From gut health to cognitive support, enter the FNBX World Functional Awards. The premier international competition recognising the best in functional foods and beverages. Why Enter? Get your functional product in front of thousands of global buyers and investors. Entry takes 3 minutes. Begin Entry Entry Deadline September 25, 2026 Celebrating Innovation in Health, Wellness & Better-for-you Products From gut health to cognitive support, enter the FNBX World Functional Awards. The premier international competition recognising the best in functional foods and beverages. Official 2026 Categories Select the category that best represents your innovation, product or company goal. One entry fee covers submission into a single category. The award offers two top accolades per category: Most Innovative and Best Tasting . View below the category sections, for a full list of categories, visit the entry portal. Health Benefit & Function These categories evaluate entries based on the specific physiological or mental outcomes they deliver to the consumer. It is eligible for any functional food or beverage engineered with targeted, active ingredients meant to improve well-being. Whether your formulation is designed to boost physical performance, aid in recovery, or support long-term preventative health, this section allows your brand to shine based on exactly what your product is built to achieve. Best for Gut & Microbiome Health Best for Cognitive & Brain Health Best for Stress & Mood Management Best for Sleep & Deep Recovery Best for Energy & Vitality Best for Immunity & Defence Best for "Beauty from Within" Best for Active Hydration Best for Joint & Bone Health Best for Targeted Health Best High-Protein/Muscle Support Innovation & Business This premier section goes beyond the individual product to recognise overarching excellence, scientific breakthroughs, and brand execution within the functional F&B space. It is eligible for brands, suppliers, and campaigns that are actively pushing the boundaries of the industry, regardless of their specific product format. These overarching trophies celebrate the visionaries disrupting the market through ethical sourcing, clever design, consumer education, and pure innovation. Functional Ingredient Taste & Texture Sustainability & Sourcing Packaging Design & Functionality Marketing Campaign Startup of the Year Product Format This section categorises entries by their physical structure and consumption method, levelling the playing field so structurally similar items can be judged head-to-head. It is eligible for any functional product that fits into a recognised consumer packaged goods (CPG) format. In these categories, judges focus heavily on execution, specifically looking at how seamlessly the functional ingredients are integrated into the medium without compromising on taste, texture, or convenience. Best High-Protein Product Functional RTD Functional Shot or Concentrate Functional Snack or Bar Functional Powder or Dilutable Functional Confectionery Functional Dairy or Alt-Dairy Functional Breakfast Product Functional Pantry Staple Functional Beverage Need Help Selecting? Reach out to our team if you need help selecting the right category. A full list of categories is available in the entry portal. Contact us: podium@fnb-x.com Adjudicated by Industry Experts Our awards are judged by an independent panel of experts selected for their impartiality and track record of innovation. Learn more about this year's judges in our exclusive interview. Founder & Head of Nutrition | DRN Nutrition Dan Richardson Performance nutritionist with over 10 years’ experience in elite sport, optimising athletic potential. Hello, I'm Dan Richardson, a Yorkshire-born performance nutritionist with a Sports Science degree from Durham University and a master’s in Sport & Exercise Nutrition (Distinction). With over 10 years’ experience in elite sport, I’ve led nutrition programmes across football, rugby, and multiple high-performance environments - including my current role as Academy Nutrition Lead at a Category 1 Premier League club. Through DRN Nutrition, I deliver consultancy and education to athletes, clubs, and schools nationwide, combining evidence-based practice with real-world application to optimise performance. Registered with the SENr, I’m passionate about helping athletes fuel smarter, perform better, and build sustainable habits for long-term success. Go Directing Food Scientist | Registered Associate Nutritionist Dr Alexandra Hyde I make food systems more sustainable & delicious through well communicated food and nutrition sciences. I make food systems more sustainable & delicious through well communicated food and nutrition sciences. Go Nutritionist | Food & Health Innovation & Brand Strategy Expert Julia Varela Tarancón Nutritionist with over 10 years of experience spanning the UK, Argentina, Mexico, and Spain With a background in Nutrition and more than 10 years of international experience spanning the UK, Argentina, Mexico, and Spain, Julia works as a consultant helping functional food and beverage companies identify what’s next and transform those insights into compelling product concepts, consumption rituals, and brand positioning strategies that resonate with modern consumers. Her expertise sits at the intersection of consumer insights, health and functional category trends, brand and ingredient positioning, and storytelling, with a strong focus on making nutritional benefits meaningful, understandable, and trusted. As a judge for the World Functional Awards, she brings deep industry knowledge, cross-market insight, and a sharp understanding of how health, functionality, and evolving consumer expectations are shaping the next generation of products. Go Independent Advisor | Food System Strategy Louis Bedwell Louis Bedwell works at the intersection of food, health and commercial strategy. Louis Bedwell works at the intersection of food, health and commercial strategy. He advises brands, investors and industry leaders on how shifts in consumer demand, policy and science translate into practical business decisions. Previously Industry & Engagement Director at Future Food Movement, he has spent more than a decade working across the UK food system with retailers, manufacturers and startups on innovation, portfolio strategy and industry transformation. He now works independently, helping organisations interpret structural shifts in food including health trends, GLP-1 adoption, trust and claims risk, and the commercial implications of changing consumer behaviour. Go Head of Sales | Arab Otsuka Nutraceuticals Mohamed Youssef Building Egypt’s functional food & beverage market. go-to-market & growth strategies Leading the commercial strategy and execution behind a high-growth functional beverage business. Transforms multi-channel go-to-market models across Modern Trade, Traditional Trade, and E-commerce to unlock scalable growth and strengthen distribution excellence. Aligns commercial, operational, and financial priorities in line with Otsuka’s global standards to drive performance and maximise P&L efficiency. Strengthens strategic partnerships and advances route-to-market capabilities to build a disciplined, high-impact, and future-ready organisation. Go Sr. Project Manager NBD | Alianza Team Stefania Pérez Beltrán Connecting, creating and boosting business strategy through the art and lens of Gastronomy My name is Stefanía Pérez. I'm a professional in gastronomy and marketing, and I have spent nearly 15 years working across the food and beverage industry in Colombia. Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work in mass consumption, food service and food retail, gaining a holistic understanding of how the industry evolves from production to consumer experience. Go The Journey to The Podium 01 Select Your Category Choose from our specialised categories ranging from product function to product type, ingredients or business. 02 Submit Your Entry Profile Upload product specs, high-res imagery, and a 500-word innovation statement. 03 Technical Review Our judges evaluate entries based on nutrition/ ingredients, aesthetics, sustainability and relevance to category. You can opt in to have your entries additionally tasted via the entry portal. Product sample delivery window: 28th September - 9th October. 04 The Shortlist Finalists are announced and featured on the live Podium showcase. 05 Winners Winner's will be announced online in the first week of October. Ready to Enter? Standard Entry Fee £60 Early Bird Discount (until June 1st) Save 25% Entry Deadline September 25, 2026 Submit your entry now Official Scheme of FNBX, Terms & conditions Why Your Company Should Enter Beyond the trophy, The Podium provide a platform for growth, credibility, and industry-wide visibility. Global Recognition Get your products in front of FNBX's 40,000+ audience of buyers and industry decision-makers worldwide. Wholesale Growth Winners are featured in our exclusive resource guides & magazines , directly influencing procurement cycles. Marketing Toolkit Receive professional badges, press release templates, and media assets to showcase your win. Industry Feedback Every finalist receives an anonymous scorecard and feedback summary from our expert panel of judges. The Podium Placement Year-round placement on The Podium platform as a benchmark of excellence in your category. Winner Visibility High quality physical trophy for winners to showcase win at your office, trade shows or store front.

Kraft Heinz has introduced KD Mac and Cheesecake in Canada, marking the brand's first venture into the dessert category 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 The boundaries defining traditional grocery categories and consumption dayparts are becoming increasingly fluid as multinational consumer packaged goods leaders seek novel methods to capture consumer attention. In a strategic move to extend its iconic Kraft Dinner brand beyond the lunch and dinner table, Kraft Heinz has announced the launch of KD Mac and Cheesecake. Marking the brand’s first-ever entry into the dessert category, the limited-edition product represents a calculated brand-stretching exercise. By transforming its signature cheddar cheese flavour profile into a sweet and savoury dessert, Kraft Heinz aims to expand the consumption occasions of a 39-year-old Canadian household staple, appealing to younger demographics who actively seek out unconventional food mashups. Flavour Formulation From a product development and sensory perspective, the launch represents a technical exercise in balancing contrasting flavour profiles. Sweet and savoury combinations—frequently categorised as "swicy" or umami-sweet—have transitioned from niche culinary experiments into high-growth commercial categories. To preserve the recognisable flavour profile of the core product while ensuring it translates effectively into a high-end dessert format, the formulation incorporates real Kraft Dinner cheddar cheese across multiple layers: The Crust Layer: The savoury, salty notes of the cheddar cheese are baked directly into a delicate graham cracker crust, establishing a textured base. The Batter Layer: The core cheesecake batter features the cheese folded throughout, tempering the natural acidity of cream cheese with the rich, distinct profile of Canadian cheddar. By blending the comforting, nostalgic elements of a legacy processed cheese product with an indulgent dessert format, the brand targets Gen Z and Millennial consumer cohorts. Industry tracking indicates these demographics are highly motivated by nostalgic food trends and interactive, sensory-rich eating experiences. Distribution and Retail Rather than deploying a mass-market, frozen-grocery rollout, Kraft Heinz is utilising a highly targeted, localised distribution model to manage the launch. This strategy relies on direct partnerships with established independent bakeries across major Canadian metropolitan hubs: Ontario: SanRemo Bakery in Toronto Quebec: Les Delices Lafrenaie in Montreal Manitoba: Goodies Bakeshop in Winnipeg Alberta: Ambrosial Cheesecake Shop and The Cheesecake Cafe in Calgary For multinational food brands, executing limited-time offerings through local, artisanal partners offers substantial business-to-business benefits. It allows the brand to bypass the logistical complexities and inventory risks associated with nationwide cold-chain distribution. According to Brian Neumann, Head of Brand and Creativity at Kraft Heinz, the launch is designed to playfully challenge consumer expectations of the brand's culinary limits. By demonstrating that its core cheese flavour profile can successfully cross over into the premium dessert category, Kraft Heinz is reinforcing its market position as a highly adaptable, culturally integrated food brand. New Products Kraft Heinz Announces Macaroni & Cheese Flavoured Cheesecake Eddie Sanders May 26, 2026 Soft drinks Pepsi Announces Pop-up Ice Cream Parlour Experience in Soho Featuring Ice Cream-Inspired Range New Products Mars Expands Galaxy Portfolio with Dessert-Inspired Chocolate Bars Retail 7-Eleven Japan Launches Fruit Sandwich with Cocoa Bread New Products M&S New Chocolate Strawberry & Pistachio Creme Sandwich Food New Products Snacking Flavours & Colours Confectionery Related news

7 Brew is launching its "Freeze the Heat" campaign on 1 July, featuring a new Frozen Chiller menu: Firecracker 7 Energy, Maui Mocha, Orange Sherbet Shake comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom 7 Brew Coffee has announced its "Freeze the Heat" campaign, introducing five seasonal beverage offerings and a series of promotional incentives across its national network of drive-thru stands. The campaign, which commences on 1 July 2026, aims to increase transaction frequency during the summer season. Seasonal Beverage Range The campaign includes the introduction of five "Frozen Chiller" beverage options, available across the brand's coffee, energy drink, lemonade, and shake categories. The menu additions are as follows: ⚡ Firecracker 7 Energy Frozen Chiller: A blend of orange, pomegranate, and raspberry flavours. 🥥 Maui Mocha Frozen Chiller: A mocha base with tropical banana and coconut flavours. 🍍 Island Dream Lemonade Frozen Chiller: A mixture of pineapple, coconut, and vanilla flavours blended with lemonade. 🍓 Orange Sherbet Shake: A combination of orange, strawberry, and vanilla. ☕ Funnel Cake Coffee Frozen Chiller: A coffee base with white chocolate, vanilla, and salted caramel. Promotion To support the product rollout, 7 Brew has structured a series of promotional offers scheduled throughout July to encourage customer engagement: Independence Day Bundle (4 July): A "Fill-A-Tray" promotion offering four medium drinks for $17. Jackpot Day (7 July): Customers purchasing two medium or large beverages receive a limited-edition accessory, available while stocks last. Chiller Nights (20 July – 24 July): A buy-one-get-one-free offer on Frozen Chillers from 7 p.m. until the close of operations. Operational Context 7 Brew currently operates over 700 locations across 38 states, having added more than 500 stands to its footprint since 2023. The brand utilises a double-lane, drive-thru-only service model, which the company states is capable of processing more than 1 million drinks daily across its seven core beverage categories. This operational structure is intended to maintain high throughput and consistency as the company expands its national presence. New Products 7 Brew Launches Freeze the Heat Frozen Chiller Lineup Eddie Sanders June 30, 2026 Foodservice Taco Bell and Tajin Debut Co-Branded Menu Foodservice Pepsico and KFC Launch KFC x Doritos Loaded in Europe Foodservice Wingstop Relaunches Carolina Gold and Jamaican Jerk for Flavour Rodeo Campaign Foodservice Subway Canada Brings Back Artisan Flatbread Following Consumer Demand Beverage New Products Energy Drinks Foodservice Related news

The Coca-Cola Company has appointed Tapaswee Chandele as its next Global Chief People Officer, effective May 1. A 25-year veteran of the company, Chandele succeeds Lisa Chang, signalling a focus on internal continuity and global talent development as the beverage giant optimises its international workforce strategy. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Beverage Coca-Cola Company The Newsroom The Coca-Cola Company has announced that Tapaswee Chandele will become Global Chief People Officer, effective May 1, 2026. Chandele succeeds Lisa Chang, who is stepping down after a seven-year tenure. The transition represents a strategic internal promotion of a leader with deep roots in Coca-Cola’s global talent management and operational history. Chandele will report directly to CEO Henrique Braun. To ensure a seamless leadership handover, Lisa Chang will remain with the company as a senior advisor through the end of 2026 and will continue her service on the board of The Coca-Cola Foundation. Tapaswee Chandele’s appointment is the culmination of a 25-year career within the Coca-Cola system. Joining the company in India in 2001, her trajectory has covered diverse human resources and talent development roles across several critical international markets, including India, Turkey, and South Africa, before her move to the United States in 2017. Key milestones in Chandele’s career include: Senior Management (2025–Present) : Served as Senior Vice President and Executive Assistant to President and CFO John Murphy, a role that integrated human capital oversight with corporate financial strategy. Global Talent Strategy (2019–2025) : As SVP of Global Talent, Development, and HR System Partnerships, she was responsible for the company’s worldwide talent management framework, reporting directly to outgoing CPO Lisa Chang. Academic Background : Holds an MBA in Human Resources and Industrial Relations from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, alongside advanced degrees in biochemistry and clinical nutrition. The decision to appoint an internal candidate who previously served on the outgoing CPO’s leadership team suggests a commitment to strategic continuity. Under Lisa Chang’s leadership since 2019, Coca-Cola navigated significant structural realignments and the human capital challenges of a global pandemic. During her tenure, Chang was instrumental in: Organizational Design : Streamlining HR strategy across the company’s global operating units. Cultural Transformation : Focusing on talent development and inclusive leadership cultures. External Integration : Bringing expertise from the sports and entertainment sectors (via AMB Group) to enhance Coca-Cola's internal shared services model. By transitioning Chandele from a strategic advisory role under the CFO to the Chief People Officer position, Coca-Cola is likely aiming to further bridge the gap between people operations and bottom-line financial performance. As Global Chief People Officer, Chandele will oversee the talent and culture strategy for one of the world’s most recognized employer brands. In an era of shifting labor dynamics and the rapid integration of AI into corporate workflows, her priorities are expected to include: Global Talent Mobility : Leveraging her international experience to optimize the movement of talent across Coca-Cola’s diverse geographic segments. HR System Modernization : Continuing the evolution of the global HR technology stack to improve data-driven decision-making in recruitment and retention. Succession and Leadership Pipeline : Building on her previous role as SVP of Global Talent to ensure a robust pipeline of future leaders within the Coca-Cola system. People Coca-Cola Appoints Tapaswee Chandele to Global Chief People Officer News April 15, 2026 People Oterra Appoints Susanne Arfelt Rajamand as Chief Executive Officer People Celsius Holdings Announces Leadership Changes People B&G Foods Appoints Robert Mills as President and Chief Executive Officer Confectionery Haribo Opens First US Retail Stores and Appoints New CEO Soft drinks Business & Finance People Related news

Feihe has officially entered the Indonesian market with its “AceKid Activegro” series, the first formula in the region to utilise fresh milk as a core ingredient, supported by a decade-long research partnership with Harvard Medical School. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Feihe, a leading global infant formula manufacturer, has received official regulatory approval for its “AceKid Activegro” series to enter the Indonesian market. The launch marks a significant milestone as the first formula milk product in Indonesia to utilise fresh milk as its core ingredient. This entry follows a successful 2025 expansion into the Philippines, where the brand has already secured placement in nearly 500 retail outlets. Indonesia maintains some of the most stringent regulatory standards for imported infant nutrition. The approval of the AceKid series serves as a formal validation of Feihe’s manufacturing standards and its "fully integrated" dairy industry model. The One-Step Process A primary differentiator for the AceKid Activegro series is Feihe’s proprietary “One-step Process.” Unlike traditional formulas that may rely on rehydrated powders, this method transforms fresh milk directly into powder. This technical approach offers several advantages for B2B retail and clinical partners: Nutrient Preservation: The direct conversion process effectively locks in natural nutrients that are often degraded during multi-stage processing. Freshness Integrity: Minimising the time between milking and powdering ensures a higher fidelity of the raw material’s original profile. Supply Chain Control: The process reflects Feihe’s integrated model, which spans from pasture management to final packaging. Clean-Label Standards and Nutritional Philosophy The AceKid series adheres to a "pure and natural" nutritional philosophy, specifically designed to address modern parental concerns regarding metabolic health and dental hygiene. The formulation is notable for its strict exclusion of several common industry additives: No Added Sugars: Contains no sucrose or corn syrup to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Clean Carbohydrate Profile: Formulated without maltodextrin. Flavour Integrity: Free from vanillin and artificial flavourings. By removing these additives, Feihe aims to support healthy digestive development and minimise the risk of infants developing a preference for excessive sweetness, which is a leading factor in early childhood tooth decay. Global Research Leadership: The "Bridging Minds" Summit Feihe’s commercial expansion is supported by an extensive global research network. The brand recently co-organised the “Bridging Minds—2026 Advances in Neurodevelopment and Mental Health” summit at the National University of Singapore (NUS). The event brought together experts from the BCH-Feihe Pediatric Brain Development Initiative, Duke-NUS Medical School, Boston Children’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School. This decade-long partnership with Harvard, solidified in 2023 through the established Pediatric Brain Development Initiative, focuses on the intersection of genetics, nutrition, and environment on early cognitive growth. Transitioning from Participant to Industry Definer With deep collaborations across more than 40 research platforms in seven countries, Feihe is aggressively positioning itself as a global authority in pediatric nutrition. The company’s international footprint includes Canada’s first infant formula manufacturing facility, which exports China’s integrated dairy standards to developed Western markets. Leng Youbin, Chairman of Feihe, characterised this era as a turning point for the brand. “We are transitioning from a learner in global research to a participant, and even a definer,” he stated. For B2B stakeholders, this shift suggests that Feihe will increasingly lead the conversation on brain-centric nutritional standards and clean-label manufacturing on a global scale. Market Outlook Indonesia represents a critical high-growth market for the pediatric nutrition sector. By introducing the first fresh-milk-based formula to the region, Feihe is challenging established multinational incumbents through technical differentiation and science-backed branding. As the brand continues its rollout through 2026, industry observers expect the AceKid Activegro series to serve as a benchmark for premiumization in the Southeast Asian dairy category. Dairy Feihe Secures Indonesian Approval for AceKid Activegro Formula Eddie Sanders April 1, 2026 Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Opens Research and Innovation Centre in India Alcohol Carlsberg and Sapporo Form Joint Venture in Asia and Partnership in the UK New Products Carlsberg Malaysia Introduces ChongQing Beer Facilities GNT Opens First Dedicated China Office for Exberry Colouring Foods Business & Finance Ingredients Health & Nutrition Dairy Related news

Premium treats manufacturer Second Nature Brands has agreed to acquire Tillamook Country Smoker, marking its entry comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Premium snacks and treats manufacturer Second Nature Brands has agreed to acquire Tillamook Country Smoker from Insignia Capital Group and its family shareholders. The transaction marks the Chicago-headquartered company's first expansion into the protein snacks market, adding to its established portfolio of better-for-you snacking brands. The acquisition arrives during a period of sustained consumer demand for portable, protein-dense options, with the broader meat snacks category currently valued at more than $5 billion. By integrating Tillamook Country Smoker into its operations, Second Nature Brands aims to scale the brand's retail footprint and leverage joint manufacturing and distribution capabilities across the United States. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, and the deal is expected to close in the coming months, subject to customary closing conditions. Category Entry and Product Portfolio The acquisition introduces a high-growth, clean-label protein portfolio to Second Nature Brands' existing lineup, which includes Kar's Nuts, Second Nature Snacks, Sahale Snacks, Sanders, Brownie Brittle, and Voortman. Tillamook Country Smoker is recognised for its focus on simple, all-natural ingredients and zero-sugar formulations. The brand's core product portfolio is manufactured to meet clean-label, on-the-go snacking standards: 🥩 Beef Jerky – High-protein, zero-sugar meat snacks seasoned with natural spices. 🥢 Beef Sticks – Portable, shelf-stable beef sticks developed for convenience channels. 🌭 Smoked Sausages – Premium smoked sausages crafted from simple, natural ingredients. Operational Scale and Manufacturing Infrastructure The transaction includes the acquisition of Tillamook Country Smoker’s physical production assets and workforce. With annual sales exceeding $175 million, the company operates two manufacturing facilities in Oregon and employs approximately 480 people. Under the new ownership structure, these best-in-class processing assets will continue to serve as the primary production hub for the brand's meat snacks range. According to Adam Butler, Chief Executive Officer of Second Nature Brands, the acquisition aligns with the business's focus on quality ingredients, innovation, and taste. He noted that the growing consumer demand for clean-label protein snacks presents opportunities to introduce Tillamook's portfolio to a wider audience by utilising the group's commercial resources and supply chain network. Shane Chambers, Chief Executive Officer of Tillamook Country Smoker, added that the partnership with Second Nature Brands will support the brand's next phase of growth, pointing out that both organisations share a commitment to delivering high-quality, convenient nutrition. Corporate and Portfolio Consolidation The acquisition of Tillamook Country Smoker represents the latest step in Second Nature Brands’ ongoing portfolio consolidation strategy, which is backed by private equity firm CapVest Partners LLP. Since 2022, the company has actively reshaped its snacking portfolio through targeted acquisitions to build a comprehensive, multi-category snack platform: 2022 – Completed the acquisition of bakery brand Brownie Brittle. 2023 – Acquired premium nut and fruit brand Sahale Snacks from J.M. Smucker. 2024 – Finalised the acquisition of sugar-free cookie manufacturer Voortman. 2026 – Agreed the acquisition of Tillamook Country Smoker to enter the protein snack sector. To facilitate the transaction, Solomon Partners acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Second Nature Brands. The consolidated group will continue to focus its research and development on better-for-you snacking trends, helping retail and grocery partners drive volume growth and increase basket sizes in the premium convenience aisles. Business & Finance Second Nature Brands Acquires Tillamook Country Smoker Eddie Sanders June 8, 2026 Business & Finance Nichols Acquires Functional Drink Brand ViTHIT for £64M Foodservice Yum China Completes $1.2M Acquisition of Pizza Hut Brand in China Facilities Griffith Foods Acquires Plant-Tec Production Facility in Poland Business & Finance Sargento to Acquire La Terra Fina to Boost Dairy Dip and Spread Portfolio Business & Finance Snacking Meat & Seafood Related news

Nestlé’s natural bliss brand has introduced a new creative platform and packaging redesign, alongside a high-profile experiential marketing campaign aimed at elevating the daily coffee ritual. 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’s Coffee & Beverage Division has announced a significant brand evolution for natural bliss, marked by the launch of the "unexplainably blissful" creative platform. The initiative includes a comprehensive packaging redesign across the brand's portfolio and the introduction of new flavour extensions. This strategic pivot is designed to emphasise the brand’s simplified ingredient list while positioning its dairy creamers as a premium, indulgent addition to the daily coffee routine. Creative Messaging The new platform focuses on the sensory experience of the product, specifically highlighting how a formula consisting of four primary ingredients can deliver a sophisticated flavour profile. The rebranding effort aims to differentiate natural bliss in a crowded creamer market by focusing on the "effortless indulgence" of its products. "We're setting out to explore a question we hear all the time: How can something made with just four quality ingredients taste so incredibly delicious?" said Matthew Basler, director of brand marketing in Nestlé's Coffee & Beverage Division. "unexplainably blissful brings that to life in unexpected ways, across new creative, refreshed packaging, and experiences, all designed to show how natural bliss elevates an everyday cup of coffee to a world of flavor that feels indulgent, effortless and deeply satisfying." Celebrity Partnership As part of the launch, the brand is leveraging experiential marketing through the "High Creamer & Coffee" experience. This campaign, developed in collaboration with actress Meghann Fahy, reimagines the traditional high tea ritual for the coffee category. "Life can be hectic with early call times and long shoot days, where moments to truly pause are few and far between," said Meghann Fahy. "My coffee routine has always been my time to slow down and treat myself — a small escape that always brings me joy. I was genuinely excited to partner with natural bliss because I love adding these creamers to my cup. The flavours are incredible and bring me a simple moment of bliss that really sets the tone of my day." To support the campaign, Nestlé is releasing limited-edition "High Creamer & Coffee" kits to consumers. These kits feature new dairy creamer flavours and a specialised "Clotted Cream-er" developed to mimic the brand's vanilla profile for use with culinary pairings like scones. Portfolio Expansion and Packaging Redesign The rebranding coincides with the release of three specific dairy creamer extensions: Chocolate Caramel Truffle Chai Vanilla Latte Vanilla (Fan Favourite) The new packaging maintains the brand's focus on transparency while adopting a more modern aesthetic intended to stand out on retail shelves. The full portfolio, featuring the updated design, is currently rolling out to grocery stores nationwide. Multimedia Campaign Integration The "unexplainably blissful" platform will be supported by a multi-channel media buy, including new television spots titled "Magic Makes Five" and "Milk & Cream." The campaign will also be amplified through targeted social media strategies and live events. By combining product innovation with high-concept creative and celebrity endorsements, Nestlé is seeking to drive growth in the premium creamer segment. The strategy reflects a broader industry trend toward experiential branding, where companies move beyond functional benefits to sell a "ritual" or "moment" to the modern consumer. Marketing Nestlé Brand natural bliss Launches New Creative Platform and Packaging News March 12, 2026 Marketing Hershey and Mondelez Mark One Year of REESE'S OREO with New Campaign Beverage Tom Holland's BERO Launches Limited Edition Spider-Man Cans Ahead of Movie Release Soft drinks Zevia Partners with Cardi B for Real Talk Interpreter Campaign Foodservice bb.q Chicken Launches Feel Crunch Chicken and Announces K-Pop Partnership Marketing Business & Finance Beverage Dairy Related news

Coinciding with the spirit launch, Malibu has partnered with Dole to release a new line of canned cocktails. The Malibu & Dole Ready-to-Drink Cocktails aim to capitalise on the mix of the spirit with pineapple juice. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Dole Food Company The Newsroom Pernod Ricard’s flagship coconut rum brand, Malibu, has announced a dual product expansion designed to extend "summer energy" into a year-round proposition. The brand is launching Malibu Pink , a new flavoured spirit, alongside a strategic collaboration with fruit giant Dole to enter the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail segment. The launch leverages the growing mainstream acceptance of exotic fruit profiles, positioning guava as the next major trend in the tropical spirits category. Malibu Pink Malibu Pink is engineered to offer a visual and sensory twist on the classic rum liqueur. The new expression features guava at its heart—a flavour the brand notes is transitioning from speciality to mainstream appeal—complemented by pineapple and the signature Malibu coconut base. Usage Occasion: The spirit is marketed for versatility, suitable for mixing with lemonade or consumption as a standalone shot. To support the rollout, Malibu has confirmed a "pink-drenched" marketing campaign and series of activations scheduled for later this spring. The Malibu & Dole Collaboration Coinciding with the spirit launch, Malibu has partnered with Dole to release a new line of canned cocktails. Hitting shelves in January 2026 , the Malibu & Dole Ready-to-Drink Cocktails aim to capitalise on the number one way consumers mix the spirit: with pineapple juice. Technical Specifications: Base: Real rum and Malibu coconut essence. Mixer: Real pineapple juice from Dole and crisp sparkling water. Nutritional Profile: 130 calories per 12oz can. Clean Label: Free from artificial sweeteners or colours. The Variety 8-Pack Lineup: 🍍 Pineapple 🥭 Pineapple Mango 🍓 Pineapple Strawberry 🐉 Pineapple Dragon Fruit Saragh Killeen , US Brand Director at Malibu, commented on the flavour evolution: "Malibu has always been the go-to drink for those seeking a tropical and exotic experience. With the launch of Malibu Pink, we're pairing familiar favourites like coconut and pineapple with new guava-led notes as the next evolution in tropical flavour transporting summer-seekers on a new adventure." New Products Malibu Unveils 'Malibu Pink' Guava Rum and Partners with Dole for RTD Cocktail Line News January 21, 2026 New Products JINRO Unveils K-POP Star Toad Limited Edition Green Grape Soju Business & Finance Diageo Unveils $1B Cost-Cutting Plan to Drive Growth Alcohol Merry's Irish Cream Liqueur Unveils Bottle Redesign and Dubai Chocolate Flavour Business & Finance Maison Pommery and Henkell International End Partnership Talks Flavours & Colours Beverage New Products Alcohol Related news

The launch of Midera marks Middleby’s strategic shift to a pure-play model, consolidating 30+ brands into a technology-driven company comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Middleby Corporation has announced that its Food Processing business will henceforth operate under the name Midera Food Processing, Inc. (Midera) . The rebranding signals a structural evolution for the organisation, transitioning the segment from a divisional unit into a focused, technology-driven "pure play" company. The move is designed to accelerate innovation and provide customers with greater operational clarity as Midera prepares for its eventual separation from the Middleby master brand. The launch of Midera reflects the continued advancement of Middleby’s food processing platform into a dedicated infrastructure provider. By consolidating a portfolio of more than 30 global brands under a singular identity, the organisation aims to deliver integrated "total line solutions" rather than disparate hardware components. Mark Salman, incoming CEO of Midera and current president of the Middleby Food Processing Group, stated that the brand was engineered to reflect the "deep commitment" of its component labels. He emphasised that the transition to a standalone identity is a pivotal step in outlining a growth strategy that prioritises speed-to-market and R&D precision. Identity Architecture and Heritage The Midera brand identity has been technically crafted to maintain a "sovereign" link to its parentage while signalling a new era of independence. Key Branding Mechanics Include: Nomenclature: The first syllable—"Mi"—is an intentional phonemic bridge to the Middleby name, preserving decades of market equity. Visual Iconography: The Midera emblem utilises triangular elements from Middleby’s original visual identity, refined to convey "precision and forward momentum." Operational Intent: The branding reinforces Midera’s status as an entity entirely devoted to food processing, distinguishing it from Middleby’s broader commercial and residential kitchen equipment interests. Path to Standalone Success and Financial Framework Tim FitzGerald, CEO of The Middleby Corporation, expressed high confidence in the Midera leadership team, citing their history of "financial strength and discipline." The separation is framed as a move to unlock shareholder value by allowing both Middleby and Midera to pursue distinct capital allocation strategies tailored to their specific market segments. Midera is positioned to leverage its established global reputation to maintain positive momentum as it transitions into its next chapter as a standalone business. The organisation’s ability to provide advanced, integrated solutions for high-volume food processors is expected to remain its primary competitive moat. The announcement serves as a prelude to a joint Investor Day hosted by Middleby and Midera on 12 May 2026 in New York City. This event is expected to provide industry analysts and stockholders with the first comprehensive view of Midera’s long-term strategy and independent financial framework. Business & Finance Middleby Rebrands Food Processing Division as Standalone Midera Entity Eddie Sanders May 11, 2026 New Products PepsiCo Launches Refrigerated Alvalle Gazpacho New Products Goodles Launches Twirly Mac Range with Three Bold Flavours New Products General Mills Expands Totino's Portfolio with Fan-Inspired Flavour Innovations New Products Better Than Bouillon Partners with A-Sha Foods to Launch Co-Branded Ramen Kits Food Foodservice Manufacturing Business & Finance Related news

The appointment signals a significant maturation of HTeaO's corporate leadership, bringing in a veteran with deep experience in scaling multi-brand restaurant organisations and managing high-value acquisition events. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom HTeaO , the leading iced tea franchise in the U.S., has announced the appointment of Chris Phillips as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Phillips joins the executive team at a pivotal moment, tasked with overseeing finance, accounting, information technology, and strategic planning as the brand accelerates its rapid nationwide expansion. The appointment signals a significant maturation of HTeaO's corporate leadership, bringing in a veteran with deep experience in scaling multi-brand restaurant organisations and managing high-value acquisition events. Heavyweight Financial Pedigree Phillips brings over two decades of experience in the restaurant industry. His resume includes senior leadership roles at: Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen: Phillips was part of the executive team that supported the brand’s massive $1.8 billion sale to Restaurant Brands International (RBI), providing him with direct experience in navigating large-scale liquidity events and corporate restructuring. Darden Restaurants: He led finance and strategy initiatives tied to large-scale growth and acquisition activity for the casual dining giant. Strategic Mandate: Scaling Infrastructure and Franchisee Profitability In his new role, Phillips' remit extends beyond traditional financial governance. He is charged with strengthening the company's "financial and technology infrastructure" to support a larger footprint. A key focus will be driving data insights that support franchisee profitability , a critical metric for sustaining rapid system-wide growth. Justin Howe , co-founder and CEO of HTeaO, highlighted the specific blend of skills Phillips brings: “Chris brings the rare combination of strategic vision and hands-on operational experience. He understands what it takes to grow a franchise brand the right way, with discipline, transparency, and a strong partnership mindset.” Executive Insight Phillips framed his arrival as an opportunity to build upon the brand's existing momentum and "deeply engaged franchise system." “What stood out to me immediately was the opportunity ahead to help strengthen the financial foundation of the business while partnering closely with franchisees and leadership to support smart, sustainable growth,” Phillips stated. “This is a brand with a long runway.” His appointment underscores HTeaO’s continued investment in a leadership team capable of executing a "strong, franchise-first growth model" essential for long-term value creation. People HTeaO Appoints Former Popeyes Executive Chris Phillips as CFO to Drive National Expansion News February 9, 2026 People Oterra Appoints Susanne Arfelt Rajamand as Chief Executive Officer People Celsius Holdings Announces Leadership Changes People B&G Foods Appoints Robert Mills as President and Chief Executive Officer Confectionery Haribo Opens First US Retail Stores and Appoints New CEO Beverage Business & Finance People Related news

The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf has launched its permanent Perfect Americano menu nationwide, utilising a three-shot espresso base, comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The quick-service restaurant coffee sector is experiencing a significant shift as brands seek to defend their margins against rising commodity costs. Instead of relying solely on complex, sugary, limited-time offerings, operators are refocusing on their high-margin espresso foundations. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has announced the nationwide launch of its permanent Perfect Americano menu, commencing on 3 June 2026. By standardising its Americano recipe around a heavy three-shot pour of its signature L.A. Espresso blend, the brand is executing a classic category premiumisation strategy. Historically, the Americano has been viewed as a basic, lower-priced alternative to milk-based lattes. Elevating this classic beverage with a stronger, craft-focused formulation allows the brand to appeal directly to purist coffee drinkers who demand bold espresso profiles, whilst simultaneously raising the premium credentials of its core hot and iced coffee categories. From a product development and pricing perspective, the new menu utilises a clear value-tiering matrix designed to encourage incremental consumer spending and seamless customisation: The Entry Tier: The Classic Americano, priced at 4.00 USD, offers a clean, balanced espresso-and-water profile served either hot or iced, establishing a high-quality baseline. The Customisation Tier: The Flavoured Americano, priced at 5.00 USD, introduces the brand's signature creamy flavoured powders, which are hand-whisked into the hot or iced espresso base to soften the bite of the dark roast. The Premium Indulgence Tier: The Dry Iced Americano, priced at 6.00 USD, is a textured beverage featuring espresso hand-whisked with vanilla powder, topped with a caramel drizzle, pebble ice, and half-and-half dairy. To reduce purchasing friction and appeal to health-conscious demographics, the brand is allowing consumers to add a splash of Oatly oat milk or almond milk at no additional charge. Forgoing the traditional upcharge for dairy alternatives on this specific menu serves as a powerful customer acquisition tool, helping the brand capture dairy-free consumers who frequently reject standard QSR coffee menus due to premium allergen pricing. While the permanent Americano menu establishes long-term category value, driving immediate transaction velocity during the warmer months requires a highly coordinated promotional framework. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has designed a series of summer events timed specifically to smooth out the industry-standard afternoon daypart lulls: Summer Fridays: Running from 19 June to 14 August 2026, the brand will offer any two beverages for 10.00 USD between 12 PM and 6 PM, directly targeting the mid-afternoon drop in commuter footfall. Targeted BOGO Holidays: During Father's Day on 21 June and National Best Friend's Day from 6 June to 8 June, the brand will deploy buy-one-get-one-free incentives. App-Based Digital Incentives: Restricting these high-value holiday BOGO promotions to registered loyalty members incentivises new users to download the brand's mobile application. This digital conversion funnel allows the brand to transition occasional walk-in retail shoppers into its first-party data network, facilitating automated, highly targeted email and push-notification marketing campaigns throughout the remainder of the fiscal year. By blending a permanent, margin-optimised espresso core with an engaging, digital-first summer promotional programme, the brand is demonstrating how heritage coffee chains can successfully balance value and premium craft positioning in a highly competitive market. Coffee & Tea The Coffee Bean And Tea Leaf Launches 'Perfect Americano Menu' Eddie Sanders May 27, 2026 Coffee & Tea Philadelphia and Ziggi's Coffee Debut Everything Bagel Latte Coffee & Tea Starbucks UK to Raise Loyalty Rewards Thresholds from September Coffee & Tea Panera Bread Launches Autumn Menu with Pumpkin Bakery and Frozen Java Coffee & Tea The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf Launches Hojicha and Fall Range New Products Coffee & Tea Related news

Protein Pints, an ice cream brand currently available in over 15,000 retail locations, has announced its entry into the frozen novelty category comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Protein Pints, an ice cream brand currently available in over 15,000 retail locations, has announced its entry into the frozen novelty category with the launch of "Protein Pops." This development marks the brand's first major format expansion since its retail inception two years ago. The move follows trends in the frozen dessert sector where individually portioned, on-the-go treats continue to outpace the broader market. Industry projections indicate that the frozen novelty category is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of nearly 9% through 2035, driven by shifting consumer preferences for convenience-based indulgence. Nutritional Specifications The Protein Pops range is designed to align with the brand’s existing ingredient standards, focusing on high protein content and reduced sugar levels. Each bar is coated in a milk chocolate shell studded with quinoa. Key product specifications include: 10g of complete protein per bar. 180 to 190 calories per serving. At least 75% less sugar than traditional ice cream. No artificial sweeteners or ingredients. Gluten-free formulation containing all nine essential amino acids. Flavour Portfolio The new line introduces four distinct varieties, each featuring the brand’s signature crispy, quinoa-studded coating: 🍮 Caramel Crunch 🍦 Vanilla Crunch 🥜 Peanut Butter Crunch 🌿 Mint Crunch Distribution and Availability Protein Pops are currently available for purchase directly via the company’s website. The retail rollout is scheduled to commence at Sprouts Farmers Market stores nationwide on 29 June, followed by Harris Teeter in late July, with additional retail partnerships planned for later this year. "We wanted to create a format that complements the busy lives of our consumers while still delivering the protein and ingredient standards they expect," said Paul Reiss, co-founder and CEO of Protein Pints. "Pops offer the attributes of our pint range in a convenient grab-and-go format." New Products Protein Pints Launches New Protein Pops Range Eddie Sanders June 23, 2026 New Products Ben & Jerry's Launches Limited Batch Razz Up Flavour Foodservice Haagen-Dazs Shops Launches New Sundae Series Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Opens Research and Innovation Centre in India Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Invests €10M in Hungarian Production Facility New Products Snacking Food Related news