Global agribusiness and logistics giant Cargill has announced a significant milestone in maritime sustainability with the maiden voyage of Brave Pioneer Global agribusiness and logistics giant Cargill has announced a significant milestone in maritime sustainability with the maiden voyage of Brave Pioneer , the first of five green methanol dual-fuel dry bulk vessels chartered by the company. The deployment marks a critical phase in Cargill’s broader decarbonisation strategy, shifting from theoretical planning to live operational testing. The vessel is designed to validate the viability of lower-carbon fuels in real-world ocean transport scenarios. Vessel Specifications and Environmental Impact Built by Tsuneishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd. and owned by Mitsui & Co. Ltd., Brave Pioneer is engineered with dual-fuel capability, allowing it to operate on both conventional marine fuels and green methanol. Key Sustainability Metrics: CO2 Reduction: The use of green methanol is estimated to deliver a CO2 saving of up to 70% compared to conventional marine fuel. Flexibility: The dual-fuel engine ensures operational continuity while renewable fuel supply chains mature. The Maiden Voyage: A Global Trial The ship departs the Philippines today, with a scheduled stop in Singapore to bunker green methanol. From there, it will proceed to Western Australia before sailing onward to Europe. Cargill is utilising this voyage as a live laboratory to conduct a series of operational trials: Infrastructure: Evaluating methanol bunkering readiness at major hubs. Traceability: Testing carbon accounting systems to verify environmental attributes. Commercial Viability: Assessing market appetite for low-carbon freight services among customers. Jan Dieleman , President of Cargill’s Ocean Transportation business, emphasised the need for industry leaders to act ahead of full ecosystem maturity: “Decarbonising global shipping requires a mix of technologies and the willingness to take bold steps before the entire ecosystem is ready. Technologies like green methanol or wind-assisted propulsion come with uncertainty. But as an industry leader, we have a responsibility to test these innovations on the water, share what we learn, and help shape the systems and standards that will enable wider adoption.” Future Roadmap: A Multi-Solution Fleet The launch of Brave Pioneer sets the stage for the integration of four additional sister vessels into Cargill’s fleet over the coming years. This expansion complements Cargill’s "multi-solution" approach to decarbonisation, which currently includes wind-assisted propulsion, voyage optimisation technologies, and the exploration of other alternative fuels such as biofuels and ethanol. Dieleman added: “We know the road to low carbon shipping will require a mix of solutions and green methanol is one part of that portfolio. Our new fleet is about optionality and adaptability. These vessels are engineered to perform at a best-in-class level on conventional fuel today, while allowing us to switch to greener fuels as availability improves.” Featured in this news Ingredients Cargill The Newsroom Logistics & Supply Chain Cargill Deploys First Green Methanol Dual-Fuel Vessel 'Brave Pioneer' to Decarbonise Shipping News January 15, 2026 Sustainability Business & Finance Logistics & Supply Chain Manufacturing Related news Safety & Quality H5N1 Outbreaks in US and UK Strain Holiday Turkey Supply Chains for Christmas 2025

The Tofoo Co, the UK’s leading tofu brand backed by private equity firm Comitis Capital, has executed a significant cross-border acquisition by purchasing Topas, a German manufacturer specialising in seitan products. The Tofoo Co , the UK’s leading tofu brand backed by private equity firm Comitis Capital , has executed a significant cross-border acquisition by purchasing Topas , a German manufacturer specialising in seitan products. The deal marks a major strategic diversification for the UK business, adding wheat-based protein (seitan) to a portfolio previously centred on soy-based tofu and tempeh. It also provides an immediate infrastructure for The Tofoo Co to launch its core range into the German market later this year. Integrating the 'Wheaty' Brand Based near Stuttgart, Topas is best known for its Wheaty brand, which has established a strong organic presence across Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. The company employs over 100 staff and reported a turnover of €14m ($16.6m) in its most recent financial year. David Knibbs , CEO of The Tofoo Co, outlined a reciprocal growth strategy: In Germany: Accelerate the growth of the Wheaty brand and use Topas’s infrastructure to introduce The Tofoo Co’s product line. In the UK: Unlock new commercial opportunities by introducing Wheaty’s seitan range to UK retailers, diversifying the plant-based fixture beyond soy options. "Wheaty has an exceptional heritage and reputation within organic plant-based products," Knibbs said. "This partnership gives us strong roots in Germany as we bring The Tofoo Co to the market." Management Restructuring and Continuity Founded in 1993 by Klaus Gaiser and Sanni Ikola-Gaiser , Topas is considered a pioneer in the European organic sector. Under the new ownership structure, organic industry executive Sebastian von Eltz will assume the role of Managing Director. To ensure continuity in product quality, the current Managing Directors will remain with the business: Klaus Gaiser will focus on Product Development. Miikka Gaiser will lead Production and Organisational matters. Klaus Gaiser commented: "The Tofoo Co and its shareholders align with our values, our commitment to organic quality, and our belief in doing things the right way. They are good stewards of the business." Strategic Backing Comitis Capital , which invested in The Tofoo Co two years ago, views the acquisition as a "highly strategic" bolt-on. Felix Jauch , Principal at Comitis Capital, stated: "Topas brings deep expertise in organic seitan-based products, and a strong manufacturing and brand presence in Germany, enhancing The Tofoo Co’s existing platform and providing a strong local foundation at the heart of Europe." The Newsroom Business & Finance The Tofoo Co Acquires German Seitan Pioneer Topas to Accelerate European Expansion News February 2, 2026 Plant-based Business & Finance Related news Sauces The Marzetti Company Acquires Bachan’s for $400M to Expand Premium Sauce Portfolio Beverage AG Barr Acquires Fentimans and Frobishers in £51M Premium Soft Drinks Push Business & Finance FoodChain ID Acquires Brazil’s Sbcert to Bolster Livestock Traceability and Certification Services Business & Finance Rich Products Acquires Great Kitchens Food Company to Create Vertically Integrated Pizza Powerhouse

The move marks a critical milestone in Odyssey's strategy to scale into a national brand, targeting the high-traffic travel sector where demand for convenient, clean energy solutions is consistently high. Odyssey Functional Energy has announced a significant expansion of its retail footprint, entering into a partnership with airport hospitality operator OTG. The deal will see the functional beverage brand stocked at more than 90 CIBO Express locations across eight major international airports in the United States. The move marks a critical milestone in Odyssey's strategy to scale into a national brand, targeting the high-traffic travel sector where demand for convenient, clean energy solutions is consistently high. Product Formulation and Proposition Odyssey distinguishes itself in the energy category through a focus on nootropics and adaptogens rather than pure stimulants. The beverages are formulated with organic Lion's Mane and Cordyceps mushrooms, alongside plant-based caffeine derived from green tea. The product proposition centres on delivering sustained energy, enhanced mental focus, and mood support without the "crash" associated with high-sugar alternatives. The formulations contain no added sugar and are free from artificial ingredients. Assortment at CIBO Express: Travelers will have access to three core flavours: 🍍🥭 Pineapple Mango 💙 Blue Raspberry 🐉🍋 Dragon Fruit Lemonade Scott Frohman , CEO and Founder of Odyssey Functional Energy, commented on the significance of the airport channel for the brand's growth trajectory: "We're thrilled to partner with CIBO Express to bring Odyssey to high-traffic airports nationwide. This partnership allows us to connect with travelers where they need energy most, helping them power through busy journeys while experiencing a next-generation approach to functional beverages." Expansion Footprint The partnership places Odyssey products in key transit hubs across the US. The initial rollout covers the following locations: New York: LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) New Jersey: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) Texas: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) Washington, D.C.: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) Minnesota: Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) Illinois: Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Pennsylvania: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) This airport expansion adds to Odyssey's growing market presence, with the brand now available in over 9,200 retail locations nationwide across natural, mass, and club channels. The Newsroom Energy Drinks Odyssey Functional Energy Secures Major Airport Expansion via OTG Partnership December 15, 2025 Energy Drinks Health & Nutrition Beverage Related news New Products Maison Perrier Enters Functional Beverage Market with ‘French Kiss’ Prebiotic Line Energy Drinks Tenzing Enters Nootropic Energy Market with Lion’s Mane ‘Natural Energy+’ Range Beverage Milo’s Tea Company Enters $1.5B Fruit Punch Category in Major Portfolio Expansion New Products WaterJunkie Targets ‘Taste Barrier’ with New Functional Mushroom Range

Introducing new non-chocolate innovation under the Jolly Rancher masterbrand while expanding pack formats for its core chocolate franchises to drive sharing occasions. The Hershey Company has announced its seasonal portfolio for Easter 2026, signalling the start of the critical spring confectionery season. As the self-reported "multi-year category leader," Hershey is executing a dual strategy: introducing new non-chocolate innovation under the Jolly Rancher masterbrand while expanding pack formats for its core chocolate franchises to drive sharing occasions. Jolly Rancher Gummies Fruity Mix Headlining the seasonal innovation is the Jolly Rancher Gummies Fruity Mix . Capitalising on the continued growth of the non-chocolate/gummy segment, this new SKU introduces seasonal shapes (egg, chick, bunny, butterfly, and flower) to the portfolio. The flavour profile introduces "juicy peach" and "pineapple" alongside established favourites like grape, blue raspberry, and watermelon. The product will be available in standard bags and share-size stand-up pouches , designed to stand out in seasonal aisles and baskets. Kyle Webster , Sr. Associate Brand Manager at The Hershey Company, commented: "From classic chocolates like Reese's Eggs and Cadbury Mini Eggs to new fruity flavours like Jolly Rancher Gummies Fruity Mix, Hershey is bringing both familiar favourites and playful surprises to baskets this year." Format Expansion for Core Franchises Hershey is also optimising its best-selling chocolate SKUs with new packaging formats aimed at "poppability" and sharing: Reese's Peanut Butter Mini Eggs Unwrapped: Now available in King Size pouches , targeting the immediate consumption and convenience store channels. Cadbury Mini Creme & Caramel Eggs: The foil-wrapped bites are shifting into Stand-Up Shareable Pouches , improving shelf presence and distinctiveness. Hershey's Kisses Harry Potter™ Butterbeer™ Flavour: Following a successful launch, this licensed product moves into a Stand-Up Shareable Bag to capitalise on the franchise's enduring popularity. Strategic Assortments and Partnerships In a notable move for category management, Hershey is expanding its "Sweets Assortments" (85- and 135-piece bags) through a partnership with Perfetti Van Melle . For the first time, AirHeads will be included in Hershey mixed bags alongside Twizzlers and Jolly Rancher products. This cross-manufacturer collaboration is designed to create a "robust non-chocolate assortment portfolio" that serves as a one-stop solution for families building Easter baskets. Additionally, the Reese's & KIT KAT® Seasonal Shapes Assortment returns, featuring the KIT KAT® Bunny , which the company cites as the "No. 1 Easter innovation of 2025." Featured in this news Confectionery Hershey Company The Newsroom Confectionery Hershey Unveils Easter Products: Jolly Rancher Innovation and Partnerships News February 3, 2026 Flavours & Colours Confectionery New Products Related news Confectionery Baileys Chocolate Targets Seasonal Gifting with 'All You Need Is Love' Valentine's Collection Alcohol BuzzBallz Auctions 9-Carat Pink Diamond Ring to Mark 'Pink Lemonsqueezy' Launch Marketing Insomnia Cookies Trials Dine-In Reservations and Prix-Fixe Menu for Valentine's Day Beverage Tequila Don Julio 1942 Honours 'Year of the Horse' with Limited Edition Bottle and Lifestyle Collaboration

Future Food-Tech connects 600+ leaders from global food brands, forward-thinking ingredient providers, pioneering start-ups, and visionary investor funds. Join senior decision-makers on September 24-25, 2025, to learn about breakthrough technologies, sector shaping strategies, and tackle the challenges in creating foods that are nutritious, accessible, and climate-smart. Close Close Future Food-Tech London Conferences About Detail Visitors Discussion My Agenda 🔒 Create a free FNBX account to: 📌 Save events and build your personal agenda 🤝 See who else is attending each event There are currently no FNBX members set as attending this event. First PREV 1 Page 1 NEXT Last 24 -25 September 2026 London, UK Organised by: Rethink Events Visit organisers website Future Food-Tech connects 600+ leaders from global food brands, forward-thinking ingredient providers, pioneering start-ups, and visionary investor funds. Join senior decision-makers on September 24-25, 2025, to learn about breakthrough technologies, sector shaping strategies, and tackle the challenges in creating foods that are nutritious, accessible, and climate-smart. . --- Set as attending comments debug Discussion Log In Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment.

A major consolidation in the global health and wellness ingredient sector is underway, as Darling Ingredients and Tessenderlo Group have entered into a definitive agreement to merge their gelatin and collagen operations. A major consolidation in the global health and wellness ingredient sector is underway, as Darling Ingredients and Tessenderlo Group have entered into a definitive agreement to merge their gelatin and collagen operations. The joint venture is poised to create a massive new entity with projected annual revenues of approximately $1.5 billion. By combining Darling’s established Rousselot brand with Tessenderlo’s PB Leiner business, the partners aim to capitalize on the surging global appetite for collagen-based products, a trend driven by increasing consumer focus on health and well-being. Strategic Market Positioning The decision to merge comes as the global collagen market experiences significant expansion. With collagen increasingly becoming a staple in functional foods, beverages, and dietary supplements, the new company is strategically positioned to leverage this consumer shift. Randall C Stuewe, chairman and CEO of Darling Ingredients, highlighted the growth potential of the deal: “This collaboration is set to unlock new avenues for growth and enhance shareholder value. Collagen is the fastest-growing segment of our food business, and with PB Leiner’s expertise and product offerings, we are poised to drive innovation and scale in this dynamic market.” Operational Footprint and Scale The combined entity will boast a substantial production capacity of roughly 200,000 metric tons across 22 facilities. These operations span four continents—North America, South America, Europe, and Asia—creating a robust global network. Both firms bring significant weight to the partnership. Darling Ingredients is a dominant force in the sector, currently processing approximately 15% of the world’s animal agricultural by-products and responsible for producing roughly 30% of the world's collagen. Meanwhile, Tessenderlo Group contributes deep experience in bio-residual valorisation and industrial solutions, supported by extensive operations in over 100 countries. Deal Structure and Timeline Under the terms of the agreement, which requires no initial cash investment, Darling Ingredients will retain a majority 85% ownership stake in the new company, with Tessenderlo holding the remaining 15%. Subject to customary regulatory approvals, the merger is scheduled to be finalised in 2026. The Newsroom Business & Finance Darling Ingredients and Tessenderlo Group to Forge $1.5 Billion Collagen Powerhouse December 12, 2025 Business & Finance Health & Nutrition Ingredients Related news Sauces The Marzetti Company Acquires Bachan’s for $400M to Expand Premium Sauce Portfolio Beverage AG Barr Acquires Fentimans and Frobishers in £51M Premium Soft Drinks Push Business & Finance FoodChain ID Acquires Brazil’s Sbcert to Bolster Livestock Traceability and Certification Services Business & Finance The Tofoo Co Acquires German Seitan Pioneer Topas to Accelerate European Expansion

While not the fastest-moving trend in dairy, male-focused yogurt is gaining traction as brands look to capture a largely untapped consumer segment. While not the fastest-moving trend in dairy, male-focused yogurt is gaining traction as brands look to capture a largely untapped consumer segment. The trend traces back to Fonterra’s Mammoth Supply Company yogurt in 2010 and gained wider recognition with the US launch of Powerful Yogurt in 2013. Other notable entries include Danone for Men in Bulgaria (2013) and Dannon Oikos Triple Zero in the US (2015), reflecting growing brand interest in male-targeted offerings. Historically, yogurt marketing has skewed toward women, promoting general health benefits. However, a shift toward protein-rich, functional products has enabled brands to highlight benefits that particularly resonate with men, from muscle building and weight management to digestive and sexual health. What men are looking for in yogurt Powerful Yogurt was developed with input from sports nutritionists, trainers, and food scientists, targeting men seeking fat loss, muscle gain, and improved gut health. Its messaging emphasized a “for men, by men” positioning to appeal to a demographic often overlooked in the category. Similarly, Danone for Men responded to research showing that male consumers prefer thicker, higher-fat yogurts with natural ingredients and distinctive taste profiles. Its 5% fat Greek-style yogurt can even be eaten with a fork, underscoring its more robust positioning. Functional benefits driving the opportunity Digestive health: Probiotic strains in yogurt can improve bowel regularity, nutrient absorption, and overall immune function. Weight management: Long-term studies indicate yogurt consumption correlates with lower weight gain and reduced waist circumference in men. Muscle building: Greek yogurt delivers high-quality protein, with one 6oz serving providing 18g of protein without excess fat. Sexual health: Preliminary research suggests potential fertility and testosterone benefits linked to yogurt’s probiotic content. The combination of protein, probiotics, and functional nutrition positions yogurt as a strategic vehicle to appeal to male consumers increasingly focused on health, fitness, and performance. Although adoption has been gradual, industry observers expect market momentum to accelerate following recent launches in the US, offering dairy manufacturers and retailers an opportunity to expand portfolio innovation and target marketing toward male audiences. The Newsroom Dairy Yogurt for men emerges as a slow-burning but strategic growth opportunity October 26, 2023 Dairy Related news

Exploring a critical shift in the coffee industry: the move from "sustainable" preservation to "regenerative" restoration. The global coffee industry could be facing a "code red" moment. Go Coffee & Tea Could Regenerative Agriculture Be Coffee’s Critical Pivot in 2026 The global coffee industry is currently facing a "code red" moment. For decades, the industry buzzword was sustainability —the idea of maintaining the status quo and doing no further harm. But as we move through 2025, a new, more aggressive paradigm has emerged as the dominant trend: Regenerative Agriculture . Overview Report Opportunities Suppliers Related News Overview Content Opportunities Suppliers Latest news

Unilever has announced the sale of its healthier snacking brand, Graze, to Katjes International, the parent company behind the popular confectionery label Candy Kittens. Unilever has announced the sale of its healthier snacking brand, Graze, to Katjes International, the parent company behind the popular confectionery label Candy Kittens. The transaction, expected to close in the first half of 2026, aligns with Unilever’s ongoing strategy to streamline its portfolio and shift focus toward its higher-growth beauty and wellness categories. Unilever acquired Graze in 2019 to strengthen its presence in the health-conscious snack market. Since then, Graze has transitioned from a primarily direct-to-consumer business to a strong UK retail player, achieving significant growth and improved profitability. The brand also underwent a visual refresh under Unilever, broadening its appeal to mainstream shoppers. Georgina Bradford, general manager of UKI Foods at Unilever, said: “Graze has redefined healthy snacking with innovations that prioritise nutrition without compromising on taste. We believe it is now well-positioned for its next phase of growth under Katjes International.” Katjes International views Graze as a complementary addition to its expanding brand portfolio. Bastian Fassin, managing shareholder at Katjes, commented: “Graze is a leading healthy snacking brand in the UK. Its strong awareness aligns perfectly with our strategy to grow consumer-centric brands that resonate with health-conscious consumers.” Candy Kittens founder Jamie Laing added: “Graze changed the way the UK thinks about healthier snacking. I am excited about the potential to further develop this innovative brand.” Unilever has indicated plans to divest additional legacy food brands as it leans into categories such as condiments and meal solutions—reflecting broader shifts in consumer demand toward health, convenience and wellness. Although financial terms were not disclosed, the sale is expected to strengthen Katjes International’s presence in the competitive healthy snacking segment. Featured in this news Unilever The Newsroom Snacking Unilever sells Graze to Candy Kittens' parent company Katjes International News December 1, 2025 Snacking Confectionery Business & Finance Related news New Products Purely Elizabeth Launches Collagen-Infused Granola New Products SIMPLi Launches 10 New Regenerative Organic Certified Products; Enters North American Sourcing New Products Nature’s Garden Reimagines Granola as Handheld Snack with 'Clusters' Innovation New Products 16 Handles Debuts Industry-First 'Strawberry Kefir Tart' Soft Serve Nationwide

Rise Baking Company, a major supplier to the North American bakery industry, has released its strategic outlook for 2026. The company aims to offer solutions made with colours from natural sources across its entire portfolio by the end of 2026. Go Bakery Rise Baking Company 2026 Bakery Trends: Indulgence, Efficiency, and 'Clean' Formulations Rise Baking Company , a major supplier to the North American bakery industry, has released its strategic outlook for 2026. The report outlines the critical consumer behaviours and marketplace dynamics expected to shape the in-store bakery (ISB) and foodservice sectors in the coming year. Overview Report Opportunities Suppliers Related News Rise Baking Company , a major supplier to the North American bakery industry, has released its strategic outlook for 2026. The report outlines the critical consumer behaviours and marketplace dynamics expected to shape the in-store bakery (ISB) and foodservice sectors in the coming year. According to Michael Docherty , EVP Marketing and R&D, the year ahead will be defined by a balancing act between "premium experiences" and formats that simplify retail operations. "The year ahead will be defined by premium experiences, everyday indulgences, changes in shopping behaviours, and formats that make it easier for retailers," Docherty noted. Premium Indulgence Anchors Demand Despite a value-conscious economic environment, Rise identifies "indulgence" as a resilient trend—provided the quality justifies the price point. Consumers are gravitating toward items that offer "outstanding taste, craveable textures, and eye-catching visual appeal." Key Products: Kitchen Sink Cookies, Pistachio Muffins, Birthday Cake Crispy Bars. Strategy: Combining nostalgic flavours with layered textures to create sensory experiences that feel like a permissible treat. Size Variety Driving Impulse Sales Shifting demographics—including smaller households, solo dining, and calorie consciousness—are driving demand for varied portion sizes. Citing Technomic data, Rise notes that impulse purchasing remains a leading driver for categories like cookies. Versatility in format is identified as a major revenue opportunity: Grab-and-Go: Individually wrapped cookies and snack pies for immediate consumption. Shareable: Pre-cut cake squares and mini bundt cakes for take-home occasions. Strategy: Using size variety to increase check averages through add-on sales at the checkout or bakery case. Labour-Saving Operational Solutions With labour shortages continuing to pressure the industry, efficiency remains paramount. Rise highlights the growing reliance on semi-finished products that reduce prep time without compromising quality. Technology: Rise’s Fast Pan® technology streamlines high-volume cookie production. Decorating Efficiency: Solutions like base-iced layers and pre-cut iced squares allow decorators to finish up to 2.5 times more cakes in the same timeframe, freeing up skilled labour for high-value finishing touches. Rapid Innovation and LTOs The pace of flavour innovation is accelerating, fueled by social media trends that extend flavours like s'mores, cookie butter, and pumpkin beyond their traditional seasonal windows. Rise advises retailers to utilise Limited-Time Offers (LTOs) and distinctive decorations to create "destinations for discovery" within the bakery aisle. The Push for Clean Labels Transparency is becoming a non-negotiable factor for purchase decisions. In response to evolving regulatory standards and consumer preferences for recognisable ingredients, Rise has announced a significant corporate commitment. 2026 Commitment: The company aims to offer solutions made with colours from natural sources across its entire portfolio by the end of 2026 . This builds on existing clean-label lines like Simplicious muffins, positioning the supplier as a partner for retailers transitioning to cleaner ingredient decks. Overview Content Opportunities Suppliers Latest news

KFC is positioning itself as the centrepiece of at-home New Year's Eve celebrations for 2026, launching a strategic marketing campaign that pairs its signature fried chicken with luxury staples. KFC is positioning itself as the centrepiece of at-home New Year's Eve celebrations for 2026, launching a strategic marketing campaign that pairs its signature fried chicken with luxury staples. Capitalising on the growing "high-low" culinary trend—where accessible comfort foods are served alongside premium items—the fast-food giant has announced a collaboration with The Caviar Co. and sparkling wine brand Luc Belaire . The initiative is anchored commercially by a Buy One Get One (BOGO) offer, designed to drive digital engagement and app usage during the holiday window. Brian Berish , COO of Sovereign Brands (parent company of Luc Belaire), noted the sensory logic of the pairing: "The luxurious complexity and effervescence of Luc Belaire sparkling wine, the crunchy deliciousness of KFC Fried Chicken and the pure decadence of caviar create an elevated experience that redefines what makes an occasion special." To capture the "at-home hosting" market, KFC is deploying an aggressive value mechanic available exclusively to loyalty program members. The Deal: BOGO 8-piece Fried Chicken Bucket (dark meat only). Availability: Exclusive to KFC Rewards members via the KFC App and KFC.com. Timing: Just in time for New Year's Eve 2026. The High-Low Trend The campaign responds to consumer data indicating a shift away from crowded public countdowns towards intimate home gatherings. KFC cites that millions of Americans now opt for takeout or delivery on 31 December. To elevate the occasion, KFC is promoting a specific pairing menu: The Base: KFC Fried Chicken. The Indulgence: Cured roes from The Caviar Co. The Toast: Premium sparkling wines from Luc Belaire. Melissa Cash , KFC U.S. CMO, explained the consumer insight driving the campaign: "We're seeing a real appetite for playful, high–low food moments. As fried chicken and caviar take over social feeds, our BOGO buckets give fans an easy, affordable way to try the trend at home. It's a fun reminder that great food doesn't have to be complicated to feel special." The collaboration leverages the brand equity of its premium partners to reframe fried chicken as a celebratory option. Petra Higby , CEO and Co-Founder of The Caviar Co., added: "We believe the best pairings are the ones that surprise you. We love collaborating on unexpected moments of delight... It proves that luxury can be fun, approachable, and shared with everyone." Featured in this news Foodservice KFC The Newsroom Foodservice KFC Taps into 'High-Low' Dining Trend with Caviar and Champagne Partnership for NYE News December 18, 2025 New Products Foodservice Meat & Seafood Marketing Food Related news Confectionery Hershey Unveils Easter Products: Jolly Rancher Innovation and Partnerships Confectionery Baileys Chocolate Targets Seasonal Gifting with 'All You Need Is Love' Valentine's Collection Alcohol BuzzBallz Auctions 9-Carat Pink Diamond Ring to Mark 'Pink Lemonsqueezy' Launch Marketing Insomnia Cookies Trials Dine-In Reservations and Prix-Fixe Menu for Valentine's Day

Scottish brewer BrewDog is expanding the boundaries of its alcohol-free (AF) portfolio with the launch of "Mello," a new functional beer range designed to bridge the gap between social drinking and wellness supplementation. Scottish brewer BrewDog is expanding the boundaries of its alcohol-free (AF) portfolio with the launch of "Mello," a new functional beer range designed to bridge the gap between social drinking and wellness supplementation. The launch represents a strategic pivot towards the functional beverage market, formulating the alcohol-free beer with specific ingredients—magnesium, balm extract, and chamomile—aimed at reducing tiredness and fatigue. Product Formulation and Variants Mello is positioned as a premium, healthier alternative to standard AF beers, leveraging fruit-led profiles to appeal to consumers who may typically avoid traditional hop-heavy tastes. The range debuts with two distinct flavour varieties: Peach & Passionfruit Lime & Mint Commercial Specifications: Format: Sold in multipacks of four 330ml cans. Pricing: Recommended Retail Price (RRP) of £6.50 per pack. Distribution: The range launches in Tesco stores this week, with a broader rollout across the UK grocery channel scheduled for January 2026. Market Drivers and Consumer Insights The development of Mello is a direct response to shifting consumption habits, particularly among younger demographics. BrewDog cites UK research from YouGov indicating that one in three adults now abstain from alcohol, with 25% of consumers aged 18–24 actively reducing their intake. Furthermore, the data suggests a hierarchy of needs where health is becoming paramount; 40% of shoppers ranked health as their top priority when selecting products, placing it above price considerations. Strategic Commentary Adam Turner, Senior Marketing Manager at BrewDog, noted the convergence of two powerful market trends: the rise of "low and no" alcohol and the demand for functional benefits. “The growth of low and no alcohol along with functional drinks has been hard to ignore,” Turner said. “Our research has shown that the design and proposition of Mello have a very strong appeal with 18–35-year-old functional AF drinkers – the future of the beer, wine and spirits category.” He added: “34.4% of respondents say that they would drink AF beer if they liked the taste. Our new fruit-led flavours tap into this, along with the growing popularity of lighter, fruitier beer options.” The Newsroom Beverage BrewDog Enters Functional Beverage Space with Launch of 'Mello' Alcohol-Free Range December 11, 2025 New Products Health & Nutrition Beverage Alcohol Related news Beverage Sentia Spirits Enters Alcohol-Free Cider Category with Science-Led Functional Innovation Beverage Cawston Press Enters No-Low Category with Acquisition of Fruit Beer Brand Loah Beverage Whirlwined Debuts Industry-First Non-Alcoholic THC Wine with Premium Sauvignon Blanc Beverage Tom Holland’s BERO Named Official Non-Alcoholic Beer of Barry’s in Global US-UK Partnership