Neutonic has raised $6 million at a $60 million valuation to accelerate its global retail expansion, including a major 500-store rollout with Sainsbury’s and a strategic push into the United States and Australia. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Neutonic, a functional beverage brand specialising in nootropics, has successfully closed a $6 million funding round at a$60 million valuation. The investment is earmarked for aggressive global expansion, targeting high-volume retail channels in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia. The funding round includes backing from Alan Barrett, alongside prominent UK and US investors including Ollie Marchon, Ross Edgley, Dan Martell, Codie Sanchez, and Zach Ranen. Jay Parker, founder of Gym King, has also joined the company as a special advisor to assist with brand scaling and commercial operations. Founder Influence and Audience Leveraged Growth Founded in 2023, Neutonic has utilised the significant digital reach of its founders to achieve rapid market penetration. The founding team includes Chris Williamson, host of the "Modern Wisdom" podcast, and fitness entrepreneur James Smith, alongside Luke Betts and Shan Hanif. This "audience-first" strategy has allowed the brand to scale with minimal traditional customer acquisition costs. To date, the company has sold more than 7.5 million cans. The founders’ combined global audience has served as a primary driver for early traction, particularly within the 18-to-35 demographic seeking performance-led alternatives to traditional caffeine sources. Financial Performance and Revenue Projections Neutonic is reporting significant year-over-year financial growth, positioning the brand as a top-tier challenger in the functional drinks category. 2025 Revenue Forecast: The company is on track to exceed 25 million dollars in revenue this year. Growth Velocity: Revenue doubled between 2024 and 2025, with a forecasted 3x increase projected for 2026. Channel Performance: Growth is being supported by a balanced split between direct-to-consumer (DTC) platforms and high-density retail distribution. The 6 million dollar injection of capital will be utilised to support strategic hires across product development and commercial operations, ensuring the infrastructure keeps pace with these rapid scaling targets. UK Retail and Meal Deal Integration A critical milestone in the brand's UK strategy is its rollout into 500 Sainsbury’s stores this month. Neutonic will be included as part of the retailer’s high-volume "meal deal" program, a move that places the brand in front of millions of daily "on-the-go" shoppers. This expansion builds on an existing retail footprint of more than 10,000 doors globally. In the UK, current stockists include: Grocery and Daily Retail: Ocado, Morrisons Daily, and Booths. Forecourts: More than 1,200 Motor Fuel Group locations. Fitness Channels: National gym chains such as Fitness First and Everlast. International Expansion and US Market Penetration The capital raise provides the necessary resources to scale Neutonic’s presence in the United States, where it is already stocked in GNC, The Vitamin Shoppe, and Central Market. A broader national grocery expansion in the US is scheduled for this summer, targeting major regional and national chains. Additionally, the brand is preparing for a market debut in Australia. By establishing a presence in three major English-speaking markets simultaneously, Neutonic is building a resilient global supply chain and diversifying its revenue streams against regional market fluctuations. Nootropic Formulation and Category Positioning Neutonic operates within the fast-growing nootropics segment, a category designed to support cognitive focus, mental clarity, and sustained energy without the "crash" often associated with high-sugar energy drinks. The brand differentiates itself from traditional stimulants through: Research-Backed Ingredients: Using specific nootropics at effective, relevant dosages. Flavour-First Approach: Engineering products to drive repeat purchases through taste profiles that mimic traditional carbonated refreshments. Clean Label Credibility: Appealing to a new generation of consumers who prioritise functional performance over synthetic stimulation. Chris Williamson noted that the current funding gives the company the necessary "firepower" to meet growing consumer demand while strengthening the internal team to manage global distribution logistics. As the functional drink landscape continues to shift toward performance-led SKUs, Neutonic is well-positioned to lead the category through its blend of creator-led influence and technical formulation. Beverage Neutonic Raises $6 Million to Scale Global Nootropic Beverage Platform Eddie Sanders April 29, 2026 New Products Barebells Expands Milk Drink Range with New Cookie Flavour Coffee & Tea Ehrmann Partners with Glow25 to Launch RTD Collagen Coffee New Products Huel Expands Ready-to-drink Portfolio with Four New Flavours New Products AMASS Brands Group Launches Functional Electrolyte Powder Mixers Beverage Business & Finance Health & Nutrition Related news

The Hershey Company has named former PepsiCo executive Heather Hoytink as President, U.S., tasked with leading the commercial division comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Hershey Company The Newsroom The Hershey Company has announced the appointment of Heather Hoytink as President, U.S., effective July 8, 2026. Hoytink joins the confectionery and snack manufacturer following more than 20 years of experience in sales, operations and commercial leadership. Before this appointment, Hoytink served as Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, U.S. Away From Home Beverages at PepsiCo. During her tenure there, she led the North America beverage and commercialisation agenda across the Away From Home channel. Her previous experience also includes the role of President of the South Division, where she oversaw regional growth and margin expansion. In her new role at The Hershey Company, Hoytink will hold end-to-end accountability for the company’s U.S. commercial business. She is responsible for leading execution across the firm’s broader snacking portfolio, which encompasses confection, salty and protein categories. A primary focus of her mandate is the advancement of the ONE Hershey commercial model. This approach seeks to provide a unified strategy for retail partners and consumers, targeting growth across multiple channels, including away-from-home, omnichannel and digital platforms. Kirk Tanner, President and CEO of The Hershey Company, noted that Hoytink’s background in managing complex commercial organisations aligns with the company’s goals for its next stage of business development. “Heather is a people leader with customer relationships, the operating discipline to execute at scale and a track record of growth that will accelerate our U.S. business,” Tanner stated. “Her experience leading some of the largest, most complex customer and commercial organisations in the industry makes her well-suited to lead our team into the next generation of growth.” Hoytink holds a degree in marketing and communications from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and has completed executive education programmes at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth and Harvard Business School. People The Hershey Company Appoints Heather Hoytink as President of US Eddie Sanders June 24, 2026 New Products Brothers Cider Launches Wild Cloudy Apple Cider Flavour People NAMA Appoints Michael Schwartz as Chair of the Board of Directors People Novus Foods Appoints Admir Basic as CEO People Joe Jordan Appointed Incoming CEO at Domino's Pizza Business & Finance Confectionery People Related news

Walkers Sensations, the premium crisp brand owned by PepsiCo, has announced its seasonal strategy for Easter 2026, launching a limited-edition line-up designed to capture the holiday snacking occasion. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Walkers Sensations , the premium crisp brand owned by PepsiCo , has announced its seasonal strategy for Easter 2026, launching a limited-edition line-up designed to capture the holiday snacking occasion. The range features the return of a fan favourite alongside a net-new flavour profile that taps into the growing "sweet and savoury" trend. Crucially for retailers, the entire limited-edition range is formulated to be non-HFSS (non-High Fat, Sugar, and Salt). This compliance allows stockists to merchandise the products in prominent, high-traffic promotional locations—such as gondola ends and store entrances—which are restricted for HFSS products under current UK legislation. Chilli & Cocoa Headlining the launch is the new Chilli & Cocoa flavour. This SKU represents a strategic nod to the confectionery-heavy nature of the Easter holiday while capitalizing on the "swicy" trend that has permeated the snacking category over the last 18 months. The profile combines characteristic spice with sweetness, offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional chocolate eggs. Returning Favourites and Packaging Responding to consumer demand, the brand is bringing back Slow Roasted Lamb & Mint Sauce . This variant leverages the cultural association between Easter and the traditional lamb roast dinner, translating the meal occasion into a sharing snack format. Additionally, the core Thai Sweet Chilli SKU will feature limited-edition Easter packaging, incorporating seasonal imagery (eggs, bunnies, spring flowers) to drive relevance and impulse appeal on the shelf. Commercial Details The Easter range will roll out across the grocery channel starting 16 February . RRP: £2.50 (Sharing bags). Regulatory Status: Non-HFSS (compliant for unrestricted display). By aligning seasonal flavours with HFSS compliance, Walkers Sensations is positioning itself as a key volume driver for retailers looking to maximize basket spend during the spring trading period without running afoul of placement restrictions. Snacking Walkers Sensations Unveils Easter Flavours with 'Swicy' Cocoa Innovation News February 12, 2026 Confectionery Aldi Unveils Premium and Novelty Easter Confectionery Lineup Confectionery Tesco Unveils Premium Own-Brand Easter Egg Range with Dubai Pistachio and Sticky Toffee Flavours New Products Chocolove Targets Seasonal Growth with Easter Chocolate Rollout New Products Mars Targets Premium Seasonal Gifting with Ethel M Chocolates' First-Ever Filled Egg Collection Flavours & Colours Snacking New Products Food Related news

Limoneira Company and Agromin formalise a 50/50 joint venture to develop a 70-acre commercial composting facility in Santa Paula, California, aiming to process 295,000 tons of organic waste annually. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Limoneira Company has officially signed definitive agreements to form a 50/50 joint venture with California Wood Recycling, Inc., operating as Agromin. The partnership will develop a 70-acre, state-of-the-art commercial composting centre on Limoneira property in Santa Paula, California. This facility represents a significant advancement in Limoneira’s diversification strategy, transitioning underutilised land and conserved water into an active organics recycling platform. The joint venture is strategically positioned to address the stringent requirements of California Senate Bill 1383 (SB 1383), which mandates significant organic waste diversion and greenhouse gas reduction. As of 2026, California municipalities continue to seek infrastructure to meet these regulatory burdens. Key environmental and operational impacts of the facility include: Waste Diversion: The centre is expected to divert approximately 75% of Ventura County’s landfilled organic waste. Permitting Milestone: The project is the result of 15 years of planning and remains the only permitted commercial composting centre in Ventura County capable of processing both green and food waste. Long-Term Utility: The facility is permitted to operate for the next 50 years, providing a stable solution for local communities to meet state-mandated targets. Financial Structure and Revenue Streams The joint venture utilises a multi-layered revenue model designed to provide consistent EBITDA for both partners. Limoneira will lease the 70-acre site to the venture for approximately $560,000 annually, a deal that includes 89-acre feet of annual water supply. Primary revenue drivers for the venture include: Gate Fees: Charges collected from waste hauliers delivering green and food waste to the facility. Compost Sales: The sale of processed organic material as high-quality compost and mulch. Internal Application: Limoneira will utilise the resulting compost across its own agricultural operations to enhance soil health and productivity. Operational Timeline The project involves expanding an existing 15-acre green waste operation into a comprehensive 70-acre organic recycling centre. The upgraded facility is projected to process roughly 295,000 tons of waste per year. Management expects the facility to become fully operational in the second half of fiscal year 2027. Harold Edwards, President and CEO of Limoneira, characterised the agreement as a transformational milestone that optimises the company's capital allocation. Edwards noted that the venture represents the "highest and best use" of the land and water assets, generating both rental income and joint venture earnings. Bill Camarillo, CEO of Agromin, highlighted the synergy between Agromin’s recycling footprint—which spans over 200 California cities—and Limoneira’s agricultural infrastructure. Camarillo emphasised that the partnership serves as a model for how the agricultural and waste management sectors can collaborate to support regenerative agriculture initiatives. Business & Finance Limoneira and Agromin Form Joint Venture for California Organics Recycling News April 16, 2026 Soft drinks Marriott International and The Coca-Cola Company Sign Global Beverage Agreement Business & Finance GHOST Energy Secures Official Partnership with The Venetian Resort Las Vegas Business & Finance Actus Nutrition and Darigold Partner to Expand Speciality Protein Production Business & Finance Ingredion and Sanstar Announce Joint Venture to Serve Indian Food and Pharma Markets Manufacturing Business & Finance Sustainability Legal Related news

The launch leverages the David’s Deli brand equity to offer a "power-up" option that delivers 16 grams of protein per bagel—double the amount found in standard alternatives. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Crystal Farms Dairy Co. has announced a strategic expansion of its bakery portfolio, launching David's Deli Protein Bagels . The new product line is positioned to disrupt the refrigerated bagel category by addressing the growing consumer demand for functional, high-protein breakfast staples. The launch leverages the David’s Deli brand equity to offer a "power-up" option that delivers 16 grams of protein per bagel—double the amount found in standard alternatives. Formulation and Nutritional Profile The range is engineered to deliver a significant macronutrient boost without compromising the signature "soft, chewy texture" associated with the deli-style bagel. The formulation achieves its protein density through a proprietary blend of wheat protein isolate and soy protein . Key Product Attributes: Protein Content: 16g per serving. Format: Pre-sliced and certified Kosher. Storage: Merchandised in the refrigerator aisle alongside the existing David's Deli English muffins and bagels. Flavour Architecture The line debuts with three core variants designed to cover the most popular consumption occasions: 🥯 Plain Protein Bagel: A versatile base for savoury or sweet toppings. 🍂 Cinnamon Protein Bagel: A spiced variant targeting the sweet breakfast occasion. 🧅 Everything Protein Bagel: Topped with a signature blend of sesame, poppy seeds, onion, garlic, and salt for a savoury kick. Tim Bratland , President of Crystal Farms Dairy Co., commented on the broad demographic appeal of the new line: "Our David's Deli Bagels offer the perfect versatile staple, packing 16 grams of protein for consumers interested in increasing their protein intake. From parents looking to sneak in a protein boost to fitness and health enthusiasts looking to increase their overall protein intake to those who just love bagels, this line of protein bagels is for everyone." The launch reflects a broader industry trend where traditional carb-heavy categories are being reformulated to align with wellness-driven purchasing behaviours. Bakery Crystal Farms Expands David’s Deli with High-Protein Bagel Line Targeting Refrigerated Aisle News January 28, 2026 Coffee & Tea Costa Coffee Launches High Protein Latte New Products General Mills Launches Honey Nut Cheerios Protein Cereal New Products ONE Brands Launches Reese's Peanut Butter Chocolate Layered Protein Bar New Products Forte Launches High Protein Frozen Bars at Costco Texas Warehouses Bakery Health & Nutrition Food Ingredients New Products Related news

European vending supplier vendinGO has completed the acquisition of Portuguese roaster Caffier, establishing a vertically integrated. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The European vending and convenience retail landscape is undergoing a structural shift as operators seek to protect margin density against rising supply chain overheads. In a decisive move to secure its upstream supply chain, vendinGO, a leading specialist supplier for the vending channel, has announced the completed acquisition of Caffier, a Portuguese coffee roaster with sixteen years of domestic operational history. This transaction marks a significant evolution for vendinGO, transitioning the business from a specialist distributor into a vertically integrated commercial platform. By bringing roasting capabilities in-house, the company establishes a single, accountable structure covering sourcing, roasting, brand management, and multi-channel distribution. Coffee remains the highest-volume, highest-margin product category across the out-of-home (OOH) consumption matrix, spanning corporate catering, public travel hubs, and automated micro-markets. For vending operators, securing a reliable, price-stable supply of premium coffee is critical to maintaining daily retail profitability. Addressing Technical Challenges In Automated Vending Extraction From a research and development (R&D) and engineering perspective, developing coffee for automatic vending machines requires a highly specialised approach compared to traditional retail or café roasting. Standard espresso blends often perform poorly in automated systems due to differences in grind consistency, extraction speed, and high-pressure brewing environments. By integrating Caffier’s sixteen years of roasting expertise, vendinGO can now manufacture bespoke formulations engineered specifically for automated dispensing systems: Moisture and Oil Control: Automated vending grinders require beans roasted to precise profiles that minimise surface oil migration, preventing grinder blockage and ensuring consistent dose weights during rapid service cycles. Density Standardisation: Consistent bean density is essential to ensure that volumetric dosing chambers deliver the exact grams required per cup, maintaining flavour profile uniformity across thousands of autonomous transactions. Solubility Optimisation: The roasting team must balance body and acidity to ensure the coffee extracts efficiently within the short extraction windows typical of automatic bean-to-cup machines. This technical alignment ensures that operators can reduce machine maintenance intervals whilst delivering a consistent, high-quality beverage that encourages repeat customer usage. Multi-Format Pod Portfolio Beyond bulk whole-bean formats for automated machines, the acquisition allows vendinGO to capture a larger share of the office coffee service (OCS) and household sectors through an expanded portion-controlled portfolio. Under the "Multispresso" brand, the group manufactures a comprehensive range of coffee pods compatible with major European capsule platforms, including E.S.E., Nespresso, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, and FAP systems. This multi-platform compatibility allows vendinGO to operate as a single-source supplier for corporate clients, small-to-medium enterprises, and boutique hospitality accounts. According to Gabriel Marques dos Santos, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of vendinGO, the combination of Caffier's proven roasting history with vendinGO’s proprietary distribution technology and logistics networks creates a highly scalable platform that redefines what specialist convenience suppliers can deliver. Operational Scale and Cross-Border Expansion Dynamics The consolidation of manufacturing and distribution provides vendinGO with immediate competitive advantages across its core European markets. The acquisition includes a fully operational roasting facility with an annual production capacity of nine hundred and sixty tonnes of coffee. This volume, equivalent to more than ninety-six million cups of coffee annually, provides the company with the immediate scale necessary to serve its existing client base whilst absorbing future growth. For the parent organisation, this manufacturing footprint supports a broader European expansion roadmap: Direct Import Parity: By controlling the manufacturing site, vendinGO bypasses third-party roasting margins, allowing the business to offer highly competitive pricing structures to national vending operators in Portugal, Spain, and France. Agile Inventory Logistics: Having a centralised roasting hub in Portugal allows the company to manage green bean inventories dynamically, mitigating the risks of volatile commodity prices in the global coffee market. Co-Packing and White Label Opportunities: The significant capacity buffer allows vendinGO to explore co-packing and private-label manufacturing agreements for large-scale retail and hospitality brands, diversifying the company’s corporate revenue streams. As Airton dos Santos Pedro, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of vendinGO, noted, this acquisition represents the most consequential capital investment in the company’s history. Rather than simply adding a production line, the integration of Caffier completes a business model that connects raw materials to the end-consumer transaction, positioning the company to compete aggressively in the European impulse and convenience sector over the coming decade. Coffee & Tea VendinGO Acquires Portuguese Roaster Caffier Eddie Sanders May 19, 2026 Coffee & Tea Ehrmann Partners with Glow25 to Launch RTD Collagen Coffee Coffee & Tea Lavazza and Müller Launch Italian-Inspired Ready-to-Drink Coffee Range New Products Nescafé Launches KitKat and Lion Flavoured Coffee Coffee & Tea Paramount Coffee Debuts Joe Knows Coffee Coffee & Tea Business & Finance Related news

Pepsi and 7UP have announced a major strategic collaboration with Disney to support the release of Zootopia 2, launching a high-profile marketing campaign under the banner "Zero Sugar for City-Wide Craze." 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 Pepsi and 7UP have announced a major strategic collaboration with Disney to support the release of Zootopia 2 , launching a high-profile marketing campaign under the banner "Zero Sugar for City-Wide Craze." The initiative, rolled out across the Chinese market, represents a significant deepening of PepsiCo’s long-term commitment to infusing its brand narrative with pop culture. By leveraging the aesthetic and narrative appeal of the Zootopia franchise, the beverage giant aims to forge stronger emotional connections with Gen Z consumers and young families. Zero Sugar as Social Currency For PepsiCo China, the zero-sugar category has evolved beyond a dietary choice into a form of self-expression for younger demographics. The brand has consistently utilised crossover collaborations to build "social currency," a strategy previously refined through partnerships involving Star Wars and the Fantastic Four . This latest campaign builds upon PepsiCo’s existing strategic alliance with Shanghai Disney Resort , a relationship that has served as a testing ground for integrating beverage brands with immersive entertainment IP. Product Innovation: Character-Driven Can Design Central to the campaign is a limited-edition packaging refresh designed to act as a collectable asset. The designs align specific beverage profiles with the personalities of the movie's iconic characters: Pepsi Zero Sugar: Features Judy Hopps , channelling themes of courage and determination. 7UP Zero Sugar: Features Nick Wilde , capturing wit and free-spirited charm. Extended Cast: New characters Gary and Nibbles also appear on select packaging. These designs are intended to function as tangible "markers of identity," bridging the gap between the digital fandom of the movie and physical consumption moments. Activation: Igniting 'City-Wide Craze' The campaign employs a "tripartite model" fusing brand, content, and context. Activation has spanned online and offline touchpoints, including eye-catching out-of-home (OOH) installations in key metropolitan hubs such as Shanghai, Beijing, Chengdu, and Shenzhen . To drive conversion from public buzz to sales, the brands have released a series of free Zootopia 2 merchandise, gamifying the purchase experience. Industry Impact in APAC From a strategic perspective, this collaboration underscores PepsiCo China's position as an innovation leader within the APAC region. By integrating youthful dynamism with established Disney magic, the company is creating a playbook for global markets on how to unlock value at the intersection of entertainment culture and consumer packaged goods (CPG). Soft drinks Pepsi and 7UP Partner with Disney for 'Zootopia 2' Zero Sugar Campaign in China News January 2, 2026 Soft drinks Marriott International and The Coca-Cola Company Sign Global Beverage Agreement Business & Finance GHOST Energy Secures Official Partnership with The Venetian Resort Las Vegas Business & Finance Actus Nutrition and Darigold Partner to Expand Speciality Protein Production Business & Finance Ingredion and Sanstar Announce Joint Venture to Serve Indian Food and Pharma Markets Packaging New Products Beverage Soft drinks Business & Finance Marketing Related news

Global nutrition leader ADM and life sciences giant Bayer have announced a three-year extension of their strategic partnership in India, aimed at promoting sustainable soybean farming practices... comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Ingredients ADM The Newsroom Global nutrition leader ADM and life sciences giant Bayer have announced a three-year extension of their strategic partnership in India, aimed at promoting sustainable soybean farming practices in the state of Maharashtra. Building on a pilot programme launched in 2022, the expanded initiative aims to scale impact fourfold. The project targets reaching 100,000 farmers through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) and expanding coverage from 35,000 hectares to 200,000 hectares . Geographic Expansion and Scope The collaboration originally focused on the districts of Latur, Dharashiv (formerly Osmanabad), and Beed. Under the new agreement, the footprint will expand to cover seven districts in total, adding Nanded, Parbhani, Hingoli, and Solapur . The initial phase successfully reached 25,000 farmers by May 2025, meeting its primary targets and establishing the operational groundwork for this significant scaling effort. The ProTerra Framework: The '5 Ps' The partnership operationalises sustainability through a framework aligned with the ProTerra Foundation, focusing on five critical pillars of supply chain integrity: Production: Customised production management. Protection: Tailored spray programmes emphasising biodiversity and pre-harvest intervals. Programme Monitoring: Professional implementation guidance. Passport: Detailed crop-management documentation. Post-harvest Management: Collaborative pest management expertise. Operational Roles and Training Both companies leverage their specific core competencies to drive the initiative: Bayer: Leads extensive capacity building in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM). The company has connected with over 58,000 farmers via digital audio bridge calls and conducted hundreds of crop-management camps. A select cohort of farmers also undergoes rigorous "BayGAP" training. ADM: Utilises its extensive procurement network, including over 50 Krishi Vikas Kendras (KVKs) , to provide on-the-ground support. ADM’s cluster agronomists receive specialised training in nutrient and pesticide scheduling to guide farmers towards economic and environmental viability. Amrendra Mishra , Managing Director of Ag Services & Oilseeds and Country Manager India at ADM, commented on the long-term vision: "Our extended partnership with Bayer reflects a long-term vision to safeguard food systems and foster a resilient future. By leveraging ADM’s market linkages and global resources, we aim to equip 100,000 farmers with the tools to strengthen economic resilience, enhance sustainable livelihoods, and lead the future of Indian agriculture." Simon Wiebusch , Country Divisional Head – Crop Science Division at Bayer (India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka), emphasised the necessity of collaboration: "Sustainable development in agriculture cannot be achieved in isolation, it demands deep, purpose-driven partnerships... By scaling proven solutions across Maharashtra, we aim to help farmers improve yields sustainably while building a more resilient, future-ready agri-ecosystem." Sustainability ADM and Bayer Extend Partnership to Scale Sustainable Farming Support to 100,000 Farmers in India News January 5, 2026 Meat & Seafood BAP and Great British Chefs Partner to Educate Culinary Sector on Responsible Seafood Logistics & Supply Chain New USMCA Produce Coalition Advocates for Continued Tariff-Free Trade Technology New AI Partnership Between FPT and CP Vietnam to Digitalise Agricultural Value Chain Agriculture Charoen Pokphand Foods and FPT Corporation Partner to Advance Artificial Intelligence in Southeast Asian Agriculture Manufacturing Ingredients Business & Finance Agriculture Sustainability Facilities Related news

Solina has acquired Denver-based Epicurean Butter, aiming to expand its dairy innovation and culinary flavour solutions for the US comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Solina has announced the acquisition of Epicurean Butter, a Denver, Colorado-based developer and manufacturer of flavoured compound butters and customised flavour solutions. The transaction is designed to broaden Solina’s existing dairy innovation and culinary development capabilities within the United States market. "Customers are looking for partners who can help them move quickly, create differentiated food experiences, and bring new ideas to market with confidence," said Michael Marks, Regional CEO of Solina USA. "Epicurean brings exactly that combination of culinary creativity, technical expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit, expanding our capabilities in dairy and unlocking new opportunities to support our customers across the U.S. market." Enhancing Flavour Innovation Epicurean Butter specialises in agile product development and culinary-led compound butter solutions. These products combine butter with herbs, spices, cheeses, and other ingredients to provide ready-to-use flavour solutions for food manufacturers, foodservice operators, and retailers. "Epicurean represents exactly the kind of business we look for: entrepreneurial, customer-focused, and driven by innovation," said Anthony Francheterre, CEO of Solina. "We will expand what we can create for our customers while supporting the continued growth of both organizations." The integration aims to combine Epicurean’s expertise in flavour-forward dairy applications with Solina’s broader culinary and beverage infrastructure. By aligning these capabilities, the company intends to offer customers a wider range of customised solutions and accelerate the development of new food experiences across multiple channels. Operational Continuity Following the acquisition, Epicurean Butter will continue to operate from its current facility in Denver, which will serve as a centre of excellence for butter and dairy innovation within Solina USA. The existing leadership team, including CEO Stephen Owens, will remain in place to lead the business. Michael Marks, regional CEO of Solina USA, stated that the acquisition provides a combination of culinary creativity and technical expertise, supporting the company's efforts to help customers bring new ideas to market efficiently. "We are excited to join Solina," said Stephen Owens, CEO of Epicurean Butter. "Our mission has always been to help customers make everything taste better, effortlessly. We have a passion for bringing exceptional flavor to life through innovation, speed, and close collaboration, and Solina shares those same values. Together, we see tremendous opportunities for our people, our customers, and the future of the business." Solina has not disclosed the financial terms of the transaction. Business & Finance Solina Acquires Epicurean Butter to Enhance Dairy Flavour Solutions Dan B July 1, 2026 Technology Circus SE Completes Acquisition of Belgian Food Robotics Firm Alberts Business & Finance Dole Nordic Acquires Greenfood Fresh Produce Division to Expand Regional Footprint Business & Finance Vitamin Well Group Acquires EMPWR Nutrition Group Business & Finance Tradebe Acquires CitraSource to Expand Citrus Ingredients Portfolio Ingredients Business & Finance Dairy Related news

Premium hydration brand Once Upon a Coconut (OUAC) has entered into a strategic partnership with L.A. Libations (LAL), the beverage incubator and accelerator known for scaling emerging category leaders. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Premium hydration brand Once Upon a Coconut (OUAC) has entered into a strategic partnership with L.A. Libations (LAL), the beverage incubator and accelerator known for scaling emerging category leaders. The collaboration is designed to accelerate OUAC’s retail footprint across the United States, leveraging LAL’s extensive distribution network and relationships with major retailers. The immediate impact of the deal includes a confirmed national rollout across all 2,300+ Albertsons locations, scheduled to begin on 1 March 2026. Retail Strategy and Expansion The partnership combines OUAC’s mission-driven brand equity with LAL’s operational expertise in the "better-for-you" beverage sector. Key strategic objectives include: Albertsons Launch: A comprehensive rollout in March 2026 will place the brand in over 2,300 stores nationwide. Sprouts Farmers Market: The deal will support and expand the brand's existing growth trajectory within this key health-focused retailer. Distribution Infrastructure: The companies will work to broaden the Direct Store Delivery (DSD) footprint and execute long-term investment strategies to secure national scale. Strategic Rationale L.A. Libations is recognised as a "Category Captain" for emerging beverages, having previously facilitated exits for major brands such as Zico Coconut Water, Core Water, and Body Armor. Danny Stepper , CEO & Co-Founder of L.A. Libations, noted the specific fit of OUAC within their portfolio: "We've built our reputation on partnering with brands that have something truly special, and Once Upon a Coconut checks every box. From flavour innovation to social impact, Once Upon A Coconut represents the future of hydration, and with L.A. Libations' expertise, this is only the beginning." Brand Profile Launched in 2020, Once Upon a Coconut differentiates itself through a specific sourcing and packaging strategy: Sourcing: Utilises young green coconuts sourced from Vietnam. Packaging: Sold in eco-friendly slim aluminium cans to promote sustainability. CSR Commitment: The brand donates 10% of profits from each case sold to charities, including the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. John Chiorando , CEO of Once Upon a Coconut, emphasised the transformative nature of the partnership: "This partnership is about more than distribution, it's about unlocking the full potential of Once Upon a Coconut. With L.A. Libations by our side, we're taking the next big step toward making our brand a household name, while staying true to our mission of offering better-for-you hydration and giving back to communities everywhere." Beverage Once Upon a Coconut Targets National Scale via Strategic Partnership with L.A. Libations December 10, 2025 Soft drinks Marriott International and The Coca-Cola Company Sign Global Beverage Agreement Business & Finance GHOST Energy Secures Official Partnership with The Venetian Resort Las Vegas Business & Finance Actus Nutrition and Darigold Partner to Expand Speciality Protein Production Business & Finance Ingredion and Sanstar Announce Joint Venture to Serve Indian Food and Pharma Markets Soft drinks Business & Finance Beverage Related news

The launch responds to rising consumer demand for healthier, convenient food options, with the instant soup market projected to grow from $742 million to $1.17 billion by 2035. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Female-founded UK brand targets workplace convenience market with nutritious, clean-label soup solutions Soul Kitchen, a female-founded UK food brand, has unveiled a new line of single-serve, clean label soups designed specifically for modern workplaces, micro-markets and travel. The launch responds to rising consumer demand for healthier, convenient food options, with the instant soup market projected to grow from $742 million to $1.17 billion by 2035. Product Innovation Meets Market Demand The new Soul Kitchen Plus+ range features two initial offerings: Super Greens (Broccoli, Leek & Spinach) and Lion's Mane Mushroom with B12, Thyme & Black Pepper. Both soups are produced in the UK at a Salsa-approved facility, using gently dehydrated vegetable powders, herbs and spices, without any gums, emulsifiers, palm oil or artificial flavourings. Each 20g sachet is ready in under three minutes, addressing the needs of busy consumers seeking nutritious meal solutions. This launch comes at a time when 77% of UK consumers express concerns about ultra-processed foods, signaling a shift towards simpler ingredient lists. Tapping Into Growing Market Trends The demand for functional foods is on the rise, with plant-based products growing at an annual rate of over 11%, currently valued at £389 million. The introduction of clean label soups aligns with these trends, offering a solution that combines convenience with quality. The Lion's Mane Mushroom soup taps into the burgeoning global functional mushroom market, which has more than doubled in the last five years and is projected to reach $19 billion by 2030. While research on the cognitive benefits of such mushrooms is ongoing, there is a notable increase in consumer interest in adaptogenic ingredients. Nutritional Benefits and Partnerships Each serving of the Super Greens soup delivers 4.6g of protein sourced from sunflower, while the Mushroom soup provides 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12, a critical nutrient often lacking in plant-based diets. Eiméar Sutton, head of nutrition at Biovit, said: "Biovit's vitamin B12 and vitamin D are derived from mushrooms and remain within a food matrix, enhancing nutrient absorption and providing additional health benefits." Market Rollout and Retail Strategy Soul Kitchen's soups are available in cases of 12, with a recommended retail price starting at £1.79. Initial listings include over 100 independent retailers, such as Earthfare in Glastonbury and The General Store in Manchester, with plans to expand into travel retail through partnerships with Eurostar and Rail Gourmet. Bella Acland, founder of Soul Kitchen, highlighted the brand's commitment to quality and simplicity: "Consumers want simplicity they can trust. We're not chasing trends; we're re-imagining something familiar and doing it properly." This philosophy underscores the brand's mission to provide nutritious, satisfying meals that fit seamlessly into modern lifestyles. Ky Wright, CEO of Biovit, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting, "We're delighted to be partnering with Soul Kitchen for Biovit's first product launch in the soup category. Their all-natural mushroom soup is fortified with Biovit's naturally-sourced vitamin D and B12, confirming that it only contains natural nutrients with proven bioavailability." New Products Soul Kitchen Launches Clean Label Instant Soup Range for Modern Workplaces News October 29, 2025 New Products Junior’s and Other Half Brewing Partner for New York Dessert Beer Range New Products Little Moons Expands Refreshos Portfolio with Lemon & Elderflower New Products Aviation American Gin Launches First Flavour Innovation: Cranberry & Blood Orange New Products Dan-O’s Seasoning Enters Dry Mix Category with 'Clean Label' Dip Line New Products Food Related news

The Mark Anthony Group of Companies, the parent organisation behind White Claw® Hard Seltzer, has acquired The Finnish Long Drink. The deal aims to leverage Mark Anthony’s proven scaling infrastructure to accelerate the North American expansion of the heritage-based ready-to-drink (RTD) brand. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The Mark Anthony Group of Companies (MAG), widely credited with defining the hard seltzer category via White Claw®, has announced the acquisition of The Finnish Long Drink. The strategic move is designed to transition the fast-rising RTD brand from a high-growth "cult favourite" to a mainstream North American staple, utilising MAG's extensive distribution network and commercial expertise. Before the acquisition, MAG served as the exclusive Canadian distributor for the brand. This transaction marks a formal integration of the two entities, providing The Finnish Long Drink with the institutional backing required to compete at scale in the increasingly crowded premium RTD sector. Synergy and Scaling Infrastructure The acquisition is a calculated double-down by Mark Anthony Group on the functional and flavour-led beverage categories. Phil Rosse, CEO of MAG, emphasised that the focus is on scaling brands that maintain a clear point of difference. By integrating The Finnish Long Drink into a portfolio that already includes Mike’s Hard Lemonade and Cayman Jack, MAG is attempting to: Capture the "Heritage" Demographic : Appealing to consumers who value brand backstory and authentic origin. Leverage a Proven Sales Engine : Applying the same "blitzscaling" tactics that drove White Claw to a dominant market share. Optimise Cross-Border Logistics : Consolidating North American operations under a single, vertically integrated entity. Heritage and Category Origin: The 1952 Legacy The Finnish Long Drink is based on a "long drink" (lonkero) category created by the Finnish government for the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics. The drink, typically a blend of gin and grapefruit soda, remained a regional staple for seven decades before being introduced to the U.S. market in 2018 by founders Mikael Taipale, Ere Manner, Sakari Manninen, and Evan Burns. The brand's success has been bolstered by a high-profile "superfan" culture, including co-owner and actor Miles Teller. The ability to maintain this authentic "Finnish heritage" while scaling for a mass American audience will be a primary focus for MAG’s marketing organisation. Transition from Distribution to Acquisition The deal represents a natural progression of the existing relationship between the two companies. In Canada, MAG’s distribution efforts helped establish The Finnish Long Drink as one of the fastest-growing offerings in the market. Evan Burns, Co-Founder and CEO of The Finnish Long Drink, noted that joining MAG allows the brand to "leverage their track record of scaling iconic RTD brands," providing an immediate opportunity to introduce the product to a much broader audience than could be reached as an independent entity. The "Long Drink" Category As the RTD market continues to evolve beyond malt-based seltzers toward spirit-based and heritage-heavy options, the "long drink" category is positioned as a sophisticated alternative. Industry analysts expect MAG to utilise its retail leverage to secure prime shelf placement and cold-box visibility, often a barrier for smaller, independent RTD brands. The acquisition confirms that major beverage players are looking for brands with "cultural stickiness" and clear category definitions. With the backing of the Mark Anthony Group, The Finnish Long Drink is expected to significantly increase its footprint across the United States and Canada throughout 2026 and 2027, potentially establishing the "long drink" as a permanent sub-category in the North American retail landscape. Business & Finance Mark Anthony Group Acquires The Finnish Long Drink Eddie Sanders April 15, 2026 Technology Circus SE Completes Acquisition of Belgian Food Robotics Firm Alberts Business & Finance Dole Nordic Acquires Greenfood Fresh Produce Division to Expand Regional Footprint Business & Finance Vitamin Well Group Acquires EMPWR Nutrition Group Business & Finance Solina Acquires Epicurean Butter to Enhance Dairy Flavour Solutions Business & Finance Beverage Related news