PepsiCo brand Mountain Dew has partnered with Trolli to launch Mountain Dew x Trolli Mango Pineapple Punch, combining tropical fruit and sweet-and-spicy. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Soft drinks PepsiCo The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > PepsiCo beverage brand Mountain Dew has announced a limited-edition co-branded product release in partnership with gummy candy brand Trolli to introduce Mountain Dew x Trolli Mango Pineapple Punch. The nationwide rollout enters US retail channels and participating Pizza Hut locations through October, tapping into consumer demand for sweet-and-spicy ("swicy") flavour profiles, tropical fruit notes, and cross-category brand crossovers. The release expands upon the commercial collaboration between PepsiCo and Trolli following the initial market debut of Mountain Dew x Trolli Cherry Lemon in 2025. Co-Branded Flavour Innovation The product development translates the sweet-and-spicy pairing trend into a carbonated soft drink format, combining tropical fruit flavouring with a subtle heat finish. The limited-edition beverage and confectionery pairing lineup features: 🥭🍍 Mountain Dew x Trolli Mango Pineapple Punch: A tropical carbonated soft drink combining mango, pineapple, and subtle strawberry flavour notes with a hint of spice. 🐛 Trolli Spicy Crawlers: A sweet-and-spicy sour gummy candy SKU designed as a cross-category pairing partner for the beverage launch. 🍒 Mountain Dew x Trolli Cherry Lemon: The returning 2025 collaboration SKU featuring sweet-and-sour fruit profiles. Michael Smith, Vice President of Marketing for Mountain Dew at PepsiCo Beverages U.S., stated that the collaboration builds on the brand's initial joint release by incorporating sweet-and-spicy flavour notes to meet consumer interest in contrasting taste combinations. Chad Womack, Marketing Director at Trolli, added that pairing the carbonated drink with Trolli Spicy Crawlers offers consumers an alternative format to engage with sour and spicy gummy confectionery profiles. Formats and Retail Availability The limited-time offering (LTO) is being manufactured in multiple packaging configurations to serve both off-premise retail and quick-service restaurant (QSR) channels. Key distribution parameters and packaging configurations include: Retail Packaging Configurations: Distributed across 12oz multi-pack cans and 20oz single-serve bottles in US retail stores. Foodservice Channel Integration: Available in single-serve 20oz bottles across participating Pizza Hut locations nationwide. Promotional Availability Window: Running as a short-run seasonal LTO available through October while promotional supplies last. The cross-category deployment highlights how beverage and confectionery brand owners utilise co-branded flavour crossovers and foodservice partnerships to stimulate impulse purchases and drive category trial. Mountain Dew and Trolli Partner to Launch Mango Pineapple Punch August 24, 2026 New Products Caliwater Debuts Dragon Fruit Flavour with Benson Boone Collaboration New Products Pepsi Debuts Limited-Edition Vanilla & Cream Flavour Soft drinks Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel Join PRODA Protein Soda as Co-Founders New Products PepsiCo Unveils 2026 Halloween Lineup across Snacks and Beverages New Products Soft drinks Beverage Related news

Blake's Hard Cider introduces American Haze, a 5% ABV hazy dry hard cider expanding its core American Series across Michigan retail from October. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Blake's Hard Cider has expanded its American Series portfolio with the launch of American Haze, an unfiltered dry hard cider. Arriving across retail shelves in October 2026, the new release serves as the primary companion product to the company's leading SKU, American Apple. Formulated at 5% alcohol by volume (ABV), the cider is packaged in six-packs of 12-ounce cans and will join the producer's permanent year-round portfolio. The development reflects ongoing diversification within craft cider towards drier, sessionable liquid profiles that emphasise orchard provenance and natural fruit fermentation over high-sweetness profiles. "The American series was always intended to represent the natural 'from the fruit' identity of American cider, something long missing on the international cider scene when I was coming up in the industry," said Andrew Blake, Chief Executive Officer of Blake's Beverage Company. "I was always enamoured with the rich history, storytelling and the simple elegance of traditional ciders coming out of Europe and longed to represent our farming heritage here at home." Formulation and Sensory Architecture American Haze is developed as a hazy, dry fermented cider, combining whole-apple flavour with an unfiltered appearance: Sensory Profile : An apple-forward aroma leading to a clean, tart palate with a crisp, dry finish. Appearance : Natural cloudiness and body achieved through an unfiltered hazy liquid suspension. Alcohol by Volume : Formulated at a sessionable 5.0% ABV. Packaging Format : Packaged in standard six-pack can configurations. Blake added: "When I was starting Blake's Hard Cider at Michigan State I used to drive home on weekends to work the farm and would drive back to my college house with jugs of cider straight from the press to begin making batches in my garage. American Haze reminds me a lot of those times and the product I was always longing to create. It took some time, but we perfected it." Regional Distribution Commercial distribution for American Haze will commence across select grocery and independent retail stockists throughout Michigan in October 2026. Blake's Beverage Company has established the variant as a permanent core offering rather than a seasonal limited-time run. The business plans to broaden the American Series further in spring 2027, with additional traditional cider profiles scheduled to join the lineup to scale its orchard-origin cider segment. Blake's Hard Cider Expands American Series with Hazy Dry Cider September 25, 2026 New Products Kopparberg Launches Clear Fruit Cider Range in UK New Products Asda Launches Asquith 1965 Craft Beer Range in Partnership with Independent Breweries Confectionery HI-CHEW Brings Back Halloween Mystery Mix with New Hidden Flavour New Products Heineken UK Launches Old Mout Spiced Clementine and Cranberry Cider Alcohol Beverage New Products Related news

Cadbury Dairy Milk has partnered with beauty brand MCoBeauty to launch a skincare-inspired Watermelon Chocolate Block. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mondelēz International The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Mondelēz International has partnered with Australian beauty brand MCoBeauty to launch a cross-category collaboration combining FMCG confectionery and personal care. The joint release introduces the Cadbury Dairy Milk Watermelon Chocolate Block, inspired by MCoBeauty's Watermelon Glow skincare range. Concurrently, MCoBeauty is debuting a limited-edition line of Cadbury-inspired cosmetics, including a lip peptide treatment and eyeshadow palette. Deploying exclusively across Woolworths store networks in Australia, the cross-category partnership leverages social media trend culture to drive impulse basket additions across food and beauty retail channels. Innovation and Product Lineup The collaboration bridges the FMCG food and personal care aisles, using brand equity crossover to generate retail excitement among Gen Z and millennial consumer demographics. The promotional range entering retail distribution includes: 🍫 Cadbury Dairy Milk Watermelon Chocolate Block: Features classic Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate paired with a watermelon-flavoured fondant filling inspired by MCoBeauty's skincare range. 💄 MCoBeauty Lip Peptide Treatment: A Cadbury-inspired lip care formulation designed for daily beauty routines. 🎨 MCoBeauty Eyeshadow Palette: A cosmetics palette featuring shade profiles inspired by Cadbury's brand aesthetic and confectionery range. The formulation pairs traditional milk chocolate with fruit-forward fondant, catering to expanding consumer interest in novel sensory profiles and sweet-and-fruity taste combinations. Retail Distribution The multi-product line is entering physical and e-commerce retail distribution through an exclusive national partnership in Australia. Key commercial parameters of the deployment include: Retail Partner Exclusivity: Distributed exclusively through Woolworths supermarket store networks and online channels across Australia. Digital-First Marketing Push: Supported by viral social media campaigns across TikTok and Instagram to drive initial consumer trial. Cross-Aisle Merchandising Potential: Positions food and beauty brand extensions to capture dual-category impulse purchasing during primary grocery shop routines. The collaboration illustrates how global food manufacturers deploy short-run cross-category licensing agreements with high-growth digital beauty brands to stimulate store footfall and expand brand reach beyond standard grocery aisles. Cadbury and MCoBeauty Launch Watermelon Chocolate August 6, 2026 People Lindt & Sprüngli CEO Adalbert Lechner Steps Down New Products Ghirardelli Launches Dubai Style Chocolate Squares New Products On The Rocks Debuts Limited-Edition Chocolate Martini New Products Ferrero Expands Halloween Range into Adultoween Confectionery Lineup New Products Confectionery Snacking Related news

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams has appointed David Stever, former CEO and CMO of Ben and Jerry's, as its new Chief Executive Officer. Bringing over 25 years of consumer-packaged goods (CPG) leadership, Stever is tasked with scaling the artisanal brand's national footprint across its 90-plus scoop shops, 15,000 retail locations, and its newly launched Fellowship Model for franchising. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, a category-defining leader in the premium artisanal ice cream sector, has announced the appointment of David Stever as Chief Executive Officer. Stever joins the company during a period of significant commercial momentum, assuming leadership as the brand transitions from a regional favorite to a dominant national player across scoop shops, wholesale retail, and franchising. Stever’s background is uniquely aligned with Jeni's brand DNA, having previously led Ben and Jerry's through a phase of global scaling while maintaining a commitment to "people-first" culture and social values. Bridging Artisanal Quality and Global Scale The appointment of Stever represents a calculated move by the Jeni's Board of Directors to secure a leader who understands the complexities of maintaining "brand soul" at scale. During his tenure at Ben and Jerry's, Stever was instrumental in driving transformative growth while reinforcing the brand's cultural relevance. Brian Knez, Chairman of Jeni's, highlighted Stever’s "rare combination of operational excellence and business leadership." For Jeni's, the challenge is maintaining the premium, handcrafted perception of its product while managing a supply chain and distribution network that now spans approximately 15,000 retail locations, including major giants such as Whole Foods, Target, Kroger, and Albertsons. Under Stever’s leadership, Jeni's is expected to focus on three distinct but interconnected growth channels: Owned Scoop Shops : The brand currently operates more than 90 shops across 30 markets. These locations serve as the primary "experiential" touchpoint for the brand, building the emotional connection and community loyalty that fuels its other channels. Franchising (The Fellowship Model) : A new strategic frontier for the brand, the Fellowship Model allows Jeni's to enter new communities with local partners, accelerating geographic reach without the capital intensity of fully owned expansions. CPG and Retail Distribution : With a presence in 15,000 stores, Jeni's is a top-performing premium SKU in the frozen aisle. Stever’s 25-year CPG background will be critical in optimizing these relationships and securing further shelf space. Maintaining the "Artisanal" Edge Jeni's continues to outpace the market in flavor innovation, on track to launch more than 20 new flavors this year. The brand’s "category-defining" approach, focusing on unique ingredient sourcing and complex flavor profiles, remains its primary competitive differentiator. Stever has indicated that his priority is to build on this foundation of creativity. "What is driving its momentum... is a genuine commitment to joy, creativity, community, and the emotional connection it builds," Stever noted. The business intends to continue investing in breakthrough flavor development and new product formats to maintain its premium price point and high consumer advocacy. The Premiumization of the Ice Cream Aisle The ice cream industry is currently seeing a "bar-quality" shift where consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that offer a superior sensory experience and clear brand values. In this landscape, Jeni's is positioned as an "affordable luxury." The transition to Stever’s leadership occurs as the category faces rising costs in dairy and energy. His experience in operational productivity and "value-led" growth will be essential in navigating these macro-economic pressures while preserving the "artisanal heritage" that justifies the brand's premium status. Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams Names Ben and Jerry's Veteran David Stever as CEO April 22, 2026 People Ball Appoints New Beverage Packaging Presidents for Americas and EMEA People Lofted Spirits Names Nick Smith Master Distiller People Co-op Appoints Alex Dower as Managing Director of Food Retail People Coca-Cola Appoints Rob Gehring President of North America Operating Unit Business & Finance Dairy People Related news

Appliance Innovation (AI) is accelerating the nationwide deployment of its Automated Fresh Brew SimpliciTea platform, reaching a milestone of 425 units at QuikTrip while delivering a reported 25,000 dollars in additional annual profit per installation through labour and waste reduction. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Appliance Innovation (AI), a leader in advanced foodservice engineering, has announced the accelerated nationwide deployment of its Automated Fresh Brew SimpliciTea platform. The high-performance system has achieved significant scale within the convenience retail sector, marked by the installation of its 425th unit at QuikTrip. The platform is designed to replace traditional batch-brewing methods with an on-demand, automated system that addresses the primary operational challenges of high-volume beverage programs: labour dependency, product waste, and quality inconsistency. Disruption of Traditional Batch Brewing Economics Traditional iced tea programs rely on batch brewing, a process that inherently leads to product degradation over time and significant daily waste. SimpliciTea utilises a "brew on demand" model, ensuring that every cup is fresh while eliminating the downtime associated with manual preparation. Phil McKee, Founder and CEO of Appliance Innovation and the inventor of the TurboChef oven, stated that the system was developed to provide a clear financial return for operators. According to McKee, real-world installations are currently generating approximately 25,000 dollars in additional annual profit, with the hardware cost typically recovered within the first year of operation. Operational Efficiency and Labor Mitigation As the labour market in the foodservice and retail sectors remains constrained, automation has moved from a luxury to a technical necessity. SimpliciTea delivers measurable gains in operational efficiency, allowing staff to focus on customer-facing tasks rather than maintenance. Key operational benchmarks include: Labour and Waste Reduction: Operators report up to a 90% reduction in labour requirements and product waste compared to batch systems. Self-Cleaning Functionality: The system features an automated cleaning cycle that minimises daily maintenance and ensures sanitation compliance. Product Variety: The platform allows for expanded offerings, including multiple sweetness levels and diverse flavour profiles within a single footprint. Data Driven Beverage Analytics and Optimisation Beyond the hardware improvements, the SimpliciTea platform integrates a layer of digital intelligence into the beverage aisle. The system features built-in analytics that track consumer selections in real time, providing operators with visibility into specific preferences for: Flavour Selection: Identifying high-velocity fruit infusions and botanicals. Sweetness Levels: Tracking the shift toward lower-sugar or alternative sweetener options. Usage Trends: Monitoring peak consumption times to optimise inventory and staffing. This data allows regional managers and innovation teams to align their product mix with actual customer demand, removing the guesswork from beverage program management. Implementation at QuikTrip The platform’s commercial viability has been validated through its large-scale rollout with QuikTrip. Stephanie Hurt, former Head of Innovation and Product Development at QuikTrip, noted that iced tea is a critical profit centre for the chain. The transition to the SimpliciTea platform allowed the retailer to improve product consistency across hundreds of locations while simultaneously simplifying daily operations for store associates. The success of the QuikTrip deployment has served as a catalyst for other national chains, many of which are currently conducting pilot programs to evaluate the platform’s impact on high-volume convenience retail. Automated Foodservice Engineering The rapid adoption of SimpliciTea reflects a broader trend toward the "industrialisation" of the beverage category. As retail operators look to maximise the profitability of every square foot, systems that combine high-speed production with data-driven insights are becoming the new industry standard. As Appliance Innovation continues its nationwide expansion throughout 2026, the focus remains on delivering scalable, money-making solutions that bridge the gap between artisanal quality and industrial efficiency. The SimpliciTea platform is now available to operators seeking to transform their beverage category from a labour-intensive chore into a streamlined, high-margin revenue engine. Appliance Innovation Scales SimpliciTea Platform Following Major QuikTrip Deployment April 30, 2026 New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Coffee & Tea The Spice & Tea Exchange Secures Five New Southeast Franchise Deals New Products Yorkshire Tea Launches Fruit Herbal and Green Tea Infusions Range New Products Clearspring Expands Japanese Tea Range with Organic Hojicha Powder Business & Finance Coffee & Tea Technology Related news

Major investment in West Bromwich facility will boost processing capacity by 25% and create 200 new jobs comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Major investment in West Bromwich facility will boost processing capacity by 25% and create 200 new jobs Freshways, one of the UK's largest independent dairy suppliers, has announced a substantial £25 million investment in a cutting-edge dairy processing facility in West Bromwich. The strategic expansion represents a significant milestone in the company's growth trajectory and underscores the robust demand for British dairy products across retail and foodservice sectors. Capacity Expansion and Market Response The new processing hub is designed to increase Freshways' overall processing capacity by 25%, enabling the facility to handle up to 500 million litres of fresh British milk annually. This expansion directly responds to a significant uptick in orders from the company's foodservice and retail customers, following the successful relaunch of its core dairy product portfolio earlier this year. "Our business is growing fast as we continue to win new customers every day," explained Bali Nijjar, managing director of Freshways. "We needed to add additional processing capacity while maintaining the quality and freshness Freshways has become known for." Employment and Economic Impact The facility is expected to generate at least 200 new employment opportunities, playing a crucial role in supporting the Mayor of West Midlands' Youth Employment Plan. The company has committed to engaging with local educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, to promote career opportunities within the dairy sector. West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker welcomed the investment, stating: "This major investment in West Bromwich will support British dairy farming, bolster our food supply chain, and create at least 200 new jobs for local people." International Trade and Technology Integration The facility will feature bespoke machinery sourced from India, marking one of the first major deals completed since the recent UK-India Free Trade Agreement. Over 200 pieces of specialized dairy processing equipment have been manufactured by IDMC in Gujarat, including five stainless steel silos, each weighing 17 tonnes and capable of holding a combined total of 625,000 litres of milk. This collaboration not only enhances the technological capabilities of the facility but also positions Freshways as a key player in fostering international trade relationships within the dairy sector. Supply Chain Integration The West Midlands dairy hub will serve as a critical node in Freshways' national distribution network, processing milk sourced from hundreds of British dairy farms before distributing to over 15,000 foodservice and retail customers through 15 distribution centres nationwide. The expanded capacity will also support Freshways' Milk & More doorstep delivery service, which has successfully signed up over 30,000 customers in its first quarter since acquisition, demonstrating the continued consumer demand for traditional milk delivery services. Recruitment and Skills Development As construction progresses, Freshways is preparing to launch a comprehensive recruitment drive targeting various specialized roles, including engineering, quality assurance, food safety, logistics, and support services. The initiative aligns with regional economic development goals and the mayor's youth employment objectives. This investment is expected to significantly bolster the UK's dairy supply chain infrastructure, ensuring a steady supply of quality British milk and dairy products while supporting the broader agricultural economy. Freshways Commits £25 Million to State-of-the-Art UK Dairy Processing Hub October 23, 2025 Dairy Arla Expands FarmAhead Incentive with Six New Climate Action Areas Dairy Yili Group Presents One Health Dairy Value Chain Model at FAO Conference Dairy Arla Foods UK Launches Feed Life Masterbrand Marketing Platform Dairy Saputo Agrees £988M Sale of UK Dairy Division to Lactalis Business & Finance Dairy Related news

Farm Rich has announced a significant expansion of its frozen breakfast portfolio with the launch of three protein-packed SKUs, designed to meet the growing consumer demand for "snackable" and highly convenient morning meal solutions. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Farm Rich, a leading player in the frozen snacks and appetisers category, has announced a strategic move into the functional breakfast segment with the introduction of three new high-protein products. The lineup includes High Protein Blueberry French Toast Sticks, High Protein Cinnamon French Toast Bites, and Sausage-Loaded Hash Brown Bites. The launch reflects a broader structural shift in the breakfast category, as consumers increasingly move away from traditional sit-down meals in favour of flexible, nutrient-dense options that fit into hyper-mobile morning routines. High Protein Convenience The development of the new range is a direct response to the "modern morning" consumer profile. According to Farm Rich research, breakfast rituals have transformed significantly over the last few years, with a measurable pivot toward items that combine indulgence with functionality. Kelly Rabinowitz, Director of Marketing at Farm Rich, stated that the lineup was created with convenience and satisfying flavour as primary drivers. By offering fully microwavable options that can be consumed on the go, Farm Rich is positioning itself as a primary solution for households that prioritise time efficiency without wanting to sacrifice protein intake. Product Specifications and Nutritional Density The new range is formulated to bridge the gap between classic breakfast comfort food and performance-led nutrition. By adding functional protein to traditionally carb-heavy formats like French toast, Farm Rich is tapping into the sustained "permissible indulgence" trend. The technical breakdown of the new SKUs includes: High Protein Blueberry French Toast Sticks 🫐🥖 Delivering 13g of protein per serving, this SKU offers a fruit-forward twist on a breakfast staple. High Protein Cinnamon French Toast Bites 🟤🥨 A bite-sized, snackable format containing 12g of protein, designed for quick consumption. Sausage Loaded Hash Brown Bites 🥩🥔 A savoury, protein-rich option featuring 7g of protein per serving, targeting the demand for hearty, nourishing bites. Retail and Market Rollout Farm Rich is utilising a phased distribution strategy to ensure maximum visibility in the competitive freezer aisle. Immediate Availability: The High-Protein Blueberry French Toast Sticks are already on retail shelves. National Expansion: The High Protein Cinnamon French Toast Bites and Sausage Loaded Hash Brown Bites are scheduled for a nationwide rollout at Kroger stores throughout the summer of 2026. Secondary Phase: Following the initial Kroger exclusive period, the brand plans to expand distribution to additional grocery and mass-market retail partners. Industry Outlook for Functional Frozen Breakfast The entry of Farm Rich into the high-protein breakfast space signifies a maturation of the frozen bakery aisle. As grocery retailers seek to defend their share of the "morning mission" against quick-service restaurants (QSRs), brands that can offer restaurant-quality, protein-dense meals at home are seeing accelerated unit growth. By redefining what breakfast can look like, moving from a plate-based meal to a portable, hand-held snack, Farm Rich is well-positioned to lead the next wave of innovation in the frozen convenience sector through the remainder of 2026. Farm Rich Expands Breakfast Portfolio With High-Protein Frozen Range May 5, 2026 Cultivated Onego Bio and Zen Waffles Partner to Deploy Fermented Egg Protein in US Flavours & Colours General Mills Completes Removal of Certified Colours from US Cereal Range New Products SURREAL Launches High Protein Low Sugar Overnight Oats Range Business & Finance Ferrero Acquires Clean Label Granola Brand Purely Elizabeth New Products Health & Nutrition Food Snacking Related news

Beanstalk AgTech has launched Monsoon Ventures in Singapore with backing from EnterpriseSG and Rabo Foundation to commercialise agtech comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Innovation agency Beanstalk AgTech has announced the launch of Monsoon Ventures, a dedicated venture studio based in Singapore aimed at accelerating the commercialisation of agricultural technology across Southeast Asia. Supported by Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) and Rabo Foundation, the venture studio focuses on bridging the commercial translation gap for agricultural innovations. The initiative aims to improve smallholder farmer livelihoods, bolster regional food security, and enhance climate resilience across six core target markets: Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. The establishment of the studio builds on Beanstalk AgTech’s experience operating the Drought Venture Studio in Australia, marking the group's first venture studio deployment in Southeast Asia. Capital Allocation and Deployment Targets Monsoon Ventures is entering its initial operational phase with an initial investment allocation of SG$1.2 million, targeting up to eight ventures within its first two years of operation. The long-term strategic roadmap outlines plans to deploy additional capital to build over 30 scalable agtech businesses across the region within a five-year window. Key deployment parameters and operational targets include: 🌏 Target Markets: Focuses on six primary Southeast Asian agricultural economies: Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. 💰 Initial Capital Deployment: SG$1.2 million initial capital pool allocated to support early-stage venture building and commercialisation infrastructure. 📈 Five-Year Expansion Plan: Aims to incubate and scale more than 30 commercial ventures over the next five years. 🤝 Blended Finance Model: Combines philanthropic, public, and private capital streams to balance commercial returns with smallholder impact goals. Justin Ahmed, Director at Beanstalk AgTech, stated that breakthrough agricultural science across Southeast Asia frequently stalls between proof-of-concept and commercial scale. Ahmed noted that Monsoon Ventures will provide the commercial strategy, leadership teams, and capital structure required to bridge this translation gap for regional smallholder farmers. Smallholder Commercial Translation The initiative addresses structural challenges facing Southeast Asia’s agricultural sector, where an estimated 100 million smallholder farmers form the foundation of food production while encountering input cost volatility, supply chain fragmentation, and climate pressures. Although validated agricultural technologies exist across regional research institutions and startups, many fail to achieve commercial adoption due to a lack of market access pathways and commercialisation expertise. To address these hurdles, Monsoon Ventures provides hands-on venture-building support, including value chain mapping, commercial leadership recruitment, and strategic matchmaking with corporate partners and institutional investors. Public and Private Stakeholder Alignment The venture studio leverages a blended finance framework designed to de-risk early-stage agtech investments in emerging markets. Enterprise Singapore has provided foundational backing to establish Singapore as the primary agrifood translation and financing hub for Southeast Asia, while Rabo Foundation has contributed catalytic capital to enhance smallholder productivity and financial resilience. Sharon Tay, Director of Food Manufacturing and Agri-Technology at Enterprise Singapore, stated that strengthening food security requires robust ecosystems capable of translating lab-stage innovations into scalable commercial applications. Bram Spann, Regional Lead Asia at Rabo Foundation, added that structured venture-building support allows founders to iterate and validate business models capable of delivering long-term productivity and income gains for smallholder farming communities. Beanstalk AgTech Launches Monsoon Ventures to Scale Southeast Asian Agtech August 11, 2026 Agriculture Lubrizol Launches ZYRA Product Family for Agricultural Formulations Agriculture Syngenta and Kyoyu Agri Collaborate on Novel Rice Herbicide New Solutions IFF Launches Omni-Bos PHY Phytase Enzyme to Improve Dairy Feed Efficiency Agriculture General Mills, ADM and Walmart Partner to Accelerate Wheat Regenerative Agriculture Business & Finance Technology Sustainability Agriculture Related news

CLIF has expanded into the high-protein category with the launch of the CLIF High Protein Bar, delivering 20g of protein and 5g of fibre per serving. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mondelēz International The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Mondelēz International-owned brand CLIF has announced its entry into the high-protein category with the nationwide rollout of the CLIF High Protein Bar. Formulated with 20 grams of protein and carbohydrates from whole-grain rolled oats, the launch marks the brand's first dedicated high-protein bar format, combining sustained energy metrics with protein fortification to address expanding consumer demand for multi-functional active nutrition. Formulation and Ingredients The product development strategy combines high-protein delivery with complex carbohydrates to offer dual energy and recovery benefits within a single bar. Formulated without artificial sweeteners, the bars incorporate real food ingredients including rolled oats, almonds, soy and whey protein isolates, and creamy nut butter bases. Each serving supplies 20 grams of protein alongside 5 grams of dietary fibre. Joe Pellingra, Senior Director for CLIF and LUNA brands at Mondelēz International, stated that the brand identified an opportunity to expand its core energy bar architecture by introducing a high-protein format engineered around research insights into active consumer lifestyles. Flavour Lineup and Specifications The CLIF High Protein Bar platform enters commercial distribution across two initial flavour variations: 🥜 Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip: A sweet-and-savoury high-protein bar combining peanut butter, chocolate chips, and rolled oats. 🍞 Cinnamon French Toast: A breakfast-inspired flavour profile incorporating almond butter, real almonds, and warm cinnamon spice. Retail Availability and Pricing The CLIF High Protein Bar range will commence physical retail distribution across grocery, mass, and speciality stockists in the United States starting in August 2026. The lineup is formatted in 4-count retail boxes carrying a suggested retail price (MSRP) of US$7.49 per box. CLIF Expands Portfolio with 20g High Protein Bar Range August 25, 2026 New Products JiMMYBAR! Launches Creatine and Protein Trail Mix Line New Products UFC and FoodStory Brands Launch Main Event Protein Bars Snacking Popcorn Kitchen Secures British Airways Inflight Listing New Products Frankie's Organic Snacks Launches Halloween Line Snacking New Products Food Related news

Starbucks Japan has announced the national launch of its Banana Affogato Frappuccino. Debuting on 27 May 2026, at 700 yen for a tall size. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Coffee & Tea Starbucks The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Seasonal limited-time offerings are the cornerstone of the Japanese food and beverage market, where consumers actively seek out novelty aligned with cultural milestones. However, the late spring period often presents a distinct volume dip. The highly lucrative sakura season has concluded, yet the midsummer heat that drives demand for light, acidic, tropical fruit-flavoured drinks has not yet arrived. To maintain interest during this interim period, Starbucks Japan is capitalising on an evergreen, year-round staple: the banana. Rather than presenting the fruit in a basic format, the brand has elevated it through a sophisticated dessert concept. By mimicking the structure of an affogato—a classic Italian dessert featuring espresso poured over vanilla gelato—the brand positions the beverage as a premium, multi-layered treat. This menu positioning justifies a premium price point of 700 yen while appealing to adult palates that favour a balance of sweetness and bitter coffee notes. Upcycling Agricultural Waste The most significant operational aspect of the Banana Affogato Frappuccino is its reliance on "mottainai" bananas. In the Japanese agricultural and retail sectors, "mottainai", a term translating to the rejection of wastefulness, defines products that are deemed unsellable due to minor aesthetic imperfections. Supermarkets regularly reject vast quantities of fruit due to irregular size, curvature anomalies, or minor peel blemishes, despite the internal pulp remaining nutritionally identical and structurally sound. By sourcing these rejected fruits, Starbucks Japan achieves several key business advantages: Lower Ingredient Procurement Costs: Sourcing surplus, cosmetically damaged produce allows the brand to acquire raw materials at a lower cost base than pristine retail-grade fruit. Positive ESG Consumer Alignment: Modern consumers, particularly younger demographics, increasingly align their purchasing decisions with brands that demonstrate concrete food waste mitigation practices. Strengthened Supplier Relations: Partnering with agricultural distributors to absorb surplus, unsellable inventory establishes Starbucks as a highly reliable, long-term supply chain partner. By processing these upcycled bananas into purees and standardised pieces, the company removes the cosmetic element entirely, proving that agricultural waste can be converted into a consistent, high-value menu asset at scale. Targeting the Stress Relief Consumer The timing of this launch also reflects an astute understanding of Japanese consumer psychology. Late spring in Japan is synonymous with "shin seikatsu," or the "new lifestyle" transition period. During this window, millions of students and young professionals relocate, start new employment, or begin academic terms. This period of intense change often leads to heightened stress and fatigue. Starbucks Japan has strategically marketed the Banana Affogato Frappuccino as an affordable, daily escape from reality. This positioning taps into the "stress-relief indulgence" purchasing driver. When consumers face high levels of lifestyle stress, they are statistically more receptive to high-calorie, decadent, and texture-rich food products that serve as temporary emotional rewards. Product Formulation and Ingredients From an R&D perspective, the beverage relies on a complex layering technique designed to provide a changing sensory experience as the consumer drinks it: Foundational Texture: A thick layer of real upcycled banana pieces sits at the base of the cup, providing chewable texture and natural sweetness. Middle Cream Stratum: A dense, milky cream base blended with banana powder forms the body of the drink, ensuring consistent flavour delivery throughout. Top-Layer Contrast: A concentrated espresso sauce, combining freshly pulled espresso shots with classic syrup, is drizzled over the top, creating a bitter, aromatic contrast that cuts through the dairy and banana fats. This layered structure ensures that the initial sip is intensely sweet and fruity, while the subsequent melting and mixing processes introduce the lingering bitterness of coffee and a caramel-like aroma. This complex sensory journey encourages slow, deliberate consumption, aligning perfectly with the brand's positioning of the beverage as a relaxing, restorative treat. Starbucks Japan Launches Banana Affogato Frappuccino May 26, 2026 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Debuts Pink Protein Drink and Pecan Sticky Bun Latte Coffee & Tea Caffè Nero Launches Protein Matcha and Latte with Myprotein Coffee & Tea Coca-Cola Reviews Sale of Costa Coffee New Products Starbucks Unveils 2026 Holiday Menu with Tiramisu Velvet Lineup Coffee & Tea Beverage New Products Flavours & Colours Related news

Kraft Heinz has entered a five-year global strategic partnership with the NFL, positioning its iconic brand portfolio as the league's official condiment partner to drive retail and "Away From Home" growth. 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 Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The Kraft Heinz Company and the National Football League (NFL) have finalised a five-year global strategic partnership, marking the first time the league has designated a global condiment partner. This agreement unites Kraft Heinz’s extensive food portfolio, including Heinz, Kraft, Velveeta, and Philadelphia, with the NFL’s massive viewership. The collaboration is designed to capitalise on high-impact consumption occasions, such as the Super Bowl and Thanksgiving, while accelerating both organisations' international expansion efforts. Strategic Objectives and Market Reach The partnership provides Kraft Heinz with direct access to a fan base of over 200 million in the U.S. and a growing international audience. By aligning with the NFL—currently the top-ranked sports property in the U.S. and a leader in Gen Z engagement—Kraft Heinz aims to embed its brands deeper into sports-centric cultural moments. Key strategic pillars include: Global Brand Visibility : Premium stadium presence and integrated co-branded marketing across domestic and international markets. Retail Innovation : Limited-edition packaging and immersive retail activations designed to drive incremental sales during peak football season. Cultural Intersections : Targeting the intersection of food, sports, and entertainment to maintain brand relevance with younger demographics. Expansion of "Away From Home" (AFH) Channels A significant component of the deal is the focus on the "Away From Home" food service sector. By securing status as the official condiment partner, Kraft Heinz is positioned to expand its footprint within stadiums and other large-scale hospitality venues. This strategy allows the company to capture value during high-volume consumption events where condiments and prepared foods are central to the fan experience. International Growth and Global Games The partnership serves as a catalyst for the NFL’s continued global expansion. Kraft Heinz will gain access to select overseas games, providing a platform to introduce or solidify its brand presence in international markets. This dual-sided growth strategy helps the NFL localise its fan experience with familiar food brands while helping Kraft Heinz scale its global distribution. Implementation and Initial Activation The partnership is set to officially launch in April during the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. The choice of location is symbolic, as Pittsburgh is the historical birthplace of the Heinz brand. Initial activations will focus on fan engagement during Draft week, setting the tone for a long-term integration that spans the entire NFL calendar, from Kickoff to the Super Bowl. Operational Synergies From a B2B perspective, this partnership represents a massive integration of supply chain and marketing logistics. Todd Kaplan, Chief Marketing Officer at Kraft Heinz, indicated that the partnership will help the company "scale, connect and amplify" its position with consumers. For the NFL, the deal secures a stable, globally recognised partner capable of supporting the league’s rigorous logistics and fan-experience standards across multiple continents. Kraft Heinz and NFL announce five-year global strategic partnership March 19, 2026 Business & Finance Panzani and Cerealis Enter Exclusive Talks to Form €1bn Food Group Foodservice Coca-Cola and KFC Announce US Beverage Partnership Ingredients Oterra Teams up with HowGood to Provide Ingredient Emissions Data Business & Finance CJ CheilJedang and ADM to Form Feed Amino Acid Joint Venture Marketing Business & Finance Food Sauces Related news

365 Retail Markets’ acquisition of Cantaloupe merges telemetry and payments with smart-store software, scaling its infrastructure for 40,000+ new customers comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > 365 Retail Markets, LLC, a prominent leader in unattended retail technology and a portfolio company of Providence Equity Partners, has announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Cantaloupe, Inc. The transaction marks a structural shift in the self-service commerce landscape, merging Cantaloupe’s global device network and payment infrastructure with 365’s advanced software ecosystem. The combined business will operate under the 365 Retail Markets brand, creating a vertically integrated powerhouse capable of serving the rapidly professionalising micro-retail and automated foodservice sectors. The acquisition is designed to resolve a long-standing fragmentation in the unattended retail market. By bringing together Cantaloupe’s leadership in payments and telemetry with 365’s expertise in frictionless checkout and "smart store" logic, the organisation is building a unified platform for automated commerce. Joe Hessling, Founder and CEO of 365, stated that the deal positions the firm to lead the global shift toward more "convenient, safe, and connected" consumer experiences. The move immediately expands 365's reach, onboarding nearly 40,000 new customers and providing them with access to an end-to-end suite of integrated SaaS and hardware solutions. Technical Synergies in Telemetry and SaaS A primary differentiator for the combined entity is the integration of deep hardware telemetry with cloud-based management software. Key Technical Pillars Include: Telemetry and Connectivity: Utilising Cantaloupe’s global device network to provide operators with real-time data on inventory levels and machine health. Unified Payments: Integrating secure, unattended payment processing into the 365 self-checkout environment to reduce friction at the point of sale. Frictionless Logistics: Leveraging smart-store systems to automate the restocking and management of non-traditional retail spaces. Jeffrey Dumbrell, Chief Revenue Officer at Cantaloupe (and now a member of the 365 Executive Team), noted that the demand for micro-retail in sectors such as warehouses and hospitality has never been stronger. The integrated technology allows for highly customised retail deployments that meet consumers in their immediate environments. Diversification into Nontraditional Micro Retail Sectors While 365 has historically been associated with corporate office micro-markets, the acquisition of Cantaloupe significantly broadens its operational footprint. The organisation is now targeting a wider range of high-traffic "agentic" retail environments, including: Hospitality and Hotels: Automated "pantry" and snack solutions for guests. Entertainment and Sports: High-volume, frictionless kiosks for stadiums and event venues. Transit Hubs: 24/7 automated retail for airports and train stations. Industrial Campuses: Scalable food and beverage options for manufacturing and distribution staff. As the global unattended retail industry approaches an estimated $86 billion valuation, the success of the 365 and Cantaloupe merger will likely serve as a blueprint for the "autonomous future" of the high street. Providence Equity Partners emphasised that the combination creates an "unparalleled opportunity" for scale across both diverse sectors and global geographies. 365 Retail Markets Completes Acquisition of Cantaloupe May 11, 2026 Business & Finance B&G Foods Sells B&M and Joan of Arc Brands to McCall Farms Alcohol Fintech Acquires Ground Signal to Expand Alcohol Analytics Logistics & Supply Chain Constellation Cold Logistics Acquires Impruv Logistics in Norway Business & Finance Starbucks Explores Takeover of Chipotle Food Technology Business & Finance Related news