavour awaits inside every wrapper makes each chew even more fun, and we're thrilled to give fans a uniquely interactive way to enjoy HI-CHEW this Halloween season." Confectionery HI-CHEW Brings Back Halloween Mystery Mix with New Hidden Flavour Dan Bunt August 28, 2026 Foodservice Zaxbys Launches NERDS Strawberry Milkshake New Products Co-op Launches Halloween 2026 Confectionery and Snack Range New Products Cloetta Launches Multisensory Sprinkled Foamies Confectionery Ferrara Launches Pocket Packs for Six Heritage Candy Brands Alcohol Beverage Confectionery New Products Marketing Related news

Nestlé is transitioning its 49 per cent minority stake in European smart food brand yfood into a full acquisition comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Nestlé The Newsroom Multinational food and beverage manufacturer Nestlé has entered into a definitive agreement to fully acquire yfood Labs GmbH from its founders, taking complete ownership of the German ready-to-drink meal brand. The transaction marks the culmination of a three-year partnership between the two companies. Subject to customary regulatory approvals, the transfer of the remaining shares held by the founders is expected to take effect from 3 July 2026. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed. Portfolio Consolidation and Acquisition Details Nestlé has held a 49 per cent minority stake in the Munich-headquartered business since 2023. By acquiring the remaining 51 per cent, Nestlé will fully integrate the brand into its broader health and nutrition portfolio. The transaction represents a notable consolidation within the European convenient nutrition sector, where established food manufacturers are increasingly absorbing high-growth, direct-to-consumer platforms to scale their functional beverage footprints. Following the completion of the acquisition, yfood will transition into its next phase of commercial growth. Under full Nestlé ownership, the brand plans to accelerate its expansion into new international markets outside its core European footprint. Commercial Growth and Retail Footprint yfood has established a major presence within the European meal replacement category, specialising in nutritionally complete ready-to-drink meals, powders, and bars. The brand's commercial trajectory has remained strong since Nestlé's initial investment: Revenue Performance: The company reported annual sales of approximately EUR 150 million in fiscal year 2025, representing double-digit year-on-year growth. Market Reach: The brand's products are currently distributed across 30 countries globally. Physical Distribution: yfood has secured retail placement at more than 50,000 physical points of sale across Europe, complementing its established direct-to-consumer e-commerce platform. By taking full control of yfood’s manufacturing, distribution, and research pipelines, Nestlé aims to build on these performance metrics and leverage its global supply chain to launch the brand in new territories. Business & Finance Nestle to Acquire European Smart Food Brand yfood Eddie Sanders June 3, 2026 Business & Finance General Mills Completes Sale of Brazil Business to 3corações Alcohol Sazerac Expands Kentucky Bourbon Network with Acquisition of Garrard County Distilling Business & Finance GrubMarket Enters UK Market with Acquisition of JR Holland Business & Finance Pilgrim's Europe to Acquire Walkers Deli and Sausage from Samworth Brothers Business & Finance Dairy Food Related news

Silk has expanded its plant-based protein portfolio with the launch of Silk Protein Yogurt and shelf-stable Silk Protein Shakes across US retail. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Danone The Newsroom The plant-based dairy-alternative sector is experiencing further diversification as manufacturers look to meet sustained consumer demand for high-protein options. Expanding on its existing protein lineup launched earlier this year, Danone USA brand Silk has announced the nationwide rollout of two new product lines: Silk Protein Yogurt and Silk Protein Shakes. The launches represent a broadening of the brand's nutrient-dense offerings, aiming to bridge a gap in the market for high-quality, complete plant-based proteins that also deliver additional nutritional benefits like dietary fibre. Nutrient Bundling The expansion follows the launch of Silk's protein milk range in January 2026. The new additions reflect a broader industry trend toward "bundled nutrition," where products are formulated to provide multiple macronutrients and micronutrients in a single serving to appeal to health-conscious consumers. Kallie Goodwin, Plant-Based Food and Beverage Lead at Danone USA, noted that modern consumers are increasingly focusing on the functional performance of their food. She stated that the new product portfolio is designed to deliver both high protein content and essential vitamins and minerals, simplifying nutritional intake for consumers. Product Specifications and Flavours The new lines introduce distinct formats to Silk's portfolio, with the yoghurt line focusing on spoonable nutrition and the shakes entering the ready-to-drink, shelf-stable category. The Silk Protein Yoghurt range contains 12g of complete plant protein per serving, which is double the average protein content currently found in the plant-based yoghurt segment. It also contains 4g of dietary fibre and five essential nutrients, including calcium, vitamin D, vitamin B12, iodine, and phosphorus, with no artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners. The yoghurt is available in several varieties: 🍦 Vanilla 🍓 Strawberry 🍑 Peach 🫐 Mixed Berry The Silk Protein Shakes mark the brand's first entry into the ready-to-drink, shelf-stable shake segment. Each serving contains 30g of complete plant protein, 5g of fibre, and 2g of total sugar, totalling 180 calories per serving. The shakes are formulated without artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners, and are available in two options: 🍦 Vanilla 🍫 Chocolate Retail Distribution and Pricing The products are rolling out to major grocery retailers across the United States. The Silk Protein Yoghurt is currently available nationwide with a suggested retail price (SRP) of $1.99 per 5.3oz cup and an SRP of $6.79 for a larger 24oz tub format. The Silk Protein Shakes are beginning their retail rollout this month. They are positioned within the protein shake aisle of grocery stores and are priced at an SRP of $11.99 for a four-count Tetra Pack. New Products Silk Expands Plant-Based Portfolio with High Protein Yogurt and Shakes Eddie Sanders July 15, 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 Dairy New Products Beverage Plant-based Related news

Saputo has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its UK dairy division to Lactalis in a deal valued at an enterprise value of approximately £988 million. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Dairy Saputo The Newsroom Saputo Inc. has agreed to sell its Dairy Division (UK) to French dairy enterprise B.S.A. SAS (Lactalis) for an enterprise value of approximately £988 million ($1.34 billion). The transaction encompasses Saputo's entire British manufacturing footprint, proprietary brand portfolio, and regional workforce. The deal is expected to close by the end of the first quarter of calendar 2027, subject to customary closing conditions and required regulatory approvals. Transaction Overview and Brand Portfolio The sale includes five UK manufacturing facilities alongside a portfolio of established British cheese, butter, and spread brands. Key assets transferred to Lactalis under the agreement include: 🧀 Cheese Portfolio: Market-leading brands Cathedral City and Davidstow cheddar, alongside the Wensleydale Creamery portfolio. 🧈 Butter and Spreads: Key domestic household brands including Country Life butter, Clover, and Utterly Butterly. 🏭 Manufacturing Infrastructure: Production facilities located in Hawes (North Yorkshire), Davidstow (Cornwall), Nuneaton (Warwickshire), Kirkby (Merseyside), and the Isle of Bute (Scotland). 👥 Workforce and Operations: Approximately 1,300 employees across UK processing plants, regional sites, and commercial functions. The transaction strengthens Lactalis' position across the UK dairy market, establishing the enterprise as a leader in domestic cheddar, butter, and margarine categories. Rationale and Financial Over the last four quarters, Saputo's UK dairy division generated approximately £800 million ($1.2 billion) in revenues, representing roughly 7 per cent of Saputo's consolidated global revenues. The unit generates approximately 94 per cent of its total sales internally within the UK market. Carl Colizza, President and Chief Executive Officer of Saputo Inc., stated that the sale represents a disciplined step to refine the company's global footprint and sharpen focus on platforms where Saputo competes from a position of strength. Saputo indicated that net proceeds from the transaction will enhance financial flexibility, lower debt leverage, and provide capital to accelerate organic growth projects and strategic acquisitions across core operating territories. UK Manufacturing Footprint The acquisition marks the fourth major transaction executed by Lactalis during 2026, building upon its global processing capabilities and expanding its European retail footprint. Integrating Saputo's five British processing hubs provides Lactalis with direct domestic milk pool access and localised manufacturing density across England, Scotland, and Wales. Both parties confirmed that operations across the five UK production facilities will continue as normal during the transition period leading up to final regulatory clearance in early 2027. Dairy Saputo Agrees £988M Sale of UK Dairy Division to Lactalis Eddie Sanders August 14, 2026 New Products Danimals Expands Kids Yoghurt Range with Peach Smoothie Launch Packaging Aldi and Arla Launch Trial for UV Tagged Milk Bottle Recycling Dairy Danone and Arcor Complete Argentina Dairy Joint Venture New Products Fazer Aito Launches Drinkable Gurts and Fruit-Sweetened Oat Range Dairy Business & Finance Related news