Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams has appointed David Stever, former CEO and CMO of Ben and Jerry's, as its new Chief Executive Officer. Bringing over 25 years of consumer-packaged goods (CPG) leadership, Stever is tasked with scaling the artisanal brand's national footprint across its 90-plus scoop shops, 15,000 retail locations, and its newly launched Fellowship Model for franchising. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, a category-defining leader in the premium artisanal ice cream sector, has announced the appointment of David Stever as Chief Executive Officer. Stever joins the company during a period of significant commercial momentum, assuming leadership as the brand transitions from a regional favorite to a dominant national player across scoop shops, wholesale retail, and franchising. Stever’s background is uniquely aligned with Jeni's brand DNA, having previously led Ben and Jerry's through a phase of global scaling while maintaining a commitment to "people-first" culture and social values. Bridging Artisanal Quality and Global Scale The appointment of Stever represents a calculated move by the Jeni's Board of Directors to secure a leader who understands the complexities of maintaining "brand soul" at scale. During his tenure at Ben and Jerry's, Stever was instrumental in driving transformative growth while reinforcing the brand's cultural relevance. Brian Knez, Chairman of Jeni's, highlighted Stever’s "rare combination of operational excellence and business leadership." For Jeni's, the challenge is maintaining the premium, handcrafted perception of its product while managing a supply chain and distribution network that now spans approximately 15,000 retail locations, including major giants such as Whole Foods, Target, Kroger, and Albertsons. Under Stever’s leadership, Jeni's is expected to focus on three distinct but interconnected growth channels: Owned Scoop Shops : The brand currently operates more than 90 shops across 30 markets. These locations serve as the primary "experiential" touchpoint for the brand, building the emotional connection and community loyalty that fuels its other channels. Franchising (The Fellowship Model) : A new strategic frontier for the brand, the Fellowship Model allows Jeni's to enter new communities with local partners, accelerating geographic reach without the capital intensity of fully owned expansions. CPG and Retail Distribution : With a presence in 15,000 stores, Jeni's is a top-performing premium SKU in the frozen aisle. Stever’s 25-year CPG background will be critical in optimizing these relationships and securing further shelf space. Maintaining the "Artisanal" Edge Jeni's continues to outpace the market in flavor innovation, on track to launch more than 20 new flavors this year. The brand’s "category-defining" approach, focusing on unique ingredient sourcing and complex flavor profiles, remains its primary competitive differentiator. Stever has indicated that his priority is to build on this foundation of creativity. "What is driving its momentum... is a genuine commitment to joy, creativity, community, and the emotional connection it builds," Stever noted. The business intends to continue investing in breakthrough flavor development and new product formats to maintain its premium price point and high consumer advocacy. The Premiumization of the Ice Cream Aisle The ice cream industry is currently seeing a "bar-quality" shift where consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that offer a superior sensory experience and clear brand values. In this landscape, Jeni's is positioned as an "affordable luxury." The transition to Stever’s leadership occurs as the category faces rising costs in dairy and energy. His experience in operational productivity and "value-led" growth will be essential in navigating these macro-economic pressures while preserving the "artisanal heritage" that justifies the brand's premium status. People Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams Names Ben and Jerry's Veteran David Stever as CEO Eddie Sanders April 22, 2026 People Kraft Heinz Appoints Lucy Hovey as CFO for UK and Ireland Operations People The Hershey Company Appoints Dave Hulays as Chief Financial Officer People Nestlé Waters UK Appoints Thomas Conquet as UK Managing Director People Ben & Jerry's Appoints Three Independent Directors to Board People Dairy Business & Finance Related news

The move will see the company cease manufacturing its Lonewolf Gin and Abstrakt Vodka lines at its distillery in Aberdeenshire over the coming months. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Scottish craft beer giant BrewDog has announced a strategic decision to halt the production of its proprietary distilling brands. The move will see the company cease manufacturing its Lonewolf Gin and Abstrakt Vodka lines at its distillery in Aberdeenshire over the coming months. The decision is described by the company as "difficult" but necessary to "sharpen our focus" on its core brewing and hospitality operations. Operational Impact and Brand Rationalisation While the distilling of raw spirits will stop, BrewDog has confirmed it will continue to sell its Wonderland line of ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails, suggesting a pivot towards the higher-velocity convenience category rather than premium spirits manufacturing. The future of the distillery facility itself—built in Ellon in 2015, three years after the main brewery opened—is understood to be under review. The company has not yet clarified the specific impact this operational winding down will have on headcount at the site. Financial and Corporate Context The restructuring of the spirits division follows a turbulent financial period for the independent brewer. In October of last year, BrewDog announced job cuts across the business after posting a £37 million loss . This cost-rationalisation strategy also saw the closure of 10 bars across the UK earlier in the year, including the brand's flagship site in Aberdeen. Leadership and Reputational Challenges The operational shifts coincide with significant leadership changes and public scrutiny. Co-founder James Watt recently stepped down as CEO to take on the newly created role of "Captain and Co-founder," while fellow co-founder Martin Dickie exited the business last year for personal reasons. Furthermore, the brand faced significant backlash in 2024 regarding its employment policies, specifically the decision to cease hiring new staff on the real living wage in favour of the lower legal minimum wage. Business & Finance BrewDog to Cease Production of Spirits Brands at Aberdeenshire Distillery News January 28, 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 BrewDog Launches Liquid Visions Premium Craft Beer Range Beverage Alcohol Business & Finance Related news

The company is positioning its technology as a direct solution to the persistent labour, consistency, and throughput challenges facing the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) sector. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom New York-based kitchen robotics specialist Aniai has announced a fresh capital injection of $4 million from the Korea Development Bank (KDB), bringing its total funding to $19 million . The investment is earmarked to accelerate the US expansion of its flagship automation platform, the Alpha Grill . The company is positioning its technology as a direct solution to the persistent labour, consistency, and throughput challenges facing the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) sector. Technology: Beyond the Burger While originally engineered for burger patties, the Alpha Grill has evolved into a versatile station platform. The system uses precise temperature control and built-in sensors to adjust cooking in real-time, capable of preparing a wide range of proteins including chicken, steak, pork, salmon, and even eggs or pancakes. Operational Capabilities: Throughput: Capable of producing 200+ food items per hour . Speed: Cooks batches in under two minutes. Capacity: Cooks up to eight items simultaneously. Automation: Features a robotic built-in spatula for auto-offloading and an auto-cleaning function between batches. Strategic Deployment and Validation Aniai is leveraging a "U.S.-led expansion" strategy, supported by a strong operational track record in Asia where major franchises like Lotteria , Mom's Touch , and Frank Burger already utilise the technology. In the US, the hardware is currently live in daily service at New York establishments including The Filling Station and The SSam . The company is actively collaborating with enterprise QSR brands through R&D innovation centres to validate the equipment against strict operational standards. Gunpil Hwang , CEO of Aniai, highlighted the specific friction points the technology addresses: "Operators in the U.S. continue to face significant operational challenges in their kitchens, and this is where we see the strongest demand for automation. We are building technology that works in real kitchens, during real rush hours, and scales across multi-unit operations. That is where we are investing most of our time, talent, and resources." The recent $4 million raise follows previous backing from venture firms including InterVest, SV Investment, Capstone Partners, Ignite Innovation, and Lotte Ventures. The capital will be deployed to bolster supply chain readiness and on-the-ground technical support as the company deepens partnerships with enterprise brands. Technology Aniai Secures Additional $4m to Scale 'Alpha Grill' Robotics in US QSR Market News January 20, 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 Manufacturing Technology New Solutions Business & Finance Foodservice Safety & Quality Related news

Lotus Bakeries has announced a €500 million capital investment programme to expand global Biscoff production capacity following a 14% revenue increase. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Lotus Bakeries has outlined plans to invest at least €500 million in expanding global production capacity for its core Biscoff brand between 2026 and 2030. Representing the largest capital expenditure programme in the enterprise's history, the multi-year investment framework will fund manufacturing expansions across Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific. The announcement coincides with the company's financial performance report for the first half of 2026, driven by double-digit volume and revenue growth for Biscoff alongside its Natural Foods brand portfolio. Global Capacity Expansion Plan The five-year capital deployment plan focuses on scaling manufacturing infrastructure across three continents to address rising international consumer demand and enhance global supply chain flexibility. The multi-regional manufacturing roadmap encompasses three core processing hubs: 🏭 Mebane North Carolina US: Construction of a new production hall for Biscoff biscuits and spread, with initial operations scheduled to come online by mid-2028 and additional line capacity becoming active in 2029. 🏭 Chonburi Plant Thailand: Completion of the first phase of the Chonburi manufacturing plant, with construction underway on a second production hall. The facility's first operational line is set to commence production before the end of 2027. 🏭 Lembeke Site Belgium: Construction has commenced on a new production hall at the company's primary Belgian manufacturing hub following the receipt of all required regulatory and building permits. Jan Boone, Chief Executive Officer of Lotus Bakeries, stated that the group is committing to the largest Biscoff expansion programme in its commercial history, allocating at least €500 million across three international markets between 2026 and 2030 to secure long-term supply capabilities. The business confirmed that capital expenditure will exceed €250 million across the 2026 and 2027 financial years alone as initial construction phases accelerate. Financial Results During the first six months of 2026, Lotus Bakeries generated total revenue of €749.1 million, representing a 14 per cent year-on-year increase compared to the corresponding period in 2025. Underlying operating profit expanded 19.4 per cent to reach €131 million, whilst net profit rose 23.5 per cent to €98.1 million. Key financial and brand volume highlights from the half-year trading period include: Biscoff Brand Growth: Biscoff revenue and total volume increased by more than 20 per cent globally, with Europe delivering the highest absolute revenue gain. US Market Penetration: Biscoff maintained its position as the fastest-growing brand in both the biscuit and spread categories across the United States, with household penetration exceeding 10 per cent. Natural Foods Division: The group's healthy snacking unit delivered double-digit growth across its core brand lineup, including nākd., Trek, Bear, and Kiddylicious. UK and US Retail Position: In the United Kingdom, nākd. and Trek ranked among the top five cereal bar brands, whilst Bear expanded distribution footprint across the US fruit snacking category. Portfolio Expansion The results also highlighted commercial progress under Lotus Bakeries' strategic co-branding partnership with Mondelēz International. Following initial product launches combining Biscoff with Cadbury, Milka, and Côte d'Or, the partnership has expanded to incorporate additional confectionery brands, including Toblerone, Suchard, Freia, and Marabou. The manufacturing partners confirmed they are actively evaluating further product co-development opportunities, focusing on technical formulations that combine Biscoff biscuits layered with branded chocolate matrices across global retail channels. Business & Finance Lotus Bakeries Unveils €500M Biscoff Expansion Eddie Sanders August 8, 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 Food Snacking Facilities Business & Finance Related news

Bob's Red Mill has introduced a reformulated version of its Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour, delivering improved taste and texture. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Bob's Red Mill has announced the nationwide rollout of an updated recipe formulation for its flagship Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour. The reformulated blend is engineered to deliver improved taste and texture while preserving the cup-for-cup performance standards established by the original recipe. The launch also marks the first physical product deployment featuring Bob's Red Mill's newly redesigned packaging architecture and updated corporate logo following an enterprise brand refresh earlier this year. The product update targets expanding consumer demand for versatile, high-performing gluten-free baking solutions across mass, natural, and digital grocery channels in the United States. Reformulated Blend The updated Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour replaces traditional wheat flour cup-for-cup in non-yeast recipes, including cookies, cakes, muffins, and quick breads, without requiring custom recipe adjustments or additional binding agents. To meet strict gluten-free safety standards, the blend is processed and packaged within the company's dedicated 100 per cent gluten-free manufacturing facility. Each production batch undergoes testing using an ELISA Gluten Assay protocol to verify gluten-free status prior to commercial distribution. Key product parameters and technical specifications of the release include: 🌾 Cup-for-Cup Performance: Formulated to function as a direct 1-to-1 replacement for wheat flour in non-yeast baking applications. 🔬 Quality Testing Protocols: Manufactured in a dedicated gluten-free facility and verified via ELISA Gluten Assay testing. 🍞 Sensory Enhancements: Updated grain blend engineered to improve mouthfeel, crumb structure, and flavour profile across finished baked goods. Daniel Barba, Vice President of Marketing at Bob's Red Mill, stated that product development focused on refining taste and texture characteristics while preserving the functional consistency that home bakers rely on across traditional recipes. Packaging Overhaul The release serves as the commercial lead for Bob's Red Mill's broader packaging and visual identity redesign unveiled in spring 2026. The updated packaging structure modernises the brand's shelf presence, introducing clearer visual hierarchy and prominent dietary attribute callouts to simplify product navigation in retail baking aisles. Margret Brown, Creative Director at Bob's Red Mill, noted that the packaging refresh was designed to improve brand findability and highlight core product attributes, such as certified gluten-free credentials, directly on the primary display panel. Retail Distribution and Rollout The reformulated Gluten Free 1-to-1 Baking Flour and refreshed packaging architecture have commenced physical distribution across major US grocery networks, club stores, and e-commerce platforms. Initial retail stockists securing distribution for the updated product line include Costco, Sprouts Farmers Market, Whole Foods Market, Amazon, Albertsons, Kroger, Publix, and Wegmans. The rollout provides retail stockists and baking category managers with an updated core SKU within the expanding gluten-free ambient baking sector. New Products Bob's Red Mill Reformulates Gluten-Free Flour and Unveils Brand Refresh Eddie Sanders August 20, 2026 New Products Nestlé Launches Dessert Culinary Solutions in Brazil and China Bakery Betty Crocker Unveils Packaging Refresh and Limited Edition Handbag Collection New Products Duncan Hines and Swiss Miss Launch Co-Branded Peanuts Seasonal Lineup New Products PiiPER Launches Baking Decoration Range with Frostings and Colour Sprays Bakery Food Snacking New Products Related news

Dutch Bros Coffee has launched Myst Energy Refreshers, a new category of plant-powered, low-calorie functional beverages designed to capture the growing consumer demand for clean-label caffeine alternatives during the peak summer trading season. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Coffee & Tea Dutch Bros Coffee The Newsroom Dutch Bros Coffee has announced a major expansion of its functional beverage portfolio with the launch of a new product category: Myst Energy Refreshers. The new line officially rolled out on 1 May 2026 across the company's network of more than 1,136 drive-thru locations spanning 25 states. The introduction of the Myst line represents a strategic evolution for the brand, moving beyond traditional roasted coffee and its proprietary Rebel energy drinks to capture a rapidly growing demographic of consumers seeking "clean-label," low-calorie caffeination. Plant Powered Formulation and Caloric Control The Myst Energy Refresher category is engineered to appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for functional benefits without the heavy sugar load associated with traditional energy drinks or blended frappés. The technical formulation of the new line focuses on three key functional pillars: Plant-Powered Caffeine 🍃 Utilising natural, plant-based sources for energy rather than synthetic stimulants. Hydration Support 💧 Fortified with electrolytes to aid in cellular hydration during the hot summer months. Caloric Control 📉 Designed to deliver less than 100 calories in a standard medium serving. The core flavours in the launch lineup include Passion Water, Cherry Lime, Firestorm, and Tropical. Crucially, to maximise consumer appeal across various dietary requirements, Dutch Bros is also offering a zero-sugar Myst variant that can be customised with up to 30 different flavour combinations. Tana Davila, Chief Marketing Officer at Dutch Bros, stated that the brand has historically been a pioneer in the energy space (notably with its Rebel line), and described Myst as the natural progression of that legacy. Davila emphasised that the new line blends the company's core DNA with an entirely new approach to refreshment, aiming to redefine the next generation of Dutch Bros energy products. By heavily promoting the customisation aspect of the zero-sugar variants, Dutch Bros is leaning into a proven operational strength. The ability to offer highly personalised, made-to-order beverages at speed remains a critical differentiator for the brand in the highly competitive drive-thru quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector. Returning Seasonal High Margin Indulgences While the Myst line targets the wellness and functional hydration demographic, Dutch Bros is simultaneously catering to the indulgence market by bringing back two high-margin seasonal favourites for the summer window. Dulce de Leche 🍮 A blend of caramel, white chocolate, cinnamon, and sweet cream, finished with the brand's proprietary Soft Top. Available across Freeze (blended), Iced Latte, or Iced Chai formats. Strawberry Colada 🍓🥥 A tropical profile combining pineapple, coconut, and sweet cream, topped with real strawberry fruit. Positioned to be served as a Blended or Iced Rebel energy drink, or as a Blended Lemonade. This dual-pronged menu strategy—pairing low-calorie, functional innovation with high-sugar, experiential indulgence—allows Dutch Bros to capture a wider share of wallet across diverse consumer occasions throughout the summer trading period. New Products Dutch Bros Enters Plant-Based Energy Sector With Myst Refresher Launch Eddie Sanders May 1, 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 Energy Drinks Plant-based New Products Beverage Foodservice Coffee & Tea Related news

Krispy Kreme Autumn Seasonal Collection, introducing new maple, mocha, and apple crisp offerings alongside returning Pumpkin Spice and Biscoff doughnuts. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Krispy Kreme has announced the rollout of its 2026 Autumn Seasonal Collection across participating US locations. Entering retail channels on Tuesday 11 August 2026, the short-run platform features new bakery and beverage additions alongside returning consumer options, including the Biscoff Cookie Butter Doughnut and Pumpkin Spice Cake Doughnut. The seasonal update targets expanding consumer demand for orchard-inspired, maple, and warm spice flavour profiles during the late-summer and early-autumn retail trading windows. Autumn Doughnut Lineup The 2026 autumn bakery selection features four distinct doughnut variations engineered around familiar seasonal flavour profiles: 🍁 Maple Cheesecake Doughnut: A new unglazed shell doughnut filled with cheesecake Kreme, dipped in maple icing, and finished with graham-flavoured crunch and a maple drizzle. ☕ Café Mocha Doughnut: A new Original Glazed doughnut dipped in chocolate icing, topped with a coffee-flavoured buttercreme swirl and a mocha bean. 🍪 Biscoff Cookie Butter Doughnut: A returning unglazed shell doughnut filled with Biscoff Cookie Butter Kreme, dipped in Biscoff cookie butter icing, topped with Biscoff cookie pieces, and finished with white icing. 🎃 Pumpkin Spice Cake Doughnut: A returning Original Glazed Old Fashioned cake doughnut formulated with pumpkin spice flavouring. Alison Holder, Chief Product and Brand Officer at Krispy Kreme, stated that the seasonal campaign combines established pumpkin spice profiles with new maple and mocha variants to capture broad seasonal demand across daily dayparts. New Autumn Drinks In addition to its bakery offerings, Krispy Kreme is expanding its seasonal coffee lineup with two autumn-inspired espresso beverages: 🎃 Pumpkin Spice Latte: An espresso-based latte flavoured with pumpkin pie sauce, topped with whipped cream and pumpkin spice seasoning. 🍎 Apple Crisp Latte: A new espresso-based latte flavoured with apple crisp syrup, finished with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, and a graham-flavoured topping. Where are they available? The 2026 Autumn Seasonal Collection will commence physical distribution across participating Krispy Kreme shops nationwide starting 11 August 2026. Products will be available in-store, via double-lane drive-thru channels, and for digital pick-up or delivery through Krispy Kreme's official website and mobile application. The SKUs will operate as a limited-time offering (LTO) available individually and in multi-pack dozen configurations while promotional supplies last. New Products Krispy Kreme 2026 Autumn Collection with Pumpkin Spice and Biscoff Dan Bunt August 7, 2026 New Products Krispy Kreme Debuts Apple Cider Glazed Doughnut Retail Krispy Kreme Expands UK Retail Footprint with Ocado Listing Foodservice Krispy Kreme Relaunches Pumpkin Spice Original Glazed for Four Day Window New Products Krispy Kreme Launches Limited-Time Pokémon Collection New Products Confectionery Bakery Related news

The deal underscores the continued private equity appetite for sustainable material assets, as investors look to capitalise on the regulatory and consumer shift away from plastics toward fibre-based solutions. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Kingswood Capital Management , a private equity firm specialising in operational improvements, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the paper-based packaging division of Coveris . The transaction serves as a complex corporate carve-out that will see the unit separate from its parent group and rebrand immediately as Paragon Print and Packaging . The deal underscores the continued private equity appetite for sustainable material assets, as investors look to capitalise on the regulatory and consumer shift away from plastics toward fibre-based solutions. The Return of Paragon: Operational Scale Upon completion, the standalone business will revert to its historic name, Paragon Print and Packaging , a brand established in 1994 that carries significant legacy recognition in the UK and continental Europe. Key Business Metrics for Paragon: Portfolio: High-quality, sustainable paper-based solutions for food, household, and personal care. Specialisation: Self-adhesive and linerless labels, lined board, cartons, and trays using eco-friendly materials. Leadership: Jo Ormrod , the current Chief Operating Officer, will be appointed as Chief Executive Officer of the newly independent Paragon entity. The existing management team will remain in place. "We are excited about our next chapter with Kingswood," said Jo Ormrod . "We are proud to return to our legacy name Paragon, a brand customers know and trust going back over three decades. I’m incredibly proud of what the team has built." A Streak of Complex Carve-Outs For Kingswood , this acquisition fits a specific investment thesis focused on complex corporate carve-outs of market-leading businesses. This deal marks the latest in a rapid series of similar high-profile transactions for the firm over the last two years: RAVE Aerospace: Acquired just this month from Safran (formerly Safran Passenger Innovations). Daramic: A global manufacturer of battery separators acquired from Asahi Kasei . Kodak Alaris: Acquired from the UK Pension Protection Fund. Alex Wolf , Founder and Managing Partner at Kingswood, commented: "Paragon has an enduring legacy as a trusted provider of sustainably produced solutions. We’re looking forward to supporting Jo and the rest of the leadership team as they join the Kingswood portfolio and embark on the next chapter as a standalone company." Strategic Divergence For Coveris , the sale allows for a sharpened focus on its core competency: flexible plastics. Andrew Kovach , Managing Director at Kingswood, noted that Paragon's strong market position and product lineup offered "tremendous opportunities for growth" as global companies seek sustainable alternatives. Transaction Details The deal is expected to close in several weeks , subject to customary legal and regulatory requirements. Financial Advisor: Jefferies served as the exclusive financial advisor to Kingswood. Legal Counsel: Kirkland & Ellis LLP provided legal counsel. Packaging Kingswood Capital Acquires Coveris Paper Unit in Strategic Carve-Out; Rebrands as Paragon News February 10, 2026 Packaging Mars Snacking Debuts Cheez-It and Club Crackers in Resealable Canisters Packaging deltaH Innovations and Brains Brewery Launch Self-Cooling Beer Can Facilities JBM Packaging Opens Ohio Facility to Expand Contract Packaging and Filling People SIG Appoints Ann-Kristin Erkens as Chief Executive Officer Business & Finance Packaging Related news

The company is introducing Love Crunch Gluten Free Strawberry Cheesecake, a new SKU designed to capture the "free-from" consumer without compromising on the sub-brand's dessert-forward positioning. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Nature's Path, North America's largest independent organic breakfast and snack brand, has announced a strategic expansion of its premium Love Crunch granola line. The company is introducing Love Crunch Gluten Free Strawberry Cheesecake , a new SKU designed to capture the "free-from" consumer without compromising on the sub-brand's dessert-forward positioning. The launch addresses the growing intersection of dietary necessity and indulgent snacking, targeting consumers embracing gluten-free lifestyles who feel underserved by the taste profiles of current functional offerings. Product Architecture and Ingredients The new variant replicates the sensory experience of a classic dessert while adhering to strict organic and gluten-free standards. To achieve a creamy texture without wheat binders, the formulation utilises a base of organic whole grain rolled oats bound with creamy cashew butter . Key Technical Specifications: Inclusions: Fair Trade white chocolate chunks and sweet dried strawberries. Nutritional Profile: Delivers 14g of whole grains per serving. Certifications: USDA Certified Organic, Gluten-Free, and Fair Trade ingredients. Strategic Positioning Arjan Stephens , President of Nature's Path, framed the launch as an accessibility move for the premium tier: "Our new Love Crunch Gluten Free Strawberry Cheesecake is the most delicious gluten-free granola offering on the market. It combines real organic ingredients and meets the needs of a gluten-free lifestyle without compromising taste. This launch is all about making delicious, organic food accessible to everyone." The product is positioned for versatility, marketed equally as a decadent breakfast option or a crave-worthy snack, blurring the lines between the cereal aisle and the treat occasion. CSR: The 'Bite4Bite' Program Consistent with the broader Love Crunch portfolio, the new release is integrated into the brand’s philanthropic model. Through the Bite4Bite program, the brand commits to donating a minimum of $2 million worth of food annually to food banks across North America. Dr. Rimjhim Duggal Stephens , Health and Nutrition Strategist at Nature's Path, highlighted the cumulative impact of the initiative: "To date, Love Crunch has donated more than $50 million to food banks across the U.S. and Canada. It's a simple idea with a powerful ripple effect, and it's at the heart of everything Love Crunch stands for." New Products Nature's Path Expands Premium 'Love Crunch' Portfolio with First Gluten-Free Dessert News January 21, 2026 Bakery Krispy Kreme Unveils Seasonal Valentine’s Day Doughnut Collection Coffee & Tea BIGGBY® COFFEE Partners with TWIX® for Winter Menu; Unveils Red Velvet Valentine's Lineup Coffee & Tea Dunkin’ Revives 'Brownie Batter' Donut and Debuts 'Toxic Ex-Presso' in Expansive Valentine's LTO Coffee & Tea Paris Baguette Unveils 'Pink Velvet' Menu Featuring Ruby Chocolate and Heart-Shaped Cakes for Valentine's Day New Products Health & Nutrition Food Related news

More than 300 beverage companies have signed an open letter to the German government, expressing collective opposition comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Over 300 companies from across the German beverage sector have united to voice formal opposition to the federal government’s planned introduction of a sugar tax. In an open letter, signatories, ranging from major international producers to regional family-owned businesses, have called for policymakers to reconsider the legislative proposal, which is currently slated for implementation in 2028. The letter, supported by several prominent industry associations, including the German Association of Non-Alcoholic Beverages (WAFG), the Association of the German Fruit Juice Industry (VdF), and the German Brewers Association (DBB), asserts that the levy would place an undue burden on the sector during a period of significant economic volatility. Economic and Operational Concerns The beverage industry has highlighted that many producers are already grappling with sustained pressure from rising energy, logistics, packaging, and personnel costs. The signatories argue that an additional fiscal burden, combined with the administrative complexity of collection and monitoring, could severely impact small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and family-run operations that form the backbone of the German market. Beyond the immediate impact on businesses, the industry also expressed concern for consumer purchasing power. With food prices currently at high levels, the letter suggests that a sugar tax would disproportionately affect lower-income households, potentially weakening household spending further. Evaluating Industry Efficacy A central pillar of the industry's argument rests on the progress already made through voluntary measures. According to the signatories, official data indicates that the sugar content of commercially available soft drinks in Germany has fallen by approximately 15% since 2018. The industry maintains that this reduction is the result of successful, voluntary initiatives, including: Continuous product reformulation Innovation in reduced-calorie and zero-calorie offerings Expanded range development The companies argue that the proposed tax lacks "robust evidence" regarding its effectiveness in achieving public health outcomes, such as addressing obesity or diet-linked diseases. They suggest that focus should remain on current industry-led strategies rather than new regulatory interventions that may not yield the intended structural improvements to the statutory health insurance system. As the government continues to work through fiscal planning and budget requirements, the coalition of 300+ companies is urging for greater reliability and planning certainty, requesting that officials refrain from imposing new burdens on the industry. Soft drinks Beverage Industry Leaders Oppose Proposed German Sugar Tax Eddie Sanders July 2, 2026 Facilities IMCD Germany Unveils 'Life Science Hub' in Cologne with Reopened Food & Nutrition Lab Health & Nutrition Soft drinks Beverage Legal Business & Finance Related news

Bai founder Ben Weiss enters the alcohol sector with Crooked Pop, a hard soda utilising proprietary ancient grain fermentation to meet demand for transparent and clean-label beverages. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Ben Weiss, the entrepreneur who sold the beverage brand Bai to Dr Pepper for $1.7 billion, has announced his entry into the alcohol industry with the launch of Crooked Pop. The new brand is positioned as a transparent alternative in the hard soda category, focusing on clean ingredients and a proprietary fermentation process. The launch marks a significant attempt to disrupt the ready-to-drink (RTD) sector by applying clean-label principles to alcoholic beverages. Ingredient Innovation The core differentiator for Crooked Pop is the use of Organic Super Dry Alcohol (OSA). This proprietary alcohol base was developed over four years through a specific fermentation process. Unlike traditional hard sodas that often rely on distilled spirits or malt brews, OSA is derived from a blend of ancient grains, including quinoa, amaranth, millet, and cassava. This technical innovation allows the brand to offer a neutral alcohol base that does not require artificial enhancements or heavy sweetening to mask off-notes. The resulting product is USDA-certified organic, gluten-free, vegan, and contains zero sugar. RTD Alcohol Sector The launch comes at a time when the alcohol industry is facing increased pressure from consumers for ingredient transparency. Weiss suggests that the current hard soda market mirrors the soft drink sector of 15 years ago, which was characterised by artificial formulations and high sugar content. By utilising the OSA process, Crooked Pop aims to establish a new RTD category that prioritises low-calorie counts and minimal carbohydrate loads. Each 12-ounce can contains 80 calories and fewer than one gram of carbohydrates, targeting the "conscious consumer" segment that has already moved toward similar standards in non-alcoholic functional beverages. Product Specifications Crooked Pop is scheduled to debut in select markets beginning April 1. The initial portfolio includes three flavour profiles designed to compete with traditional soda varieties: Orange Cream: A formulation mimicking the profile of a classic soda float. Blackberry: A tangy fruit-forward option. Cherry Lime: A citrus-based variety. The brand's go-to-market strategy leverages the proprietary nature of its alcohol base to claim a "crisp and clean" finish that avoids the impurities often found in mass-market malt beverages. As the RTD category continues to evolve toward premiumization, Crooked Pop’s organic certification and grain-based heritage provide a distinct point of parity with high-end health and wellness trends. New Products Crooked Pop Launches Newstagic Flavoured Zero-Sugar Hard Soda News March 24, 2026 New Products f'real and Good Humor partner for nostalgic Orange Creamsicle launch New Products GHOST and General Mills Expand Protein Partnership With New Cereal Milk Flavours New Products Culture Pop Soda Launches Functional Sparkling Raspberry Lemonade Beverage Dutch Bros Targets Nostalgia Trend with New Beverage Trio Alcohol New Products Health & Nutrition Beverage Related news

A new alliance of US produce companies has launched the Produce Coalition for USMCA to advocate for tariff-free agricultural trade. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom A broad alliance of United States produce companies has officially launched the Produce Coalition for USMCA to advocate for continued tariff-free trade of agricultural products under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The newly formed group represents a coalition of businesses engaged in growing, packing, shipping, distributing, and selling fresh fruits and vegetables in the US. The coalition's primary objective is to highlight the role of the tripartite trade agreement in maintaining food security, preserving integrated supply chains, and keeping grocery prices affordable for consumers. The formal launch occurs as the US, Mexico, and Canada participate in their mandatory six-year joint review of the trade agreement, which offers a structured window for evaluating regional agricultural policies and trade provisions. Advocacy during the USMCA Joint Review The coalition's immediate focus centres on engaging with policymakers and industry stakeholders during the ongoing USMCA joint review process. By presenting unified industry data, the group aims to demonstrate how cross-border trade supports domestic agricultural jobs and retail operations. According to statements from the coalition, the integrated North American supply chain is critical to delivering a reliable, year-round supply of highly perishable goods. Because fresh produce cannot be stored long-term, the seamless flow of goods across borders ensures that retail shelves remain stocked in all 50 states, regardless of seasonal domestic growing limitations. The group intends to advocate against any regulatory shifts or tariffs that could disrupt this flow, pointing out that regional trade stability is necessary to safeguard the broader US food supply. Economic Value of North American Trade Integration To support its advocacy platform, the coalition has highlighted economic data illustrating the financial benefits of tariff-free regional trade. The primary metrics demonstrating the impact of NAFTA and the subsequent USMCA include: 📊 Household Savings : Research from Purdue University indicates that tariff reductions achieved under the regional trade agreements have lowered food prices enough to save the average US household approximately $700 annually on groceries. 🍎 Year-Round Availability : Tariffs or trade barriers on imports would immediately affect the availability and price of off-season fruits and vegetables, impacting consumer purchasing power. 🚜 Job Security : The integrated supply model supports employment across multiple sectors, including transport, logistics, packaging, and retail distribution. The coalition argues that preserving these economic advantages is critical at a time when grocery retailers and consumers continue to face operational cost pressures. Enhancing Food Security and Resolving Trade Disputes Beyond direct economic savings, the Produce Coalition for USMCA emphasised that the structured framework of the agreement remains vital for establishing science-based regulatory standards. The group supports the treaty's built-in mechanism for addressing trade disputes, which allows agricultural partners to resolve technical and phytosanitary disagreements before they escalate into trade barriers. By prioritising bilateral cooperation and science-led policy decisions, the agreement helps prevent supply disruptions, contributing directly to regional food security and agricultural resilience. The Produce Coalition for USMCA will continue its outreach activities throughout the joint review period, providing data and industry perspectives to federal representatives, retail partners, and trade officials across the three signatory nations. Logistics & Supply Chain New USMCA Produce Coalition Advocates for Continued Tariff-Free Trade Eddie Sanders June 10, 2026 Agriculture Beanstalk AgTech Launches Monsoon Ventures to Scale Southeast Asian Agtech Agriculture General Mills, ADM and Walmart Partner to Accelerate Wheat Regenerative Agriculture Technology McCain Foods Partners with Ceres AI to Launch Ag-Tech Grower Programme Agriculture Puratos Scales Regenerative Agriculture Across US Wheat Supply Chain Legal Agriculture Business & Finance Logistics & Supply Chain Related news