Ghirardelli has expanded its premium baking portfolio with the debut of its first Milk Chocolate Chip Brownie Mix, targeting a $4.25 price point and leveraging its "professional" grade chocolate chips to capture a broader segment of the at-home baking market. The Ghirardelli Chocolate Company has announced a significant expansion of its retail baking lineup with the introduction of the Milk Chocolate Chip Brownie Mix. This launch marks the first time the company has integrated a milk chocolate profile into its flagship brownie category, a move designed to capture a consumer segment that prioritises a sweeter, creamier chocolate profile over the brand's traditional dark chocolate offerings. The 17-oz. pouch is positioned as a premium, low-labour solution for the spring gathering season, requiring only standard pantry staples (water, oil, and egg) to produce an 8x8-inch pan of "ultra-rich" brownies. Historically, Ghirardelli’s brownie portfolio has been defined by dark and semi-sweet chocolate profiles, aligning with the brand’s reputation for intense cocoa experiences. However, the introduction of a milk chocolate variant signals a strategic pivot to address the "craveable" flavour profile preferred by a large portion of the North American confectionery market. David Dulyx, Vice President of Licensing and Professional Products Division for Ghirardelli, noted that the product was "reimagined" to deliver a batch specific to milk chocolate lovers. By utilising the same high-quality milk chocolate chips found in its professional and confectionery divisions, the company is maintaining its "premium" brand equity while lowering the barrier to entry for more casual bakers. Product and Profile The Milk Chocolate Chip Brownie Mix is engineered to deliver a specific textural contrast that has become a benchmark for premium packaged mixes: Core Texture: A fudgy, moist centre achieved through a high-fat-to-flour ratio. Structural Finish: Targeted "crisp edges" that mirror artisanal bakery standards. Flavour Profile: A combination of rich cocoa, silky-sweet milk chocolate chips, and a subtle vanilla finish. This "indulgent experience" is intended to serve the "permissible indulgence" market, where consumers are willing to pay a premium, currently set at a $4.25 starting price, for a guaranteed high-quality result from a trusted heritage brand. Retail Distribution To ensure maximum visibility during the critical spring retail window, Ghirardelli has secured early placement with several dominant regional and national grocery chains. The rollout strategy includes: Initial Availability: H-E-B and the Kroger Family of Stores (including Ralphs and Fred Meyer). Secondary Phase: A nationwide expansion to Target and other mass merchandisers later in the spring of 2026. Pricing Strategy: Positioned at a starting price of $4.25, placing it at the top-tier of the dry baking mix aisle. Industrial Significance and Outlook For B2B stakeholders and retail category managers, the launch of the Ghirardelli Milk Chocolate Chip Brownie Mix represents an effort to drive "trade-up" behaviour in the baking aisle. As private label and value-tier brands dominate standard brownie mixes, premium players like Ghirardelli must differentiate through specialised flavour profiles and the inclusion of branded ingredients (such as the signature chips). As the home baking market continues to professionalise, industry observers expect Ghirardelli to continue leveraging its "Licensing and Professional Products" expertise to bridge the gap between industrial-grade chocolate and the consumer pantry. The success of this milk chocolate variant may lead to further portfolio diversification into other non-dark chocolate baking categories throughout 2026. The Newsroom New Products Ghirardelli Launches Milk Chocolate Chip Brownie Mix for Retail Eddie Sanders April 1, 2026 New Products Ep!c Snax Launches Baking Bottles Range Facilities Unox Opens $20M North Carolina Facility, Becomes Sole US Manufacturer of Combi Ovens Bakery Fleischmann’s Targets Novice Bakers with 'Quick-Rise Plus' to Lower Category Barriers Business & Finance KitchenAid Unveils ‘Spearmint’ as 2026 Colour of the Year Bakery Snacking New Products Related news

The 2026 F&B April Fools' landscape is dominated by "flavour subversion" and "hyper-innovation," with brands like Lost Sheep Coffee and Superfoodio leveraging polarising taste profiles and absurd technology to drive massive social engagement. F&B April Fools 2026: The Best Brand Pranks and Faux Launches Analysis April Fools' 2026: From Matcha Mayo to Sheep's Milk Coffee The 2026 F&B April Fools' landscape is dominated by "flavour subversion" and "hyper-innovation," with brands like Lost Sheep Coffee and Superfoodio leveraging polarising taste profiles and absurd technology to drive massive social engagement. F&B April Fools 2026: The Best Brand Pranks and Faux Launches April 1, 2026 Go Overview Report Opportunities Suppliers Related News April Fools' Day in the Food and Beverage sector has evolved from simple "fake products" into a high-stakes battle for viral engagement. In 2026, we are seeing a shift away from the obviously impossible toward "plausible absurdity"—products that are just weird enough that they might exist in today's experimental market. Here is a breakdown of this year’s most "delicious" and "matcha-fied" standout pranks. The Green Condiment: Matcha Mayo The "Matcha Mayo" campaign (spotted via LinkedIn) is a masterclass in leveraging the "superfood" trend for comedic effect. The Joke: A bright, forest-green mayonnaise infused with premium ceremonial-grade matcha. The Branding: The campaign uses minimalist, "clean-label" aesthetics that mirror high-end health brands. It plays on the consumer obsession with antioxidants and "functional fats." Why it Works: In an era where matcha is being added to everything from beer to skincare, "Matcha Mayo" is just one step beyond reality, forcing a double-take from health-conscious shoppers who might actually find the "earthy notes" of green tea a compelling addition to a sandwich. Superfoodio: The "Dillicious" New Launch Superfoodio has tapped into the internet’s inexplicable and undying love for pickles with their "Dillicious" faux-launch (as seen via Jagir Mankodi’s announcement). The Joke: A Dill Pickle flavoured Peanut Butter (or similar snack variant). The Branding: Utilising the "Dillicious" pun, the branding features vibrant green accents on their traditional premium packaging. It targets the "polarising flavour" demographic—the same audience that propelled "pickle-flavoured everything" to viral status in late 2025. Why it Works: The "pickle and peanut butter" combination is a well-known internet food hack. By "legitimising" it with professional branding, Superfoodio triggers a debate between "team gross" and "team genius," which is the gold standard for April Fools' social metrics. Lost Sheep Coffee: The Play on Name Lost Sheep Coffee took the "innovation" angle (spotted via Stuart W on LinkedIn), satirising the industry's obsession with faster, more efficient caffeine delivery. The Joke: A "Coffee Scented Patch" or "Intravenous Espresso Drip" (The "Caffeine Patch"). The Branding: The marketing materials look like a high-tech bio-hacking product launch. It uses clinical language ("sublingual absorption," "caffeine-peak optimisation") to mock the "bio-hacker" coffee culture. Why it Works: It addresses a genuine pain point—the need for caffeine without the "hassle" of drinking a cup—while being physically ridiculous enough to be a clear prank. It reinforces Lost Sheep’s identity as a brand that takes its coffee seriously, but not itself. THIS™ IS WATER: Plant-based brand THIS launches water in cans Introducing the morning energy boost you never knew you needed. Honourable Mentions: The "Shared Love" Pranks Across social channels like Facebook, several other F&B players have joined the fray: The "De-Carbonated" Sparkling Water: A brand claiming to have removed the bubbles from their seltzer for a "smoother, stiller experience"—effectively selling plain water at a premium price. AI-Generated "Taste-O-Vision" Apps: Multiple brands are claiming that you can now "lick your screen" to taste their new seasonal limited-time offerings (LTOs) using a new "haptic flavour" technology. Industrial Significance: Why Brands Still Joke For B2B stakeholders, these pranks serve a vital commercial purpose: Market Testing: Brands often use April Fools' to gauge the reaction to polarising flavours. If "Dillicious" peanut butter gets enough "unironic" requests, a limited-edition run might actually follow. Brand Humanisation: In an increasingly corporate and AI-driven market, self-deprecating humour helps brands build "cultural capital" with Gen Z and Millennial consumers. Low-Cost Viral Reach: A well-executed prank can generate more earned media impressions in 24 hours than a multi-million dollar traditional ad buy. Outlook for 2027 As we move toward 2027, expect April Fools' pranks to integrate even more "Deepfake" and "GenAI" elements, making it nearly impossible for consumers to distinguish between a "disruptive startup" and a well-timed holiday joke. Overview Content Opportunities Suppliers Latest news

NCA President & CEO John Downs has announced a series of senior executive promotions, including naming Brian McKeon and Christopher Gindlesperger as Executive Vice Presidents, to drive a strategic transformation of the organisation’s advocacy and public policy functions. The National Confectioners Association (NCA) has announced a significant restructuring of its senior leadership team. President and CEO John Downs confirmed several high-level promotions designed to enhance the organisation’s advocacy brand and deepen its regulatory impact in Washington, D.C. The move reflects a decade-long strategic transformation aimed at navigating an increasingly complex political and communications environment for the $48 billion U.S. confectionery industry. Executive Leadership Central to the restructuring are the promotions of Brian McKeon and Christopher Gindlesperger to Executive Vice President roles. These appointments are intended to further integrate the association's policy, regulatory, and communications functions. Brian McKeon, Executive Vice President of Public Policy & Regulatory Affairs Having led the NCA's policy efforts for five years, McKeon’s portfolio will now expand to include oversight of scientific and regulatory affairs. His role is critical in executing "precision advocacy" strategies that address federal and state-level legislative challenges. Christopher Gindlesperger, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs & Communications A veteran of 11 years with the association, Gindlesperger will lead the integration of strategic communications with member company engagement. His leadership has been instrumental in the "Always A Treat" initiative, which differentiates chocolate and candy from other food categories in the public eye. Organisational and Financial Governance To support the association’s operational scaling and industry engagement, several other key leaders have received expanded mandates: Steve McCroddan has been elevated to Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Administrative Officer. Sarah Atkinson has been named Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of Industry Engagement. Susan Whiteside has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Marketing & Communications. Jennifer Gardner has been named Vice President of State Government Affairs, focusing on localised legislative monitoring and response. Transformation and Advocacy Brand John Downs noted that these promotions reflect the strength of a team that has built a robust advocacy identity for the NCA over the last decade. "Brian, Christopher, Steve, Sarah, Susan, and Jennifer have each played a critical role in shaping the modern NCA," Downs stated. The restructuring is designed to unlock organisational efficiencies by ensuring that the "confectionery voice" is unified across marketing, science, and government relations. For B2B stakeholders, this signals a more aggressive and coordinated approach to defending the industry's interests against rising regulatory pressures and supply chain volatility. The U.S. confectionery industry is currently navigating significant shifts in consumer health perceptions and ingredient labelling requirements. By elevating leaders who specialise in both regulatory affairs and public perception, the NCA is positioning itself to be a more proactive "thought leader" in Washington. The integration of scientific and regulatory affairs under a single EVP (McKeon) suggests a move toward more data-backed, technical advocacy. This is particularly relevant as the industry faces scrutiny over sugar content, colour additives, and sustainable sourcing. Outlook for the NCA As the NCA moves into the second half of 2026, the newly promoted leadership team is expected to focus on high-impact results that support the long-term growth of chocolate and candy brands. By strengthening its internal infrastructure, the association is ensuring it remains a primary influencer in the food and beverage policy landscape, providing a stable environment for its member companies to innovate and expand. The Newsroom Confectionery National Confectioners Association Announces Senior Leadership Promotions Dan B March 31, 2026 People Molson Coors appoints Will Meijer as President of Canada Sales People Joshua Levine Appointed Chief Investor Relations Officer at Campbell’s People Marks and Spencer Appoints Gillian Anderson as first-ever 'Chief Compliments Officer' People ADM Appoints Former LyondellBasell CFO Michael McMurray to Board People Confectionery Business & Finance Related news

Once Upon a Farm has announced a major portfolio expansion, debuting the first-of-its-kind refrigerated organic meat and bone broth pouches for infants, alongside a new "Power Wheels" snack bar line for older children. Once Upon a Farm, the mission-driven organic snack and meal brand, has announced a significant expansion of its product ecosystem. The rollout includes a groundbreaking entry into the refrigerated meat-based baby food segment, legume-based blends, and an "aged-up" evolution of its snack bar line, Power Wheels. The new products are scheduled for a phased launch across select retailers and direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels beginning in early April 2026. This move marks the brand's transition from a fruit-and-veggie specialist to a comprehensive pediatric nutrition provider supporting development milestones from infancy through school age. Redefining Baby Food The centrepiece of the launch is the introduction of Meat and Meat & Bone Broth blends. According to first-party research cited by the company, 72% of parents prefer refrigerated meat purees over highly processed, shelf-stable alternatives. Utilising cold-pressure protection (HPP), Once Upon a Farm is bringing to market the first refrigerated organic meat pouches for infants. These formulations are engineered to provide at least 4g of protein per serving, sourced from: High-Quality Proteins: Grass-fed beef, free-range chicken, and turkey raised without antibiotics or added growth hormones. Nutritional Density: Ingredients include organic bone broths, coconut milk, and vibrant herbs to support palate development. Clean Label Standards: All SKUs are organic and focus on "farm-fresh" flavour profiles rather than synthetic additives. Cassandra Curtis, Co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer, noted the emotional significance of the launch: "From introducing your baby to their first taste of protein to handing your six-year-old a snack before their first practice... We're not just expanding our product portfolio; we're growing up right alongside your family." Legumes and Functional Smoothies Beyond animal proteins, the brand is diversifying its plant-based offerings with organic Legume Blends. These 3.5oz pouches utilise beans and pumpkin seeds to deliver plant-derived protein, catering to the rising "flexitarian" trend among modern parents. Simultaneously, the brand is targeting active, older children with organic Smoothies with Protein & Probiotics. These 4-oz pouches deliver 4g of protein and integrated probiotics to support immune health, reflecting the growing demand for functional "on-the-go" snacks in the school-age demographic. The Evolution of "Power Wheels" Snack Bars Following the success of its Tractor Wheel bars for toddlers, Once Upon a Farm is introducing Power Wheels. These soft-baked bars are designed as an aged-up evolution for older children, featuring: Protein Fortification: 4g of protein per bar. Whole Grain Focus: Formulated with 100% whole-grain oats. Format Versatility: Available in four- and eight-packs in flavours such as Strawberry Shortcake and Blueberry Crumble. The emphasis on protein across the new portfolio is supported by market data from Kantar/Mintel, which indicates that 46% of U.S. parents with children aged three and younger prioritise protein when selecting foods. Dr. Shilpa Dass, Child Neurologist and Development Specialist, emphasized the clinical importance of this transition: "Early childhood is a period of remarkable brain and body growth, and offering a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including protein, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, can help support growth, energy, and even palate development." Industrial Significance and Outlook For B2B stakeholders, Once Upon a Farm’s expansion signals a major challenge to the traditional "shelf-stable" baby food aisle. By leveraging cold-chain logistics and high-pressure processing, the brand is creating a "premium-fresh" sub-category that justifies higher price points and drives incremental value for retail partners. As the brand scales its footprint from the refrigerated produce section into broader snack and meal aisles, its ability to maintain its "mission-driven" brand equity while competing in high-volume categories like snack bars will be a key indicator of its long-term market dominance. The Newsroom New Products Once Upon a Farm Diversifies Portfolio with Refrigerated Meat and Bone Broth Launch News March 31, 2026 New Products Ben’s Original Launches Street Food Noodles in Canada New Products Bell-Carter Foods Expands Lindsay Brand with Spanish and Latin-Inspired Olive Portfolio New Products Fresh Express Expands Chopped Salad Portfolio with Globally-Inspired Kits New Products Bolthouse Fresh Foods Introduces Seasoned Carrot Fries to Produce Aisle New Products Meat & Seafood Food Related news

7 Brew has announced its first on-campus location at the University of Arkansas, marking a strategic pivot to a "walk-thru" operational model designed to capture high-density student traffic and foster social engagement. 7 Brew, a rapidly expanding drive-thru beverage franchisor, has confirmed plans to establish its first-ever on-campus presence at the University of Arkansas. Scheduled to break ground this summer, the project represents the company’s third "walk-thru" stand, a strategic departure from its core drive-thru model to better suit the logistics of a collegiate environment. The location is expected to be fully operational by the fall 2026 semester. The move signals 7 Brew's intent to deepen its engagement with the Gen Z demographic by integrating into high-foot-traffic educational hubs. From Drive-Thru to Walk-Thru The University of Arkansas stands as a significant evolution in 7 Brew's infrastructure strategy. While the brand is primarily defined by its high-speed double-drive-thru pre-fabricated stands, the campus location will feature an interior space where guests can enter, congregate, and socialise. Key benefits of the walk-thru format for the collegiate sector include: Pedestrian Integration: Optimised for campus zones where vehicle traffic is restricted or minimised. Extended Dwell Time: By providing an indoor "hang out" space, the brand moves beyond purely transactional interactions to drive long-term loyalty. Multi-Occasion Targeting: The format is designed to capture three distinct student day-parts: the morning commute, mid-day study breaks, and late-night social windows. Partnership with Chartwells The project is being executed in coordination with Chartwells Higher Education, the university’s on-campus dining partner. This collaboration highlights a growing trend in the QSR and beverage sectors where national brands partner with third-party institutional operators to navigate the complexities of campus real estate and student meal-plan integrations. Jack Ervin, Vice President of Operations for Chartwells Higher Education at the University of Arkansas, stated that bringing a "beloved local brand" to campus aligns with the university’s goal of enhancing the student experience through recognised retail partnerships. Scaling Footprint This milestone builds on 7 Brew's continued expansion into academic communities. Last year, the company launched its second-ever walk-thru stand in the University District at The Ohio State University. The University of Arkansas location, however, represents the brand’s first true "on-campus" facility. Chris Dawson, President of 7 Brew, noted that the opening reinforces the company’s commitment to meaningfully engaging with the communities it serves. For the Arkansas-based brand, the campus location offers a unique opportunity to connect with a large student body in its home state. Industrial Significance and Market Outlook For B2B stakeholders, 7 Brew’s move into the higher education sector reflects the brand's adaptability. By maintaining its signature "service, speed, and quality" while offering a library of over 20,000 unique drink combinations in a social setting, the company is positioning itself to compete with established on-campus coffee and energy beverage providers. As the brand continues its rapid national rollout, the success of the University of Arkansas walk-thru model will likely serve as a blueprint for future institutional partnerships at large-scale universities and metropolitan hubs across the United States. The Newsroom Coffee & Tea 7 Brew Coffee to Debut First On-Campus Walk-Thru at University of Arkansas Eddie Sanders March 31, 2026 Flavours & Colours General Mills Removes Certified Colours from All K-12 School Foods Business & Finance Sodexo Campus Partners with McCormick to Launch 'Flavour Boosters' for Gen Z Diners Business & Finance Oklahoma State University Invests $7M to Modernise Regional Food Processing with Hiperbaric HPP Foodservice Aramark Collegiate Hospitality Debuts 'The Gathering Place' to Redefine Campus Dining for Gen Z Business & Finance Foodservice Coffee & Tea Related news

Constellation Brands has agreed to acquire the remaining stake in HopWtr, a functional non-alcoholic brand, following 22% category growth and a successful four-year venture partnership. Constellation Brands has reached a definitive agreement to acquire the remaining stake in HopWtr, a prominent player in the non-alcoholic functional beverage space. The acquisition, for an undisclosed sum, marks the transition of HopWtr from a venture-backed startup within Constellation’s "Ventures" portfolio to a fully integrated brand under the company’s corporate umbrella. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to reach completion in early April 2026. This move highlights Constellation's broader strategy to diversify its portfolio into premium, "better-for-you" categories as consumer preferences shift toward functional alternatives to traditional alcohol. HopWtr Partnership Constellation Brands initially invested in HopWtr in 2021 through its venture capital arm. Since that initial investment, the brand has established itself as a leader in the "beer-adjacent" non-alcoholic segment. Unlike traditional non-alcoholic beers, HopWtr produces hop-infused sparkling waters that are specifically formulated with: Adaptogens: Plant-based substances intended to help the body manage stress. Nootropics: Ingredients targeted at enhancing cognitive function and mental clarity. By moving from a minority stake to full ownership, Constellation can now fully leverage its massive distribution network and marketing expertise to scale the brand across national retail and on-premise channels. Market Trends The acquisition comes at a period of rapid acceleration for the non-alcoholic beverage sector. Market data indicates that the beer-adjacent segment recorded 22% dollar sales growth in 2025, significantly outperforming many traditional alcohol categories. Jordan Bass, Founder and CEO of HopWtr, noted that the next phase of growth will benefit from Constellation’s deep industry expertise. For Constellation, the deal provides a high-growth asset that appeals to "sober-curious" demographics and health-conscious consumers who prioritise functional benefits alongside a beer-like flavour profile. Portfolio Diversification Constellation Brands has increasingly focused its M&A activity on brands that align with modern lifestyle trends. The full integration of HopWtr allows the company to: Capture Incremental Occasions: Target weekday consumption and social settings where consumers may choose to avoid alcohol. Leverage Functional Ingredients: Enter the fast-growing "active water" and "functional sparkling" markets. Strengthen Retail Presence: Offer a more comprehensive portfolio to retail partners looking to expand their non-alcoholic sets. Industrial Significance and Outlook For B2B stakeholders, this deal reflects a broader industry trend where major alcohol conglomerates are professionalising their non-alcoholic divisions. As the distinction between "soft drinks" and "functional beverages" continues to blur, companies like Constellation are positioning themselves to own the entire "liquid landscape." The successful transition of HopWtr from the Ventures portfolio to full ownership serves as a blueprint for how large-scale beverage companies can identify, nurture, and eventually consolidate high-potential brands in emerging categories. Following the early-April completion, industry observers expect a ramp-up in national distribution and potential flavour innovations as HopWtr leverages Constellation's R&D resources. The Newsroom Beverage Constellation Brands to Acquire Full Ownership of HopWtr News March 29, 2026 Business & Finance Archer Foodservice Partners to Acquire Sterno Foodservice Business Business & Finance Bansk Group to Acquire Wellness Shot and Beverage Brand So Good So You Bakery Bridor Acquires Panamar Bakery Group in Largest Deal Yet for Le Duff Business & Finance One Equity Partners acquires UK wholesale company Kitwave Group Water Business & Finance Beverage Related news

Olo has named Linked Eats as a strategic partner to enhance third-party delivery profitability, integrating AI-powered reconciliation and revenue recapture tools across more than 40,000 restaurant storefronts. Linked Eats, a SaaS platform specialising in restaurant profitability, has been selected by Olo as a strategic partner for third-party delivery (3PD) optimisation. The partnership integrates Linked Eats’ AI-driven analytics with Olo’s enterprise ordering technology to address the increasing complexity of managing margins across external delivery channels. The collaboration comes at a critical time for the hospitality sector, as third-party delivery now accounts for as much as 50% of total sales for some brands. While volume has increased, restaurant operators face significant headwinds, including high commission fees, fragmented reporting, and the operational risk of "downtime" across multiple storefronts. Third-Party Reconciliation A primary focus of the partnership is to solve the "reconciliation gap" between delivery platforms and internal point-of-sale (POS) systems. Fragmented data from various DSPs (Delivery Service Providers) often leads to accounting inaccuracies and lost revenue. The Linked Eats platform provides real-time visibility and AI-powered control to mitigate these issues through several core modules: Revenue Recapture: AI-driven tools to analyse disputes and recover lost funds from error-to-payout reports. Account Reconciliation: Automated gap analysis to ensure alignment between 3PD payouts and Olo’s internal data. Automated Uptime: Continuous monitoring of digital storefronts to prevent lost sales due to unannounced platform downtime. AI-Driven Pricing and Optimisation Beyond back-office accounting, the partnership enables marketing and finance leaders to pull more sophisticated levers for growth. By leveraging data from over 40,000 managed storefronts, Linked Eats provides "Smart Pricing" capabilities—AI-driven optimisation for delivery menus that can adjust based on real-time demand and platform-specific costs. Additionally, the platform's Marketing AI offers intelligent campaign analysis. This allows Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) to evaluate the ROI of promotions across various DSPs, ensuring that marketing spend is directed toward the most profitable channels rather than just the highest-volume ones. Robbie Earl, Co-Founder of Linked Eats, emphasised that the goal is to provide restaurants with both the knowledge base and the technical tools required to navigate the 3PD channel. He noted that the platform is designed to serve both CFOs managing back-office complexity and CMOs looking for growth levers. "Working with over 800 brands, we see the opportunity to manage profitability across every sales channel," said Nolan DeCoster, SVP of Partnerships and Business Development at Olo. "Linked Eats gives restaurant brands visibility and control for third-party delivery, empowering restaurants to keep more of what they earn." Market Outlook For B2B stakeholders, the partnership reflects a broader trend toward the "industrialisation" of restaurant data. As delivery moves from a peripheral service to a core revenue driver, the manual processes of the past are being replaced by automated SaaS solutions. The integration of Linked Eats into the Olo ecosystem suggests that "profitability management" is becoming a standard requirement for enterprise-level restaurant tech stacks. As margins in the QSR and casual dining sectors remain under pressure, the ability to recover even 1–2% of lost delivery revenue through automated reconciliation can have a significant impact on a brand's bottom-line performance. The Newsroom Business & Finance Linked Eats and Olo Partner to Optimise Third-Party Delivery Margins Eddie Sanders March 31, 2026 Technology Domino's Integrates AI into Iconic Pizza Tracker to Enhance Delivery Accuracy Foodservice Papa Johns Partners with Deliverect to Unify U.S. Delivery Operations Technology Grubhub and Dexa Launch New Jersey’s First Commercial Drone Food Delivery Foodservice DoorDash Retreats from Four International Markets Across Deliveroo and Wolt Brands Business & Finance Foodservice Related news

NAVER D2SF has made a follow-on investment in Nuvilab, an AI-powered nutrition analytics startup, following a 98% accuracy milestone and an exclusive partnership with a global catering giant to automate US hospital food safety. NAVER D2SF, the corporate venture capital arm of NAVER, has announced a follow-on investment in Nuvilab, an AI-powered nutrition analytics and healthcare startup. Participating in Nuvilab’s Series A bridge round, NAVER D2SF cited the company’s high growth potential in the North American clinical market and its successful transition from B2G validation to global healthcare scaling. Founded in 2021, Nuvilab has developed a proprietary nutrition management solution that utilises real-time image-based scanning to analyse food type, intake, and nutritional density. The reinvestment follows a period of rapid international expansion, with the startup securing over 1,000 global clients by the end of 2025. Technical Benchmarks and Data Collection The core of Nuvilab’s value proposition lies in its multimodal AI model, which has been trained on a dataset exceeding 100 million food data points. This extensive library allows the technology to deliver 98% analytical accuracy within a 0.3-second processing window. Unlike traditional manual logging apps, Nuvilab utilises a "passive collection" model: Hardware Integration: Scanners are installed in existing environments such as hospitals, schools, and daycare centres. Frictionless UX: Data is captured automatically during the meal service process, requiring no manual input from the user or caregiver. Retention Metrics: This seamless approach has resulted in a 95% user retention rate, significantly outperforming the healthcare industry average for digital nutrition tools. North American Healthcare While Nuvilab established its initial footprint in Korea’s B2B and B2G sectors, its current strategic focus is the North American healthcare market. The company has moved beyond simple calorie tracking to address critical operational inefficiencies in clinical food service. A significant milestone in this expansion is an exclusive partnership with one of the world’s largest catering conglomerates. This deal focuses on supplying Nuvilab’s AI scanners to hospitals across the United States to automate food safety and patient meal verification. Food Safety and Error Reduction Nuvilab has demonstrated tangible ROI in hospital environments by automating the verification process that matches patient-specific meal tickets with the actual food served. According to Proof of Concept (PoC) results: Error Reduction: Automated AI verification reduced meal-matching errors by 49%. Time Efficiency: The system shortened food preparation and verification times by 23% compared to manual legacy processes. Clinical Accuracy: Real-time dietary intake analytics provide clinicians with precise data on patient consumption, which is critical for recovery monitoring and malnutrition prevention. Future Roadmap and Data Structuring Logan Kim, CEO of Nuvilab, noted that while dietary habits are a fundamental pillar of health, the data have historically remained unstructured and underutilised. Nuvilab’s objective is to categorise and structure this data through AI to create a new standard for precision nutrition. Moving forward into 2026, Nuvilab plans to expand its integration capabilities to include: Insurer Partnerships: Linking dietary data to health outcomes for premium adjustments and wellness incentives. Pharmaceutical Integration: Monitoring nutritional status in relation to drug efficacy and clinical trials. Chronic Disease Management: Developing specialised modules for diabetic and renal care. Market Outlook For B2B stakeholders, Nuvilab’s success represents the "industrialisation" of nutrition data. As hospitals face increasing pressure to improve patient outcomes while reducing labour costs, the automation of meal logistics via computer vision provides a clear path to operational efficiency. NAVER D2SF’s continued backing signals strong confidence in Nuvilab's ability to define a new global category in the intersection of AI, food service, and clinical healthcare. The Newsroom Technology Nuvilab Secures Series A Bridge Funding to Scale AI Nutrition Analytics Eddie Sanders March 31, 2026 Technology Domino's Integrates AI into Iconic Pizza Tracker to Enhance Delivery Accuracy Technology Ingredion and Shiru partner on AI-driven protein discovery Technology US Foods Launches AI-Powered 'Menu IQ' to Tackle Foodservice Margin Pressures Dairy DairyCraftPro Launches AI-Enabled Software to Automate Yoghurt Manufacturing and Compliance Business & Finance Manufacturing Technology Related news

Archer Foodservice Partners has signed a definitive agreement to acquire the foodservice business of Sterno from Compass Diversified, a strategic "carve-out" that adds portable food-warming and tabletop solutions to its growing industrial portfolio. Wynnchurch Capital, a leading middle-market private equity firm, has announced that its portfolio company, Archer Foodservice Partners, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the foodservice division of SternoCandleLamp Holdings, Inc. The transaction is a strategic carve-out from Compass Diversified. The acquisition represents a significant expansion for Archer, the parent entity of Handgards, Inno-Pak, and Fineline Settings. By integrating Sterno’s industry-standard food-warming and tabletop solutions, Archer is consolidating its position as a primary provider of critical consumables for the catering, hospitality, and broader foodservice sectors. Portfolio Integration and Synergy The addition of Sterno provides Archer with an iconic brand that holds a dominant position in the portable heating market. Sterno is widely recognised for its chafing fuel products, which are essential components for high-volume catering and buffet operations. Joe Kubicek, CEO of Archer, noted that Sterno will join an existing "stable" of market-leading companies. For B2B stakeholders, this integration offers several key advantages: One-Stop Procurement: Customers can now access a wider range of consumables—from food-warming solutions (Sterno) to disposables and packaging (Handgards, Inno-Pak)—under a single parent entity. Expanded Manufacturing Footprint: The deal includes two primary converting sites in Texarkana, TX, and Memphis, TN, employing over 240 staff. Brand Equity Leveraging: Archer intends to build upon Sterno’s long-standing heritage to strengthen its presence in the premium hospitality segment. Managing the Corporate Carve-Out As a carve-out from Compass Diversified, the transaction requires a specific operational transition to separate Sterno's foodservice assets from its parent structure. Wynnchurch Capital’s experience in the middle market is expected to facilitate this transition, ensuring that customer supply chains remain uninterrupted during the ownership change. The move allows Sterno to benefit from the specialised foodservice focus of the Archer platform. While previously part of a broader diversified holding company, Sterno will now be part of an entity exclusively dedicated to the foodservice consumables category, potentially leading to more targeted R&D and market expansion efforts. The deal reflects a broader trend of consolidation in the foodservice supply chain. As hospitality operators look for ways to simplify their vendor lists and mitigate supply chain volatility, larger entities like Archer are acquiring specialised category leaders to offer comprehensive, integrated solutions. For Wynnchurch Capital, the acquisition reinforces its strategy of investing in market-leading industrial and service businesses with clear growth trajectories. Foley & Lardner LLP provided legal counsel for the transaction, which is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. The acquisition is expected to close in the coming months. Once finalised, Archer will manage a multi-brand portfolio that covers nearly every aspect of the "front-of-house" and "back-of-house" consumable needs. As the catering and events industry continues its post-pandemic recovery, the demand for reliable, high-quality warming and tabletop solutions is projected to remain strong. By securing the Sterno brand, Archer is positioned to lead this specialised sub-sector while leveraging cross-selling opportunities across its Handgards, Inno-Pak, and Fineline Settings divisions. The Newsroom Business & Finance Archer Foodservice Partners to Acquire Sterno Foodservice Business Eddie Sanders March 31, 2026 Beverage Constellation Brands to Acquire Full Ownership of HopWtr Business & Finance Bansk Group to Acquire Wellness Shot and Beverage Brand So Good So You Bakery Bridor Acquires Panamar Bakery Group in Largest Deal Yet for Le Duff Business & Finance One Equity Partners acquires UK wholesale company Kitwave Group Business & Finance Foodservice Related news

Unilever and McCormick & Company have entered a definitive agreement to combine Unilever’s Foods business with McCormick in a $44.8 billion transaction, creating a global flavour leader with $20 billion in combined revenues while transitioning Unilever into a pureplay health and personal care entity. McCormick & Company and Unilever PLC have announced a landmark agreement to combine McCormick with Unilever’s Foods business (excluding operations in India, Nepal, and Portugal). The transaction, structured as a tax-efficient Reverse Morris Trust, values Unilever’s Foods division at approximately $44.8 billion, representing a 13.8x multiple of fiscal year 2025 EBITDA. Upon completion, the transaction will create a preeminent global flavour-focused company with pro forma 2025 revenues of approximately $20 billion. The combined entity will retain the McCormick name, its global headquarters in Hunt Valley, Maryland, and its listing on the New York Stock Exchange. Transaction and Financial Framework Under the terms of the agreement, Unilever and its shareholders will receive a 65% stake in the newly enlarged McCormick equity (approximately $29.1 billion based on recent valuation). Additionally, Unilever will receive $15.7 billion in upfront cash. The ownership structure at closing is expected to be: Unilever Shareholders: 55.1% McCormick Shareholders: 35.0% Unilever PLC (Corporate): 9.9% Unilever intends to utilise the cash proceeds to pay down debt and support a €6 billion share buyback program scheduled between 2026 and 2029. The deal is expected to close by mid-2027, subject to regulatory approvals and a vote by McCormick shareholders. Unilever as a Pureplay HPC Leader For Unilever, the deal marks the final step in a multi-year portfolio transformation led by CEO Fernando Fernandez. By divesting its Foods division—following the 2025 spin-off of its ice cream business—Unilever will emerge as a focused "HPC" (Health, Personal Care, and Home Care) powerhouse with approximately €39 billion in annual revenue. "We are unlocking trapped value through a growth-led separation of Foods," stated Fernandez. "This transaction establishes a focused, high-quality business for our food brands while allowing Unilever to accelerate its strategy in high-growth beauty and wellbeing categories." Synergies and Foodservice The combination brings together an elite portfolio of iconic brands, including McCormick's spices and seasonings alongside Unilever's Knorr and Hellmann’s (which represent 70% of Unilever Foods' sales). The deal also integrates high-growth labels such as Cholula, Frank’s RedHot, and Maille. Key strategic benefits include: Global Foodservice Platform: The merger creates a $6 billion global foodservice powerhouse, combining McCormick’s "front-of-house" retail strength with Unilever Foods’ "chef-led, back-of-house" expertise. Supply Chain Optimisation: The company projects significant cost synergies over a three-year period, driven by consolidated procurement, manufacturing, and SG&A. Innovation Acceleration: The combined entity will leverage McCormick’s flavour science and Unilever’s extensive distribution infrastructure in EMEA and APAC to accelerate product development. Market Context For B2B stakeholders, this merger represents one of the largest consolidations in the history of the global food industry. By "flavouring calories" rather than simply competing for them, the new McCormick aims to own the high-margin seasonings and condiments categories that are resilient to private-label pressure. Brendan Foley, Chairman and CEO of McCormick, who will lead the combined company, noted: "This combination accelerates our strategy and reinforces our focus on flavor. We are creating a diversified leader with a robust growth profile that is highly differentiated in the global market." Outlook for the Combined Entity The combined company expects to maintain a dividend payout ratio of approximately 60%, continuing both firms' long-standing commitment to shareholder returns. As the industry moves toward the 2027 closing date, attention will shift to the integration roadmap and the potential for SKU rationalisation across the massive shared portfolio. The deal effectively redraws the competitive map for the global grocery and foodservice channels, establishing a dominant entity in the "cooking aids and condiments" segment that will serve as a primary partner for retailers and professional kitchens worldwide. Featured in this news Flavours & Colours McCormick & Company Featured in this news Food Unilever The Newsroom Business & Finance McCormick and Unilever Announce $44.8 Billion Food Merger News March 31, 2026 Alcohol Pernod Ricard and Brown-Forman Confirm Merger Discussions Bakery CMA Issues Northern Ireland Concerns in ABF and Hovis Merger Business & Finance Darling Ingredients and Tessenderlo Group to Forge $1.5 Billion Collagen Powerhouse Business & Finance Manufacturing Food Related news

Cargill has completed a multi-million-dollar expansion of its Port Klang, Malaysia, facility, introducing an advanced speciality fats production line to support chocolate, bakery, and dairy manufacturers across the Asia-Pacific and EMEA regions. Cargill has announced the significant expansion of its edible oil refinery in Port Klang, Malaysia. The multi-million-dollar investment introduces a dedicated speciality fats production line, designed to broaden the company’s global portfolio and provide food manufacturers with versatile alternatives to traditional cocoa butter and hydrogenated fats. The expansion allows Cargill to deploy advanced palm oil and speciality oil processes, producing high-performance ingredients for the chocolate confectionery, bakery, and dairy sectors. This move reinforces the Port Klang site as a central hub for Cargill's global speciality fats operations, serving customers across the Asia-Pacific and EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) markets. Asia-Pacific Chocolate Market The investment is strategically timed to coincide with a period of rapid growth in the global chocolate sector. According to market projections, Asia-Pacific’s share of the global chocolate market is expected to rise from 19.6% in 2025 to 22.0% by 2030. This growth is driven by increasing urbanisation and rising middle-class incomes across the region. However, as the market scales, manufacturers are facing volatile cocoa prices and shifting regulatory standards regarding trans-fatty acids. Cargill’s expanded portfolio provides these producers with "formulation flexibility," allowing them to optimise costs while maintaining the sensory profiles—such as "snap," "melt," and "gloss"—that consumers expect from premium chocolate and confectionery. Core Brands and New Innovations The Port Klang facility will produce an array of solutions under Cargill's established and newly introduced brands. These ingredients are engineered to provide stability during preparation, holding, and transport—factors that are increasingly critical as the food-delivery and takeaway sectors expand. Enhanced Existing Portfolio: Coconera™: A cocoa butter equivalent (CBE) designed for coatings and moulding, helping manufacturers stabilise ingredient costs. Olinera™ NH: A non-hydrogenated, non-tempered cocoa butter replacer (CBR) that offers high compatibility with cocoa butter for a richer flavour profile. Ocolna™: Speciality fats for spreads and fillings with less than 1% trans-fat, engineered to prevent oil separation across temperature ranges. CremoFLEX™: A versatile range of filling fats for premium bakery and confectionery applications. New Brand Introductions: Cargill Bakefry™: A high-performance frying fat designed for QSR and foodservice operators to reduce oil "weeping" in items like doughnuts. Cargill Bakefill™: A speciality fat for bakery creams and buttercreams, focusing on emulsion stability to keep cakes moist. Infrastructure and R&D Integration The Port Klang expansion is the first in Cargill’s global network to deploy this specific speciality fats processing technology. The site is supported by an on-site Lipid R&D Centre, which enables rapid prototyping and performance evaluation in collaboration with customers. Kashan Rashid, Vice President and Managing Director of Cargill’s Food Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, noted that the facility strengthens Cargill's role as a "trusted innovation partner." By sourcing raw materials like palm and shea globally and processing them locally in Malaysia, Cargill ensures a diversified and reliable supply chain for its international partners. Industrial Significance and Outlook This project follows a $20 million modernisation of the same facility in 2020, representing a sustained capital commitment to the Malaysian industrial landscape. For B2B stakeholders, the expansion signals a move toward more "technically-led" ingredient solutions that solve specific logistical challenges, such as maintaining texture in delivery-bound fried foods or stabilising fillings in varied climates. As global food producers continue to navigate a complex ingredient landscape, the ability to access high-quality speciality fats from an integrated, R&D-supported facility in Malaysia provides a significant competitive advantage. The Port Klang site is now positioned as a primary engine for Cargill’s growth in the high-value functional fats and oils category. 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Alpro has introduced the UK’s first soya-coconut-based ready-to-drink matcha, utilising a 1L format to capitalise on a 140% surge in category presence and targeting the high-volume afternoon consumption window. Alpro, a subsidiary of Danone UK and Ireland, has announced the launch of Alpro Matcha. The product is positioned as the UK’s first ready-to-drink (RTD) soya-coconut-based matcha beverage, representing a significant strategic move into a category that has seen its market presence more than double over the last two years. The launch is designed to address a shift in consumer habits toward "on-trend" coffee alternatives that offer a lower caffeine profile. By utilising a 1L format, Alpro is focusing on the "at-home barista" trend, particularly among younger demographics who increasingly prioritise convenience and premium flavour profiles. Responding to Consumer Trends The introduction of Alpro Matcha follows a period of rapid expansion for the matcha segment. Market research indicates that matcha’s presence in the tea and RTD categories grew from 5% in 2023 to 12% in the first ten months of 2025. Key demographic insights driving this launch include: Youth Engagement: 72% of green tea drinkers under the age of 35 now consume matcha in home or office environments. Occasion Targeting: 80% of total matcha consumption occurs during the afternoon, a window Alpro aims to own through this specialised "pick-me-up" format. Tom Kerr, Head of Category Management and Commercial Planning at Danone UK and Ireland, noted that the launch underscores the company's confidence in the long-term viability of the plant-based sector. Technical and Nutritional The Alpro Matcha formulation combines a green tea matcha base with a soya-coconut blend to provide a creamy texture and tropical taste profile. Unlike many artisanal matcha preparations, this RTD format is engineered for high versatility, maintaining structural integrity when served cold, warmed, or foamed. From a nutritional perspective, the beverage is fortified with five essential nutrients to meet the growing demand for functional "better-for-you" products: Vitamins: D2, B2, and B9. Minerals: Calcium and Iodine. Alpro is positioning itself as the most competitively priced RTD matcha option on the shelf. The product is currently available at Sainsbury’s, with a wider rollout across major UK and Republic of Ireland retailers scheduled for June 2026. The launch follows a year of high-volume innovation for the Alpro brand. Recent developments include the debut of the Alpro Kids range and a multi-million-pound investment by parent company Danone North Europe to transition Alpro’s oat drink production to 100% British-sourced oats. For B2B stakeholders, the addition of a soya-coconut matcha RTD signals a move to professionalise the "at-home barista" category. By offering a standardised, high-quality product that bridges the gap between specialised tea shops and mainstream grocery, Alpro is looking to secure its leadership in the evolving plant-based beverage landscape. The Newsroom New Products Alpro Launches Soya Coconut Matcha Variant News March 30, 2026 New Products Organic Valley Launches Ultra-Filtered Organic Protein Milk Line Plant-based Oatly Expands RTD Portfolio with Strawberry Matcha Latte Dairy Saputo’s Neilson Brand Unveils Packaging Refresh Across Value-Added Dairy Portfolio New Products Blue Diamond Growers Leverages Vertical Integration to Launch Premium Almondmilk Line New Products Beverage Related news