Red Bull is expanding its portfolio of flavoured energy drinks with the launch of Summer Edition White Peach, rolling out from 2 March across multiple UK retail channels. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Red Bull is expanding its portfolio of flavoured energy drinks with the launch of Summer Edition White Peach, rolling out from 2 March across multiple UK retail channels. The launch forms part of Red Bull’s ongoing flavour innovation strategy, which continues to drive growth within its Editions range and attract new consumers into the energy drinks category. Arriving amid record demand for flavoured energy drinks, the new variant aims to build on the success of previous seasonal releases such as Curuba Elderflower (2024), Juneberry (2023), Strawberry Apricot (2022) and Dragon Fruit (2021). Market insight from the brand highlights the importance of flavour innovation as a key entry point for new shoppers, particularly among younger demographics. Early consumer testing of the White Peach Edition has indicated strong purchase intent, with respondents describing the drink as “refreshing,” “premium,” and “unique.” The new flavour profile combines notes of white peach and citrus peel, delivering a smooth, floral finish accented by hints of ambrette. Red Bull Summer Edition White Peach will be available in multiple formats to cater to a range of consumption occasions and price points: 250ml can – RRP £1.70 355ml Sugarfree can – RRP £2.10 250ml four-pack – RRP £5.40 Red Bull said the latest addition is expected to continue driving category penetration and incremental growth for retailers by broadening the appeal of its energy drink portfolio. Energy Drinks Red Bull expands Editions range with launch of Summer Edition White Peach News February 27, 2025 New Products Gerber Launches Paediatric Organic Oral Rehydration Solution New Products PepsiCo Brand bubly Launches Mocktail-Inspired Sparkling Waters Soft drinks Fanta Partners with Ghost Face for Halloween 2026 Haunted Universe Launch New Products Suntory Launches -196 Limited Edition Kiwi Flavour Soft drinks New Products Energy Drinks Beverage Related news

CCEP has launched 'The Club' shopper loyalty platform and refreshed its 500ml Coca-Cola 'Supercan' range across UK retail to drive Premier League sales. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has refreshed its 500ml Coca-Cola 'Supercan' range and launched 'The Club', a proprietary digital shopper loyalty platform designed to drive category velocity and repeat purchasing across UK grocery and convenience channels. Timed to align with the return of the Premier League season, the rollout forms part of Coca-Cola's 'Taste Every Second' campaign and builds upon the 'Superfan' promotion running from 1 August through 31 October 2026. As the Official Soft Drinks Partner of the Premier League, CCEP is utilising the 500ml Supercan format to offer double points within the loyalty app, establishing a direct rewards mechanism to boost impulse purchases and footfall for stockists. Positioned at a recommended retail price (RRP) of £1.95, each promotional Supercan features a unique code beneath the ring-pull alongside an on-pack QR code. Consumers scanning the code through the Coca-Cola mobile application join 'The Club', where they collect points to redeem against a tiered prize pool. Purchasing the 500ml Supercan format yields double the points of standard 500ml Coca-Cola packs, accelerating progress toward instantly redeemable draws or saved high-value rewards. The promotional prize pool includes VIP stadium tours, Premier League hospitality tickets, pitch access events, match viewings with club legends, Sky Sports packages, digital vouchers, and branded merchandise. Supercan Portfolio and Flavour Lineup The promotional 500ml Supercan format spans four primary brand variants across CCEP's core carbonated soft drinks portfolio, marking the first time the Cherry variant has entered the Supercan configuration: 🔴 Coca-Cola Original Taste: The core flagship cola formulation packaged in the 500ml Supercan format. 🖤 Coca-Cola Zero Sugar: The zero-calorie variant participating across the rewards framework. ⚪ Diet Coke: The established low-calorie SKU integrated into the seasonal football campaign. 🍒 Coca-Cola Cherry: Debuting in the 500ml Supercan format for the first time to expand flavour choice. Loyalty and In-Store Merchandising Beyond the initial Premier League campaign, 'The Club' has been developed as a long-term digital architecture to anchor future seasonal activations, sporting partnerships, and brand promotions across the CCEP portfolio. To support store-level execution, the 500ml Supercan packaging features updated graphics inspired by football culture and fan murals, incorporating visual elements including boots, balls, gloves, scarves, and trophies. Retailers can access free point-of-sale (POS) materials via CCEP's trade portal, MyCCEP.com, to build secondary display units and highlight the campaign. Rob Yeomans, Vice-President of Commercial Development at CCEP GB, stated that bringing promotional rewards into a single platform creates a scalable mechanic across multiple campaigns, noting that cola remains the primary soft drink category consumed during live sporting events. Following the conclusion of the 'Taste Every Second' campaign in October, the 500ml Supercan will remain a permanent feature within Coca-Cola's core range, supporting ongoing demand for larger single-serve packaging across convenience and impulse channels. Soft drinks CCEP Refreshes Coca-Cola Supercan Range with Premier League Loyalty Launch Eddie Sanders August 20, 2026 New Products Gerber Launches Paediatric Organic Oral Rehydration Solution New Products PepsiCo Brand bubly Launches Mocktail-Inspired Sparkling Waters Soft drinks Fanta Partners with Ghost Face for Halloween 2026 Haunted Universe Launch New Products Suntory Launches -196 Limited Edition Kiwi Flavour Beverage Business & Finance Packaging Soft drinks Related news

7-Eleven is closing 645 legacy stores across North America during fiscal 2026, launching mass liquidation sales as the retailer consolidates its real estate portfolio to focus on larger, food-forward convenience formats. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom 7-Eleven has confirmed the closure of 645 stores across North America during fiscal 2026. The mass closure is part of a company-wide consolidation strategy designed to optimise the convenience retailer's vast real estate portfolio. The move marks the fifth consecutive year in which the convenience giant will close more stores than it opens, reflecting a broader, structural shift within the US retail sector as legacy operators transition away from traditional convenience models. Liquidation Process and Legacy Store Exits The closure programme is already underway across the United States, with many affected locations entering the final stages of the liquidation process. To clear inventory efficiently, stores slated for closure are running aggressive clearance sales. Some locations have reported marking down remaining stock by 50% to 75% to empty shelves before officially shutting their doors. While the closures are part of a national corporate directive, the transition is impacting established local markets. For example, a prominent location in Penacook, New Hampshire, is scheduled to close on 20 May following the sale of the building to a new owner. The location posted public notices thanking local shoppers for their loyal business, noting that it had been an "honour to serve this community" and be a part of their daily routines. Pivoting to Foodservice and Larger Formats Despite the high volume of immediate closures, 7-Eleven is actively executing a long-term growth and modernisation strategy. The retailer is purposefully shedding older, smaller-format stores that can no longer support modern retail demands in order to redirect capital toward newly built locations. The company has outlined plans to open 1,300 new locations between 2025 and 2030. These new builds will differ significantly from the legacy stores currently being shuttered. The updated 7-Eleven format prioritises larger square footage and places a heavy emphasis on foodservice, fresh items, and proprietary beverages. Key operational upgrades for the new formats include: Hot Food Infrastructure 🍕 Expanded kitchen spaces to support fresh, made-to-order meal options. Beverage Innovation ☕ Upgraded coffee bars and dispensed beverage stations designed to compete directly with major quick-service restaurants. Increased Square Footage 🏪 Larger physical footprints to accommodate wider aisles, expanded fresh produce sections, and dedicated customer seating areas. Evolving US Convenience Sector The strategic consolidation at 7-Eleven mirrors a wider trend across the North American convenience store channel. As margins on traditional traffic drivers—such as tobacco and fuel—continue to face long-term headwinds, operators are being forced to pivot heavily toward high-margin foodservice operations. By aggressively shedding 645 underperforming sites, 7-Eleven is accelerating its transformation from a traditional "smokes and Cokes" convenience model into a comprehensive food-to-go destination. This real estate consolidation positions the brand to capture a larger share of the highly fragmented quick-service restaurant market throughout the remainder of the decade. Retail 7-Eleven to Close 645 North American Stores in Strategic Shift to Foodservice Eddie Sanders April 20, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products Retail Tesco Expands Frozen Aisle with 150 New Products Retail Asda Completes £7.5M Digital Shelf Label Rollout across Express Stores Retail Co-op Introduces 7am Online Delivery across 1200 Stores for Back to School Rush Retail Business & Finance Foodservice Related news

Marks & Spencer appoints actor Gillian Anderson as Chief Compliments Officer to boost its Spring 2026 fashion campaign and advance post-cyberattack brand recovery. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Marks & Spencer has appointed actor Gillian Anderson as its inaugural Chief Compliments Officer. The strategic marketing move, set to debut on March 11, aims to reinforce the retailer’s positive brand messaging around its Spring 2026 fashion line. This high-profile partnership arrives as the company continues its operational and financial recovery from a major cybersecurity incident last year. The new campaign focuses on the psychological and social value of compliments within the fashion retail sector. Anderson will serve as the face of the initiative, which officially launches with a commercial featuring the actor giving style compliments to women wearing the Spring 2026 designs. The advertisement is set to the track ‘Oh Yeah’ by Yello and will be followed by a supplementary content series highlighting a behind-the-scenes effort to drive digital engagement. This initiative builds on the established momentum of the retailer's ‘Love That’ brand line. According to Marks & Spencer, a weekly social media series under the same name launched last year has already accumulated 20 million views. The current campaign is designed to convert that digital visibility into tangible consumer confidence and increased retail engagement. The positive messaging strategy comes at a critical time for Marks & Spencer. The business is actively executing a recovery strategy following a severe ransomware attack last spring. The cyber breach, which also impacted major entities including Co-op and Jaguar Land Rover, resulted in cumulative corporate losses exceeding £1bn. To stabilize brand presence and drive consumer acquisition in the wake of the attack, Marks & Spencer has leaned into celebrity-driven marketing. The Anderson partnership follows a separate Canva campaign earlier this year featuring a UK reality television personality. Professionals on business networking platforms have responded positively to the latest alignment, noting that modern consumers demand emotional value alongside product utility. Leadership at Marks & Spencer views the campaign as a pivotal step in repositioning the company within the competitive retail market. Sharry Cramond, Marketing Director for Fashion, Home & Beauty at M&S, stated that the initiative is intended to champion the power of positive reinforcement while showcasing the brand's womenswear. Cramond emphasized that the company is undergoing a transformation aimed at becoming an indispensable brand for its target demographic. Anderson highlighted the genuine impact of positive feedback on consumer confidence. The actor noted that professional dressing requires deliberate strategy, particularly for women navigating complex professional environments. By taking on the role of Chief Compliments Officer, Anderson aims to normalize affirming interactions and translate emotional resonance into brand loyalty for Marks & Spencer. People Marks and Spencer Appoints Gillian Anderson as first-ever 'Chief Compliments Officer' News March 10, 2026 People Kraft Heinz Appoints Lucy Hovey as CFO for UK and Ireland Operations 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 Retail Business & Finance Related news

Nestlé Cereals UK & Ireland has expanded its portfolio with Shreddies Peanut Butter flavour alongside two functional Shredded Wheat. 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 Nestlé Cereals UK & Ireland has expanded its breakfast portfolio across the United Kingdom, debuting three product offerings across its Shreddies and Shredded Wheat brands. Rolling out to select UK supermarket stockists throughout August 2026, the portfolio expansion introduces Shreddies Peanut Butter flavour alongside two functional Shredded Wheat variants: Happy Heart and Active. The launches align with expanding consumer demand for functional nutrition, healthy ageing benefits, and popular flavour pairings within the commercial breakfast cereal category, while marking the 100th anniversary of Shredded Wheat manufacturing in the UK. Lineup and Functional Specifications The expansion deploys new product formulations across both family indulgence and targeted wellness categories. The three SKUs featured in the summer rollout include: 🥜 Shreddies Peanut Butter Flavour: Combines signature wholegrain malted wheat squares with peanut butter flavouring, providing high fibre, iron, and five essential vitamins. ❤️ Shredded Wheat Happy Heart: Formulated to support cardiovascular health, topped with raspberries and nuts, high in dietary fibre and vitamin B1, while maintaining low saturated fat and salt levels. 🦴 Shredded Wheat Active: Developed to support muscle function and bone health, topped with pumpkin seeds and nuts, supplying calcium, vitamin D, and high fibre with low salt content. Sarah Fordy, Head of Marketing at Nestlé Cereals UK & Ireland, stated: "We’re delighted to be expanding two of Britain’s best-loved cereal brands. Shreddies Peanut Butter flavour brings a delicious new twist to our iconic wholegrain squares, while our new Shredded Wheat Happy Heart and Active cereals show that more nutritious breakfast choices can be both incredibly tasty and supportive of people's health and wellbeing. As we celebrate Shredded Wheat’s 100-year manufacturing anniversary in the UK, these launches demonstrate our continued efforts to evolve our cereals portfolio to meet changing consumer preferences." Healthy Ageing The introduction of the Shredded Wheat functional range addresses growing consumer focus on health management and proactive nutrition. By pairing wholegrain wheat with targeted micronutrient profiles, the manufacturer aims to capture older demographics seeking convenient options that support healthy ageing without sacrificing taste. Concurrently, the addition of the peanut butter profile to Shreddies leverages cross-category purchasing behaviours, with consumer data cited by the brand indicating that 38 per cent of Shreddies shoppers regularly purchase peanut butter spreads. Manufacturing The launches coincide with the centenary anniversary of Shredded Wheat manufacturing in the United Kingdom, celebrating 100 years of domestic production since 1926. Both the Shreddies and Shredded Wheat product lines continue to be manufactured at Nestlé's commercial processing facility in Staverton, Wiltshire, supporting the enterprise's local manufacturing presence. Shreddies Peanut Butter flavour commenced physical retail distribution across select UK stockists on 12 August 2026, with Shredded Wheat Happy Heart and Shredded Wheat Active scheduled for commercial availability starting 24 August 2026. Food Nestlé Cereals Launches Shreddies Peanut Butter and Shredded Wheat Functional Line Eddie Sanders August 12, 2026 Business & Finance Kellogg's Closes 88-Year-Old Manchester Cereal Plant with 360 Job Losses New Products General Mills and Chamoy Mega Launch Co-Branded Cereal and Sauce Flavours & Colours General Mills Completes Removal of Certified Colours from US Cereal Range New Products SURREAL Launches High Protein Low Sugar Overnight Oats Range Health & Nutrition New Products Food Related news

Kad Bnei Darom has launched Cuca Herb Pops, flash-frozen minced herb spheres utilising IQF tech and tray-free pouches. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Kad Bnei Darom, an established leader in agricultural cultivation and artisanal food production with a 50-year heritage, has announced the upcoming launch of Cuca Herb Pops . The launch is engineered to transition the segment away from legacy, pre-portioned frozen herbs in rigid plastic trays toward a highly convenient, packaging-light, and portion-controlled spherical format. In a mature ambient and frozen grocery market, packaging waste and product degradation remain significant hurdles for both retailers and consumers. Traditional frozen herb formats rely on moulded plastic trays sealed with plastic films, which require significant freezer space, drive up packaging costs, and lead to freezer burn. Developed in collaboration with Practical Innovation, a prominent product development and innovation firm, the Cuca brand replaces this old infrastructure with a tray-free, flexible pouch system. Each Cuca pouch contains uniform, flash-frozen 15g spheres of minced herbs that require no individual wrapping or protective films. This design represents a meaningful reduction in plastic waste and material overheads, allowing retail and foodservice partners to align their procurement with modern environmental, social, and governance (ESG) expectations. David Ben-Zeev, CEO of Kad Bnei Darom, characterised the launch as a milestone in food innovation. Ben-Zeev stated that whilst honouring their traditional roots, Cuca Pops mark the company's expanding foothold in the technology-driven food sector, bringing convenience and eco-consciousness into commercial and domestic kitchens alike. Individual Quick Freezing Technology Maintaining the structural integrity, volatile oils, and vibrant green colour of fresh herbs through a freeze-and-thaw cycle represents a major food science and research and development challenge. Fresh leafy herbs are highly perishable and prone to rapid oxidation and browning once chopped. To resolve these biological limitations, the Cuca range utilises advanced IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) technology : Non-Sticky Spheres: The high-velocity freezing process ensures that the individual 15g herb spheres do not stick to each other inside the flexible pouch, enabling frictionless portion extraction. Structural Stability: The spheres are engineered to resist rapid thawing and maintain their shape even when left outside the freezer, preventing the messy, watery separation common in traditional frozen purees. Clean Label Profile: The range launches with six key varieties, including garlic, onion, parsley, cilantro, dill, and basil. Each variety is 100 per cent natural, containing zero artificial additives, preservatives, or added oils. Tal Leizer, CEO of Practical Innovation, noted that these quick-use frozen herb balls were specifically designed to meet the market demand for premium-quality natural ingredients that offer both convenience and flexibility whilst actively combating the overuse of plastic packaging and raw food waste. Vertical Integration and Agriculture Sourcing A primary commercial differentiator for Kad Bnei Darom is its near-fully vertically integrated supply chain. The company grows its herbs in partnership with local farmers in the Arava desert, a region known for its high solar intensity and advanced arid-land agricultural techniques. By processing the herbs from field to frozen directly at the agricultural source shortly after harvest, Kad Bnei Darom is able to lock in "just-picked" flavour, aroma, and nutritional value without relying on intermediary packaging or long, carbon-heavy transport loops. This regional sovereignty over the supply chain is essential for securing consistent product quality, helping the brand defend its premium position on retail shelves and within the high-volume foodservice sector. New Products Kad Bnei Darom Unveils IQF Cuca Herb Pops Eddie Sanders May 19, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products Retail Tesco Expands Frozen Aisle with 150 New Products New Products Quorn Expands Frozen Takeaway Portfolio with Hot and Spicy Bites New Products Toby Carvery Makes Retail Debut with Frozen Range at Iceland Technology New Products Fresh Produce Food Related news

Olipop has expanded its functional soda lineup with the launch of Raspberry Sherbet and the permanent return of Blackberry Vanilla, targeting the "nostalgia-led" wellness market with high-fibre, low-sugar alternatives to traditional carbonated soft drinks. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Olipop, the leading functional soda brand redefining the carbonated soft drink (CSD) category, has announced the launch of two new berry-forward flavours to kick off the 2026 summer season. The expansion includes a limited-edition Raspberry Sherbet and the permanent return of Blackberry Vanilla, a SKU previously released as a limited run in 2020. The launch represents a strategic effort to capture the "nostalgia-driven" beverage market, providing consumers with flavour profiles reminiscent of traditional summer treats but engineered to fit modern wellness routines. Flavour Innovation and Seasonal The new SKUs are designed to bridge the gap between indulgent dessert profiles and functional hydration. By utilising real fruit juices and natural extracts, Olipop is targeting the "permissible indulgence" segment of the beverage aisle. Product Profiles and Inclusions Raspberry Sherbet 🍧 A limited-edition, ice cream-inspired flavour that swirls bright, tangy raspberry juice with creamy vanilla notes. Blackberry Vanilla 🍇🍦 Now a permanent fixture in the portfolio, this variant blends blackberry, apple, mandarin, and lemon juices with a smooth vanilla finish to create a multi-layered, creamy profile. The permanent addition of Blackberry Vanilla is a direct response to high-velocity consumer demand, as the flavour remained one of the brand's most requested "vaulted" items following its initial debut. Technical Formulation and Nutritional Parity Olipop continues to differentiate itself from legacy soda brands through its rigorous focus on digestive health. While traditional sodas can contain upwards of 39g of sugar, the new Olipop variants maintain a significantly lower glycemic load while providing a functional dose of dietary fibre. Key nutritional benchmarks include: Sugar Mitigation: Each can contains between 2g and 5g of sugar, approximately 90% less than conventional soda competitors. Fibre Density: Provides 9g of prebiotic fibre per can, supporting the gut microbiome and aiding in metabolic stability. Clean Label Credentials: Formulated without artificial sweeteners, colours, or preservatives, utilising a "botanical-first" approach to flavour development. Retail and Market Penetration The summer rollout is supported by a massive national retail infrastructure. To ensure maximum visibility during the peak beverage-buying months, Olipop has secured placement across the "Big Three" natural and mass-market retailers: Target Walmart Whole Foods Market In addition to brick-and-mortar retail, both flavours are available via the company’s direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform. This multi-channel approach allows Olipop to capture immediate "grab-and-go" impulse purchases while building long-term loyalty through its subscription-based online model. As the functional soda category continues to outpace the growth of the broader CSD market, Olipop’s ability to successfully execute "nostalgic" flavour drops, while maintaining its science-backed nutritional integrity, positions the brand to lead the next generation of healthy refreshment throughout the 2026 summer window. New Products Olipop Launches Two New Functional Soda Berry Flavours Eddie Sanders May 1, 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 Soft drinks Beverage Health & Nutrition New Products Related news

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