Danish gut health innovator Bactolife has successfully closed a Series B investment round, raising over €30 million to accelerate the commercialisation of its proprietary technology. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Danish gut health innovator Bactolife has successfully closed a Series B investment round, raising over €30 million to accelerate the commercialisation of its proprietary technology. The financing was led by Cross Border Impact Ventures (CBIV) and EIFO (Danish Export and Investment Fund), with continued participation from existing cornerstone investors Novo Holdings and Athos. The capital injection is earmarked to transition the company from development to market entry, specifically funding the launch of its "Binding Proteins" platform. Commercial Strategy: The 'Helm' Brand Launch Bactolife is poised to introduce its technology as a new ingredient category for food, feed, and dietary supplements. The company has confirmed plans to launch its first products under the ingredient brand Helm™ for human health, targeting a United States market entry in 2026 . Following the US debut, the strategic roadmap includes expansion into Asia and Europe. Crucially, the rollout includes a commitment to ensuring accessibility for vulnerable demographics (women and children) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Technology: What are Binding Proteins? Bactolife’s innovation represents a novel approach to proactive health management. Unlike traditional probiotics or antibiotics, Binding Proteins are designed to support intestinal resilience by gently binding and neutralising unhealthy metabolites within the gut. The proceeds from the funding round will support: Human Study Program: Execution of clinical validation across the US, EU, Asia, and LMICs. Manufacturing Scale: Ramping up supply chain operations to meet global demand for both human and animal health applications. Sebastian Søderberg , CEO of Bactolife, commented on the transition to a commercial entity: “Today’s successful close of our Series B round sets the stage for exciting years ahead as we prepare to launch our innovative products in 2026. This funding will enable us to clinically validate, scale, and commercialise our Binding Proteins, taking Bactolife’s solutions to a broad audience.” Donna Parr , Managing Partner at Cross Border Impact Ventures, highlighted the dual market potential: “Bactolife’s Binding Proteins have the potential to strengthen gut resilience for mothers and children in low- and middle-income countries by providing a scalable, food-grade solution... At the same time, we are excited about the significant growth opportunity across North America, Europe, and Asia where the market opportunity is massive.” Business & Finance Bactolife Secures €30m Series B to Commercialise 'Binding Protein' Gut Health Tech News January 8, 2026 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Sells Two Million Unicorn Frappuccinos in Record Weekend Business & Finance Millow Secures €2M to Scale Clean Label Oat and Mycelium Protein Alcohol Heineken Cuts 3,000 Roles As First-Half Operating Profit Rises 6.7% Business & Finance Ingredion Completes Sale of Majority Stake in Pakistan Business Rafhan Maize Dairy Ingredients Business & Finance Health & Nutrition Related news

Unilever-owned ice cream giant Ben & Jerry’s has unveiled its latest product innovation for the UK market: the Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich. 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 giant Ben & Jerry’s has unveiled its latest product innovation for the UK market: the Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich . The launch is strategically timed to capitalise on the burgeoning demand for convenient snacking options, a category the brand notes is anticipated to expand by 6.7% over the next three years. This release pivots the brand's best-selling pint flavour into a handheld format designed for versatility. Product Architecture and Ingredients The new SKU reimagines the brand's iconic Cookie Dough profile. The architecture of the sandwich features two soft cookies—infused with vanilla and cocoa swirls—encasing a core of vanilla ice cream studded with signature cookie dough chunks. Aligning with the brand's ethical sourcing commitments, the product is manufactured using Fairtrade Certified ingredients (sugar, vanilla, and cocoa) and eggs sourced from free-range hens. Lucy McManus , UK Brand Manager for Ben & Jerry’s, highlighted the dual-use case for the new format: “We’re excited to introduce our Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich, offering fans a new way to enjoy their favourite flavour. This product is designed for both at-home enjoyment and on-the-go indulgence, allowing consumers to experience cookie dough bliss in a convenient format.” Commercial Availability and Pricing Distribution is scheduled to commence in January 2026 across major UK retailers, with initial listings confirmed at Asda and Morrisons . The product will be available in two distinct formats to serve different shopping missions: Multipack: A four-pack (4 x 68ml) for at-home consumption, with a Suggested Retail Price (SRP) of £5.00 . Impulse: A single sandwich (120ml) for immediate consumption, priced at £2.50 . New Products Ben & Jerry’s Expands Handheld Portfolio with Cookie Dough Ice Cream Sandwich News January 6, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products Retail Tesco Expands Frozen Aisle with 150 New Products New Products Quorn Expands Frozen Takeaway Portfolio with Hot and Spicy Bites New Products Toby Carvery Makes Retail Debut with Frozen Range at Iceland Retail Dairy Food Snacking New Products Related news

Italian machinery specialists Tirelli and Unimac-Gherri have merged to form a unified industrial platform, combining expertise in home care and food processing to drive innovation in robotics and AI. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Italian machinery manufacturers Tirelli and Unimac-Gherri have announced a formal merger to establish a comprehensive industrial platform serving the food, chemical, and home and personal care (HPC) sectors. Under the terms of the transaction, Unimac-Gherri will be integrated into the Tirelli corporate structure as a dedicated division focused exclusively on food-sector applications. The consolidation aims to create an end-to-end service model for global manufacturers, leveraging the specialized engineering backgrounds of both entities to improve operational reliability and technical support across multiple production environments. Integration of Complementary Technologies The merger brings together two distinct but complementary technological portfolios. Tirelli is established in the design of filling, capping, and labeling systems primarily for the home and personal care industries. Unimac-Gherri contributes specialized expertise in piston filling, twist-off capping, and both traditional and robotic end-of-line systems for food production. By combining these capabilities, the new organization can offer a more diverse range of integrated packaging and processing solutions. This synergy is intended to provide food and beverage processors with a single-source partner for complex production lines, reducing the friction often associated with multi-vendor integrations. Focus on Robotics and AI A primary driver behind the consolidation is the acceleration of investment in high-growth technological areas. The unified company has signaled increased R&D spending focused on three core pillars: Robotics : Enhancing end-of-line efficiency and material handling. Artificial Intelligence : Implementing predictive maintenance and smarter production monitoring. Platform Standardization : Developing modular components that can be deployed across different industrial sectors to reduce lead times and spare parts complexity. These investments address the critical needs of modern manufacturers facing rising operational costs and persistent labor shortages. Increased automation and line flexibility are viewed as essential requirements for producers looking to maintain margins in a volatile economic landscape. Operational Structure and Global Presence The merged organization has unified its design, manufacturing, and after-sales services under a single leadership hierarchy. Despite the administrative consolidation, the companies have confirmed that all existing production plants will remain fully operational. Current modernization programs across these facilities are scheduled to continue as planned. The new commercial organization will also focus on strengthening relationships with global key accounts. By presenting a unified front, the company intends to simplify procurement processes for large-scale international manufacturers that require consistent service across multiple geographic regions. Management describes the merger as a new chapter of growth focused on achieving industrial scale and a shared technological vision. By consolidating resources, Tirelli and its new food division aim to strengthen their international footprint and accelerate the delivery of competitive, end-to-end packaging systems. As the packaging machinery market increasingly moves toward integrated, "smart" solutions, the Tirelli and Unimac-Gherri merger represents a proactive shift toward the scale required to compete in the global industrial landscape. The transition to the new organizational structure is effective immediately. Packaging Tirelli and Unimac-Gherri Merge to Create Integrated Packaging Platform News April 9, 2026 Business & Finance Farm Supply Company and Grange Co-op Announce Proposed Merger to Scale Operations Business & Finance Arla Foods and DMK Group Secure Regulatory Approval for Merger Packaging EPL and Indovida Merge to Form $2 Billion Packaging Group Business & Finance McCormick and Unilever Announce $44.8 Billion Food Merger Facilities Packaging Manufacturing Business & Finance Related news

Pizza Hut has introduced a limited-edition Throwback Value Menu featuring items starting at three dollars, supported by a streetwear apparel. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice Pizza Hut The Newsroom Quick-service restaurant giant Pizza Hut has launched a multi-tiered promotional campaign featuring a limited-edition "Throwback Value Menu" alongside digital and physical brand extensions. The initiative includes a fashion brand partnership and gamified in-app loyalty challenges designed to drive digital engagement and restaurant footfall during the summer trading window. The value campaign constitutes a broader efforts by Yum! Brands to capture budget-conscious consumers through nostalgic marketing and structured digital promotions. Menu Structure The temporary value menu is structured around a low price-point model, with individual menu items starting at $3. The campaign aims to recreate the variety of the brand's historic dine-in buffet experience within a modern retail framework. The limited-time menu features established brand classics alongside two brand-new product introductions: 🧀 Triple Cheese Mac : A new baked pasta offering priced at $6. 🍫 S'mores Sticks : A new dessert option featuring toasted marshmallow and chocolate profiles priced at $5. 🍕 Medium Stuffed Crust Pizza : A one-topping pizza option for $10. 🍕 Personal Pan Pizza : A single-topping personal pizza priced at $3. 🥖 Breadsticks : A classic side dish priced at $4. 🥖 Cinnamon Sticks : A sweet dessert option priced at $4. 🥤 Pepsi Two-Litre : A beverage option priced at $3. Melissa Friebe, Chief Marketing Officer for Pizza Hut, stated that the company designed the value menu to bring popular products together at accessible price points, pairing them with interactive digital and physical experiences to build long-term consumer connections. Streetwear Collaboration To expand the campaign's reach beyond the foodservice segment, Pizza Hut has partnered with fashion label Dinner Service NY. The brand is known for redesigning corporate workwear into contemporary streetwear. The limited-edition capsule collection is inspired by the restaurant chain's uniform history, its legacy "BOOK IT!" literacy programme, and retro design assets. The product range includes: Apparel Items : Button-down shirts, camouflage jackets, T-shirts, sweaters, and rugby shirts. Accessories : Hats, tote bags, and socks. The collection will be launched for retail purchase on 16 July 2026. Members of the brand's digital loyalty programme, Hut Rewards, will receive early shopping access to the retail site ahead of the general public. Gamification and App Engagement The final component of the campaign is the "Back to the Hut" digital activation, hosted entirely within the Hut Rewards mobile application. Throughout the summer period, the in-app experience will allow users to complete trivia challenges and interactive tasks focused on the brand's history. By completing these tasks, consumers can unlock digital collectables, unique physical rewards, and promotional discount codes. This integration of gamification is intended to boost monthly active users on the brand's proprietary digital platform, supporting corporate efforts to transition transactional volume toward direct e-commerce channels. Foodservice Pizza Hut Introduces Low Price Throwback Menu alongside Fashion Collaboration Eddie Sanders July 14, 2026 Foodservice Pizza Hut Australia Unveils $10M Brand Overhaul and Network Expansion Business & Finance Yum! Brands Completes $1.5B Pizza Hut Acquisition to LongRange Capital Foodservice California Pizza Kitchen and T-ROC Global to Deploy 1000 Automated Retail Kiosks Foodservice Coco Robotics and Little Caesars Launch Autonomous Robot Pizza Delivery Foodservice Marketing Related news

Premium treats manufacturer Second Nature Brands has agreed to acquire Tillamook Country Smoker, marking its entry comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Premium snacks and treats manufacturer Second Nature Brands has agreed to acquire Tillamook Country Smoker from Insignia Capital Group and its family shareholders. The transaction marks the Chicago-headquartered company's first expansion into the protein snacks market, adding to its established portfolio of better-for-you snacking brands. The acquisition arrives during a period of sustained consumer demand for portable, protein-dense options, with the broader meat snacks category currently valued at more than $5 billion. By integrating Tillamook Country Smoker into its operations, Second Nature Brands aims to scale the brand's retail footprint and leverage joint manufacturing and distribution capabilities across the United States. The financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, and the deal is expected to close in the coming months, subject to customary closing conditions. Category Entry and Product Portfolio The acquisition introduces a high-growth, clean-label protein portfolio to Second Nature Brands' existing lineup, which includes Kar's Nuts, Second Nature Snacks, Sahale Snacks, Sanders, Brownie Brittle, and Voortman. Tillamook Country Smoker is recognised for its focus on simple, all-natural ingredients and zero-sugar formulations. The brand's core product portfolio is manufactured to meet clean-label, on-the-go snacking standards: 🥩 Beef Jerky – High-protein, zero-sugar meat snacks seasoned with natural spices. 🥢 Beef Sticks – Portable, shelf-stable beef sticks developed for convenience channels. 🌭 Smoked Sausages – Premium smoked sausages crafted from simple, natural ingredients. Operational Scale and Manufacturing Infrastructure The transaction includes the acquisition of Tillamook Country Smoker’s physical production assets and workforce. With annual sales exceeding $175 million, the company operates two manufacturing facilities in Oregon and employs approximately 480 people. Under the new ownership structure, these best-in-class processing assets will continue to serve as the primary production hub for the brand's meat snacks range. According to Adam Butler, Chief Executive Officer of Second Nature Brands, the acquisition aligns with the business's focus on quality ingredients, innovation, and taste. He noted that the growing consumer demand for clean-label protein snacks presents opportunities to introduce Tillamook's portfolio to a wider audience by utilising the group's commercial resources and supply chain network. Shane Chambers, Chief Executive Officer of Tillamook Country Smoker, added that the partnership with Second Nature Brands will support the brand's next phase of growth, pointing out that both organisations share a commitment to delivering high-quality, convenient nutrition. Corporate and Portfolio Consolidation The acquisition of Tillamook Country Smoker represents the latest step in Second Nature Brands’ ongoing portfolio consolidation strategy, which is backed by private equity firm CapVest Partners LLP. Since 2022, the company has actively reshaped its snacking portfolio through targeted acquisitions to build a comprehensive, multi-category snack platform: 2022 – Completed the acquisition of bakery brand Brownie Brittle. 2023 – Acquired premium nut and fruit brand Sahale Snacks from J.M. Smucker. 2024 – Finalised the acquisition of sugar-free cookie manufacturer Voortman. 2026 – Agreed the acquisition of Tillamook Country Smoker to enter the protein snack sector. To facilitate the transaction, Solomon Partners acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Second Nature Brands. The consolidated group will continue to focus its research and development on better-for-you snacking trends, helping retail and grocery partners drive volume growth and increase basket sizes in the premium convenience aisles. Business & Finance Second Nature Brands Acquires Tillamook Country Smoker Eddie Sanders June 8, 2026 Business & Finance General Mills Completes Sale of Brazil Business to 3corações Alcohol Sazerac Expands Kentucky Bourbon Network with Acquisition of Garrard County Distilling Business & Finance GrubMarket Enters UK Market with Acquisition of JR Holland Business & Finance Pilgrim's Europe to Acquire Walkers Deli and Sausage from Samworth Brothers Business & Finance Meat & Seafood Snacking 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 Bunt July 1, 2026 Business & Finance General Mills Completes Sale of Brazil Business to 3corações Alcohol Sazerac Expands Kentucky Bourbon Network with Acquisition of Garrard County Distilling Business & Finance GrubMarket Enters UK Market with Acquisition of JR Holland Business & Finance Pilgrim's Europe to Acquire Walkers Deli and Sausage from Samworth Brothers Dairy Ingredients Business & Finance Related news

For Five Coffee Roasters has secured a strategic growth investment to accelerate its national expansion, scaling its Queens roasting facility comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom For Five Coffee Roasters, a New York-based vertically integrated speciality coffee brand, has announced the closure of a significant strategic growth investment. The capital injection is earmarked for the accelerated national expansion of its multi-channel business model, spanning proprietary roasting, retail operations, and high-volume wholesale distribution. The funding arrives as the premium coffee sector continues to consolidate, with investors seeking established platforms that demonstrate consistent profitability and resilient, omnichannel revenue streams. A primary objective of the investment is the expansion of production capacity at the company’s central roasting facility located in Queens, New York. By bolstering its proprietary manufacturing infrastructure, For Five aims to secure long-term supply chain sovereignty and maintain strict quality control over its signature blends and single-origin imports as output demands increase. This vertical integration allows the organisation to mitigate the commodity volatility that often impacts non-roasting café chains, providing a stable foundation for both its B2B and direct-to-consumer (DTC) channels. Retail Footprint and Partnerships Since its founding in 2010, For Five has built a robust and highly differentiated retail network. The brand currently operates 40 locations across the United States, strategically divided between traditional retail and institutional hospitality: Flagship Cafés: 21 traditional, street-facing locations tailored to local neighbourhood demographics. Institutional Venues: 19 specialised sites situated within corporate offices and luxury hotels. With the new capital, the organisation is actively developing an additional 12 sites. The focus on corporate and hotel venues aligns with a broader commercial real estate trend, where property managers are increasingly partnering with premium food and beverage operators to enhance on-site tenant amenities and drive return-to-office footfall. Board Expansion and Wholesale Growth To guide this aggressive growth phase, lead investors Nicholas Karalis (former CEO of Biomatrix Speciality Pharmacy) and Michael Bapis (Managing Director at Vios Advisors) have been appointed to the For Five Board of Directors alongside the co-founders. Stefanos Vouvoudakis, CEO and Co-Founder of For Five, stated that the brand has been built on a relentless focus on execution and the guest experience. He noted that the backing of new strategic partners provides the necessary resources to elevate the brand's footprint and introduce new standards within the luxury coffee space. Beyond physical retail, the fresh capital will be deployed to further scale the company’s extensive wholesale division. For Five currently serves more than 3,500 enterprise partner establishments nationwide. By expanding its roasting capacity in Queens, the company is well-positioned to aggressively target new B2B accounts across the hospitality, restaurant, and foodservice sectors throughout 2026. Coffee & Tea 'For Five Coffee Roasters' Secures Investment for National Expansion Eddie Sanders May 13, 2026 Facilities Novonesis Invests €600M in Indian Enzyme Facility Business & Finance Medici Brands Secures $250M Series B to Scale David Protein and HallPass Business & Finance Nestlé to Divest Mainstream Supplements Business to Yellow Wood Partners for $1B Business & Finance Chobani Acquires KDP Allentown Facility in $1.2B Dairy Expansion Coffee & Tea Business & Finance Related news

Philz Coffee has expanded into the speciality tea category with four cold matcha beverages sourced from Uji, Japan, across its regional store network. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Speciality coffee operator Philz Coffee has entered the matcha category with the launch of four cold matcha beverages across its retail store network. The menu addition represents the company's first structured expansion into tea-based functional drinks, using matcha sourced directly from Uji, Japan. The beverage lineup is being rolled out across all 80-plus Philz Coffee locations in California and Chicago, supported by in-store ordering and digital order-ahead capabilities through the brand's mobile loyalty application. Speciality Tea Category Expansion The menu extension follows increased customer demand for alternative caffeinated beverages and tea-based options across fast-casual coffee retail networks. According to company leadership, matcha ranked alongside a dedicated digital rewards system as one of the most requested additions from its consumer base. Andy Mai, Chief Business Officer at Philz Coffee, stated that the brand focused on pairing high-grade sourcing with customisable preparation parameters to adapt the traditional green tea format to the chain's handcrafted operational model. The strategic introduction enables the regional coffee chain to address expanding consumer interest in green tea, plant-based dairy pairings, and cold-beverage menu items. Product Formulation and Menu Breakdown The new matcha portfolio is served exclusively in a 16-ounce iced format. Each beverage is formulated with an oat milk base as default, though customers can substitute 2 per cent dairy milk at no additional charge. Sweetening levels and flavour additions can also be adjusted per order. The four new menu items comprise: 🍵 Iced Matcha: Pure Uji matcha layered over sweetened oat milk (US$6.50). 🍓 Strawberry Matcha: Uji matcha combined with fresh strawberry purée and sweetened oat milk (US$7.50). 🌿 Strawberry Mint Matcha: Uji matcha blended with fresh strawberry purée, sweetened oat milk, and fresh mint leaves (US$7.50). 🍮 Salted Caramel Matcha: Uji matcha paired with caramel syrup, sweetened oat milk, and a sea salt topping (US$7.50). Retail Operations and Footprint Founded in 2003 in San Francisco, Philz Coffee operates more than 80 retail locations across California and Chicago, alongside a central roasting facility in Oakland, California. The matcha rollout is integrated directly into the brand's digital ordering system, allowing members of the Philz Rewards program to place order-ahead requests for store pick-up. In addition to its retail coffee shops, Philz supplies packaged whole-bean coffee to select grocery channels and manufactures single-serve K-Cup pods. Coffee & Tea Philz Coffee Enters Speciality Tea Category with Four Matcha Beverages Dan Bunt July 21, 2026 New Products Little Moons Launches Strawberry Matcha Latte Mochi Ice Cream in UK Ingredients Dawn Foods Introduces Matcha Fond and Upgrades Berry Stabilisers Alcohol YOSHI Matcha Liqueur Secures National US Distribution Deal with Southern Glazer's Coffee & Tea Tim Hortons Expands Speciality Tea Menu with Pure Matcha Range across Canada Coffee & Tea New Products Beverage Related news

Asda has expanded its 'Exceptional' private-label dairy portfolio with the launch of a premium Cornish Clotted Cream and Strawberry ice cream. 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 expanded its 'Exceptional' private-label dairy portfolio with the launch of a premium Cornish Clotted Cream and Strawberry ice cream. The product aligns with summer seasonal demand and incorporates a flavour profile inspired by traditional British dessert combinations. The new product arrives as the retail sector observes a continued consumer preference for premium-tier ice cream. By incorporating a flavour profile linked to the summer period, the launch aims to secure engagement during the peak retail season. Focus on Quality and Provenance The ice cream is positioned as a premium offering, reflecting a shift in consumer habits toward high-quality, indulgence-led dairy products. Asda has utilised British ingredients for this release, partnering with a family-run, farm-based supplier to produce the range. Key ingredients include: Fresh British milk British cream Cornish clotted cream High-fruit-content strawberry ripple The development process involved a focus on texture and mouthfeel. Product developers opted for a high-fruit-content ripple rather than fruit pieces to maintain a smoother consistency, distinguishing the product from other entries in the category. Seasonal Retail The launch coincides with the summer season, a critical period for the frozen category. The strawberry and clotted cream flavour profile is positioned to capture interest during the Wimbledon fortnight, a period of increased demand for this specific flavour combination. By integrating event-linked themes into its product range, Asda aims to drive engagement in the frozen aisle, encouraging shoppers to purchase items suited to seasonal social occasions. The product is priced at £3.29 for a 500ml tub and is available across Asda’s store estate and online platform. New Products Asda Expands Premium Dairy Range with Wimbledon-Inspired Ice Cream Eddie Sanders June 25, 2026 New Products Ben & Jerry's Launches Limited Batch Razz Up Flavour Foodservice Haagen-Dazs Shops Launches New Sundae Series Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Opens Research and Innovation Centre in India Facilities The Magnum Ice Cream Company Invests €10M in Hungarian Production Facility New Products Food Dairy Related news

Bel Group breaks ground on a $200 million expansion in Brookings, South Dakota, doubling Babybel production capacity to 20,000 tons to drive U.S. market growth. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Dairy Bel Group The Newsroom Bel Group has officially broken ground on a $200 million expansion of its Babybel production facility in Brookings, South Dakota. This project represents one of the company's most significant capital investments in the United States to date, aimed at doubling the plant's annual production capacity from 10,000 to 20,000 tons. The expansion is a critical component of Bel Group’s long-term strategy to solidify its presence in the U.S., which currently serves as the group’s largest market. The investment is expected to create 150 new jobs and significantly increase milk sourcing from regional American dairy farms. Driving Growth in the U.S. Market The U.S. market currently accounts for 33% of Bel Group’s global sales, with annual retail sales exceeding $1.2 billion. Between 2018 and 2024, the company’s domestic business doubled, and leadership now aims to repeat this growth trajectory. Cécile Béliot, CEO of Bel Group, noted that the United States is a "strategic market and a key engine of growth." The decision to double capacity in Brookings is intended to strengthen domestic production and support the sustained demand for portion-sized dairy snacks across the country. Responding to Dietary and Market Trends The expansion directly addresses shifts in American dietary habits, specifically the rising popularity of high-protein products and the increasing prevalence of GLP-1 diets. As consumers seek nutrient-dense, portion-controlled snacks, the Babybel brand—a 100% real cheese product made with four ingredients—has seen a surge in relevance. Key Impacts of the Expansion: Supply Chain Strengthening: The facility will double its daily milk intake, deepening partnerships with dairy farmers in South Dakota and neighbouring states. Operational Efficiency: The new infrastructure is designed to boost production capabilities while fostering product innovation and greater manufacturing efficiency. Public Health Alignment: The investment supports the brand's goal of improving access to convenient dairy and fruit snacks, addressing the fact that 80% of Americans currently fall short of the recommended daily intake for these food groups. Regional Economic Commitment Peter McGuinness, CEO of Bel North America, emphasised that the project is not only a response to consumer demand but also a commitment to American manufacturing. "Expanding our Brookings facility allows us to meet continued demand while investing in local jobs and the Brookings community," McGuinness stated. This South Dakota project follows a recent $10 million expansion of Bel’s Little Chute, Wisconsin, facility, further demonstrating a consistent pattern of domestic infrastructure investment to future-proof the company’s U.S. supply chain. Dairy Bel Group Invests $200 Million to Double U.S. Babybel Production Capacity News March 11, 2026 Facilities Novonesis Invests €600M in Indian Enzyme Facility Facilities JBM Packaging Opens Ohio Facility to Expand Contract Packaging and Filling Business & Finance Chobani Acquires KDP Allentown Facility in $1.2B Dairy Expansion Facilities Wells Enterprises Completes $425M Expansion of Dunkirk Ice Cream Facility Dairy Facilities Logistics & Supply Chain Business & Finance Related news

Quorn has announced the launch of its Lemon and Pepper Schnitzel, a frozen meat-free innovation specifically engineered for air fryer preparation to capitalise on the growing consumer demand for high-speed, "meal centre" solutions. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Quorn, the market leader in the meat-free sector, has unveiled its latest frozen innovation: the Lemon and Pepper Schnitzel. Launching this month across Sainsbury’s and Asda, the product is positioned as a primary "midweek meal solution," designed to help time-poor shoppers create elevated, flavourful dishes with minimal preparation. The release underscores Quorn’s strategy of dominating the "meal centre" sub-category, the largest segment within the frozen meat-free market, where the brand is currently outperforming broader market growth. Alignment With the Air Fryer Economy A central pillar of this product launch is its technical optimisation for air fryer cooking. With air fryer ownership reaching record levels in the United Kingdom, food manufacturers are increasingly reformulating breading and coatings to ensure optimal texture and "crunch" in rapid-convection environments. The Lemon and Pepper Schnitzel is engineered to transition from freezer to plate in under 15 minutes. This focus on speed addresses a critical consumer pain point: the desire for "convenience without compromise," where shoppers seek the quality of a home-cooked meal with the efficiency of a quick-service restaurant (QSR) experience. Technical Formulation and Flavour Profile The schnitzel utilises Quorn’s signature mycoprotein base, providing a high-protein, low-saturated-fat foundation. To elevate the product beyond standard breaded fillets, Quorn has developed a specialised zesty coating: Citrus Infusion: A bright lemon profile designed to cut through the richness of the schnitzel. Peppercorn Finish: A cracked black pepper seasoning that provides a savoury depth and visual appeal. Texture Profile: The breading is formulated to remain crisp when air-fried or oven-baked, ensuring a consistent sensory experience for the consumer. Retail and Category Leadership By securing immediate nationwide distribution with Sainsbury’s and Asda, Quorn is ensuring high-velocity rollout for the new SKU. The "meal centre" category remains a strategic priority for retailers as they look to defend their frozen aisles against the growth of fresh prepared meals. Industry analysts note that Quorn’s ability to innovate within the breaded and battered segment is key to maintaining its market leadership. While the "meat-free" sector has faced general consolidation, Quorn has successfully maintained momentum by focusing on versatile, centre-of-plate items that serve as familiar building blocks for simple family recipes. The launch comes at a time when shoppers are increasingly looking for ways to reduce household energy consumption, favouring appliances like air fryers over traditional ovens. Quorn’s explicit "air fryer to plate" messaging is a direct play for this energy-conscious demographic. As we move further into 2026, the success of the Lemon and Pepper Schnitzel will likely serve as a blueprint for future Quorn innovations, focusing on high-flavour, low-preparation-time products that secure the brand's position as an essential midweek staple in the modern British kitchen. New Products Quorn Launches Air Fryer Optimised Lemon and Pepper Schnitzel Eddie Sanders May 4, 2026 New Products Quorn Expands Frozen Takeaway Portfolio with Hot and Spicy Bites Foodservice LEON Partners with Fable Food Co to Reformulate LOVe Burger New Products Plenish Launches Clean-Label Protein Oat Drink in UK New Products Califia Farms Debuts Horchata and Peppermint Bark Almond Creamers for Autumn Food New Products Plant-based Related news

Ready-to-drink cocktail brand Carbliss is expanding its 19.2-ounce single-serve malt cans across the Midwest to capture growth in the convenience retail channel. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail brand Carbliss is expanding the distribution of its 19.2-ounce single-serve malt cans across several Midwest markets. Following a successful test launch in Iowa, the company is targeting the convenience retail channel to meet growing consumer demand for larger grab-and-go beverage formats. Strategic Convenience Channel Expansion Building on the initial Iowa test market, which demonstrated strong early performance and consumer adoption, Carbliss is rolling out the larger format to Wisconsin, South Dakota, Nebraska, Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. This expansion reflects a strategic focus on the convenience sector, where single-serve beverages continue to be a significant driver of category growth. The new 19.2-ounce cans are designed to supplement the brand's existing four-pack and eight-pack offerings, providing retailers with versatile SKUs for their cold vaults. Product Specifications and Flavours To accompany the multi-state rollout, Carbliss has developed four distinct flavour profiles formulated specifically for the larger single-serve malt format. The expanded lineup includes Cherry Limeade Arctic Blue Raspberry Black Cherry Kiwi Strawberry Scott Godwin, Vice President of Strategic Accounts at Carbliss, noted that the expansion aims to provide consumers with preferred packaging options while supporting the operational goals of retail and wholesale partners. "We want to provide our consumers the ability to purchase Carbliss in the channel and package that they prefer," Godwin stated. "We're focused on delivering best-in-class product and support, expanding availability, and building long-term, sustainable growth for Carbliss." Brand Background and Availability Carbliss, recently recognised on the Inc. 5000 list as a rapidly growing food and beverage company, continues its domestic expansion through strategic market launches and strong distributor partnerships. The new 19.2-ounce malt cans are scheduled to begin arriving at convenience retail accounts across the designated Midwest launch states over the coming weeks. New Products Carbliss Expands Single-Serve RTD Format Across Midwest Markets News March 19, 2026 New Products G&Tea Launches Spirit-Based Sparkling Hard Tea Line in Chicago New Products Shottails Launches Ready-to-Drink Canned Shot Range for UK Retailers New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Beverage James Watt Unveils Fools Fix Detoxification Drink New Products Beverage Related news