The appointment signals a strategic push to accelerate the commercial adoption of the company's food waste solutions across the US and Canadian fresh produce and floral supply chains. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Food technology innovator Fresh Inset S.A. has announced a significant bolstering of its executive team, appointing Gordon Robertson as General Manager for its Vidre+ technology in North America. The appointment signals a strategic push to accelerate the commercial adoption of the company's food waste solutions across the US and Canadian fresh produce and floral supply chains. Executive Profile and Track Record Robertson brings over 30 years of senior leadership experience to the role, characterised by a unique blend of corporate CPG stability and agile biotech scaling. Corporate Background: His résumé includes a tenure of more than two decades at Campbell Soup Company . Agri-Food Leadership: Following his CPG career, Robertson held leadership roles in agricultural marketing and operations at Sun World International . Biotech & Innovation: Crucially for Fresh Inset, he possesses specific experience in the venture-backed biotech space, having held positions at Apeel and Verdant Technologies . Most recently, he served as a Partner at The ArchPoint Group. Strategic Mandate In his new capacity, Robertson will oversee all facets of the regional operations for Vidre+ , Fresh Inset's proprietary shelf-life extension technology. His remit covers strategic planning, commercial execution, and financial performance. The primary objective is to drive market penetration and expand the customer base for the company's 1-MCP delivery system, ensuring the technology is accessible to a wider range of produce and floral operations across the continent. Kris Czaplicki , Co-Founder & Board Member at Fresh Inset, highlighted the specific alignment of Robertson's skills with the company's growth phase: "Gordon's combination of large-scale CPG experience, deep agricultural expertise, and biotechnology leadership makes him uniquely qualified to lead Fresh Inset's next phase of growth in North America. His track record of building brands, scaling operations, and delivering results aligns directly with our mission to reduce food waste through innovation that is accessible to every produce and floral operation." Company Context Headquartered in Europe, Fresh Inset specialises in 1-MCP (1-Methylcyclopropene) technology. The company focuses on developing new delivery methods for this ethylene inhibitor, aiming to democratise access to shelf-life extension tools beyond the traditional apple and pear categories, effectively "reimagining" possibilities for the broader supply chain. Fresh Inset Appoints CPG Veteran Gordon Robertson to Lead North American 'Vidre+' Operations January 12, 2026 People Ball Appoints New Beverage Packaging Presidents for Americas and EMEA People Lofted Spirits Names Nick Smith Master Distiller People Co-op Appoints Alex Dower as Managing Director of Food Retail People Coca-Cola Appoints Rob Gehring President of North America Operating Unit Safety & Quality Sustainability People Technology Food Business & Finance Related news

The California Association of Food Banks has rebranded as California Food Banks to highlight the collaborative strength of its statewide distribution comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The California Association of Food Banks has announced a comprehensive rebranding, updating its name to California Food Banks™ to mark its 30th anniversary. The updated identity is designed to emphasise the collaborative nature of its statewide distribution network as it coordinates food security efforts across the region. The network, which comprises 43 member food banks and supports nearly 6,000 community-based organisations, serves as a primary logistical backbone for hunger-relief efforts throughout California. Network Scale and Sourcing Logistics Since its founding three decades ago, the organisation has established an integrated supply chain that links agricultural producers directly with food distribution networks. By partnering with local growers and packers, the network manages the recovery and transit of surplus fresh produce, ensuring high-quality agricultural outputs are redirected to communities in need rather than going to waste. The co-ordinated network handles the transport of millions of pounds of fresh, California-grown fruits and vegetables annually. According to Mark Lowry, Co-founder of California Food Banks™ and Director of the OC Food Bank, this long-term collaboration with agricultural partners has successfully scaled fresh produce access, bringing the state closer to closing the food security gap. Systemic Programmes The transition to California Food Banks™ reflects the unified operations of its member organisations, which combine local and regional expertise with centralised, state-level administration. The network operates across several key functional areas: 🍏 Produce Recovery – Partnering with agricultural growers to salvage and transport fresh fruits and vegetables. 📋 Benefit Enrollment – Streamlining administrative access to CalFresh benefits for eligible households. 📊 Systemic Research – Conducting regional analyses to identify the root causes of food insecurity and evaluate the efficacy of current food systems. ⚖️ Policy Advocacy – Representing regional interests at both state and federal levels to strengthen the social safety net. Blake Young, President and Chief Executive Officer of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services, stated that the name change aligns with the collective mission of the network. Young noted that the updated identity represents a unified community of food banks working together to secure reliable food access across the state. California Association of Food Banks Rebrands to California Food Banks July 7, 2026 Soft drinks Pepsi Debuts Limited Edition Knicks Championship Cans Energy Drinks Lucky Energy Debuts New Visual Identity Business & Finance Fuel Meals Unveils Brand Refresh as Sales Grow 550% Over Two Years Dairy Hudsonville Ice Cream Refreshes Super Premium Pint Range Food Business & Finance Related news

The initiative taps into the growing "sober-curious" market trend, positioning premium coffee as a social alternative to alcohol while creating a substantial recurring revenue stream for non-profit operations. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > San Francisco-based artisan roaster Graffeo Coffee Roasting Company has announced a strategic social impact partnership with The Phoenix, a national sober active community. The collaboration centres on the launch of The Phoenix Blend , a new custom coffee product designed to fund recovery experiences nationwide. The initiative taps into the growing "sober-curious" market trend, positioning premium coffee as a social alternative to alcohol while creating a substantial recurring revenue stream for non-profit operations. The Donation Model and Product Profile The partnership features an aggressive philanthropic structure: for every bag of The Phoenix Blend sold, $10 is donated directly to The Phoenix. Product Specifications: Roast Profile: A custom "bold, robust blend" calibrated on Graffeo’s custom fluid-bed roasters. Sourcing: Leveraging Graffeo's established supply chain, known for serving Michelin-starred restaurants. The funds generated will support The Phoenix's operational model, which provides free sober events and activities—ranging from music festivals and fitness groups to outdoor adventures—for individuals in recovery and their allies. Coffee as the New Social Lubricant The collaboration aligns with a broader cultural shift regarding intoxication and socialising. Graffeo cites that coffee is increasingly replacing alcohol as the centrepiece of social gatherings, driven largely by younger generations prioritising mental clarity and physical health. This "sober-curious" movement has normalised the choice of a latte over a cocktail, creating a market opening for premium coffee brands to align with wellness and recovery narratives. Scott Strode , Founder of The Phoenix, framed the partnership as a mechanism for scaling impact: "This is all about caffeinating for a cause. Each Graffeo purchase creates meaningful connections for people healing from substance use and mental health challenges... Each bag sold supports our vision of serving 10 million people in the next five years." Walter Haas , Co-owner of Graffeo Coffee Roasting Company, added: "Coffee has always been about showing up for one another. The Phoenix embodies that spirit, and we're proud to fuel this transformative organisation with simply the world's finest coffee." Organization Context The Phoenix: Founded in 2006, the non-profit reports an 80% success rate of participants remaining sober after three months (compared to 40-60% relapse rates in traditional programs). It has impacted over one million individuals to date. Graffeo: A heritage roaster based in San Francisco's North Beach since 1935, celebrated for its fluid-bed roasting technology and high-end restaurant distribution. Graffeo Coffee Roasting Co. Launches 'The Phoenix Blend' with $10 Donation Model to Support Recovery Movement January 22, 2026 Coffee & Tea Lavazza Expands Hong Kong Footprint and Introduces Buffalo Milk Latte Coffee & Tea Happy and Marvel Studios Launch Avengers Doomsday RTD Coffee Line New Products Dunkin' Launches Avengers Doomsday Menu and Collectables Coffee & Tea Purity Coffee Launches Dedicated Whole Bean Espresso Blend Business & Finance Coffee & Tea Related news

White Lily is expanding its 140-year heritage into the freezer aisle with the launch of its first ready-to-bake frozen biscuit line, utilising its signature soft winter wheat formulation to capture the growing demand for premium convenience. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > White Lily, an established leader in Southern baking for more than 140 years, has announced its entry into the frozen food sector with the launch of White Lily Frozen Biscuits. The move represents a significant category expansion for the brand, transitioning its "homemade" authority into a ready-to-bake format designed to meet the rising consumer demand for high-quality, convenience-led bakery solutions. The new line is scheduled to debut across select Southeastern retailers this spring, leveraging the brand's deep-rooted cultural resonance in the region to drive trial in the competitive freezer aisle. Move into the Heat and Serve Category The introduction of frozen biscuits marks a shift for White Lily and its parent company, Hometown Food Company. By moving beyond traditional flour and cornmeal staples, the brand is positioning itself to compete in the high-growth "heat-and-serve" segment. Dan Anglemyer, COO of Hometown Food Company, stated that the objective was to deliver the brand's signature light and airy texture in a format that eliminates the preparation time typically associated with Southern biscuits. This strategy targets modern households that prioritise authentic regional flavours but face increasing time constraints for traditional scratch baking. Technical Formulation and Signature Flour Usage To ensure product integrity and maintain brand equity, the frozen biscuits are crafted using 100% soft winter wheat flour. This specific ingredient is a technical requirement for achieving the tender crumb and light texture that has defined the brand for generations. Product Variants and Specifications Southern Buttermilk Biscuits: A traditional formulation featuring a tangy buttermilk flavour and a soft, fluffy interior. Classic Butter Biscuits: Engineered for a rich flavour profile with multiple tender, flaky layers. Packaging Format: Each 27 oz. package contains 12 ready-to-bake biscuits, optimised for standard residential oven workflows. The formulation allows for a "freezer-to-oven" transition with a bake time of under 30 minutes, providing a consistent results-oriented experience for the end-user. Regional Retail Strategy and Market Positioning White Lily is utilising a localised rollout strategy, focusing initially on the Southeastern United States, where its brand recognition is highest. As the leading biscuit baking brand in the region, the company is well-positioned to convert loyal flour users to its new frozen SKUs. The product's placement in the freezer aisle allows White Lily to capture incremental usage occasions, such as weekday breakfast sandwiches and quick dinner sides, where consumers might have previously opted for less authentic or lower-quality alternatives. Premium Frozen Bakery The expansion into frozen biscuits reflects a broader trend toward the "premiumization" of the freezer aisle. As consumers seek restaurant-quality comfort foods for at-home consumption, heritage brands with established quality credentials are finding success by translating their expertise into more accessible formats. As White Lily scales its presence in the frozen category, industry analysts expect a continued focus on leveraging its soft winter wheat heritage to differentiate its products from mass-market industrial alternatives. This launch solidifies the brand's transition from a pantry staple to a multi-category culinary provider. White Lily Enters Freezer Category with Heritage-Inspired Biscuit Range April 29, 2026 New Products Nestlé Toll House Launches First Advent Calendar for Holiday Baking Bakery Puratos Launches ProteinPro Clean-Label Bakery Mixes New Products Nestlé Launches Dessert Culinary Solutions in Brazil and China Bakery Betty Crocker Unveils Packaging Refresh and Limited Edition Handbag Collection Snacking New Products Bakery Food Related news

BonBon Swedish Candy Co. has partnered with Moomin Characters and Finnish confectioner Fazer to launch a premium, clean-label candy collection, leveraging the global rise of Scandinavian candy culture and 135 years of Nordic manufacturing heritage to drive international retail growth. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > BonBon Swedish Candy Co. has announced a landmark collaboration with Moomin Characters and Fazer, Finland's most storied confectionery house, to debut the BonBon x Moomin Candy Collection. The partnership marks a strategic effort to capitalise on the surging global demand for "Scandinavian candy" by combining a high-growth lifestyle brand with a global cultural icon and a century-old manufacturing partner. The collection is designed to transition the Moomin brand from a regional heritage brand into a high-velocity global confectionery player, targeting both specialised candy boutiques and mainstream international retail channels. Manufacturing Partnership with Fazer A critical component of the launch is the involvement of Fazer. Founded in 1891, Fazer is currently celebrating its 135-year history and remains the primary definer of Nordic candy-making traditions. By manufacturing the collection through Fazer, BonBon is ensuring a level of technical quality and "Nordic authenticity" that serves as a competitive moat against mass-market imitations. For B2B stakeholders, this partnership provides: Industrial Reliability: Leveraging Fazer’s established large-scale production capabilities. Heritage Benchmarking: Aligning the modern BonBon brand with Fazer’s historical prestige. Global Compliance: Utilising a manufacturer with rigorous European safety and quality standards. Product Portfolio and "Clean Label" Standards The BonBon x Moomin collection consists of two distinct product formats, both of which adhere to modern "clean-label" requirements—a growing priority for international retailers in the premium confectionery segment. The entire range is formulated without artificial colours or flavours. The debut SKUs (Stock Keeping Units) include: Moomin Sour Candy Gummies: Character-shaped gummies featuring a flavour profile of lemon, raspberry, cola, and melon. These are positioned as a "refined" alternative to traditional sour candies, offering a balanced acidity intended for adult and youth demographics alike. Moomin Strawberry and Blueberry Candy Clouds: Soft, foamy "candy clouds" coated in sour sugar. These leverage the popular "foam" texture trend in Scandinavian confectionery, focusing on authentic berry notes. The timing of the launch aligns with the rapid "rise of Scandinavian candy culture" across North America and Asia. The "Swedish candy" aesthetic, defined by unique textures, clean ingredients, and whimsical shapes, has become a high-engagement category on social media platforms, driving significant foot traffic to speciality importers. By wrapping the product in soft pink packaging featuring Tove Jansson's original 1940s illustrations, BonBon is leveraging the "nostalgia" and "wellness" narratives simultaneously. The packaging is designed to stand out in a crowded retail environment while appealing to the 80-year history of the Moomin universe. International Scaling Historically, Moomin-branded food products have been largely confined to the Nordic and Japanese markets. This collaboration represents the first time these specific formulations are being scaled for a truly international release. From a commercial perspective, the strategy is rooted in "inclusivity and belonging," mirroring the Moomin ethos. By positioning the candy as a "small pleasure" meant to be shared across cultures, BonBon is aiming to secure placement in high-end gift shops, speciality food markets, and major digital platforms like Amazon. For the broader confectionery industry, the BonBon x Moomin launch highlights the increasing importance of "IP-led flavour innovation." As consumers become more discerning about ingredient quality, the combination of a trusted manufacturer (Fazer) and a culturally significant brand (Moomin) allows a newer brand like BonBon to justify premium pricing. As the collection rolls out through 2026, industry observers expect the success of this partnership to serve as a blueprint for other Nordic brands looking to "export" their specific regional candy cultures. By delivering a product that balances 19th-century manufacturing standards with 21st-century "clean-label" demands, BonBon is positioning itself as a primary shaper of the new global candy landscape. Fazer and BonBon Partner to Scale Moomin Confectionery Internationally April 7, 2026 New Products Frankie's Organic Snacks Launches Snickerdoodle Avocado Oil Puffcorn New Products Lay's Debuts Holi-LAY'S Range with Chocolate Chips New Products JiMMYBAR! Launches Creatine and Protein Trail Mix Line Snacking Pringles Launches Halloween Campaign with Custom Can-Shaped Urn Manufacturing Confectionery Business & Finance New Products Related news

Former BrewDog CEO James Watt has launched Fools Fix, a sparkling functional recovery drink designed to support rehydration, sleep, and nutrient replenishment. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Former BrewDog Chief Executive Officer James Watt has unveiled his latest commercial venture with the launch of Fools Fix, a premium functional recovery beverage formulated to target post-alcohol rehydration, metabolic balance, and sleep support. Operating under Watt's newly established drinks company, Second Best, the brand enters the functional health and recovery sector. The beverage is positioned as an engineered final drink of the night, combining active natural ingredients, electrolytes, and vitamins to mitigate the physical effects of alcohol consumption. Formulation and Functional Benefits Fools Fix has been formulated to deliver a blend of active natural extracts, essential minerals, and antioxidants to support natural liver function and accelerate toxin clearance following alcohol intake. Key product attributes and nutritional highlights include: 🧪 Electrolyte Hydration Complex: Essential minerals engineered to restore cellular hydration and fluid balance following alcohol consumption 🌿 Botanical Detoxification Blend: Targeted natural extracts including milk thistle selected to support liver function and antioxidant defence ⚡ Essential Vitamin Matrix: High-potency B-complex and C vitamins formulated to replenish metabolic nutrients depleted during alcohol processing 🍊 Refreshment Profile: Low-sugar, naturally flavoured sparkling liquid profile designed for clean sensory satisfaction 📦 Sustainable Packaging: Packaged in 355ml recyclable aluminium cans in alignment with modern environmental standards Crowdfunding Equity Model and DTC Distribution The brand has launched initially via direct-to-consumer (DTC) digital channels in the United Kingdom, with plans to expand distribution into continental Europe and North America. To drive initial consumer adoption and brand loyalty, Watt is deploying an equity-sharing model for early buyers. The first 20,000 customers purchasing the product via the DTC platform will receive a collective 10 per cent equity stake in the brand, equivalent to 100 founding shares per order, alongside a lifetime discount. Additionally, former retail investors from BrewDog's Equity for Punks scheme are being offered free shares in the new venture. The product is available in six-can sample packs priced at £23.99 (£3.99 per 355ml can). As production scales, the business intends to explore commercial distribution across retail networks, impulse convenience stockists, and modern trade accounts. James Watt Unveils Fools Fix Detoxification Drink August 26, 2026 New Products Evolution Fresh Launches Thrive Functional Juice Line New Products Coca-Cola Launches Prebiotic Line across Coke, Sprite and Fresca New Products McDonald's Debuts Bottled Pickle Brine Pickle Boost for Chicago Marathon New Products Goodrays with Brewgooder to Launch Functional Alcohol-Free Beers Beverage New Products Business & Finance People Related news

Muracha enters the premium tea market with the launch of its debut single-cultivar matcha, Yame No. 89, focusing on supply chain transparency comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Muracha, a new entrant in the premium tea sector, has launched its debut single-cultivar matcha, Yame No. 89. Co-founded by sisters Megan Lore and Katie Roth, the brand aims to differentiate its offering by prioritising supply chain transparency and specific farming practices, moving away from the use of unregulated industry marketing labels. The brand's market entry is positioned against the common use of "ceremonial grade" as a descriptor within the matcha industry. Muracha states that this label lacks standardisation and regulatory oversight. Instead, the company is focusing its messaging on traceability, the cultivar used, and the farming techniques employed at the point of origin. Yame No. 89 is sourced from Yame, Japan, a region known for specific tea-growing conditions. The product is derived from a single-cultivar harvest, with a focus on shade-growing techniques designed to influence the chemical composition of the leaves, specifically targeting L-theanine and chlorophyll levels. Origin and Operational Focus The brand has prioritised the provenance of its product as a core component of its business model. The Yame No. 89 variety is named after the primary farmer overseeing the fields where the leaves are harvested. This focus on individual farm origin is intended to provide a narrative of consistency and quality control that the brand believes will resonate with the current speciality tea consumer base. Following harvest, the leaves are stone-milled in Japan, an operational choice intended to maintain the integrity of the product’s flavour profile and freshness before export. Distribution Muracha is utilising a direct-to-consumer (DTC) model through its website, offering both one-time purchases and subscription services. The brand has also initiated a B2B strategy, securing placement on the menus of select restaurants and cafes in Atlanta and Nashville. This dual-channel approach is designed to introduce the brand to consumers through both home-consumption and professional hospitality settings. Backed by a group of investors and advisors from the media and creator sectors, the company is planning further partnership announcements throughout 2026 as it expands its footprint in the specialty beverage market. Muracha Launches Premium Matcha Brand with Yame Sourced Debut June 30, 2026 New Products La Colombe Launches Ready-to-Drink Matcha Latte Line New Products TRUBAR and Cha Cha Matcha Partner to Launch Protein Bar and Café Drinks New Products Little Moons Launches Strawberry Matcha Latte Mochi Ice Cream in UK Ingredients Dawn Foods Introduces Matcha Fond and Upgrades Berry Stabilisers Beverage New Products Related news

Barilla Group reports significant progress in resource management, including a 45 percent increase in water recycling and a 99.8 percent recyclable packaging rate across its global portfolio. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Barilla Group has reported a significant expansion in its resource management capabilities, coinciding with Global Recycling Day and World Water Day. The company confirmed that 99.8% of its current packaging is now designed for recyclability, while the volume of water recycled and reused across its global production sites increased by 45% between 2022 and 2024. These developments are part of a broader industrial strategy to transition toward more circular production models, focusing on efficient water utilisation and the reduction of fossil-based packaging materials. Water Conservation and Industrial Investment Water is a critical resource for pasta and sauce production. To manage this resource, Barilla has implemented an Environmental Management System compliant with the UNI EN ISO 14001 standard. The Group utilises Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) and the Water Scarcity Index to monitor regional water consumption and ensure environmental compliance. Key industrial achievements in water management include: Water Stress Mitigation : In water-stressed regions, the company increased its water recycling rate by 164% over the past two years. The Rubbiano Plant Case Study : The Parma-based facility, which produces sauces and pesto, recovered over 62,000 cubic meters of water between 2022 and 2024 following upgrades to its wastewater treatment systems. Future Capital Expenditure : Barilla has launched a 168 million euro Energy and Water Plan. This includes a 5 million euro investment specifically for the Rubbiano plant to increase the recycled water index further. The Group aims to increase its recycled water index by 250% in high-stress areas by 2030 compared to 2022 levels. Transitioning to Circular Packaging Solutions Packaging remains a primary focus of Barilla’s environmental strategy, particularly in reducing waste and carbon emissions. Currently, 71% of the Group’s packaging is paper- or cardboard-based, and more than 50% of all materials used globally are derived from recycled sources. The Group’s Sustainable Packaging Principles, established in 1997, continue to guide current redesign projects. A primary objective of this strategy is to remove approximately 4,000 tons of packaging material from the market by 2030 through optimisation and redesign. Supply Chain and Environmental Oversight Barilla’s sustainability efforts extend into the agri-food supply chain. The company maintains voluntary collaborations with tomato and basil suppliers to implement more efficient irrigation and farming practices. Internally, every production site is held to annual reduction targets, which are monitored monthly via the Supply Chain Scorecard, a global platform used to track environmental performance across the organisation. By integrating these water and packaging initiatives, Barilla aims to stabilise its supply chain and reduce the environmental footprint associated with high-volume food manufacturing. Barilla Achieves 99.8% Recyclable Packaging Across Global Operations March 23, 2026 Packaging Cirkla Belmark and Ossid Launch First Resealable Fibre Tray Water ZenWTR Expands Premium Water Footprint with Plastic-Negative Certification Packaging Aldi and Arla Launch Trial for UV Tagged Milk Bottle Recycling Logistics & Supply Chain Amcor Secures RecyClass Certification for Pallet Protection Stretch Films Food Sustainability Manufacturing Packaging Logistics & Supply Chain Business & Finance Related news

Circus SE has completed the full acquisition of Belgian food robotics company Alberts, expanding its portfolio of autonomous sustainment systems comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Circus SE has finalised its full acquisition of Alberts, a Belgian food robotics company, strengthening its technological footprint in the autonomous food service sector. This development builds upon the initial disclosure made by the company on 16 April 2026. The acquisition allows Circus SE to integrate Alberts' portfolio of robotic systems, intellectual property, and established commercial operations into its existing business. By securing these assets, the group aims to bolster its range of fully autonomous sustainment systems and expand its presence across multiple European markets. Transaction Terms As consideration for the acquisition, Circus SE will issue 1,200,000 new shares. These shares are subject to a 26-month lock-up period ending in September 2028, aligning with existing agreements held by Circus's management, founder and CEO Nikolas Bullwinkel, and core shareholders. Beyond the share issue, the deal includes a cash component of EUR 350,000, payable upon the achievement of predefined milestones. Furthermore, a performance-based earn-out mechanism has been established, tied to new Alberts system sales and deployments over a 24-month period following the transaction's close. Leadership and Integration The founding management team from Alberts will continue to hold active operational roles within the business. Additionally, Chris de Wolf, previously an anchor shareholder at Alberts, has joined the Circus SE Board of Advisors to provide strategic guidance. Circus SE Completes Acquisition of Belgian Food Robotics Firm Alberts July 2, 2026 Packaging ProAmpac Launches ProActive Intelligence Shelf Protect Packaging Technology Ricoh USA and Hyphen Partner to Scale Restaurant Robotics in US Agriculture PepsiCo Launches VR Harvester Training to Tackle Potato Loss Technology 365 Retail Markets and ColdSnap Partner to Bring Frozen Treats to Micro Markets Technology Business & Finance Related news

Pacific Northwest dairy brand Alpenrose has announced a major restructuring of its manufacturing footprint, confirming plans to cease production at its facility in Clackamas, Oregon, effective 31 March 2026. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Pacific Northwest dairy brand Alpenrose has announced a major restructuring of its manufacturing footprint, confirming plans to cease production at its facility in Clackamas, Oregon , effective 31 March 2026 . The decision marks a consolidation of operations designed to streamline the business. While the Clackamas site—responsible for butter, sour cream, and ice cream mix manufacturing—will wind down, the company has assured consumers that the brand remains active. Fresh milk production will continue at the company's facility in Kent, Washington , ensuring that Alpenrose milk and cottage cheese remain available at grocery stores across the region. Asset Disposition and Potential Auction To facilitate the transition, Alpenrose has retained Harry Davis & Company (HDC) , a specialist in dairy industry asset sales, to market the Clackamas operations. The strategy involves seeking a strategic operator to acquire the turnkey facility. However, HDC has confirmed that if a buyer is not identified in advance, the equipment assets will be offered at a public auction scheduled for Wednesday, 20 May 2026 . Lenny Davis , CEO of Harry Davis & Company, highlighted the significance of the assets entering the secondary market: "The opportunity to acquire the Clackamas facility, with its capability to produce butter, ice cream mix, and cultured products, is one we rarely see become available. This facility has tremendous heritage and brand recognition, so we expect it to generate significant interest in the butter marketplace along with various other dairy segments." The sale represents a rare opportunity for competitors or new entrants to acquire scaled production capacity for cultured dairy products in the Pacific Northwest region. Alpenrose to Cease Production at Clackamas Facility in Operational Consolidation January 25, 2026 Water Primo Brands Opens Greenfield Mountain Valley Water Facility Facilities Müller Plans German Site Closures across Sauces and Sliced Cheese Soft drinks Firefighters Extinguish Blaze at Coca-Cola Auckland Bottling Plant Facilities Arca Continental Completes $42m San Antonio Bottling Plant Expansion Facilities Dairy Manufacturing Business & Finance Related news

California Pizza Kitchen has partnered with T-ROC Global to deploy up to 1,000 automated retail kiosks across the United States over the next three years. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) has entered into a strategic partnership with retail solutions provider T-ROC Global to roll out and operate up to 1,000 automated retail kiosks across the United States over the next three years. The agreement expands CPK's non-traditional distribution footprint, bringing on-demand hot meals to high-traffic destinations where full-service restaurant operations are unfeasible. The initial rollout will focus on market density, deploying clusters of at least 20 units across 30 major US metropolitan areas. Automated Retail Network The automated machines will target high-density venues, including airports, university campuses, hospitals, hotels, office buildings, residential communities, electric vehicle (EV) charging hubs, and sports stadiums. The partnership scales a non-traditional format CPK has been testing since 2025. The brand currently has automated kiosks operating at airports including Boston Logan, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, Dallas Love Field, and Dayton, with an additional 15 university locations scheduled for activation before the end of the year. Michael Beacham, President of California Pizza Kitchen Global, stated that the automated retail strategy allows the enterprise to introduce its menu into new consumption occasions and venues where on-the-go consumers seek hot food options. Automated Menu Options Engineering for the kiosks combines Turbo-chef heating systems, data intelligence, and interactive touchscreen user interfaces capable of dispensing cooked pizzas in 90 seconds. In addition to core pizza lines, the automated kiosks will stock a selection of CPK's hot entrées and desserts: 🍕 Pizzas: A selection of signature CPK pizza options baked on demand in 90 seconds. 🍝 Pasta Entrées: Kung Pao Spaghetti and Bolognese Spaghetti dishes. 🧀 Mac 'N' Cheese: Formatted across classic, BBQ Chicken, and Burnt Ends variations. 🍰 Dessert Offerings: CPK's signature Butter Cake. Logistics and Operations Infrastructure T-ROC Global will manage end-to-end site operations, utilising its national infrastructure of 32 regional warehouses, a dedicated vehicle fleet, and technical field personnel to oversee installation, daily ingredient replenishment, and maintenance. Under the terms of the agreement, T-ROC will also serve as the primary service provider for CPK's existing automated retail operating partners, delivering warehousing, freight logistics, maintenance, and venue identification services. Brett Beveridge, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of T-ROC Global, noted that combining CPK's brand equity with T-ROC's logistics infrastructure establishes a new automated distribution channel at national scale. California Pizza Kitchen and T-ROC Global to Deploy 1000 Automated Retail Kiosks August 24, 2026 New Products Lunchables Launches Limited-Edition Pizza Grill Business & Finance Crosta & Mollica Merges with European Pizza Group to Form €1B Pizza Business New Products New York Bakery Launches Stuffed Pizza Bagels in UK Foodservice Pizza Hut Australia Unveils $10M Brand Overhaul and Network Expansion Technology Foodservice Bakery Business & Finance Related news

Starbucks Japan has unveiled its comprehensive 2025 holiday beverage lineup, launching four days ahead of Halloween with the introduction of the Strawberry & Joyful Medley Tea Frappuccino and complementary seasonal offerings. 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 Starbucks The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Coffee chain introduces "Joyful Medley – Connected by Joy" theme for Christmas season with innovative tea-based beverages Starbucks Japan has unveiled its comprehensive 2025 holiday beverage lineup, launching four days ahead of Halloween with the introduction of the Strawberry & Joyful Medley Tea Frappuccino and complementary seasonal offerings. The early release strategy demonstrates the competitive dynamics in Japan's premium beverage market, where seasonal product launches drive significant consumer engagement and revenue. The centerpiece of this year's holiday menu is the Strawberry & Joyful Medley Tea Frappuccino , featuring Starbucks Japan's signature winter tea blend enhanced with mirabelle plum. The beverage showcases sophisticated layering techniques with: Strawberry pulp chunks in the base layer Creamy milk tea blend in diagonal layered presentation Whipped cream topped with freeze-dried strawberries Optional holiday-themed mini cookies (ribbon, snowman, bear, and doll shapes) Available exclusively in Tall size and iced format, the Frappuccino is priced from 687 yen (approximately $4.50 USD), positioning it as a premium seasonal offering. Beverage Portfolio The Joyful Medley tea blend serves as the foundation for multiple holiday beverages, combining strong black tea with oolong, jasmine, and apricot components. For 2025, Starbucks has enhanced the blend with mirabelle plum, creating what the company describes as a "gorgeous yet deep and rich flavour" profile. The tea blend is available as a retail product in 12-bag boxes priced at 1,680 yen ($11.03 USD), targeting home consumption and gift-giving markets during the holiday season. The holiday menu includes the Strawberry Mousse & Joyful Medley Tea Latte , available in both hot and iced formats across all size options from Short to Venti (570-710 yen). This beverage combines tart strawberry mousse with the signature tea blend, offering customers temperature and size flexibility not available with the Frappuccino variant. Returning favorites include: Joyful Medley Tea Latte (from 520 yen) - the core tea blend in traditional latte format Gingerbread Latte - featuring spiced gingerbread cookie flavoring Interactive Customer Experience Elements Starbucks Japan has introduced holiday-themed mini cookies as add-on items, sold separately to enhance customer engagement. The cookies are randomly selected by baristas, creating what the company describes as "the same sense of excitement as receiving a Christmas gift." This gamification element represents an innovative approach to upselling and customer experience enhancement. Market Positioning and Strategy The "Joyful Medley – Connected by Joy" theme emphasizes emotional connection and community building through shared beverage experiences. This positioning aligns with broader industry trends toward experiential marketing and emotional brand engagement, particularly relevant in Japan's relationship-focused business culture. The early October 27 announcement, preceding Halloween by four days, demonstrates Starbucks Japan's aggressive seasonal marketing strategy designed to capture market share before competitors launch their holiday offerings. All holiday beverages and merchandise become available November 1, 2025, replacing the current Halloween-themed products including the Halloween Frappuccino and seasonal drinkware collection. This transition strategy ensures continuous seasonal relevance and maintains customer interest through frequent menu rotations. Industry Context The launch reflects several key trends in Japan's food and beverage sector: Premium positioning through unique flavor combinations Visual presentation as a key differentiator Seasonal limited-time offerings as revenue drivers Integration of traditional Japanese tea culture with Western coffee shop concepts Interactive elements to enhance customer engagement The emphasis on tea-based beverages also acknowledges Japan's strong tea culture while maintaining Starbucks' coffee-centric brand identity, demonstrating successful localization strategies in international markets. Market Implications This product launch positions Starbucks Japan to compete effectively during the critical holiday season, when beverage sales typically peak. The combination of premium pricing, unique flavors, and interactive elements creates multiple revenue streams while building brand loyalty through memorable customer experiences. The early launch timing also allows Starbucks to establish market presence before competitors, potentially influencing consumer holiday beverage preferences and purchasing patterns. Starbucks Japan Launches 2025 Holiday Menu with Strawberry & Joyful Medley Tea Frappuccino October 29, 2025 New Products Suntory Launches -196 Limited Edition Kiwi Flavour Coffee & Tea Starbucks Japan Launches Banana Affogato Frappuccino Events Discover Export‑Ready Japanese Products at Japan's Food Export Fair Fresh Produce Tropic Biosciences Secures Approval for Non-Browning Banana in Japan and Brazil Coffee & Tea Foodservice Related news