Mars is transitioning its historic Slough facility into a high-tech hub by integrating AI-driven digital twins and robotics, securing its UK manufacturing 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 Mars, Incorporated has unveiled a landmark £190 million investment programme designed to transform its historic Slough factory into a "next-generation" manufacturing centre. The project, which covers capital expenditure from 2023 through 2028, represents a structural modernisation of the site that produced the original Mars Bar in 1932. The initiative is a central component of Mars’ broader UK strategy, following more than £118 million in capital investment across its Snacking, Food, and Petcare segments during the 2024–25 period alone. Optimisation via Digital Twin Technology A primary differentiator for the modernised Slough site is the deployment of Digital Twin technology. By creating a high-fidelity virtual replica of the factory floor, Mars is utilising AI-driven data to simulate and optimise production cycles in real time. Key Technical Advantages Include Precision Process Control: Enhancing consistency and uniformity across high-volume product lines such as GALAXY, MALTESERS, and MARS. Waste Reduction: AI-led decision-making allows for the identification of inefficiencies in the manufacturing loop, significantly lowering material loss. Real-Time Analytics: Enabling floor managers to make data-backed adjustments without disrupting the physical production flow. Adam Grant, General Manager for Mars Snacking UKI, stated that the investment ensures operations remain "world-class, competitive, and fit for the future," signalling a long-term commitment to the UK as a primary manufacturing and innovation hub. Transitioning to an AI-Enabled Workforce The investment programme moves beyond hardware upgrades to focus on the "human infrastructure" required for automated food processing. Mars is implementing an extensive workforce upskilling programme to transition current roles into advanced engineering, automation, and AI-enabled manufacturing positions. The organisation is also leveraging its role as a major local employer to drive diversity within its technical pipeline. Supported by VisionPath, Mars has reported that 77 per cent of its apprentices now come from ethnically diverse or low socio-economic backgrounds, addressing a critical need for broader representation in the STEM and manufacturing sectors. Importance and Export Reach While the Slough factory remains deeply rooted in British heritage, its operational reach is multinational. The site functions as a primary export hub, supplying demand for the United Kingdom while distributing products to Ireland and the Netherlands. Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle characterised the £190 million injection as a "strong vote of confidence" in British skills and industry. By integrating advanced cooling systems and energy-efficient utilities, Mars is also aligning the facility with its global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) targets, reducing the carbon intensity of its European snacking operations. As the global confectionery and snacking sectors face rising costs and supply chain volatility, the success of the Slough transformation will serve as a benchmark for how heritage manufacturers can successfully pivot to "intelligent" production models. By securing massive domestic capacity and investing in the "agentic" capabilities of its workforce, Mars is de-risking its UK portfolio against future industrial shifts while maintaining its position as a primary infrastructure provider for the global treat market through the end of the decade. Business & Finance Mars Scales UK Manufacturing with £190 Million Slough Investment Eddie Sanders May 15, 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 Technology Manufacturing Facilities Business & Finance Confectionery Related news

Premium hydration brand Electrolit is expanding its US market presence with the national launch of a 21-ounce Cherry Ice flavour, targeting growing consumer demand in the functional beverage category. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Electrolit has announced the nationwide rollout of its latest ready-to-drink (RTD) product, Cherry Ice. Packaged in a 21-ounce format, the new addition is designed to capitalise on the expanding functional beverage market by offering a new flavour profile within the brand's scientifically formulated isotonic lineup. The launch aims to support the brand's continued growth within the U.S. rapid hydration category by catering to consumers seeking convenient performance and recovery solutions. Rapid Hydration Category Currently ranked as the fourth-largest sports drink brand in the United States, Electrolit is utilising this launch to reinforce its market share and offer greater variety to isotonic consumers. The introduction of Cherry Ice aligns with broader industry trends favouring functional beverages that deliver measurable utility rather than simply serving as refreshment. Consumer demand is increasingly shifting toward products that support active lifestyles, travel recovery, and daily wellness routines. By expanding its flavour portfolio, Electrolit is positioning itself to capture a larger segment of this functional beverage demand. Formulation and Functional Benefits The new Cherry Ice SKU maintains Electrolit's core formulation standards, designed for rapid and reliable fluid absorption. The product delivers 1,670 mg of electrolytes per bottle and features a scientifically balanced profile of five essential ions: Magnesium Sodium Potassium Calcium Chloride In addition to these ions, the formulation includes glucose to facilitate efficient cellular hydration. This specific nutritional architecture allows the product to function effectively across varied consumer use cases, from athletic training recovery to everyday on-the-go hydration. Retail Distribution and Market Timing Scheduled for a March launch, the rollout is strategically timed to coincide with seasonal increases in retail demand for hydration and recovery products as consumers transition into spring routines. To maximise market penetration, Electrolit has secured broad omnichannel distribution for the new SKU. Cherry Ice will be available at major national and regional brick-and-mortar retailers, including Walmart, Kroger, H-E-B, and 7-Eleven. This extensive physical footprint is supported by a digital retail strategy, with the product also slated for availability through Amazon, ensuring comprehensive accessibility for the consumer base. New Products Electrolit Expands Hydration Portfolio with National Launch of Cherry Ice News March 3, 2026 New Products RYZE Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Mushroom Coffee at Target New Products Beyond Meat Launches Phytosphere Platform with Powders, Bars and Beverages New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer New Products Wave Kids Launches Four Organic Flavoured Waters for Back to School Water New Products Beverage Flavours & Colours Related news

Danone and Arcor have completed the creation of a 50:50 joint venture combining Danone Argentina, Mastellone Hermanos, and Logistica La Serenísima. 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 Multinational food company Danone and food major Arcor have completed the formation of a joint venture in Argentina to combine their regional dairy operations and logistics infrastructure. The transaction creates an integrated business entity combining Danone’s local fresh dairy division, Argentine dairy enterprise Mastellone Hermanos SA, and shared logistics provider Logistica La Serenísima. Effective 1 August 2026, Danone holds equal control alongside Arcor, with the venture accounted for under equity-accounted companies within Danone's financial reporting. Joint Venture Infrastructure and Assets The alliance formalises more than two decades of commercial collaboration between Danone and Arcor, creating a unified corporate architecture designed to enhance supply chain density and category reach across South America. The newly consolidated operational footprint unifies three primary business units: 🥛 Danone Argentina SA: The local operating subsidiary representing Danone’s 30-year operational footprint in the Argentine consumer fresh dairy sector. 🧀 Mastellone Hermanos SA: A regional dairy processing enterprise with nearly a century of industrial heritage in Argentina's domestic market. 🚚 Logistica La Serenísima: The shared cold-chain logistics subsidiary providing distribution and route-to-market management for both founding partners. Financial Structuring Under the terms of the transaction, Danone and Arcor share 50 per cent equity control over the joint venture operations. Building on their established commercial relationship, the combined entity aims to streamline back-of-house operations, accelerate technical research and development, and expand nationwide retail distribution for dairy staples. From a financial accounting perspective, Danone has reflected its 50 per cent holding under the "equity-accounted companies" line item in its financial statements starting from the 1 August 2026 accounting period. The completed transaction provides both partners with a consolidated operational base to scale innovation and distribution across the domestic Argentinian market. Dairy Danone and Arcor Complete Argentina Dairy Joint Venture Eddie Sanders August 3, 2026 Dairy Saputo Agrees £988M Sale of UK Dairy Division to Lactalis New Products Danimals Expands Kids Yoghurt Range with Peach Smoothie Launch Packaging Aldi and Arla Launch Trial for UV Tagged Milk Bottle Recycling New Products Fazer Aito Launches Drinkable Gurts and Fruit-Sweetened Oat Range Business & Finance Dairy Related news

Kraft Heinz has appointed former Unilever executive Lucy Hovey as Chief Financial Officer for its UK and Ireland business, succeeding Darren Vries. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Kraft Heinz The Newsroom Kraft Heinz has appointed Lucy Hovey as Chief Financial Officer for its UK and Ireland operations, effective immediately. Hovey succeeds Darren Vries, who is stepping down from the post after more than eight years with the business. Bringing over 20 years of finance and commercial leadership experience across the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector to the post, Hovey assumes direct responsibility for steering the division's financial governance, multi-year commercial planning, and capital allocation. The executive transition comes as the enterprise continues to execute targeted brand investments, category expansions, and supply chain modernisation programmes across its British and Irish operating footprint. Executive Leadership Experience and Background Hovey joins Kraft Heinz following a 13-year career at Unilever, where she directed financial strategy across multiple regional and international commercial divisions. Most recently, Hovey served as Chief Financial Officer for Unilever UK and Ireland’s personal care business, while concurrently leading finance operations for deodorants and skin cleansing across Europe. Throughout her tenure at the multinational, she held financial leadership roles across several prominent consumer brand portfolios, including Dove, Lynx, and Ren Clean Skincare, guiding brand turnarounds and enhancing operating margins. Hovey began her corporate career at professional services firm KPMG, providing audit and financial advisory services to blue-chip grocery and consumer goods enterprises, including Tesco, Diageo, and Mars. Strategic Finance and Growth Priorities In her new capacity, Hovey will partner with the executive leadership team to direct the UK and Ireland business through its next phase of commercial expansion, focusing on revenue management, operational discipline, and sustainable financial performance. Marta Pilczuk, Managing Director for Kraft Heinz UK and Ireland, stated that Hovey brings an established track record of collaborating with commercial teams to deliver profitable and durable growth. Pilczuk noted that her background across business unit leadership and FMCG categories will prove valuable as Kraft Heinz continues to build momentum in the UK and Ireland, while thanking outgoing CFO Darren Vries for his eight years of leadership and contribution to the organisation. Commenting on her appointment, Hovey stated that she looks forward to joining an enterprise with established brand equity and an ambitious leadership team, adding that her focus will centre on supporting the ongoing performance of the UK and Ireland operations while introducing fresh commercial perspectives to the finance division. Corporate Scale and Brand Footprint The UK and Ireland unit represents a primary commercial market for Kraft Heinz globally, anchoring high-volume retail categories across ambient sauces, canned meals, table condiments, and refrigerated dairy. Headquartered in Chicago and Pittsburgh in the United States, The Kraft Heinz Company generated approximately $25 billion in net sales during the 2025 financial year. The enterprise manages a diversified portfolio of leading food and beverage brands, including Heinz, Kraft, Philadelphia, Primal Kitchen, and Lunchables, with commercial distribution reaching more than 40 international markets. People Kraft Heinz Appoints Lucy Hovey as CFO for UK and Ireland Operations Eddie Sanders September 8, 2026 People The Hershey Company Appoints Dave Hulays as Chief Financial Officer People Nestlé Waters UK Appoints Thomas Conquet as UK Managing Director People Ben & Jerry's Appoints Three Independent Directors to Board People Levain Bakery Appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as Co-CEOs Business & Finance People Related news

The Marzetti Company has successfully acquired Japanese Barbecue Sauce brand Bachan’s for 400 million dollars, integrating a high-growth, clean-label product into its extensive retail and foodservice distribution network. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Marzetti Company The Newsroom The Marzetti Company has officially announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Bachan’s, Inc., a fast-growing Japanese Barbecue Sauce brand recognised for its authentic, clean-label product lines. The transaction, valued at 400 million dollars, significantly reinforces Marzetti’s expanding footprint within the premium sauce and condiment category. The deal highlights a broader trend in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector, where heritage manufacturers are acquiring agile, high-velocity challenger brands to drive category growth and appeal to younger demographics. FNBX Quick Facts Acquirer: The Marzetti Company Target: Bachan's, Inc. (Japanese Barbecue Sauce brand) Transaction Value: 400 million dollars (financed via cash and a 200 million dollar term loan) Target Revenue: 87 million dollars (net sales for the 12 months ending December 31, 2025) Rationale: Expanding Marzetti's premium condiment portfolio and rapidly scaling Bachan's via an established national foodservice and retail supply chain. Financial Structure and Revenue Performance The 400 million dollar purchase price was financed through a combination of cash on hand and a 200 million dollar term loan. The acquisition brings a highly profitable and rapidly scaling asset into the Marzetti portfolio. For the twelve months ending December 31, 2025, Bachan’s reported net sales were approximately 87 million dollars. This figure underscores the brand's robust commercial momentum and high retail velocity since its initial launch in 2019. Synergy and Market Expansion The integration of Bachan's provides Marzetti with a premium, culturally resonant brand that aligns with increasing consumer demand for global, umami-rich flavour profiles. Dave Ciesinski, CEO of The Marzetti Company, noted that the acquisition serves as a strategic extension of the company's existing portfolio. By leveraging Marzetti's massive retail and foodservice distribution network, supply chain capabilities, and culinary expertise, the companies intend to rapidly broaden Bachan's distribution. The partnership will also focus on supporting product innovation and thoughtfully extending the brand into new channels and adjacent categories. Heritage Brand Alignment and Founder Vision Bachan’s was founded by Justin Gill and is rooted in a multi-generational family recipe passed down by his grandmother (bachan). The brand has built its reputation on using high-quality, non-GMO ingredients with minimal processing to deliver bold, authentic flavours. Justin Gill emphasised that aligning with a partner who respects the brand's heritage was essential to the deal. Gill stated that Marzetti’s support positions Bachan's to continue its growth trajectory while sharing its flavours with a wider audience. He highlighted the alignment in values between the two companies, noting Marzetti's proven track record of managing family-inspired recipes and maintaining product integrity at scale. Market Outlook for Condiments and Sauces The addition of Bachan’s enhances Marzetti’s already dominant position in the speciality food products sector. Marzetti currently manufactures and markets a vast portfolio of retail brands, including proprietary dressings and dips, alongside exclusive license agreements for major restaurant chains such as Olive Garden, Chick-fil-A, and Buffalo Wild Wings. As CPG companies continue to seek high-growth assets to offset stagnant legacy categories, the acquisition of a millennial- and Gen Z-favoured brand like Bachan's provides Marzetti with a critical growth engine in the dynamic premium condiment aisle. Business & Finance Marzetti Company Completes $400 Million Acquisition of Bachans Dan Bunt May 1, 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 Retail Sauces Related news

General Mills has announced the launch of Honey Nut Cheerios Protein, a new high-protein cereal offering supported by a limited-edition. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food General Mills The Newsroom General Mills has announced the addition of a new high-protein variant to its Honey Nut Cheerios portfolio. The new product, Honey Nut Cheerios Protein, is formulated to provide 8 grams of protein per serving while maintaining the flavour profile of the existing brand. This development serves to integrate higher protein content into a familiar consumer product, targeting breakfast cereal consumers seeking increased nutritional density. Consumer Engagement and Promotion To support the product introduction, General Mills has launched a promotional campaign titled Honey Nuts For You. This initiative utilises a blind-box collectable model, offering consumers a chance to receive one of four limited-edition ring designs with the purchase of a promotional bundle. The collectable ring designs include: 8K O-fficial: An 8K gold-plated design representing the 8 grams of protein per serving. Little Spoon: A silver-coloured ring featuring a cereal spoon motif. Bee Mine: A black-and-yellow striped ring design. Hive Found the One: A rose-gold honeycomb pattern with enamel detailing. The campaign features a partnership with media personality Ashley Iaconetti Haibon to facilitate consumer outreach across video, social, and connected TV platforms. Availability and Distribution General Mills is managing the release of the collectable bundles through a direct-to-consumer platform. Each bundle, priced at $8, includes a box of Honey Nut Cheerios Protein and one surprise ring from the collection. The distribution will occur in two phases, with product drops scheduled for 23 June and 30 June at 1 p.m. ET, available until inventory is exhausted. New Products General Mills Launches Honey Nut Cheerios Protein Cereal Eddie Sanders June 23, 2026 Cultivated Onego Bio and Zen Waffles Partner to Deploy Fermented Egg Protein in US Flavours & Colours General Mills Completes Removal of Certified Colours from US Cereal Range New Products SURREAL Launches High Protein Low Sugar Overnight Oats Range Business & Finance Ferrero Acquires Clean Label Granola Brand Purely Elizabeth Health & Nutrition New Products Food Related news

Popsicle, the heritage ice pop brand under the Unilever umbrella, has announced a strategic licensing collaboration with BBC Studios to kick off the 2026 trading year. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Popsicle, the heritage ice pop brand under the Unilever umbrella, has announced a strategic licensing collaboration with BBC Studios to kick off the 2026 trading year. The partnership centres on the launch of a new product line featuring Bluey , the globally popular animated character. Launching this month, the collaboration aims to leverage the immense cultural footprint of the Bluey franchise to drive engagement in the frozen novelty aisle, targeting the family demographic with a product that balances "pester power" with parental approval. Product Design and Flavour Profile The new SKU features a moulded design replicating Bluey’s face, a complex manufacturing format designed to create an immediate visual connection for young fans upon unwrapping. Technical Specifications: Flavour: A "burst of mixed berry" combining strawberry and blueberry notes. Clean Label Focus: Formulated with colours derived from natural sources. Exclusions: Contains no artificial dyes or synthetic colours. Sugar Content: Marketed as containing "less sugar," reinforcing the brand's commitment to parent-approved ingredient decks. Strategic Alignment The partnership aligns Popsicle with one of the most significant properties in children's entertainment. By associating with Bluey —a show celebrated for its depiction of family connection and imaginative play—Popsicle reinforces its brand equity as a facilitator of joyful family moments. Lisa Vortsman , U.S. Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer at The Magnum Ice Cream Company (which oversees the Popsicle brand), commented on the cultural resonance of the IP: "Bluey is a phenomenon that resonates deeply with kids and parents alike, and that made it the perfect partner for Popsicle. This collaboration is special because it creates more moments of joy for families by bringing a delicious Popsicle treat into an experience kids can enjoy." Jill Cook , Senior Director of Licensing at BBC Studios, added: "Bluey celebrates family and everyday play and we're happy to team up with Popsicle to bring this fun new treat to families for those joyful moments together." Commercial Availability The Popsicle Bluey ice pops are rolling out to major retailers nationwide starting January 2026 . Format: Six-count packs. Pricing: Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $6.29 . New Products Popsicle Partners with BBC Studios to Launch 'Bluey' Ice Pops Nationwide News January 7, 2026 Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Opens Global Capability Centre in Pune New Products Little Moons Launches Strawberry Matcha Latte Mochi Ice Cream in UK Facilities Wells Enterprises Completes $425M Expansion of Dunkirk Ice Cream Facility People Ben & Jerry's Appoints Three Independent Directors to Board Food New Products Marketing Dairy Related news

This limited-edition energy drink, featuring a bold Sour Blue Razzilla flavour, will debut on November 3, coinciding with Godzilla Day, marking a strategic move to capture the attention of both energy drink aficionados and fans of the legendary film franchise. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Nutrabolt is set to launch a collaboration that merges pop culture with performance: C4 Ultimate Energy x Godzilla. This limited-edition energy drink, featuring a bold Sour Blue Razzilla flavour, will debut on November 3, coinciding with Godzilla Day, marking a strategic move to capture the attention of both energy drink aficionados and fans of the legendary film franchise. Product Innovation and Formulation The C4 Ultimate Energy x Godzilla drink boasts an impressive 300mg of caffeine and is sugar-free, featuring Nutrabolt's proprietary Tri-Stim Experience, which combines Caffeine, TeaCrine and Dynamine to deliver sustained energy and heightened focus. Robert Zajac, chief marketing officer at Nutrabolt, said: "What a perfect partner for C4 Ultimate Energy – a legend among energy drinks! While C4 Ultimate Energy doesn't have heat rays, it does have 300mg of caffeine and a brand-new Sour Blue Razzilla flavour that packs a delicious punch." Marketing Strategy and Industry Presence Nutrabolt's marketing campaign for this launch is robust, featuring a multi-channel approach that includes social media, influencer partnerships, and retail activations. The collaboration will be prominently showcased at the upcoming 2025 NACS Show in Chicago, further solidifying its presence in the competitive beverage landscape. Kristin Parcell, general manager of Toho International, added: "This collaboration captures the larger-than-life spirit and unstoppable force that Godzilla represents, while connecting with a whole new generation of fans through a bold, high-energy brand." Brand Portfolio Expansion The Godzilla-themed energy drink is part of a broader expansion of Nutrabolt's C4 brand offerings. In addition to the Godzilla launch, Nutrabolt will introduce C4 Performance Energy Cereal Killer, a nostalgic energy drink inspired by fruity cereal flavours, available from October 22. This product features 200mg of caffeine and CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, and is positioned to tap into the nostalgia of breakfast cereals, appealing especially to Gen Z consumers. Looking ahead, Nutrabolt is also preparing to launch C4 Performance Energy Mango Fuego in January 2026, a tropical-spicy fusion drink that promises to ignite the new year with an enticing flavour profile and 200mg of caffeine. Energy Drinks Nutrabolt Launches C4 Ultimate Energy x Godzilla Beverage News October 20, 2025 Energy Drinks Tesco to launch exclusive Red Bull advent calendar for limited one-week run Beverage Huel Enters Functional Beverage Space with Daily Greens RTD Launch Energy Drinks Red Bull Expands Sugar-Free Range with New Lilac Edition in the UK New Products Energy Drinks Marketing Soft drinks Beverage Related news

The move is the precursor to a broader strategic restructuring, wherein KDP intends to separate into two independent, U.S.-listed public companies post-closing. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Coffee & Tea Peet’s Coffee Featured in this news Beverage Keurig Dr Pepper The Newsroom Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. (KDP) and JDE Peet's N.V. have announced the publication of the Offer Memorandum for the acquisition of JDE Peet's, marking the next phase in a major consolidation of the global coffee sector. Kodiak BidCo B.V. (the Offeror) is making a recommended public cash offer for all issued and outstanding shares at a price of €31.85 per Share . The move is the precursor to a broader strategic restructuring, wherein KDP intends to separate into two independent, U.S.-listed public companies post-closing. Financial Terms and Dividend The offer provides immediate liquidity to shareholders with a distinct bonus structure regarding dividends. Offer Price: €31.85 in cash per Share. Dividend: JDE Peet's will pay a previously declared dividend of €0.36 per Share on 23 January 2026 . Crucially, this payment will not be deducted from the Offer Price, effectively increasing the total value realised by shareholders who hold through the record date. Strategic Roadmap: Two New Giants The acquisition is not an end in itself but a vehicle for a significant corporate split. Following the takeover, KDP plans to divide its operations into two distinct entities: ☕ Global Coffee Leader: A powerhouse serving over 100 countries with a comprehensive portfolio across all price points and segments. 🥤 North American Refreshment Challenger: A scaled growth business focused on the attractive refreshment beverages market in North America. Shareholder Support and Timeline The transaction has secured robust backing from key stakeholders. The Board of Directors of JDE Peet's has unanimously recommended the offer. Furthermore, Acorn Holdings B.V. and all members of the JDE Peet's board—collectively representing approximately 69% of the issued capital—have irrevocably undertaken to tender their shares. Key Dates: Offer Period: Runs from 16 January 2026 to 27 March 2026 (unless extended). EGM: An Extraordinary General Meeting will be held on 2 March 2026 . Closing: Expected early in the second quarter of 2026 . Regulatory and Acceptance Conditions All necessary competition clearances have been obtained. The offer is conditional on a minimum acceptance threshold of 95% . However, this threshold will be lowered to 80% if shareholders vote in favour of specific post-closing restructuring measures at the upcoming EGM. If the Offeror secures 95% or more, statutory Buy-Out Proceedings will commence. If acceptance falls between 80% and 95%, the company intends to implement a Post-Closing Merger to acquire full ownership, a process that may carry specific tax implications for remaining shareholders. Business & Finance Keurig Dr Pepper Launches Offer for JDE Peet's at €31.85 Per Share Ahead of Strategic Split News January 16, 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 Soft drinks Beverage Legal Business & Finance Related news

Khloud, the snack brand founded by Khloé Kardashian, has entered the tortilla chip category with a new protein-enriched line delivering 7g of protein per serving, exclusively launching at Target as part of a strategic move to scale into a multi-category functional snack platform. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Khloud, the high-growth snack brand founded by Khloé Kardashian, has announced the launch of Khloud Protein Chips. The move represents the brand's first major category expansion since the successful debut of its Protein Popcorn in April 2025. By entering the tortilla chip segment, the second-largest category in salty snacks, Khloud is positioning itself as a cross-category competitor in the functional nutrition space. The "Good Stuff, Zero Fluff" philosophy that defined the brand’s entry into the popcorn market is now being applied to one of the most culturally embedded snack formats in the United States. The product is scheduled for an exclusive retail rollout at Target and on Target.com beginning April 8, 2026. Clean Label Formulation and Ingredients Khloud Protein Chips are engineered to address the "permissible indulgence" market, where consumers seek traditional snack textures but demand higher nutritional standards. Unlike legacy tortilla chips that often rely on highly processed fats and synthetic additives, Khloud’s formulation emphasises ingredient transparency. Key technical specifications include: Protein Fortification: 7g of protein per serving, achieved by baking pea protein directly into the tortilla chip. Oil Profile: Formulated exclusively with avocado oil, completely removing seed oils from the production process. Grain Quality: Made with non-GMO real corn masa. Clean Label Standards: Focus on "ingredients you can pronounce," avoiding artificial fillers and synthetic dyes. The debut includes three anchor flavours designed to mirror mainstream chip preferences: Sweet Heat, Nacho, and Buffalo. Retail and Target Exclusivity The decision to launch exclusively with Target underscores a "high-velocity" retail strategy. Target has become a primary incubator for creator-led brands, providing a high-traffic environment for "better-for-you" (BFY) innovations. Despite being under a year old, the Khloud brand has achieved rapid national penetration, currently stocked in more than 29,000 doors. Its existing retail network includes: Mass & Grocery: Target, Walmart, Kroger, and Albertsons. Speciality & On-the-Go: Starbucks. Digital: Amazon. Jeff Rubenstein, CEO and co-founder of Khloud, noted that the Protein Chips are a clear signal that the company is building a "modern, cross-category snack brand for the next generation." The Protein Trend For B2B stakeholders, the launch highlights the massive shift toward functional snacking. Market data suggests that protein-forward snacks are growing three times faster than the broader snacking category. By integrating protein into the tortilla chip format, Khloud is capturing "share of stomach" from consumers who are transitioning away from empty-calorie salty snacks. Khloé Kardashian, Founder of Khloud, stated that the brand was created to remove the choice between "snacks you crave and ingredients you feel good about." This positioning allows the brand to compete simultaneously in the "wellness" and "mainstream snack" aisles. The transition from a single-product brand (popcorn) to a multi-category platform (chips) is a critical milestone for Khloud. For retail partners, this diversification reduces the risk associated with single-category performance while providing a unified "functional snack" destination on the shelf. As the company moves through the 2026 season, industry observers expect the success of the Protein Chips to dictate future expansions into adjacent categories such as crackers or bars. By leveraging a high-profile founder with a massive digital reach and a "function-first" R&D philosophy, Khloud is setting a new benchmark for how creator-led brands can institutionalise quality and scale rapidly within the competitive CPG landscape. New Products Khloé Kardashian’s Khloud Brand Launches Protein Chips Eddie Sanders April 3, 2026 New Products Co-op Launches Halloween 2026 Confectionery and Snack Range New Products Milk Bar Partners with Beyond Meat to Launch Savoury Plant-Based Range Foodservice Chomps Expands Distribution Footprint at Starbucks and Costco Snacking Little Bites Launches Mystery Muffin and Naming Contest People Snacking New Products Food Related news

The development addresses one of the industry's most persistent technical hurdles: replicating the dense, fibrous structure of actual muscle tissue rather than just aggregating cells on a scaffold. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom South Korean food-tech start-up TissenBioFarm has announced a significant technical breakthrough for the cellular agriculture sector, claiming to have successfully produced cultivated meat with a cell density equivalent to—and in some cases exceeding—that of conventional animal meat. The development addresses one of the industry's most persistent technical hurdles: replicating the dense, fibrous structure of actual muscle tissue rather than just aggregating cells on a scaffold. Breaking the Density Barrier According to the company, the achievement marks a shift for the sector from "theoretical possibility" toward "technically realised, measurable outcomes." By controlling initial cell density conditions, TissenBioFarm states it can now produce cultivated meat structures that match the cell density of a real ribeye steak . Furthermore, the start-up claims to have produced samples containing more than twice the cell density found in conventional meat, potentially opening new avenues for "super-dense" nutritional applications. The 'Tissue Engineering' Approach TissenBioFarm attributes this success to a fundamental shift in methodology: focusing on tissue rather than individual cells. "Biologically, meat is not a simple aggregation of cells, but a form of tissue," the company noted in its statement. By treating cultivated meat as "edible artificial tissue," the start-up aims to move away from the perception that cell-based products are merely scaffold-heavy structures lacking the density of animal flesh. Industry Context The announcement comes at a critical time for the cultivated meat sector, which has faced scrutiny regarding scalability, cost, and the slow pace of technological progress relative to early investor optimism. Analysts acknowledge that achieving cell densities comparable to livestock meat has been a major bottleneck. TissenBioFarm suggests this breakthrough redefines the technological boundaries of the category, shifting the conversation from simple cell counts to the potential value proposition of high-density tissue engineering for the end consumer. Cultivated TissenBioFarm Claims Industry Milestone with Cultivated Meat Density Exceeding Real Ribeye News January 7, 2026 New Products Rosina Food Products Launches Five Frozen Meatball Innovations New Products Tango Enters Frozen Aisle with Boneless Chicken Bites Range at Iceland Business & Finance Pilgrim's Europe to Acquire Walkers Deli and Sausage from Samworth Brothers New Products Rancher's Premium Smokehouse Launches Two Burnt Ends New Solutions Meat & Seafood Cultivated Related news

EPL Limited and Indovida India have agreed to a merger, creating a $2 billion consumer packaging platform with $1 billion in annual revenue. The deal combines EPL’s laminated tube expertise with Indovida’s rigid PET capabilities to target high-growth emerging markets. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom EPL Limited has announced a definitive agreement to merge with Indovida India, creating a comprehensive consumer packaging platform with a combined valuation of approximately $2 billion. The transaction, approved by the boards of both companies, establishes a global entity with roughly $1 billion in annual revenue and a primary focus on high-growth emerging markets. The merger integrates EPL’s market-leading position in laminated plastic tubes with Indovida’s expertise in rigid PET packaging. The resulting group will operate an extensive global footprint, with 75% of its revenue expected to be generated from emerging economies across Southeast Asia, Africa, and India. Synergy of Flexible and Rigid Formats The combination represents a significant diversification of product capabilities for both entities. Historically, EPL (founded in 1982) has focused on flexible laminated tubes for the FMCG and pharmaceutical sectors, operating 20 facilities in 11 countries. Indovida complements this with 19 facilities across nine countries, specializing in rigid PET preforms, bottles, and closures for the food, beverage, and healthcare markets. By uniting these formats, the combined group can offer a "total packaging" solution to multinational brands. Hemant Bakshi, Managing Director and Global CEO of EPL, who will lead the merged company, described the deal as a "defining moment" that transforms EPL into a broader, multi-format platform. Financial Framework and Ownership Structure The transaction is structured as a scheme of amalgamation, with EPL remaining the listed entity. The deal includes significant valuation premiums and a shift in the shareholding landscape: Valuation: EPL is valued at INR 339 per share, representing a 70% premium over its previous closing price. Indovida is valued at a discount of approximately 35% to EPL’s trading multiple. Indorama Ventures: The parent company of Indovida will become a co-promoter, holding a 51.8% controlling stake in the combined entity. Blackstone: The private equity firm currently backing EPL will maintain a 16.6% interest. Aloke Lohia, Group CEO of Indorama Ventures, noted that the merger advances his company's strategic objective of deepening its downstream packaging footprint in India, a key growth market within their global portfolio. Projected Operational and Financial Synergies The companies anticipate that the merger will deliver substantial improvements in financial metrics through procurement efficiencies and supply chain optimization. Projections for the merged entity include: EBIT Margin Expansion: Projected to rise from EPL’s current 12.4% to 13.6%. Return on Capital Employed (ROCE): Expected to increase from 18.7% to 20.9%. Supply Chain Resilience: The combined group will leverage 39 total manufacturing facilities to mitigate regional disruptions and optimize distribution. Animesh Agrawal, Managing Director at Blackstone, emphasized that in the current volatile market, "scale brings resilience." He noted that larger platforms are better positioned to navigate regulatory changes and deliver consistent value to global customers. Leadership and Integration Roadmap Hemant Bakshi will maintain his role as Global CEO of the combined platform. Sunil Marwah, the current CEO of Indovida, will continue to head the Indovida business unit, reporting directly to Bakshi. This leadership structure is intended to ensure continuity for Indovida’s existing customer base in Southeast Asia and Africa while facilitating the integration of shared services. The transaction is subject to standard shareholder, regulatory, and court approvals. The companies expect the merger to be finalized within the next 12 months. Market Outlook For B2B stakeholders, the formation of this $2 billion group signals an era of consolidation in the emerging market packaging sector. As global FMCG and pharmaceutical brands seek "partner of choice" relationships with suppliers who can provide cross-category formats, the EPL-Indovida entity is positioned to challenge established Western packaging giants through its localized manufacturing scale and supply chain integration. 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