Rao's Homemade has expanded its premium Italian sauce portfolio with two new mascarpone-infused creamy tomato SKUs comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Rao's Homemade, a prominent leader in the premium Italian culinary sector, has announced the national rollout of two new permanent additions to its portfolio: Creamy Roasted Garlic and Creamy Peppered Parmesan . The strategic launch represents a calculated effort by the organisation to expand its footprint in the high-margin "premium indulgence" segment of the ambient grocery aisle. By incorporating authentic Italian mascarpone cheese into its signature slow-simmered tomato base, the brand is targeting the modern home cook who prioritises restaurant-quality flavour and texture-driven culinary solutions. Premium Italian Sauce Sector In a highly competitive ambient grocery landscape, brand differentiation requires a continuous focus on premiumisation. While standard red sauces often face commoditisation and intense price competition, value-added creamy segments are experiencing rapid value growth. By introducing these new creamy, dairy-infused formulations, Rao's Homemade is capitalising on this market migration. The strategy is designed to encourage consumers to upgrade their weekly pasta night into an elevated dining ritual, increasing the average basket value for retail partners. The launch allows the brand to capture incremental sales from households that may be dining out less frequently due to macroeconomic factors but are willing to pay a premium for high-integrity, authentic ingredients at home. Technical Formulation and Dairy Sourcing Replicating the delicate, velvety texture of a restaurant-style cream sauce within a shelf-stable, jarred format represents a major food science and research and development milestone. Many mass-market brands rely heavily on synthetic thickeners, starch-based stabilisers, or heavy cream concentrates that can separate over time or dull the natural acidity of the tomatoes. Rao's Homemade resolves this technical challenge through the deliberate integration of Italian mascarpone cheese : Textural Velvet: Mascarpone, a mild and creamy Italian cheese, acts as a natural emulsifier, delivering a luxurious, cohesive mouthfeel that clings perfectly to diverse pasta geometries. Flavour Balance: The rich, buttery notes of the cheese are engineered to soften and balance the bright, natural acidity of the brand's slow-simmered Italian tomatoes. The range launches with two distinct, high-intensity flavour profiles: Creamy Roasted Garlic: This variant blends the signature tomato-mascarpone base with deep, caramelised notes of slow-roasted garlic, creating a highly savoury sauce with significant depth on the palate. Creamy Peppered Parmesan: A sophisticated, multi-layered formulation that pairs the creamy base with real Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, finished with the sharp, warm kick of cracked black pepper. Ethan R. Holmes, Executive Chef at Rao's Homemade, stated that premium Italian tomatoes remain the essential foundation for every sauce the brand manufactures. Holmes noted that the inclusion of mascarpone cheese creates a highly balanced, versatile liquid that seamlessly elevates classic pasta dishes whilst complementing a wide variety of contemporary recipes. The introduction of the Creamy Roasted Garlic and Creamy Peppered Parmesan SKUs is supported by strong historical data. In May 2025, the brand made its initial entry into the creamy sub-category with the national launch of Rao's Homemade Creamy Marinara. The performance metrics for that launch validated the brand's premium dairy strategy: Category Dominance: The Creamy Marinara SKU rapidly ascended to become the number one new product in the highly competitive Italian sauce category. Award Recognition: The formulation secured multiple prestigious industry awards for its quality, taste, and close replication of the professional restaurant experience. By leveraging the established consumer trust and high retail velocity of this existing line, the brand is de-risking its latest expansion, ensuring that the new garlic and parmesan variants enter the market with a pre-verified audience of brand loyalists. New Products Rao's Homemade Scales Premium Portfolio With Creamy Tomato Sauce Launch Eddie Sanders May 19, 2026 New Products Asda Targets US Flavour Trends with Launch of Ranch Style Mayonnaise New Products Chosen Foods Launches Avocado Oil Chilli Dipping Sauce to Expand Condiment Platform New Products Briannas Launches Avocado Oil Salad Dressing Range New Products Tabañero Expands into Barbecue Category with Seven Clean Label Sauces Sauces Food New Products Related news

Gorgie has expanded its functional beverage portfolio with the launch of Rocket Pop Protein, a sugar-free energy drink delivering 8g of whey protein. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Active nutrition and wellness brand Gorgie has announced the launch of its newest product formulation, Rocket Pop Protein, expanding its hybrid protein-energy drink portfolio ahead of the summer trading window. The product rollout represents a significant brand extension that introduces a nostalgic, summer-themed flavour profile to the company's established functional line-up. The beverage is entering retail distribution immediately, with physical shelf placement systematically scaling across national supermarkets and digital storefronts. The launch highlights an ongoing transition in the functional beverage and active nutrition sectors, where manufacturers are increasingly developing multi-benefit products that combine sports nutrition metrics with everyday energy ingredients. Hybrid Formulations The development of the Gorgie protein-energy range was directly informed by changing consumer purchasing patterns, as wellness-focused demographics look for consolidated, multi-occasion drinks to support active routines and midday recovery. While standard energy drinks rely heavily on high-dose synthetic stimulants and carbonated sugar bases, the Gorgie range is formulated with clean-label, functional ingredients. Each 12-ounce (approximately 354ml) can delivers 8 grams of complete protein derived from premium whey protein isolate. The technical development of the range required balancing the clean taste profile of the natural fruit flavours with the delicate texture of the whey protein. The formulation details include: Natural Stimulant Base – Each can contains 150 milligrams of caffeine sourced from green tea to provide a smooth, sustained energy boost. Cognitive and Metabolic Fortification – Infused with L-theanine to support focus, alongside biotin and vitamins B6 and B12 for everyday wellness. Sugar and Sweetener Control – Formulated with zero sugar and contains no artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, sucralose, or erythritol. The addition of the new variant expands Gorgie's protein-energy drink lineup, which focuses on delivering bold, dessert-inspired profiles: 🍒 Rocket Pop Protein – A summer-themed blend featuring a mix of cherry, citrus, and berry notes to mimic the profile of a classic red, white, and blue ice lolly. 🍓 Strawberry Pop – A bright, sweet, and classic strawberry-flavoured formulation. 🍍 Power Punch – A tropical, fruit-forward option blending pineapple and raspberry flavours. Retail According to Michelle Cordeiro Grant, founder and Chief Executive Officer of Gorgie, the brand’s product pipeline remains heavily focused on combining clean-label functionality with consumer demand for nostalgic flavours. She noted that the new summer launch was developed to engage the brand’s highly active community, translating historical summer memories into a modern, health-conscious format. To support the commercial launch, the company is utilising a dual-track distribution model that merges direct-to-consumer (DTC) digital app engagement with physical mass-market retail. Prior to entering national retail channels, Gorgie executed an exclusive, early access "First Sips" campaign via its proprietary digital app, Club G. The app-based rollout allowed the brand to capture immediate consumer sentiment, generate organic digital interest, and secure first-party purchasing data before scaling the product. Following the digital campaign, Rocket Pop Protein is entering physical retail distribution nationwide: Target Corporation – Securing immediate shelf-space density across the retailer's national estate, where Gorgie currently ranks as a top-selling brand in its category. Digital E-Commerce – Immediate availability for multi-pack orders and digital subscription delivery via the brand's primary website. Founded in 2022, the female-led beverage startup has recorded rapid volume and value growth since launching its first sparkling energy lines in 2023. By leveraging its established national supply chain and direct retail partnerships, the brand continues to scale its presence, helping grocery partners drive average basket values in the competitive functional beverage department. New Products Gorgie Launches Rocket Pop Protein Energy Drink Eddie Sanders June 18, 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 New Products Energy Drinks Beverage Related news

Private equity firm Redwood Holdings has reached an agreement to acquire Newly Weds Foods, a US-based supplier of batters, breadings, coatings, spices, and seasonings, for approximately $4 billion, according to Reuters. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Private equity firm Redwood Holdings has reached an agreement to acquire Newly Weds Foods, a US-based supplier of batters, breadings, coatings, spices, and seasonings, for approximately $4 billion, according to Reuters. Founded in 1932 by Paul Angell, Newly Weds Foods is a longstanding player in the processed food ingredients sector, with a portfolio serving manufacturers across the US. The company pioneered technologies including sheet cake rolling for desserts and innovative combinations with ice cream. The sale follows the death of Charles Angell, who had led the business after taking over from his father, prompting the Angell family to explore a potential exit. Redwood Holdings, a family office established by billionaires Jim Davis and Steve Bisciotti, is reported to have executed one of the largest transactions undertaken by a family office to date. Brian Johnson, CEO of Newly Weds Foods, will remain in his role following completion of the deal, ensuring continuity in leadership. Both parties have declined to comment further on the transaction. The acquisition highlights continued investor interest in the US food ingredients market, particularly in companies with heritage brands, technical expertise, and scalable product portfolios. Business & Finance Redwood Holdings to acquire Newly Weds Foods in $4bn deal October 18, 2023 Ingredients Business & Finance Related news

Restaurant365 has strengthened its executive leadership team with the appointments of Steve Demchuk as Chief Product Officer and Mark Grilli as Chief Marketing Officer to accelerate the growth of its AI-powered back-office platform. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Restaurant365, a leading AI restaurant management platform, has announced the expansion of its executive leadership team with two high-profile appointments. Steve Demchuk joins the company as Chief Product Officer, while Mark Grilli has been named Chief Marketing Officer. The additions to the C-suite are designed to reinforce the company’s position in the restaurant technology sector, specifically targeting accelerated growth and disciplined execution within the emerging "AI back-office" category. Leadership for AI Platform Scaling The dual appointments come at a critical juncture for Restaurant365 as it looks to scale its operations and meet the increasing demand for automated, data-driven restaurant management tools. Tony Smith, CEO and Co-founder of Restaurant365, stated that both executives bring innovative mindsets and proven track records of high-impact results. Smith emphasised that their combined strength in product development and go-to-market strategy will accelerate the company's core mission: providing operators with a purpose-built platform that drives profitability and sustainable growth. Product Innovation and Engineering As Chief Product Officer, Steve Demchuk brings over 25 years of experience in software engineering and product leadership. His professional background includes driving revenue growth and innovation at high-growth technology companies, including Nitric, Bonusly, Avoka (acquired by Temenos), and Rally Software (acquired by CA Technologies). Demchuk’s deep domain expertise spans several critical areas for Restaurant365's ongoing development: SaaS Architecture: Scaling enterprise-level software solutions. Fintech Integration: Enhancing the financial and accounting capabilities of the platform. Cloud Development: Ensuring robust, secure, and agile infrastructure for end-users. In his new role, Demchuk will lead the product strategy and engineering teams, tasked with delivering the next wave of AI-driven innovation to help restaurant operators navigate an increasingly complex operational landscape. Go To Market and Brand Expansion Mark Grilli assumes the role of Chief Marketing Officer with more than two decades of leadership experience across all aspects of software marketing. He joins Restaurant365 from CommerceHub (now Rithum), a leading commerce operations platform, where he served as CMO. Prior to that, Grilli led product marketing divisions for global tech giants including Zendesk and Adobe. Grilli’s mandate at Restaurant365 includes leading the company's overarching brand strategy, demand generation, and go-to-market execution. He noted that the platform has already established a passionate customer base and a strong market presence, identifying significant room for further category expansion as more operators transition to integrated digital management systems. The strengthening of the leadership team underscores Restaurant365's commitment to capitalising on its current market momentum. As the hospitality industry continues to face margin pressures, labour shortages, and complex supply chain dynamics, operators are increasingly reliant on AI and automated back-office solutions. By securing veteran leadership in both the product and marketing divisions, Restaurant365 is actively positioning itself to dominate the next phase of enterprise growth within the restaurant management software sector. People Restaurant365 Appoints New Chief Product and Marketing Officers News April 30, 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 The Hershey Company Appoints Heather Hoytink as President of US Foodservice Business & Finance Technology People Related news

Unilever-owned ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s has unveiled its latest limited-edition flavour, Marshmallow Sky, marking the newest addition to the brand’s indulgent ice cream line-up. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Unilever-owned ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s has unveiled its latest limited-edition flavour, Marshmallow Sky, marking the newest addition to the brand’s indulgent ice cream line-up. The new variety features a blue marshmallow-flavoured ice cream base swirled with marshmallow ribbons and mixed with chocolate chip cookie dough chunks. The flavour’s signature sky-blue hue is derived from blue spirulina, a natural ingredient containing phycocyanin, a pigment known for its vibrant colour and antioxidant properties. Ben & Jerry’s said that the use of spirulina was intended not only for its visual appeal but also for its potential nutritional benefits. Phycocyanin is recognised for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, while spirulina is a source of protein, B vitamins, iron and copper. Though some studies suggest spirulina may support heart health and have anticarcinogenic potential, Ben & Jerry’s emphasised that its inclusion primarily enhances the product’s natural colouring and better-for-you positioning. Marshmallow Sky will be available for a limited time in pint format at US retailers, while Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shops will feature the flavour as a permanent menu item. The launch reflects Ben & Jerry’s continued focus on novelty flavours and natural ingredients, as the brand balances indulgence with consumer demand for clean-label and functional food elements. Dairy Ben & Jerry’s releases limited-edition Marshmallow Sky ice cream March 4, 2024 Dairy Ben & Jerry's Expands Top-Performing 'Sundaes' Line with Three New Flavours New Products Ben & Jerry’s Expands into Handhelds with New Ice Cream Bars for 2026 New Products Ben & Jerry’s Launches Two New Bakery-Inspired Ice Creams Dairy Ben & Jerry’s Co-Founder Jerry Greenfield Resigns After 47 Years Amid Tensions with Unilever New Products Dairy Related news

Asda has announced a partnership with Amazon Ads to implement the Amazon Retail Ad Service across its digital platforms. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Retail ASDA The Newsroom Asda has announced a partnership with Amazon Ads to implement the Amazon Retail Ad Service across its digital platforms. This initiative marks the first time the Amazon Retail Ad Service has been deployed by a retailer outside of the United States. The partnership is scheduled to begin a phased rollout starting in Q4 2026. It aims to integrate Amazon’s advertising technology with Asda’s online grocery and George retail platforms. Technological Integration and Targeting The collaboration will utilise the Amazon Retail Ad Service, which is built on two decades of retail media experience and machine learning capabilities. By applying this technology to Asda’s online platforms, the retailer intends to deliver more relevant advertisements based on consumer shopping behaviour and intent. For Asda, the objective is to improve the user experience by helping customers navigate product discovery more efficiently. For brands, the integration provides access to more precise targeting tools, enabling them to connect with shoppers through enhanced insight and data-driven ad placements. Benefits for Advertisers The partnership is designed to streamline the campaign planning and execution process for advertisers. By utilising the Amazon Ads interface, brands will gain access to: Simplified campaign management through familiar Amazon Ads tools. Consistent cross-platform reporting to measure impact and reach. Scalability across both Asda’s platforms and Amazon Ads inventory. By centralising these functions, the initiative aims to reduce the complexity often associated with managing retail media campaigns in a fragmented market. Industry Perspective Rachel Eyre, Chief Customer and Digital Officer at Asda, stated that the partnership supports the company's objective to improve the online shopping experience. She noted that the collaboration offers brand partners a more effective way to reach customers through measurable campaigns. Joseph Park, VP, Creative Experiences and AI Solutions at Amazon Ads, added that the partnership makes it easier for advertisers to engage with Asda and George shoppers. By leveraging existing ad technology, brands can show up at key moments within the purchase journey with greater consistency. Retail Asda Partners with Amazon Ads for UK Retail Media Rollout Eddie Sanders June 24, 2026 New Products Asda Targets US Flavour Trends with Launch of Ranch Style Mayonnaise Retail Kroger Announces $1.65B Agreement to Acquire Giant Eagle Retail Co-op Group Departure of Managing Director and Two Leadership Members Retail Tesco Expands Clubcard for 16 and 17 Year Olds Technology Marketing Retail Business & Finance Related news

Del Sol Food Company’s premium dressing brand Briannas has expanded its portfolio with the launch of six salad dressings formulated comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Premium salad dressing manufacturer Briannas has expanded its product portfolio with the national launch of six new salad dressings formulated with 100% avocado oil. The product rollout introduces five recreated variations of the brand's best-selling "Home Style" flavours alongside a newly developed Mediterranean-inspired vinaigrette. The expansion is designed to address rising consumer and retail demand for clean-label condiments made with premium, heart-friendly alternative oils. The new range is entering major retail distribution networks immediately, offering supermarket and grocery operators a premium option to drive volume sales in the competitive condiment and marinade aisles. Category Expansion and Ingredient Trends The decision to expand the avocado oil line highlights a broader shift in the premium condiments sector, where health-conscious shoppers are increasingly seeking out functional ingredients and healthy fats. To align with modern nutritional standards and clean-label purchasing criteria, the six new dressings are formulated to deliver monounsaturated fats. The entire lineup is manufactured without canola oil, soy, gluten, or high-fructose corn syrup, appealing directly to consumers managing specific dietary exclusions. According to Jenny Van Dorf, Senior Director of Marketing & Communication for Del Sol Food Company, the parent firm of Briannas, modern home cooks are increasingly looking to elevate everyday meals using high-quality ingredients. She noted that the new range is engineered to combine the nutritional benefits of 100% avocado oil with the bold, familiar taste profiles that have defined the brand's core portfolio. New Product Formulations The product rollout comprises six distinct flavour-forward formulations developed for versatile application across salads, marinades, and dipping recipes: 🇬🇷 Avocado Oil Greek Vinaigrette – A newly developed, bright and savoury profile combining honey, oregano, and garlic to deliver classic Mediterranean notes. 🍷 Avocado Oil Blush Wine Vinaigrette – A tangy, refreshing vinaigrette formulated with a splash of red wine vinegar. 🍯 Avocado Oil Honey Mustard Dressing – A rich and tangy blend featuring Dijon mustard, sweet honey, and warm spices. 🫒 Avocado Oil Italian Vinaigrette – A classic, savoury herb blend incorporating chopped olives, extra virgin olive oil, and premium avocado oil. 🌱 Avocado Oil Poppy Seed Dressing – Based on the brand's top-selling "Home Style" recipe, this sweet and creamy dressing features a hint of onion and poppy seeds. 🇫🇷 Avocado Oil Real French Vinaigrette – A bold, crisp dressing seasoned with garlic and pepper to provide savoury brightness with no added sugar. Retail Distribution and Portfolio Versatility The launch of the avocado oil collection is designed to strengthen Briannas' position within the premium speciality condiments space. By offering a diverse selection of Homestyle, Organic, Sugar-Free, and Avocado Oil options, the brand provides retail partners with a highly segmented product line to attract different consumer demographics. To support the commercial volume scale-up, Briannas is executing a broad physical and digital retail rollout. The new dressings are currently entering major supermarket shelves nationwide, alongside direct consumer availability through the brand's proprietary e-commerce platform. Established in 1982 and manufactured in Brenham, Texas, Briannas operates as a key brand under Del Sol Food Company. Over more than 44 years of operations, the gourmet dressing manufacturer has built its business model around small-batch production and high-quality raw materials, supporting retail partners globally with an extensive catalogue of gluten-free, trans-fat-free, and Kosher-certified culinary solutions. New Products Briannas Launches Avocado Oil Salad Dressing Range Eddie Sanders June 9, 2026 New Products Asda Targets US Flavour Trends with Launch of Ranch Style Mayonnaise New Products Chosen Foods Launches Avocado Oil Chilli Dipping Sauce to Expand Condiment Platform New Products Tabañero Expands into Barbecue Category with Seven Clean Label Sauces New Products Katies Pizza And Pasta Expands with New Pasta Bakes and Sauces Sauces New Products Related news

The achievement marks a significant philanthropic milestone for the retailer, driven by a combination of in-store customer donations, vendor contributions, and corporate events. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Convenience retail giant 7-Eleven, Inc. has announced that it raised over $14 million in 2025 to support Children's Miracle Network Hospitals®. The funds, generated across the company’s portfolio of brands including 7-Eleven®, Speedway®, and Stripes®, will support 113 local children's hospitals across the United States. The achievement marks a significant philanthropic milestone for the retailer, driven by a combination of in-store customer donations, vendor contributions, and corporate events. Fundraising Mechanics and the $3m Tournament The 2025 total was achieved through a multi-channel approach. While Speedway locations operated year-round in-store campaigns, 7-Eleven and Stripes stores focused on seasonal fundraising spikes during the summer and holiday periods. A substantial portion of the total—more than $3 million —was raised during a single event: the 34th Miracle Tournament and Celebration Dinner held in Enon, Ohio, in June 2025. Strategic Shift for 2026: The Year-Round Commitment Coinciding with the results announcement, 7-Eleven, Inc. has confirmed a major operational shift for its 2026 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy. The company is expanding its commitment by implementing year-round in-store fundraising across all 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes locations, moving away from the seasonal model used in parts of the estate previously. Treasa Bowers , Executive Vice President and Chief People & Sustainability Officer at 7-Eleven, Inc., commented on the expansion: "In 2026, we're expanding that commitment by offering in-store fundraising year-round across all 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes store locations. By investing in children's health today, we are helping communities thrive for generations to come." Historical Context and Impact The partnership between the retailer and the non-profit is one of the longest-standing in the convenience sector. Since 1991, 7-Eleven, Inc. has raised more than $200 million for Children's Miracle Network. The program is structured so that every dollar raised stays within the local community, directly benefiting the store's nearest partner hospital to fund lifesaving care and research. Aimee J. Daily, Ph.D. , President & CEO of Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, highlighted the scale of the support: "At Children's Miracle Network, we are grateful for more than three decades of extraordinary support from 7-Eleven, Inc. ... This sustained relationship demonstrates a deep commitment to children's health, inspiring hope and strengthening our shared mission throughout the year." Retail 7-Eleven Inc. Raises $14m for Children’s Miracle Network in 2025; Expands to Year-Round Fundraising Model News January 28, 2026 Business & Finance Ingredion Completes Sale of Majority Stake in Pakistan Business Rafhan Maize Ingredients Awani Capital Management Partners with Kalustyan to Accelerate Speciality Ingredients Growth Business & Finance Midera Food Processing Prepares for Independence with $1B Credit Deal Retail Asda Reports Almost £1bn Annual Loss Against Rising Aldi Threat and IT Separation Costs Retail Business & Finance Related news

British supermarket group Asda has reported a widened pre-tax loss of £989 million for 2025, driven by £656 million in exceptional costs. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Retail ASDA The Newsroom British supermarket group Asda slumped deeper into the red for the 2025 financial year, reporting a pre-tax loss of £989 million as the business absorbed heavy pricing investments and significant transition expenses. The annual accounts, filed on Friday, show that Britain's third-largest grocer recorded a 65 per cent widening of its pre-tax loss, up from £599 million in the previous fiscal year. Total sales, including fuel, declined by 3.4 per cent to £25.9 billion. The financial results reflect a demanding operational window for the supermarket chain, which is majority-owned by private equity firm TDR Capital, with former parent company Walmart retaining a 10 per cent minority stake. Financial Performance and Debt Realities Despite the statutory deficit, the retailer's underlying balance sheet showed some signs of restructuring. The core financial metrics from the annual report include: 📊 Pretax Loss – Widening to £989 million in 2025, compared to £599 million in the previous year. 📉 Total Sales – Falling 3.4 per cent to £25.9 billion, down from the previous trading period. 💸 Debt Position – Net debt was reduced by £500 million, bringing the company's total outstanding debt down to £3.1 billion. Although the bottom-line numbers indicate a severe loss, company spokespersons maintained that the statutory figures hide a highly cash-generative underlying business. The group has continued to direct capital toward debt paydown to lower long-term interest overheads. Technical Separation and Exceptional Costs A substantial portion of the annual pre-tax loss is attributed to a series of one-off exceptional charges totalling £656 million. These structural costs represent the financial impact of separating the company's core operations from its former corporate parent: 💻 IT Separation – Exceptional costs of £284 million were incurred to complete the troubled IT separation from Walmart, a logistics transition that disrupted product availability on supermarket shelves during the year. 🏢 Property Impairment – A non-cash impairment charge of £344 million was recorded following a comprehensive revaluation of Asda's physical property portfolio. The IT separation has now been completed, which is expected to eliminate transitional system expenses in future financial periods and stabilise on-shelf product availability. Pricing and the Discount Threat Under the leadership of Executive Chairman Allan Leighton, Asda has pursued an aggressive price-investment programme. The pricing initiative is designed to keep the supermarket's everyday shelf prices between 5 per cent and 10 per cent cheaper than traditional rivals. While the strategy succeeded in protecting value-sensitive shoppers from persistent food inflation, the deliberate price-cutting suppressed gross profit margins, contributing directly to the widened pre-tax deficit. This pricing investment is a response to the rapid market expansion of German discount retailer Aldi. The competitive dynamics in the UK grocery landscape have tightened significantly: Market Share Squeeze – Aldi has steadily closed the gap on the "big three" retailers, securing a 10.8 per cent share of the UK grocery market, placing it less than one percentage point behind Asda. Store Rollout – The discounter's continuous opening of new locations has successfully attracted middle-income and budget-conscious consumers away from larger, traditional supermarket formats. Asda's management noted that while sales declines continued into the first half of 2026, the overall rate of decline is beginning to slow. Moving forward, the company plans to leverage its completed IT framework and optimised pricing structures to rebuild regional market share and drive category volume. Retail Asda Reports Almost £1bn Annual Loss Against Rising Aldi Threat and IT Separation Costs Eddie Sanders June 19, 2026 New Products Asda Targets US Flavour Trends with Launch of Ranch Style Mayonnaise Retail Kroger Announces $1.65B Agreement to Acquire Giant Eagle Retail Co-op Group Departure of Managing Director and Two Leadership Members Retail Tesco Expands Clubcard for 16 and 17 Year Olds Retail Business & Finance Related news

Kellanova-owned clean-label snack brand RXBAR is diversifying its portfolio with a significant format innovation, announcing the launch of RXBAR Protein Energy Bites. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food Kellanova The Newsroom Kellanova-owned clean-label snack brand RXBAR is diversifying its portfolio with a significant format innovation, announcing the launch of RXBAR Protein Energy Bites . Moving beyond its signature bar format, the new product line aims to disrupt the protein snacking category by targeting the underutilised "bites" segment. While currently accounting for just 1% of the protein and wellness snack market, the brand has identified a growing consumer appetite for smaller, texture-rich options that do not compromise on nutritional density or ingredient simplicity. Product Architecture and Form The new bites are engineered to offer a multi-textural experience, featuring a chewy outer layer encasing a creamy peanut butter filling. True to the brand's "No B.S." promise, the formulation relies on a concise list of recognisable ingredients, including peanut butter, egg whites, dates, and apples. Nutritional Profile (per serving): Protein: 8–10 grams Fibre: "Good source" (addressing the fibre gap in standard American diets) Additives: No added sugar or fillers. Flavour Variants: Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter: A chocolatey shell with roasted peanuts and a peanut butter centre. Strawberry Peanut Butter: A fruit-forward profile with strawberry notes and a peanut butter centre. The launch represents a calculated move to capture "pick-me-up" snacking occasions where a full bar might be too substantial. Eileen Flaherty-Yao , Senior Director of Brand Marketing at Kellanova, commented on the expansion strategy: "RXBAR Protein Energy Bites are a natural next step for the brand. People want convenient, bite-sized snacks made with simple ingredients and great flavour, and this innovation delivers exactly that. By pairing protein with a good source of fibre in a novel format, we're offering an easy way to stay energised no matter what the day looks like, and a whole new way to enjoy RXBAR." The product is packaged in portable pouches containing two portioned bites, designed for on-the-go consumption. The range is rolling out immediately to retailers nationwide and is also available via the brand's direct-to-consumer platform. Snacking RXBAR Expands Beyond Bars with Launch of Filled 'Protein Energy Bites' December 9, 2025 New Products Perfect Snacks Introduces Oaties Protein Bar Range New Products Honestly I Am Expands Protein Bar Range with Two New Flavours New Products INDI Expands Functional Snacking Portfolio with Brain Bar Launch New Products Lemme Introduces New Creatine Gummy Flavours New Products Snacking Food Health & Nutrition Related news

Digital health startup Caloria has announced its official entry into the wellness market, introducing an AI-powered nutrition optimisation app designed specifically to address the complexities of modern metabolic health. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Digital health startup Caloria has announced its official entry into the wellness market, introducing an AI-powered nutrition optimisation app designed specifically to address the complexities of modern metabolic health. Founded by Dr. Eiriny Eskander , a double board-certified internal medicine and endocrinology physician, the platform distinguishes itself from standard calorie trackers by prioritising "nutrition awareness" over aggressive weight loss. The app is positioned as a critical tool for populations often underserved by one-size-fits-all tech, including individuals navigating GLP-1 medications , PCOS, diabetes, and menopause. Technology: Frictionless Photo Recognition Caloria addresses a primary failure point in traditional diet tracking: compliance. Citing that only about 10% of patients successfully maintain traditional food journals, the app utilises AI-powered photo recognition to automate the logging process. Users simply snap a photo of their meal to receive instant calorie and macronutrient data, eliminating the need for weighing, measuring, or manual data entry. Key Features: Visual Logging: Low-friction entry mechanism via camera. Metabolic Context: Insights tailored to muscle preservation and blood sugar balance rather than just caloric deficit. No Manual Entry: Designed for busy lifestyles to reduce "tracking fatigue." Beyond the Scale The app was born out of Dr. Eskander’s clinical frustration with existing tools that failed to account for the nuance of metabolic conditions. Dr. Eiriny Eskander explained the philosophy: "People are being told to track everything perfectly at a time when their lives are already overwhelming. Caloria was created to turn the light on for nutrition—without shame, obsession, or diet culture. There's so much more to health than the number on the scale. Muscle mass, insulin sensitivity, cholesterol, blood sugar, and long-term metabolic stability all matter." Market Traction and Roadmap Since its quiet rollout, Caloria reports having already surpassed 20,000 downloads . This early engagement indicates a strong market appetite for science-backed tools that support the "GLP-1 era" of weight management, where understanding food quality is as critical as quantity to prevent muscle loss. Future updates are scheduled to expand the AI's capabilities, introducing personalised guidance and deeper metabolic coaching features grounded in Dr. Eskander's clinical methodology. Technology Endocrinologist-Founded 'Caloria' App Uses AI to Support Metabolic Health for GLP-1 and PCOS Patients News January 27, 2026 Health & Nutrition Coalition for Metabolic Health Launches Series of Congressional Briefings on Nutrition New Products Mia Launches High Fibre Protein Shake Business & Finance SUANNUTRA USA Secures North American Rights for TetraSOD Marine Bioactive New Products Oroweat Targets GLP-1 and Wellness Trends With New Protein Bread Line New Solutions Technology Health & Nutrition Related news

The investment, which includes $1 million in recurring annual support, upgrades the infrastructure at the university's Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Centre (FAPC). comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Oklahoma State University (OSU) has significantly expanded its food processing and applied research capabilities through a $7 million state-supported modernisation initiative , anchored by the installation of a new Hiperbaric 55 High Pressure Processing (HPP) system. The investment, which includes $1 million in recurring annual support, upgrades the infrastructure at the university's Robert M. Kerr Food & Agricultural Products Centre (FAPC) . By bringing advanced non-thermal processing capacity in-house, OSU is addressing a critical bottleneck for regional food manufacturers who previously had to outsource complex validation services out of state. Bridging R&D and Commercialisation The integration of the Hiperbaric 55 system was heavily driven by FAPC's Industry Advisory Committee, identifying HPP as a priority technology for the local market. High Pressure Processing utilizes hydrostatic pressure rather than heat to inactivate pathogens, effectively extending refrigerated shelf life while maintaining product quality and eliminating the need for chemical preservatives. For the Oklahoma food industry, FAPC's new capability provides direct access to applied research and commercialisation pathways across multiple categories, including: Beverages and Juices Meats and Dairy-Based Products Sauces and Dips Ready-to-Eat (RTE) Foods "The Hiperbaric 55 represents an important step forward for Oklahoma's food industry," stated Dr. Roy Escoubas , Director of the Robert M. Kerr FAPC. "Adding HPP strengthens our ability to help processors validate food safety systems, extend refrigerated shelf life and bring high-quality products to market. This investment ensures companies across the state have access to advanced processing support right here in Oklahoma." Joining the Global HPP Academia Network Concurrent with the installation, OSU has officially joined the Hiperbaric HPP Academia Network , a global consortium of universities, R&D centres, and pilot facilities dedicated to multidisciplinary food innovation. This partnership elevates FAPC’s role from a regional testing centre to a hub for cutting-edge microbiological research and regulatory guidance. Furthermore, the equipment will be utilised for advanced workforce development, enhancing FAPC's existing Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) and HACCP training programs by giving students and industry partners hands-on experience with modern regulatory compliance tools. Strengthening Regional Infrastructure Rob Peregrina , Director of Hiperbaric USA, highlighted the broader trend of academic institutions stepping in to bolster local food supply chains. "Oklahoma State University's investment is a strong signal that applied research institutions are taking an active role in strengthening regional food processing infrastructure," Peregrina noted. "By integrating HPP into FAPC's modernisation initiative, OSU is expanding access to a validated, non-thermal processing technology for food companies across the state. At Hiperbaric, our role goes beyond equipment... ensuring both institutions and processors have the technical foundation to meet evolving food safety standards." As a land-grant institution, OSU’s modernisation initiative successfully positions the university as a critical commercial bridge, helping both food startups and established CPG brands navigate the shift towards "clean-label" processing requirements. Business & Finance Oklahoma State University Invests $7M to Modernise Regional Food Processing with Hiperbaric HPP News February 24, 2026 Plant-based Peruvian Court Orders Vegan Meal Provision at Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos Foodservice Liberty University Renews 10 Year Partnership with Sodexo Technology China Agricultural University and Haidian Canteen Launch AI Foodservice Model Business & Finance Aramark and Grand Canyon University Launch Campus Dining Partnership Manufacturing Business & Finance Related news