Shaken Udder has launched its new Fibre milkshake range exclusively at Tesco, delivering up to 30% of adult daily fibre requirements in a clean-label RTD comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Shaken Udder, a prominent player in the premium milkshake category, has announced its official entry into the functional dairy sector with the launch of the Shaken Udder Fibre range. Debuting exclusively in Tesco stores today, 13 May 2026, the two-SKU lineup represents a strategic move to capitalise on the "functional convergence" trend, where traditional indulgence is upgraded with clinical-adjacent nutritional benefits. The rollout is engineered to address a significant public health gap in the United Kingdom, where internal company data suggests that 96% of adults fail to meet recommended daily fibre intake levels. A primary technical differentiator for this range is the high density of fibre maintained within a 330ml ready-to-drink (RTD) format. Achieving a "thick and creamy" texture while integrating high-volume fibre typically poses mouthfeel challenges, but Shaken Udder has utilised a formulation that protects its signature sensory profile. SKU Nutritional Breakdown Mint Choc: Formulated with real mint extract, this variant delivers 8.9g of fibre per serving, providing approximately 30% of the recommended daily intake for adults. Banana: Utilising real fruit, this SKU provides 7.6g of fibre per bottle, accounting for roughly 25% of adult daily requirements. In addition to fibre, the range is fortified to deliver nearly 50% of the recommended daily calcium intake. To meet the "ultra-clean" label demands of modern wellness shoppers, the products are free from artificial additives, relying instead on natural extracts for flavour and colour. The introduction of the Fibre range follows Shaken Udder's 2025 acquisition by the Spanish food conglomerate Idilia Foods . The launch is a core component of Idilia’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in the UK beverage market by pivoting legacy brands toward higher-margin functional segments. By merging gut-health support with the established "premium treat" reputation of the Shaken Udder brand, the organisation is de-risking its entry into the medical-nutrition adjacent market. This allows the brand to compete simultaneously in the chilled refreshment aisle and the functional wellness set. New Products Shaken Udder Launches Functional High Fibre Milkshake Range Eddie Sanders May 13, 2026 New Products RYZE Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Mushroom Coffee at Target New Products Beyond Meat Launches Phytosphere Platform with Powders, Bars and Beverages New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer New Products Wave Kids Launches Four Organic Flavoured Waters for Back to School Beverage New Products Dairy Health & Nutrition Related news

The Hershey Company has appointed Dave Hulays as Chief Financial Officer, effective 2 September 2026, succeeding Steve Voskuil. 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 Dave Hulays as Chief Financial Officer, effective 2 September 2026. Hulays succeeds Steve Voskuil, who has served as Hershey's chief financial lead for the past seven years. Bringing nearly 30 years of corporate finance and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) experience across Hershey and Procter & Gamble (P&G) to the position, Hulays assumes responsibility for directing the enterprise's global financial organisation. Following the appointment, Voskuil will transition to the role of Senior Vice President, Strategic Projects, focusing on key initiatives for the Chief Executive Officer and Board of Directors while supporting a smooth leadership handover until his planned retirement in early 2027. Executive Leadership Background Hulays joined The Hershey Company in 2012 as Vice President of Finance for Canada, subsequently expanding his executive remit across commercial, operational, and corporate financial leadership functions. Throughout his 14-year career at Hershey, Hulays has directed financial strategy and execution across key corporate units, including: Commercial Operations: Directing financial planning and revenue growth across US and International operating businesses. Operations and Logistics: Overseeing financial governance for Global Supply Chain, Global Business Services, and Enterprise Transformation. Strategic and Corporate Finance: Leading Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A), Corporate FP&A, Finance Strategy, the Growth Office, and Global Tax & Treasury. Prior to joining Hershey, Hulays spent 15 years at Procter & Gamble, holding senior finance leadership positions across North American and international operations. His responsibilities at P&G spanned commercial finance, supply chain finance, corporate strategy, global business development, and financial planning and analysis. Hulays holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Waterloo and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the Schulich School of Business at York University in Toronto, Canada. Leadership Succession and Transition Framework The executive transition formalises a structured succession plan within Hershey's senior leadership tier as the business continues to advance its enterprise growth strategy. Kirk Tanner, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Hershey Company, stated that Hulays brings disciplined leadership and deep familiarity with the enterprise, having contributed directly across commercial operations, supply chain infrastructure, and strategic growth initiatives. Tanner added that Voskuil's seven-year leadership provided strong financial stewardship, noting that his continued advisory role will support key business priorities throughout the transition period. Commenting on his appointment, Hulays stated that he looks forward to building upon the established operational foundation and driving the next phase of commercial growth across Hershey's brand portfolio. People The Hershey Company Appoints Dave Hulays as Chief Financial Officer Eddie Sanders September 2, 2026 People Kraft Heinz Appoints Lucy Hovey as CFO for UK and Ireland Operations People Nestlé Waters UK Appoints Thomas Conquet as UK Managing Director People Ben & Jerry's Appoints Three Independent Directors to Board People Levain Bakery Appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as Co-CEOs People Confectionery Business & Finance Related news

BrewDog has launched Liquid Visions, an art-led four-beer craft platform brewed with 26g of hops per litre, rolling out across UK grocery retailers. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Craft brewery BrewDog, operating under parent company Tilray Brands, has announced the nationwide launch of Liquid Visions, a premium four-beer series designed to drive shelf discovery and stimulate category engagement across UK off-trade channels. The art-led range introduces four distinct high-hop formulations packaged in 440ml single-serve cans, with each recipe utilising 26 grams of hops per litre to deliver saturated fruit notes, intense aromatics, and structured bitterness. The commercial rollout commences this week as an initial exclusive with supermarket chain Tesco, ahead of a wider retail expansion across UK grocery multiples starting 21 September 2026. Formulation and Four-Beer Portfolio The Liquid Visions collection spans diverse brewing styles, combining experimental hop varieties with large-format 440ml can formats. The four-beer lineup entering commercial distribution includes: 🌴 Dive Bar Sunshine IPA (6.0% ABV): Brewed with experimental Dolcita hops, delivering saturated tropical flavour notes of peach, honeydew melon, and creamy coconut (RRP: £4.25). 🍑 Krush Test Dummy Double Hazy IPA (8.0% ABV): A double hazy formulation featuring new-wave Krush hops, offering intense stone-fruit aromatics and a juicy mouthfeel (RRP: £4.75). 🌿 Pacific Parallax DDH New Zealand Pale Ale (6.3% ABV): A double dry-hopped pale ale combining West Coast aromatics with New Zealand hops, lime, and green melon notes, finishing with a crisp, dry profile. 🍇 Strange Bines Saturated IPA (7.0% ABV): A saturated IPA engineered with a resinous edge, pairing pink grapefruit notes with herbal undertones. Packaging Architecture and Artist Collaborations To enhance on-shelf stopping power in supermarket beer aisles, BrewDog collaborated with independent international artists to create bespoke visual narratives for each can. Illustrators including Barcelona-based artist Jordi Ros ( Krush Test Dummy ) and Scottish designer Chris Whyte ( Dive Bar ) were commissioned to develop distinct label artwork reflecting the sensory profiles of each liquid. The visual approach forms part of BrewDog's broader strategy to use distinctive, collector-style packaging to recruit consumers into the higher-tier craft beer fixture. Retail Rollout and Timelines BrewDog is executing a phased commercial rollout across major UK supermarket stockists throughout September and October 2026: Tesco Exclusive Window: Immediate retail debut featuring Dive Bar and Krush Test Dummy across Tesco stores nationwide. Secondary Grocery Wave: Nationwide distribution across major supermarket networks commencing 21 September 2026. Sainsbury's Channel Exclusive: Pacific Parallax will roll out as a retailer exclusive across Sainsbury's stores in late September. Autumn Portfolio Completion: Strange Bines will enter retail distribution across grocery channels in October 2026. The launch provides UK off-trade retailers with an innovation platform designed to stimulate category value growth through high-hop brewing specifications and quarterly seasonal line rotations. Alcohol BrewDog Launches Liquid Visions Premium Craft Beer Range Eddie Sanders September 1, 2026 New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer Packaging deltaH Innovations and Brains Brewery Launch Self-Cooling Beer Can Alcohol Hall & Woodhouse Partners with James May to Launch The Spanner Cask Ale Alcohol Tom Holland's BERO Launches Kingston Golden Pils in Glass Bottles Alcohol Beverage New Products Related news

The initiative explores the intersection of contemporary Austrian cuisine and traditional coffee house rituals, positioning coffee and tea as central ingredients rather than mere accompaniments. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Vienna-based coffee roaster Julius Meinl has partnered with culinary duo KUBUS to debut a new experiential dining concept, the "Brunch Club." The initiative explores the intersection of contemporary Austrian cuisine and traditional coffee house rituals, positioning coffee and tea as central ingredients rather than mere accompaniments. Developed in partnership with Jung von Matt DONAU and produced by Bagage, the concept taps into the post-pandemic resurgence of supper and brunch clubs, catering to a growing consumer desire for intimate, curated culinary experiences that emulate high-end hospitality in domestic or non-traditional settings. Culinary Innovation and Menu Design Elena and Peter of KUBUS—whose backgrounds span Michelin-starred kitchens such as Taubenkobel Burgenland and Jordnær Copenhagen—designed a multi-course menu that reinterprets Austrian classics. The dishes utilise Julius Meinl’s premium coffee and loose-leaf tea ranges as core flavour components. Highlights from the inaugural menu included: Buchteln: Served with a vanilla sauce infused with Julius Meinl Organic Rooibos Wintery Days tea. Flambéed Pancakes: Accompanied by a caramel sauce infused with Premium Espresso. Tafelspitz: Gently poached in Organic Treasure of Asia loose-leaf tea, paired with apple horseradish. Savoury Innovations: Black tea–cured eggs in Organic Assam Gold with Sencha Green Tea salt; baked pumpkin glazed with Premium Crema coffee grounds and oil; and a Coffee Knödel with sauerkraut and coffee jus. Beverage preparation showcased various brewing methods, including espresso machine, Bialetti, AeroPress, and Chemex. The 'Home Hospitality' Trend The launch aligns with shifting consumer behaviours regarding premium dining. "Supper and Brunch clubs have surged in popularity since the pandemic as diners seek intimate, one-off culinary experiences," the company noted. This trend reflects a broader movement where consumers are increasingly bringing high-end gastronomic standards into private spaces. Andreea Postolache , Global Marketing & Sales Director at Julius Meinl Coffee Group, commented on the strategy: "There's a fascinating dialogue between what people are creating at home and the innovations happening in cafés and restaurants. People are bringing high-end gastronomy into their homes more than ever, and you can really see it in coffee culture. It's an exciting moment to rethink how we use coffee and tea as both pairings and ingredients, and the Brunch Club was exactly the right format for it." Elena Kubiena of KUBUS emphasised the philosophical alignment between the cuisine and the coffee brand: "In Austria, coffee rituals are really rituals of time. We slow down, we savour and we connect. Food follows the same philosophy. There is real value in the time devoted to crafting a dish or preparing a coffee and then sharing it with people you enjoy." Coffee & Tea Julius Meinl and KUBUS Launch 'Brunch Club' Concept Blending Austrian Cuisine with Coffee Rituals December 13, 2025 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Introduces Aerocano Iced Espresso Coffee & Tea BIGGBY Coffee Launches Autumn 2026 Menu Coffee & Tea Costa Coffee Launches Autumn 2026 Menu with Maple Hazel Matcha and New Toasties Foodservice Chomps Expands Distribution Footprint at Starbucks and Costco Marketing Coffee & Tea Foodservice Related news

PepsiCo UK announces a £3.6 million investment in a 3.56MWp rooftop solar system at its Leicester distribution centre to achieve annual electricity self-sufficiency. 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 PepsiCo UK has committed £3.6 million to the installation of a massive rooftop solar power system at its Southern Region Distribution Centre (SRDC) in Leicester. Delivered in partnership with energy infrastructure specialist Ineco Energy, the project will cover 30,000 square meters of roof space, equivalent to four football pitches, marking a significant advancement in the company's regional sustainability strategy. Once fully operational, the system is projected to generate 100% of the electricity required to power the logistics centre on an annual basis. Technical Capacity and Operational Integration The 3.56MWp installation is expected to produce approximately 2.84GWh of renewable electricity annually. This output is comparable to the energy consumption of 1,000 UK households. A key feature of the project is its integration with nearby manufacturing assets. Any surplus energy generated at the SRDC during peak daylight hours will be diverted to support operations at the adjacent Walkers crisps factory, the largest of its kind globally. This cross-site energy sharing emphasises PepsiCo's efforts to create a localised, circular energy ecosystem in the East Midlands. Decarbonization Across the UK Portfolio The solar project is the latest in a series of targeted sustainability investments across PepsiCo’s UK manufacturing and logistics network: Leicester Site : Transitioned to electric ovens to reduce reliance on natural gas. Coventry Facility : Installed high-efficiency manufacturing machinery to lower energy intensity. Brigg (Pipers Crisps) : Upgraded frying systems to improve thermal efficiency. According to company data, these cumulative technical upgrades have already reduced PepsiCo UK’s greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 2,400 tonnes per year. Strategic Infrastructure Growth The solar initiative follows a £14 million modernisation of the SRDC completed in 2021. The facility, which employs 240 people, serves as the primary distribution nexus for products manufactured at PepsiCo’s six UK factories. "Leicester is already home to one of the world’s largest crisp factories, and now we’re delivering one of the most complex solar power systems," said Andy Smethurst, UK Warehousing and Logistics Director at PepsiCo. He characterised the project as a major milestone in the company's transition to sustainable operations. Angus Rose, Director at Ineco Energy, highlighted the technical complexity of the build, noting that once completed, it will be among the largest rooftop solar systems in the UK food manufacturing sector. Construction is currently underway, with full system activation expected by September 2026. Sustainability PepsiCo UK Invests £3.6 Million in Large Scale Rooftop Solar Project News March 16, 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 Business & Finance Sustainability Facilities Related news

Branca International announces a strategic investment in ALTR, a beverage technology firm using molecular-level ethanol management to preserve sensory integrity in premium low-alcohol spirits. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Branca International has announced a strategic investment in ALTR, an innovative beverage technology company specialising in molecular-level ethanol management. The partnership aims to address the evolving global beverage landscape by providing producers with precise control over alcohol content while preserving the structure and aromatic profile of premium spirits and wines. The move underscores a shared vision to support a drinking culture that embraces flexibility. Rather than signalling a shift in Branca’s core product strategy, the investment reflects a long-term industrial perspective on how the spirits sector is diversifying to meet modern consumer expectations for quality-led, lower-alcohol options. Molecular technology ALTR has developed a proprietary technological solution that manages ethanol at the molecular level. Unlike traditional dealcoholization methods, which can often impact the taste and complexity of a beverage, this molecular approach is designed to maintain the sensory identity and cultural ritual associated with premium drinks. By offering precise control over alcohol volume, the technology allows multiple options to coexist within the same brand universe. This enables producers to respond to the growing demand for "no and low" alcohol products without compromising the value or craftsmanship of the original product. The leadership teams of both organizations indicated that the partnership is rooted in a forward-looking assessment of the global spirits market. Niccolò Branca, President of Branca International, emphasised that the investment is about expanding possibilities rather than choosing between traditional and new formats. "Our role is to closely observe how the sector evolves and to invest in solutions that can support its development over time," said Branca. "The future of the sector will not be defined by a choice between alcoholic and non-alcoholic products, but by a broader spectrum of options within the same drinking culture. ALTR represents a compelling technology because it expands the possibilities available to both producers and consumers, without calling into question the value, quality, or identity of the products themselves." Synergy between industrial heritage and technological progress The collaboration combines Branca International’s industrial heritage and portfolio of premium brands with ALTR’s specialised technological expertise. The partnership is built on the belief that technological progress and heritage craftsmanship can be mutually reinforcing. Richard Schatzberger, CEO and Founder of ALTR, noted that the alignment with Branca’s "Novare Serbando" philosophy—which focuses on honouring heritage while innovating for modern life—was a key driver for the partnership. "We are proud to have Branca be part of our journey," said Schatzberger. "Together, we are creating exceptional beverages that preserve craft, elevate quality, and give people true choice in how alcohol fits into their social experiences." Future outlook for the spirits sector The investment positions ALTR as a strategic technology partner for the next generation of beverage development. It also strengthens Branca International’s focus on selective innovation that anticipates market shifts. As the beverage industry moves toward a model of greater flexibility, technology that protects the sensory integrity of premium brands is becoming a critical asset. This investment highlights a growing trend among legacy spirits groups to secure technical capabilities that allow them to compete in the expanding functional and low-alcohol categories without diluting their brand equity. Technology Branca International invests in ALTR to scale molecular beverage technology News March 23, 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 Ingredients Beverage Manufacturing Technology Business & Finance Alcohol Related news

Premium Italian brand Katies Pizza and Pasta is expanding its US retail footprint at Target, launching artisanal pasta bakes and slow-cooked sauces. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom The boundary between premium restaurant dining and the retail grocery aisle continues to dissolve as consumer packaged goods brands leverage food service heritage to capture home-dining spend. In a strategic move to build upon its retail momentum, KATIE’S Pizza & Pasta, founded by James Beard–recognised restaurateur Katie Lee, has announced a national rollout of its artisanal Pasta Bake Entrées and slow-cooked Sauces across Target locations. The expansion, commencing with frozen entrées in May 2026 and ambient sauces in June 2026, follows the successful debut of the brand's frozen pizzas at Target in the autumn of 2025. By translating high-end dining room standards directly onto mass-market supermarket shelves, the company has established itself as one of the fastest-growing players in the premium Italian convenience sector, demonstrating that scale does not require a compromise in culinary discipline. For retail category managers and brand directors, the commercial significance of this rollout lies in its multi-department execution. Traditionally, emerging brands scale within a single aisle, such as the frozen food case or the ambient pasta sauce section, to concentrate marketing efforts and limit supply chain complexity. KATIE’S is bypassing this singular approach by executing a coordinated, dual-category presence that spans both the frozen and centre-store ambient categories. This cross-department placement delivers several distinct B2B advantages: Enhanced Brand Blocking: Occupying premium real estate in multiple physical zones increases overall brand visibility, creating a more cohesive, recognisable presence for shoppers navigating different areas of the store. Omnichannel Consumer Conversion: The dual-anchored footprint allows the brand to capture diverse purchasing behaviours, appealing to shoppers seeking the immediate convenience of a frozen pasta bake as well as those looking to customise their own recipes using premium ambient sauces. Optimised Retail Partnerships: Providing high-margin, artisanal products in both high-velocity departments strengthens the brand's strategic value to Target, positioning KATIE'S as a comprehensive premium Italian partner capable of driving value across multiple categories. By securing space in both the freezer case and the pasta sauce aisle, the brand is successfully expanding its transactional touchpoints, converting standard supermarket shopping trips into immersive brand experiences. Clean Label Formulation From a food science and manufacturing standpoint, scaling a restaurant-quality product for a national retail chain requires strict process control. Many brands that transition from food service to retail choose to alter recipes, introduce synthetic preservatives, or outsource manufacturing to high-volume co-packers, which can dilute the original flavour and textural integrity of the product. To defend its brand equity, KATIE’S has maintained identical preparation and sourcing standards for its retail line: Artisanal Pasta Extrusion: The Pasta Bake Entrées utilise hand-cut fiori noodles made from high-protein egg and semolina dough, manufactured in small batches to preserve the classic "al dente" bite essential for premium Italian dishes. Slow Cooked Sauce Reductions: The brand’s ambient sauces, including Marinara, Arrabbiata, and Lemon Cream, are slow-cooked in small batches using whole ingredients, completely avoiding the added sugars, artificial starches, or thickeners common in high-volume commercial sauces. Pre-Baked Efficiency: The Fiori Lemon Cream, Fiori Marinara, and Fiori Arrabbiata frozen entrées are engineered to bake evenly in domestic ovens, delivering a bubbling, cheese-crusted, restaurant-style pasta dish in minutes with zero consumer assembly required. New Products Katies Pizza And Pasta Expands with New Pasta Bakes and Sauces Eddie Sanders May 28, 2026 New Products Toby Carvery Makes Retail Debut with Frozen Range at Iceland New Products Goodles Launches Twirly Mac Range with Three Bold Flavours New Products Gritzy Launches Heat and Eat Stone Ground Grits Line New Products Chef Boyardee Launches High-Protein Canned Pasta Range New Products Sauces Food Related news

Dunkin’ has launched its national summer menu, headlined by a strategic entry into the "dirty soda" category and a multi-product collaboration with the OREO brand, aimed at capturing the high-growth seasonal beverage market through customisable Refreshers and reimagined frozen coffee formats. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice Dunkin’ The Newsroom Dunkin’ has announced the nationwide rollout of its 2026 summer menu, a strategic expansion that leverages viral beverage trends and high-profile brand partnerships. The lineup features a new "Dunkin’ Dirty Soda," a collaborative range with OREO, and a reimagined category of frozen beverages called Coffee Chillers. The move reflects a broader industry shift toward "playful" beverage consumption, where customisation and cross-category fusion (e.g., coffee and soda) are used to drive traffic during the peak summer season. Beverage Innovation and Customisation At the centre of the launch is the expansion of the Dunkin’ Refresher platform. The brand is introducing Black Cherry as a core seasonal flavour and Limeade as a zesty citrus base that serves as a customisation tool across the beverage menu. Speciality Refreshers and Limeade Variants Black Cherry 🍒 A sweet and tart juice base that serves as the foundation for several layered builds. Cherry Lime Rickey 🍒🍋🟩 A blend of Black Cherry and the new Limeade for a crisp finish. Cherry Daydream 🍒☁️ Combines Black Cherry with creamy oat milk and is finished with Sweet Cold Foam. Protein Daydream 🍒💪 A functional variant utilising protein milk and a cold foam topper. Limeade Base 🍋🟩 A versatile citrus foundation available as a standalone drink or mixed into Raspberry, Coconut, Matcha, and Strawberry Dragonfruit variants. Anthony Epter, vice president of menu innovation at Dunkin’, stated that the strategy encourages guests to "surprise themselves" through mix-and-match sips. This focus on modular menu design allows Dunkin' to offer a high variety with minimal operational complexity. Dirty Soda and OREO Trends Dunkin’ is officially entering the "Dirty Soda" category, a trend that has moved from niche regional markets to national prominence. The Dunkin’ Dirty Soda is a strategic collaboration with PEPSI®, layering coffee milk with soda and a Sweet Cold Foam topper. This product targets the "liquid snack" segment, offering a creamy, coffee-forward finish to a traditional carbonated beverage. Simultaneously, the brand is deepening its relationship with the OREO® brand (owned by Mondelez International) to introduce an indulgent range of espresso and frozen drinks: OREO Cloud Latte ☕🍪 Espresso and whole milk mixed with chocolate cookie swirl, topped with Marshmallow Cold Foam and cookie crumbles. OREO Matcha 🍵🍪 A green tea latte paired with vanilla and marshmallow cold foam. OREO Coolatta 🧊🍪 A vanilla bean frozen base blended with crushed cookie pieces. Reimagining Frozen Coffee A significant technical update to the menu is the introduction of Coffee Chillers. This reimagined frozen coffee category is designed to deliver a smoother, bolder, and more "cream-forward" profile than previous frozen iterations. Available in OREO, Caramel Creme, and Triple Mocha flavours, the Coffee Chillers serve as a premium cooling solution as temperatures rise. The format remains fully customisable with any dairy base, allowing the brand to cater to the rising demand for plant-based frozen treats. Bakery Range To complement the beverage rollout, Dunkin’ is introducing a fruit-forward aesthetic to its bakery category. The new Fruit Punch series represents a nostalgic move that aligns the food menu with the "bright and bold" theme of the Refresher line. Fruit Punch Doughnut 🍩🥊 A yeast doughnut featuring fruit punch-flavoured icing and a specialised sprinkle blend. Fruit Punch MUNCHKINS 🔵🥊 A blueberry cake doughnut hole treat finished with the seasonal fruit punch sprinkle coating. This cross-category alignment ensures that the seasonal theme is reinforced across the entire guest experience. By combining functional beverage innovation with high-equity brand partnerships, Dunkin’ is positioning itself to lead the seasonal refreshment category throughout 2026. New Products Dunkin Launches Seasonal Menu with Dirty Soda and OREO Partnership News April 29, 2026 Foodservice Wagamama Unveils 26 Dishes and 15 Drinks in US Menu Overhaul Foodservice Domino's Debuts Chinese-Inspired Pizza and Biscoff Collaboration across the UK Foodservice Taco Bell Partners with Salt & Straw to Launch Churro Ice Cream Taco New Products 7 Brew Launches Autumn 2026 Beverage Range Coffee & Tea Beverage New Products Foodservice Related news

The launch marks a strategic product milestone for the 45-year-old brand, introducing its first-ever "filled egg" assortment to capture the high-end seasonal hosting and gifting market. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mars Inc The Newsroom Ethel M® Chocolates , the premium artisanal chocolate brand operating under the Mars portfolio, has unveiled its 2026 Easter Collection . The launch marks a strategic product milestone for the 45-year-old brand, introducing its first-ever "filled egg" assortment to capture the high-end seasonal hosting and gifting market. As the confectionery industry increasingly relies on seasonal limited-time offers (LTOs) to drive volume, Mars is positioning Ethel M to compete at the very top of the premium tier, offering complex flavour profiles and elevated packaging designed for adults rather than the traditional children's basket demographic. The Filled Egg Debut The centrepiece of the 2026 strategy is the LIMITED-EDITION 8-Piece Easter Collection . Retailing at $40 , the product serves as Ethel M’s debut in the filled-egg format, a staple of the Easter category that the brand has now elevated with premium culinary profiles. The egg-shaped box houses eight exclusive, small-batch chocolates, featuring flavours that bridge traditional indulgence with trending fruit and coffee notes: Milk Chocolate Strawberry Crème Dark Chocolate Peanut Toffee Crunch Milk Chocolate Caramel Espresso Dark Chocolate Fresh-Squeezed Lemon Crème Crucially for modern consumer expectations within the luxury food segment, Ethel M emphasises its "clean label" credentials. The entire collection is formulated without artificial flavours and utilizes colors derived exclusively from natural sources. Mark Mackey , Chief Chocolatier at Ethel M Chocolates, highlighted the positioning: "We wanted to create a collection that feels both joyful and refined for every spring gathering, all while staying true to our heritage of quality. We deliver on that promise with a collection that is truly an homage to spring... designed to deliver the impeccable taste and luxurious quality Ethel M is known for." Broadening the Price Architecture Alongside the hero product, Ethel M is rolling out a comprehensive seasonal portfolio with tiered pricing to capture various gifting occasions and budget levels. Truffles Collection: Starting at $18 (available in 5, 12, or 24 pieces), featuring gourmet fillings like Kona Espresso and Desert Honey. Liqueurs Collection: Starting at $20 , offering premium spirit-infused centres such as Amaretto Crème and Dark Rum Crème. Satin Crèmes & Peanut Butter Collections: Priced at $36 , offering targeted flavour experiences in 12-piece boxes. Luxe Library: A $36 tablet bar collection. Custom Chocolate Boxes: Starting at $40 , allowing for high-touch personalisation. Experiential Retail Activation To drive physical footfall and reinforce its luxury positioning, the brand is supporting the launch with an experiential marketing activation. From February 27 through April 5 , Ethel M is hosting Spring Chocolate & Wine Tastings at its Flagship Store & Cactus Garden in Henderson, Nevada. This immersive, on-premise activation pairs seasonally crafted chocolates with fine wines, demonstrating the brand's focus on positioning its chocolates within sophisticated adult consumption occasions. The full 2026 Easter Collection will be available across Ethel M's physical retail locations and its direct-to-consumer (DTC) e-commerce platform starting February 27 . New Products Mars Targets Premium Seasonal Gifting with Ethel M Chocolates' First-Ever Filled Egg Collection News February 25, 2026 Snacking Cheez-It Partners with NBA Star Jimmy Butler for Limited-Edition Collector’s Box People Mars Appoints CPG Veteran Lauren Larsen as Chief Customer Officer for North American Food & Nutrition Confectionery Skittles Redefines Game Day Advertising with 'Live Commercial' Delivery Starring Elijah Wood Business & Finance Mars to Finalise $36bn Kellanova Acquisition Following European Commission Approval New Products Confectionery Related news

Functional beverage brand PLAYR1 has partnered with broker K-12 Food Solutions to distribute its clean-label, Smart Snack-certified comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Functional beverage brand PLAYR1 has announced a strategic distribution partnership with K-12 Food Solutions, a broker based in Columbia, South Carolina. The agreement will bring the brand's clean-label, multi-functional beverage range into select United States school cafeterias and K-12 districts starting in the autumn of 2026. The partnership represents a significant commercial expansion for PLAYR1 into the highly regulated school foodservice sector. To support the launch, the brand will exhibit at the School Nutrition Association’s Annual National Conference in Charlotte from 12 to 14 July 2026, presenting its five-flavour product lineup and previewing upcoming product developments. Ingredient Profile and Nutritional Standards Designed to meet strict institutional nutritional guidelines, the beverages contain zero synthetic dyes, zero artificial sweeteners, and zero added cane sugar. The formulations are sweetened using monk fruit and raw stevia, yielding five calories per serving. To satisfy clean-label demands, the product colours are derived entirely from plant sources, including paprika, spirulina, beets, and black carrot. The range is Smart Snack Certified for US schools, Certified Organic, Kosher certified, and complies with professional sports anti-doping guidelines. The functional beverage line utilises specific ingredient dosages designed to provide physiological benefits: 🧬 Methylcobalamin : 100mcg of the bioactive form of Vitamin B12, chosen to eliminate the need for cellular conversion. 🩸 L-Citrulline DL-Malate : 1,000mg to support nitric oxide pathways and vascular performance. 🧠 Cognizin Citicoline : 75mg formulated to support cognitive focus and neural membrane integrity. 🌿 L-Theanine and N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine : A combination of 50mg of L-theanine and 150mg of N-acetyl L-tyrosine to support calm focus and sustained mental drive. 💧 Glycerol : Utilised as an osmotic hydration agent to promote fluid distribution at the cellular level. 🌱 Green Tea Caffeine : 100mg of caffeine derived from green tea in the caffeinated product variants, paired with L-theanine to regulate energy delivery. Caffeine-free options are also available. AJ Foppe, Founder of PLAYR1 Functional Beverages, stated that the brand was developed to move away from low-dose ingredient listings that offer no physiological benefit. Foppe noted that each ingredient was selected at a clinically meaningful dose and quality to ensure the formulation functions effectively within the body. Development The rollout follows an eighteen-month collaborative evaluation programme conducted by PLAYR1 and K-12 Food Solutions. The teams gathered feedback on taste, formulation, packaging, and point-of-sale positioning from school nutrition directors, students, and food service staff across several states, including North and South Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and Maryland. Jeff Dodge, Owner of K-12 Food Solutions, stated that the brand consistently achieved positive ratings in the mid-90 percent range during regional student and director tasting panels. Dodge noted that this level of performance across diverse school environments is unusual for new market entrants, indicating that the product was well-prepared for the institutional market before its official release. K-12 Food Solutions operates a national distribution network that connects manufacturers with major national foodservice distributors as well as independent regional networks to streamline supply chain execution. Future Pipeline and Distribution At the upcoming School Nutrition Association conference, the companies will also preview "Rookie", a 100 percent juice beverage range engineered specifically for elementary school lunch programmes, which is scheduled for a formal commercial launch in 2027. Beyond the school foodservice channel, PLAYR1 is currently distributed in cans and stick packs across more than 100 independent grocery and convenience stores. The brand is also undergoing review for inclusion in select military bases, airports, and national retail chains. Notably, the company was recognised as a Kroger Nourishing Change 2025 Top 10 Emerging Brand. Health & Nutrition PLAYR1 Partners with K-12 Food Solutions to Launch Functional Beverages in US Schools Eddie Sanders July 10, 2026 New Products RYZE Launches Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Mushroom Coffee at Target New Products Beyond Meat Launches Phytosphere Platform with Powders, Bars and Beverages New Products Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer New Products Wave Kids Launches Four Organic Flavoured Waters for Back to School Health & Nutrition Beverage New Products Related news

The interactive campaign serves as the launchpad for the new M&M'S Bakery Collection, a trio of limited-edition, dessert-inspired flavours designed to capitalise on the "category blurring" trend within the confectionery aisle. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mars Inc The Newsroom Mars Snacking has announced the strategic revival of its M&M'S® Flavour Vote competition following a seven-year hiatus. The interactive campaign serves as the launchpad for the new M&M'S Bakery Collection , a trio of limited-edition, dessert-inspired flavours designed to capitalise on the "category blurring" trend within the confectionery aisle. By reintroducing the crowdsourced competition, Mars is deploying a proven gamified shopper marketing mechanism. The format encourages consumers to act as "flavour judges," naturally driving cross-purchasing and multi-SKU trial as shoppers buy all three variants to participate in the vote. The 'Bakery' Trend The new collection targets the growing consumer appetite for complex, nostalgic, and indulgent flavour profiles that bridge the gap between traditional chocolate candy and fresh bakery goods. The Three Contenders: M&M'S® Peanut Butter Cinnamon Roll: Combines warm cinnamon notes with the brand's popular creamy peanut butter core. M&M'S® Cherry Chocolate Cupcake: A sophisticated profile blending rich chocolate cake flavours with a tart cherry finish. M&M'S® Lemon Meringue Pie: Features a bright citrus flavour paired with a smooth white chocolate base and a novel crispy centre to mimic pie crust texture. Consumer Obsession and Engagement The Flavour Vote strategy effectively turns passive consumption into active brand engagement, generating valuable first-party data and social media traction for the brand. Martin Terwilliger , VP of Marketing for Mars Snacking North America, highlighted the rationale behind the campaign's return: "The M&M'S bakery collection was inspired by some of the most popular dessert flavor combinations, so we're really excited to see which variant reigns supreme with our fans. At Mars, we are consumer obsessed, so bringing back Flavor Vote felt like a fun way to connect with M&M'S fans and give them a chance to weigh in on which flavor they enjoyed the most." Commercial Details and Merchandising To support the trial-driven nature of the campaign, Mars is executing a comprehensive retail rollout across multiple formats. The strategy ensures the products are positioned for both immediate consumption (impulse) and planned sharing occasions. Format Availability: All three M&M'S Bakery Collection flavours are now available nationwide in: Single packs (Impulse/Checkout) Share Size (Convenience) Sharing Stand Up Pouches (Centre-store grocery) Confectionery Mars Revives M&M'S 'Flavour Vote' Campaign with Bakery Collection News February 24, 2026 New Products Reese's Expands UK Portfolio with Caramel Block and White Cups New Products McVitie's Launches Chocolate Christmas Treat Range with Penguin and Jaffa Elf Confectionery M&M'S Partners with Practical Magic 2 for Halloween Spell and Snack Packs Confectionery Ghirardelli Relaunches Seasonal Jack O'Lantern Chocolates across US Retail Bakery Marketing Confectionery New Products Related news

McCormick and MISSION BBQ have partnered to launch a new line of four regionally inspired retail barbecue sauces, bringing the restaurant's signature flavours to grocery stores nationwide. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Flavours & Colours McCormick & Company The Newsroom McCormick® has announced a strategic partnership with the fast-growing restaurant brand MISSION BBQ to bring the chain's signature sauces to the retail market. Launching this month online and in stores nationwide, the new consumer packaged goods (CPG) line mirrors the most popular barbecue sauces currently available in MISSION BBQ dining rooms. The collaboration represents a significant retail expansion for MISSION BBQ and adds a strong, regional restaurant brand to McCormick's extensive flavour portfolio. Regional Flavour Profiles Enter Retail The new retail line features four distinct flavours inspired by traditional American barbecue regions. Designed to complement a variety of proteins from brisket to seafood, the lineup includes MISSION BBQ Memphis Belle A rich, tangy sauce featuring a molasses base and a hint of smoke, formulated for use on chicken, ribs, and pulled pork. MISSION BBQ Blue Ridge Smoky Mountain A bold, smoky profile that combines thick molasses, tangy vinegar, and sweet brown sugar to deliver a classic southern richness for pulled pork, chicken, and seafood. MISSION BBQ Texas Twang A savoury, steakhouse-style blend featuring the tanginess of vinegar balanced with the sweetness of honey and brown sugar, ideal for brisket, ribs, and chicken. MISSION BBQ KC Classic A Kansas City-style sauce offering a warm blend of spices characterised by a bold tang, subtle sweetness, and signature heat. Strategic CPG Partnership The collaboration leverages McCormick's extensive retail distribution network and manufacturing expertise alongside MISSION BBQ's established foodservice brand equity. Leaders from both Maryland-based companies emphasise the synergy of the partnership. Steve Newton, Co-Founder of MISSION BBQ, highlighted the importance of scale in this new venture. "Bringing our classic American barbecue flavours to more people than ever is an exciting next step for MISSION BBQ," Newton said. "Partnering with another Maryland-based company, and world-renowned flavour house, McCormick, makes this collaboration even more special." Valda Coryat, Vice President of Marketing at McCormick & Company, echoed this sentiment, focusing on the consumer experience. "By combining MISSION BBQ's beloved regional sauce profiles with McCormick's expertise in flavour and broad retail reach, we're proud to bring these authentic barbecue sauces into homes nationwide," Coryat noted. Brand Background and Corporate Responsibility MISSION BBQ is recognised in the fast-casual dining sector for its operational commitment to authentic barbecue, smoking meat on-site for up to 16 hours using white oak wood. Beyond its culinary operations, the restaurant brand maintains a strong corporate social responsibility profile. Under its guiding mission to 'Serve Those Who Serve', MISSION BBQ is an active supporter of national organisations, including Tunnel to Towers, Honour Flight, and Wreaths Across America. The new retail sauce line offers consumers a way to engage with the brand's culinary identity outside of its traditional restaurant footprint. New Products McCormick and MISSION BBQ Partner for Nationwide Retail Sauce Launch News March 19, 2026 New Products Carbone Fine Food Expands Beyond Pasta Sauce with Italian Chilli Crisp Sauces 7-Eleven Rolls Out In-Store BiG Flavour Bar with Seven Original Sauces Marketing Kewpie Launches Covent Garden Pop Up for KEWPIE IT Campaign in London New Products Potts Partnership Expands into Sweet Category with Coulis Launch New Products Sauces Related news