AdvoCare International has expanded its sports nutrition portfolio with Clear Protein, a 20g whey isolate and collagen peptide drink mix comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom AdvoCare International, LLC has announced the launch of Clear Protein, entering the clear functional protein category with a light, juice-style powdered drink mix. Formulated to deliver 20g of protein and zero sugar per serving, the product blends whey protein isolate with collagen peptides. The launch provides an alternative to traditional, heavy dairy-based protein shakes, targeting consumers seeking light, refreshing liquid recovery options across active lifestyle and daily wellness routines. Clear Protein Formulation and Functional Benefits The development of Clear Protein combines two complementary protein sources into a single scoop to support muscle recovery alongside joint and connective tissue health. Each serving provides 16g of whey protein isolate paired with 4g of collagen peptides, supplying 3g of naturally occurring branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) at 90 calories. The clean-label formulation is manufactured without artificial sweeteners, synthetic colours, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and carries certified gluten-free credentials. Christina Helwig, Chief Executive Officer of AdvoCare, stated that Clear Protein was developed to help active consumers maintain daily protein intake through a crisp, refreshing format that integrates easily into daily routines without the heavy texture of conventional shakes. Flavour Lineup and Nutrition The powdered drink mix is formulated to dissolve smoothly in cold water, entering commercial distribution across two fruit-forward flavour variations: 🫐 Blue Razz: A tangy, sweet blue raspberry fruit profile formulated for post-workout hydration and afternoon refreshment. 🐉 Dragon Fruit: A tropical, exotic fruit blend designed for clean, crisp flavour delivery. Key nutritional metrics per single-scoop serving include: Protein Content: 20g total protein (16g whey protein isolate and 4g collagen peptides) Caloric Value: 90 calories with 0g of sugar Amino Acid Profile: 3g of naturally occurring BCAAs Clean Formulation: Free from artificial sweeteners, artificial colours, and gluten Distribution and Pricing AdvoCare Clear Protein has commenced commercial availability directly through the company's e-commerce platform at AdvoCare.com. The product is packaged in 16-serving canisters at a retail price of US$45.95, providing active consumers and wellness subscribers with a functional, clear alternative to traditional powdered protein supplements. New Products AdvoCare Launches Clear Protein Combining Whey Isolate and Collagen Peptides Eddie Sanders September 1, 2026 New Products Genius Gourmet Launches 30g Protein Milkshakes New Products David Protein Launches 30g Protein Ready to Drink Milkshakes New Products Plenish Launches Clean-Label Protein Oat Drink in UK New Products Rise Wellness Launches Protein Pop Balance Prebiotic Protein Soda Health & Nutrition Beverage New Products Related news

Cheerios Protein, a new cereal designed to meet rising consumer demand for convenient, protein-forward options. Each serving provides 8 grams of protein, maintaining the classic Cheerios shape while delivering a more nutritious start to the day. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Food General Mills The Newsroom General Mills is expanding its breakfast lineup with the debut of Cheerios Protein , a new cereal designed to meet rising consumer demand for convenient, protein-forward options. Each serving provides 8 grams of protein , maintaining the classic Cheerios shape while delivering a more nutritious start to the day. The launch comes as protein continues to be a priority across demographics: 71% of consumers report actively trying to increase protein intake . Cheerios Protein follows several recent high-protein additions from General Mills, including Wheaties Protein , Annie’s Super Mac , and Yoplait Protein , offering families multiple ways to incorporate protein into their routines. Emilie Knox, Vice President and Business Unit Director at General Mills, said the company formulated Cheerios Protein “with families in mind,” aiming for a balance of taste, nutrition, and familiarity. “Starting the day off with additional protein can help our consumers meet their nutritional needs — especially with a reliable and delicious option from a brand they already know and love,” she added. Cheerios Protein launches in two flavors: Cinnamon Strawberry Both varieties offer an accessible, family-friendly breakfast option with a good source of protein. The new cereal will roll out to retailers nationwide later this month, with a suggested retail price of $5.39 for large boxes and $5.69 for family-size boxes . New Products General Mills Launches Cheerios Protein, Expanding Its High-Protein Breakfast Portfolio News December 18, 2024 Cultivated Onego Bio and Zen Waffles Partner to Deploy Fermented Egg Protein in US Flavours & Colours General Mills Completes Removal of Certified Colours from US Cereal Range New Products SURREAL Launches High Protein Low Sugar Overnight Oats Range Business & Finance Ferrero Acquires Clean Label Granola Brand Purely Elizabeth Food Health & Nutrition New Products Related news

Tenzing has launched its second Natural Energy+ SKU, Focus White Peach, utilising a 160mg L-theanine and caffeine stack comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom TENZING, the pioneer of the UK’s natural energy segment, has announced a significant acceleration of its innovation pipeline with the debut of TENZING Natural Energy+ Focus . The launch follows the record-breaking retail performance of the platform’s first SKU, a Lion’s Mane variant, which reached best-seller status within its second week of distribution at Tesco. The move signals a structural shift for the brand, transitioning from general "clean energy" to targeted physiological and cognitive benefits as it seeks to consolidate its position as the primary natural challenger to legacy energy drink giants. Market Leadership and Functionality TENZING has officially secured the position of the number three energy brand in the United Kingdom by value rate of sale, trailing only Red Bull and Monster. This growth is increasingly driven by the "active-wellness" and "professional performance" demographics who are rejecting synthetic stimulants in favour of plant-based alternatives. The introduction of the "Natural Energy+" platform is a direct response to this trend. By productising specific states of mind—such as "Focus" and "Cognitive Clarity"—TENZING is moving into the high-margin nootropic sector while maintaining its core brand pillars of 100% natural ingredients and low-calorie counts. Formulation and Nootropics The Focus White Peach SKU is engineered to support "deep work" and sustained mental acuity. A primary technical differentiator for this product is the balanced ratio of caffeine to L-theanine, a combination frequently cited in nutritional science for its ability to enhance focus while mitigating the "jitters" often associated with high-stimulant intake. Key Technical Attributes Include ☕ Caffeine Payload: 160mg of natural caffeine sourced from green coffee beans. 🍃 L-theanine Integration: 160mg of natural L-theanine derived from a "triple tea" blend of Matcha, Green Tea, and White Tea. 🌊 Marine Mineral Sourcing: Utilises magnesium extracted from the Irish Sea to support neurological function. 🌸 Antioxidant Profile: Incorporates Sakura (Cherry Blossom) extract for both flavour complexity and functional benefit. Electrolyte Base: Formulated with Himalayan Rock Salt to ensure hydration during periods of high mental output. The launch of the Focus variant was brought forward following the outsized performance of the Lion’s Mane SKU in major retail. Huib van Bockel, Founder of TENZING, noted on LinkedIn that the organisation moved "extremely fast" to capitalise on the demand for functional boosters. For the initial phase, TENZING is utilising its direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform for the limited-edition rollout. This strategy allows the brand to collect high-resolution consumer data and validate the "Focus" use case before a potential wider expansion into its national grocery and convenience network, which currently spans over 10,000 retail doors. Energy Drinks Tenzing Launches Limited-Edition Focus White Peach Natural Energy Drink Dan Bunt May 14, 2026 Energy Drinks Red Bull Adds Fuji Apple & Ginger Edition to Permanent Lineup across US Retail New Products FLRT Launches Apple Bottoms Up Zero Sugar Energy Drink for Fall New Products Walovi Launches Natural Energy Drink and Berry Juice People Celsius Holdings Announces Leadership Changes Energy Drinks Beverage New Products Health & Nutrition Related news

Aldi has committed over five billion pounds to long-term supplier contracts with British farmers and pledged one point one billion pounds comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom UK grocery retail continues to navigate structural supply chain pressures as supermarkets compete intensely to secure stable, domestic agricultural partnerships. In a major move to solidify its supply security, discount supermarket leader Aldi has announced a commitment of more than £5 billion to long-term supplier agreements with British farmers and food producers. The multibillion-pound investment program is designed to strengthen domestic supply chains and provide long-term certainty for suppliers operating across high-priority fresh categories. By moving away from short-term transactional spot buying, the retailer is executing a structural shift aimed at insulating its shelf availability from global logistics shocks, geopolitical friction, and the rising volatility associated with climate-induced crop failures. Supply Chains A central mechanism of Aldi’s updated sourcing strategy is the expansion of multi-year supplier contracts. Under the newly announced framework, the retailer is actively moving towards agreements that run for a minimum of two years. This contract duration gives independent growers and livestock farmers the financial predictability required to undertake capital-intensive, long-term investments in productivity and sustainable farming practices. Aldi has set an ambitious operational target to source 50% of its domestic fresh produce through these formal, long-term agreements by the end of 2027. To illustrate the viability of this model, the retailer highlighted its ongoing relationship with Kent-based apple grower AC Goatham & Son. The producer supplies 100% of Aldi's British apples through a dedicated "Aldi Orchard" programme, illustrating how direct, exclusive supplier-retailer integrations can guarantee nationwide store supply while supporting local farm infrastructure. Targeted Investment in British Egg Production Alongside fresh fruit and vegetable initiatives, Aldi is directing substantial capital into the volatile poultry and egg sectors. The supermarket has pledged £1.1 billion specifically to UK egg production over the next five years. The British egg industry has faced severe disruption in recent years due to rising energy overheads, feed cost inflation, and widespread outbreaks of avian influenza. These factors have frequently led to retail shortages and margin depletion for producers. By locking in £1.1 billion of dedicated purchasing power over a five-year horizon, Aldi is positioning itself as a highly reliable, long-term buyer. This move is calculated to restore producer confidence, mitigate the risk of supply shortages, and establish a highly resilient poultry supply chain that can weather future biosecurity and economic disruptions. The Consumer Disconnect on Domestic Produce The timing of Aldi’s investment aligns with the release of new consumer research commissioned by the retailer, which highlights a stark disconnect between public sentiment regarding British farming and real-world shopping behaviours. A survey of 2,000 UK adults revealed that whilst 80% of respondents state that supporting British or local farmers is important to them, only 27% actively check whether fresh fruit and vegetables are grown in the UK when making purchases in-store. The research also exposed significant consumer confusion regarding which crops are cultivated domestically: Unrecognised British Crops: A high percentage of respondents were unaware that warm-weather crops like courgettes, cucumbers, and aubergines are actively grown in Britain. Assumed Imports: Consumers frequently and incorrectly assumed that sweet potatoes, runner beans, and bell peppers were exclusively imported products. Seasonality Gaps: Approximately 43% of shoppers admitted they lacked the confidence to identify seasonal produce, while nearly half reported cooking identical meals year-round regardless of crop cycles. For retail category managers, this consumer data suggests that simply stocking British produce is insufficient. To bridge this gap, supermarkets must invest in transparent in-store messaging, clear packaging indicators, and educational marketing campaigns to actively convert consumer sentiment into actual transactional volume. Rising Competition for Supplier Loyalty In UK Retail Aldi’s multibillion-pound commitment highlights a broader macroeconomic trend across the UK grocery sector, where leading supermarkets are increasingly moving towards collaborative supply chain models. With food security and sustainability rising on corporate agendas, securing supplier loyalty is becoming as critical as attracting consumer footfall. As supermarkets like Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Aldi lock independent farmers into long-term, index-linked pricing structures, those retailers without formal, multi-year supply protections may find themselves highly vulnerable to spot-market shortages and product inflation. For the wider agricultural industry, Aldi’s £5 billion pledge establishes a powerful precedent. It demonstrates that the future of grocery retail lies in deep-rooted partnerships that balance competitive pricing with the long-term financial viability of primary food producers. Agriculture Aldi Commits £5 Billion to British Agricultural Supplier Agreements Eddie Sanders May 28, 2026 New Products Iceland Foods and Myprotein Expand Range with 25 High-Protein Products Retail Tesco Expands Frozen Aisle with 150 New Products Retail Asda Completes £7.5M Digital Shelf Label Rollout across Express Stores Retail Co-op Introduces 7am Online Delivery across 1200 Stores for Back to School Rush Business & Finance Retail Agriculture Sustainability Related news

The Hershey Company has introduced "ONE Hershey," a unified U.S. commercial operating model that integrates its sweet, salty, and protein portfolios to streamline retail partnerships and accelerate innovation. 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 (HSY) has announced a fundamental shift in its domestic business structure with the launch of a unified U.S. commercial operating model. Termed "ONE Hershey," the initiative brings together the company's Sweet, Salty, and Protein brand portfolios under a single integrated framework designed to enhance consumer connections and strengthen retail partnerships. The move marks the first time the confectionery giant has consolidated its brand power, category strategies, and consumer insights into one cohesive structure. By unifying these segments, Hershey aims to combine the scale of its iconic U.S. confection brands with the high-growth agility of its salty snack and protein offerings. Centralised Strategy for Scaled Growth Under the ONE Hershey model, the company will centralise global brand marketing while integrating commercial execution across all three U.S. categories. According to Kirk Tanner, President and CEO of The Hershey Company, the transition is intended to allow the organisation to meet consumers across various consumption occasions with greater speed and purpose. The restructuring focuses on several key strategic pillars: Consumer-Led Innovation: Utilising a unified view of the snacking landscape to deliver more variety across different dayparts. Enhanced Retail Partnerships: Providing retail customers with a single, category-leading voice to improve planning efficiency and execution across all channels. Operational Agility: Leveraging the company’s best-in-class retail execution team to support the entire portfolio simultaneously. Executive Leadership Realignment To support the integrated model, Hershey has announced several leadership updates, effective March 16. The Executive Leadership Team will assume expanded responsibilities to manage the transition: Andrew Archambault (President, U.S.): Will now lead the full U.S. portfolio, overseeing commercial planning, category leadership, and customer relationships. Nitin Jain (Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer): Joins the Executive Leadership Team to integrate enterprise strategy with business unit resourcing. Stacy Taffet (Chief Growth & Marketing Officer): Expands her scope to include portfolio strategy, innovation, and demand creation capabilities. Vero Villasenor (Chief Brand Officer): Assumes a new role dedicated to activating Hershey’s global brand portfolio within the Growth and Marketing team. Future-Proofing the Snacking Portfolio The ONE Hershey evolution is positioned as a long-term play to lead "next-generation snacking." The company confirmed plans for targeted investments in omni-channel capabilities, R&D, and away-from-home markets. By removing the silos between its different product categories, Hershey expects to make faster decisions and foster bolder innovation in a rapidly evolving retail environment. The integration signals a broader trend in the FMCG sector where legacy manufacturers are moving away from category-specific divisions in favour of holistic, consumer-centric operating models. Business & Finance Hershey Launches ONE Hershey Unified U.S. Commercial Operating Model News March 18, 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 Business & Finance Confectionery Related news

Brevel introduces Purallis™, a clean-label chlorella produced via a proprietary illuminated fermentation platform designed to eliminate heavy metal risks and standardise microalgae supply for the global nutraceutical market. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Ingredients BREVEL The Newsroom Microalgae innovator Brevel, Ltd. has announced the commercial availability of Purallis™, a clean-label chlorella specifically developed for the nutraceutical and functional food sectors. Produced using a proprietary "illuminated fermentation" biomanufacturing platform, the ingredient seeks to address long-standing industry challenges regarding the purity, consistency, and heavy metal contamination often associated with traditional outdoor pond cultivation. Addressing the Chlorella Supply Chain Risk Approximately 90% of the global chlorella supply is currently grown in freshwater ponds, environments where the algae can act as a bioaccumulator, binding to pollutants and heavy metals from the surrounding air and water. This susceptibility has historically forced manufacturers to implement rigorous, often costly, testing for pesticides and microbial contaminants. "The strict requirements for purity and safety have tended to strain the supply of this ingredient," stated Yonatan Golan, co-founder and CEO of Brevel. The company’s move to an indoor, closed-system bioreactor model is designed to provide a consistent, ultra-pure alternative that meets modern pharmaceutical and nutraceutical standards. Technical Innovation: "Illuminating" the Fermentation Process Brevel’s core technological advancement lies in its ability to combine light with traditional fermentation in a sterile environment. While fermentation is typically a dark process capable of high yields, chlorella requires light to generate its specific nutrient profile, including chlorophyll and antioxidants. Key technical features of the Purallis™ production include: Integrated Light Systems: Enables high-yield fermentation while maintaining the microalgae’s nutritional integrity. Mechanical Extraction: To overcome the indigestible cell wall of chlorella, Brevel utilises a bead mill to physically open the cells. This mechanical process avoids the use of high heat or harsh chemicals. Standardisation: The closed system allows for specific nutritional adjustments, such as optimising iron levels for particular formulations. GLP-1 and Functional Foods The launch comes at a time of significant growth for the chlorella market, which is projected to reach USD 486 million by the early 2030s. Beyond general wellness, Brevel is positioning Purallis™ as a "GLP-1 friendly food." As consumers on GLP-1 medications or reduced-calorie diets require higher nutrient density per calorie, chlorella—composed of 50% protein and rich in B vitamins, omega-3s, and iron—serves as a strategic tool to fill nutritional gaps. Yfah Burstin, Chief Business Officer for Brevel, also noted the ingredient's potential as a "precision prebiotic" to support gut lining health and microbial balance. Scalability and Compliance Following a USD 25 million seed funding round and the opening of its first commercial plant in 2025, Brevel has transitioned to industrial-scale operations. The facility operates under internationally recognised standards, including HACCP and FSSC 22000, and the Purallis™ ingredient is certified kosher, halal, and non-GMO. This industrial capacity is intended to provide a reliable year-round supply for global commercial quantities, catering to sports nutrition, healthy ageing, and the burgeoning plant-based protein alternative market. Health & Nutrition Brevel Targets GLP-1 Nutrition Market with New Clean-Label Chlorella News March 3, 2026 New Products Dan-O's Seasoning Launches Clean-Label Chilli and Tac-O Seasoning Packets New Solutions Patco Products Launches Starplex Nova Clean Label Emulsifier Platform New Products Walovi Launches Natural Energy Drink and Berry Juice New Products Mason Dixie Foods Launches Clean-Label Chicken Biscuit Sandwich at Costco Business & Finance New Solutions Ingredients Health & Nutrition Related news

Chef Robotics, a specialist in AI-enabled automation for the food sector, has announced the launch of Chef+, its most advanced meal assembly robot to date. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Chef Robotics, a specialist in AI-enabled automation for the food sector, has announced the launch of Chef+ , its most advanced meal assembly robot to date. Engineered based on data from over 80 million servings produced in live environments, the new unit is designed to address critical operational constraints in food manufacturing: specifically, restricted floor space, production throughput, and stringent sanitation requirements. Operational Enhancements The Chef+ system introduces advancements across six key technical areas, explicitly targeting the bottlenecks found in cold-room production environments. Doubled Capacity: Ingredient pans feature twice the volume of previous models. This increased capacity extends intervals between refills, significantly reducing labour touchpoints—a critical advantage for high-volume or low-density ingredients like leafy greens. Optimised Footprint: Despite the capacity increase, the robot maintains a "human-sized" footprint. The thinner design allows for deployment in tight spaces and enables the configuration of back-to-back production lines to maximise floor utility. Reliability & Connectivity: The unit features integrated electrical enclosures with sealed wiring to increase mean time between failures (MTBF). It utilises IP cameras (superior to USB-C in cold conditions), a pneumatic water separator to keep air lines dry, and an array of dome antennas for robust Wi-Fi connectivity. Sanitation and Performance Specs To meet strict food safety standards, the Chef+ frame utilises an open-angle iron design, eliminating crevices where residue could accumulate and facilitating easier cleaning. In terms of processing power, the robot boasts upgraded CPU and GPU capabilities, allowing it to adapt to variable ingredient types in real-time. A three-camera vision system provides precise tracking of conveyor speeds and trays to ensure accurate ingredient placement. Usability and Availability The system includes several features designed to reduce setup time, including "daisy-chain" power configurations (allowing multiple robots to run from a single ceiling source), self-levelling feet, and glove-friendly P-CAP touchscreens. Chef+ is currently running in production at several customer sites and is now widely available to food manufacturers across the US, Canada, and the UK . New Solutions Chef Robotics Unveils 'Chef+' AI Robot to Boost Food Manufacturing Efficiency December 18, 2025 New Solutions Patco Products Launches Starplex Nova Clean Label Emulsifier Platform Facilities Cargill Doubles Production Capacity for FR3 Dielectric Fluid in Türkiye Alcohol Asahi Beer USA Installs High Speed Bottling Line at Wisconsin Facility Technology KPM Analytics Launches MCT700 Series In Line NIR Sensors for Food Processing Safety & Quality Foodservice Manufacturing Technology New Solutions Related news

Mondelēz International has expanded its limited-edition Oreo portfolio with the Firecracker Pop, a golden sandwich cookie featuring a complex triple-layer fruit creme designed to capitalise on summer nostalgia and patriotic marketing trends. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Confectionery Mondelēz International The Newsroom Oreo, the flagship biscuit brand of Mondelēz International, has announced the nationwide US launch of its latest limited-edition flavour: the Firecracker Pop. Set to hit retail shelves on 4 May 2026, the new product is inspired by the classic red, white, and blue rocket ice pops that have been a staple of North American summers for decades. The launch underscores Oreo's aggressive strategy of utilising limited-time offerings (LTOs) to maintain high brand visibility, drive social media engagement, and justify premium price points within the competitive ambient snacking aisle. Technical Formulation and Sensory Profile The Firecracker Pop variant departs from the brand's traditional chocolate and vanilla profile, instead focusing on a highly fruit-forward, multi-sensory experience. The product's architecture involves several distinct technical elements: Base Structure 🍪 Utilises the brand's standard Golden Oreo wafer to provide a neutral, sweet canvas that does not overpower the fruit notes. Triple Layer Creme 🍒🍋🫐 A complex extrusion process layers three distinct flavoured cremes within a single cookie: cherry (red), lemon (white), and blue raspberry (blue). Flavour Delivery Unlike previous patriotic releases (such as the "Firework" Oreo, which relied on popping candy for a crackling texture), the Firecracker Pop focuses entirely on delivering three distinct, simultaneous fruit flavours in a single bite. Premium Pricing and Artificial Scarcity The commercial strategy behind the Firecracker Pop relies heavily on the economics of artificial scarcity. The product will be available only while supplies last, carrying a suggested retail price of approximately $5.79 per pack. This represents a 20 to 30 percent premium over standard Oreo SKUs. Industry analysts note that this premiumisation strategy is highly effective for heritage brands. By releasing frequent, highly visual, and nostalgic flavour drops, Oreo is able to convert routine grocery shoppers into impulse buyers, successfully navigating the broader inflationary pressures currently affecting the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector. Trend Alignment and the Innovation Pipeline The timing of the launch is highly strategic. As the United States prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary in July 2026, the retail market is experiencing a significant influx of patriotic, red, white, and blue-themed food and beverage products. The Firecracker Pop positions Oreo at the forefront of this seasonal merchandising wave. Furthermore, the release highlights Oreo's ongoing pivot toward the "kidult" demographic, adult consumers seeking nostalgic, playful food experiences. The Firecracker Pop follows a string of bold, high-profile innovations from the brand in 2026, including a recent online-exclusive, small-batch Dill Pickle flavour and a comprehensive summer beverage collaboration with Dunkin'. By continuously refreshing its portfolio with unexpected flavour profiles, Mondelēz ensures that Oreo remains a dynamic, trend-led brand capable of dominating both retail endcaps and digital conversations. New Products Oreo Debuts Triple Layer Firecracker Pop Flavour for Summer 2026 Eddie Sanders May 1, 2026 Food BARK and Girl Scouts of the USA Partner to Launch Dog Cookies New Products pladis Launches McVitie's Flipz in China with Three Locally Developed Flavours New Products Keebler Relaunches Spookie Fudge Stripes for Halloween 2026 with Experiential Zoo Campaign Marketing Oreo Launches Twist Lick Vote Campaign with Three Limited Edition Flavours New Products Snacking Confectionery Related news

Papa Johns has unveiled Lou AI, a next-generation ordering assistant built on Google Cloud’s Food Ordering agent, designed to eliminate the complexity of group orders and provide a personalised digital concierge experience within its mobile app. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Foodservice Papa John's The Newsroom Papa Johns has announced the launch of Lou AI, an AI-powered pizza assistant integrated directly into its mobile application. Developed using Google Cloud’s specialised Food Ordering agent technology, the platform represents a significant step in the company’s digital transformation, aiming to streamline the ordering process through natural language and intuitive decision-making tools. The deployment makes Papa Johns the first major brand to utilise the Google Cloud Food Ordering agent to usher in a new era of highly personalised and seamless QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) transactions. Google Cloud Food Ordering Agent Integration The partnership with Google Cloud allows Papa Johns to move beyond traditional menu-scrolling interfaces. By utilising an "agentic" AI model, Lou AI functions as a digital concierge rather than a standard chatbot. The system is designed to handle complex, multi-step tasks, which helps users navigate the brand’s extensive menu while identifying the best value through deals and promotions. Kevin Vasconi, Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Papa Johns, stated that the platform is built to replicate the feeling of "being known," drawing a comparison to the relationship between a consumer and their favourite local bartender or barista. Solving Complexity in Group Ordering A primary objective for Lou AI is the resolution of "group ordering chaos." Traditionally, coordinating large orders for groups with diverse dietary preferences—such as vegetarians, meat-eaters, and those seeking specific sides—creates significant friction and leads to "order gridlock." Lou AI addresses these challenges by: Preference Reconciliation: Automatically balancing various dietary needs and individual cravings within a single order. Volume Calculation: Advising users on the correct amount of food required based on the size and description of the group. Friction Reduction: Eliminating the need for manual negotiation or repetitive changes to the digital basket. The system adapts in real-time to descriptions provided by the user, orchestrating an order that reflects the collective needs of the table without requiring the user to navigate individual menu categories manually. AI Concierge and User Interface Evolution The name "Lou AI" was chosen to honour the brand’s roots in Louisville, Kentucky. By shifting the interface from rigid syntax and navigation to natural language intent, Papa Johns is positioning itself at the forefront of the "concierge-led" digital economy. Key functional attributes of the assistant include: Always-On Availability: Acts as a constant guide within the app to assist with troubleshooting and selection. Proactive Deal Sourcing: Automatically identifying and applying relevant discounts to ensure the group receives the best price point seamlessly. Contextual Awareness: Understanding the intent behind descriptions of social gatherings (e.g., a child’s birthday party) to suggest appropriate menu mixes. Availability and App Implementation Lou AI is currently available to users of the Papa Johns mobile app on both iOS and Android platforms. The company is encouraging users to ensure their applications are updated to the latest version to access the new functionality. As Papa Johns continues its technology transformation throughout 2026, the success of Lou AI will serve as a foundational element for future AI-driven innovations across its global footprint. By utilising Google Cloud’s enterprise-grade security and data grounding, the brand aims to set a new standard for reliability and accuracy in AI-assisted food commerce. Technology Papa Johns Launches Lou AI-Powered Pizza Assistant via Google Cloud Eddie Sanders April 29, 2026 Foodservice Pizza Hut Australia Unveils $10M Brand Overhaul and Network Expansion Business & Finance Yum! Brands Completes $1.5B Pizza Hut Acquisition to LongRange Capital Foodservice California Pizza Kitchen and T-ROC Global to Deploy 1000 Automated Retail Kiosks Foodservice Coco Robotics and Little Caesars Launch Autonomous Robot Pizza Delivery Foodservice Business & Finance Technology New Solutions Related news

World's Finest Chocolate has launched its first NIL campaign featuring college athletes Harlem Berry and Leland Smith, alongside a brand refresh comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Fundraising confectionery enterprise World's Finest Chocolate has announced its first Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) partnerships, signing deals with Louisiana State University running back Harlem Berry and University of California, Los Angeles wide receiver Leland Smith. The partnerships serve as the centrepiece for the company's new "Let Them Reign" campaign, which re-engineers traditional youth fundraising as a vehicle for building entrepreneurial skills, communication, and resilience among young participants. The marketing initiative arrives alongside a broader enterprise refresh, encompassing the company's first packaging redesign in ten years, a streamlined $2 chocolate bar pricing structure, and the upcoming launch of a dedicated digital management application for campaign organisers. Campaign and NIL Partnerships The "Let Them Reign" campaign pairs top-tier college athletes with young high-performing sellers, referred to by the brand as "Reign Makers," to highlight the long-term career benefits of school and community fundraising. Both Berry and Smith sold World's Finest Chocolate during their youth to support middle school football and youth honours choir programmes, respectively. The campaign leverages their athletic journeys to illustrate how early fundraising participation fosters teamwork, goal-setting, and accountability. Eddie Opler, Chief Executive Officer of World's Finest Chocolate, stated that as a third-generation family business, the company is focusing on the evolution of community fundraising, noting that campaigns should extend beyond financial metrics to deliver life skills and access to developmental opportunities for youth. Berry added that his early middle school fundraising experience provided foundational lessons in goal setting and team accountability that continue to influence his collegiate athletic career. Smith highlighted that participating in youth choir sales taught him public communication, persistence, and personal resilience, traits that transitioned directly into his collegiate athletic endeavours. Brand Refresh and WFCentral Digital App Launch The campaign coincides with a multi-phase modernisation strategy across World's Finest Chocolate's operational and packaging infrastructure. Key operational updates and product platform enhancements include: 🍫 Packaging Redesign: The execution of the company's first full packaging visual overhaul in a decade, modernising shelf presence and brand hierarchy across its product range. 💵 Simplified Product Pricing: The consolidation of its core fundraising portfolio around a streamlined $2 chocolate bar price point, designed to simplify transaction mechanics for school and club sellers. 📱 WFCentral Platform Deployment: The planned autumn 2026 launch of WFCentral, a proprietary digital app designed to streamline inventory management, order tracking, and administrative workflows for campaign organisers and group leaders. Campaign Impact The integration of NIL partnerships and digital tooling reflects broader shifts across the non-profit and educational fundraising sector, where legacy CPG providers are modernising operations to align with digital-first consumer expectations. By combining digital management tools with a simplified unit pricing model and high-profile athletic ambassadors, World's Finest Chocolate aims to lower administrative friction for volunteer organisers while driving sales velocity across elementary, middle school, and regional athletic networks. The campaign and brand refresh will deploy across national marketing channels, digital media platforms, and educational fundraising networks throughout the autumn trading period. Confectionery World's Finest Chocolate Launches First NIL Campaign and Digital App Eddie Sanders August 20, 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 Marketing Confectionery People Related news

Rise Baking Company has announced the relocation and expansion of its Georgia Innovation Centre to Uptown Atlanta. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Rise Baking Company has announced plans to relocate and expand its Georgia Innovation Centre, moving the facility from Tucker to Uptown Atlanta. The relocation, scheduled to take place later this year, will establish a consolidated Commercial and Customer Centre of Excellence to house the company's regional administrative, commercial, and research and development operations. The manufacturer of baked goods for in-store bakeries and foodservice operators decided to transition to the new location at 575 Main Street NE as its existing lease in Tucker ends in late 2026. Operational Consolidation and Infrastructure The new site will span over 30,000 square feet, combining office space with dedicated research and development facilities. The layout is designed to bring together several of Rise's Atlanta-based shared services teams that previously operated separately. These departments include the following business functions: 🧪 Research and Development: Enhancing formulation and testing capabilities for foodservice and in-store bakery partners. 🤝 Customer Service and Commercialisation: Streamlining the transition of baking products from concept to commercial scale. ⚙️ Operations and Procurement: Supporting supply chain efficiencies and raw material sourcing. 📊 Payroll and Administration: Unifying core corporate support functions and employee services. Mark McNeil, Chief Executive Officer of Rise Baking Company, stated that the transition represents an opportunity to evolve the company's operating environment to better support its workforce and customer base. McNeil noted that the facility constitutes a direct investment in the company's commercial capabilities and collaborative infrastructure. Regional Manufacturing and Footprint While the corporate and R&D offices are relocating, Rise Baking Company will maintain its existing production footprint in the state. The manufacturer confirmed that its production plants in Tucker and Douglasville, Georgia, will continue normal operations. The new site is situated in Uptown Atlanta, a 47-acre mixed-use district positioned between Midtown and Buckhead. The transit-oriented community connects directly to local pedestrian trail networks, including the Atlanta Beltline, PATH400, and the South Fork Trail, and is anchored by the Lindbergh MARTA transit station. Eric Schiela, Chief Operating Officer for developer Rubenstein Partners, welcomed the manufacturer to the district, stating that the company's focus on research and innovation aligns with the development. Bakery Rise Baking Company Relocates and Expands Atlanta Innovation Centre Eddie Sanders July 13, 2026 People Levain Bakery Appoints Lorna Sommerville and Taya Stenson as Co-CEOs Bakery The Pizza Cupcake Rebrands as Incredifulls Ingredients Savor and AAK Partner to Develop Carbon-Derived Speciality Fats Bakery Associated British Foods Completes Acquisition of Hovis Group Facilities Business & Finance Bakery Related news

The launch addresses a critical gap in the market for high-performance cooking technology that fits within the spatial and budgetary constraints of growing production lines. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom GEA , the German engineering group, has expanded its food processing portfolio with the launch of the CookStar First , a new compact spiral oven specifically engineered for small to mid-sized food manufacturers. The launch addresses a critical gap in the market for high-performance cooking technology that fits within the spatial and budgetary constraints of growing production lines. The CookStar First brings the advanced "twin-zone" spiral technology of GEA’s industrial-scale machines to a format rated for throughputs of up to 1,700 kg per hour . This move allows smaller operators to graduate from batch processing or lower-tech continuous systems to precision spiral cooking. Precision Engineering: Improving Yield by 3% A key value proposition for the new unit is its ability to deliver superior thermal consistency. Featuring integrated booster impingement , the oven is designed to ensure uniform heat distribution across the conveyor belt. According to GEA, this technology limits core temperature variation to approximately 1°C , a significant improvement over conventional systems which can see deviations of up to 6°C. This precision allows manufacturers to cook closer to the minimum safety temperature without overcooking, resulting in: Yield Improvements: Up to 3% . Faster Throughput: Reduction in cooking times by 10-30% . Compact Footprint and Versatility Recognising the infrastructure challenges faced by SMEs, GEA designed the CookStar First with a total height of less than 3.9 meters . This compact profile facilitates installation in facilities with limited ceiling clearance, avoiding the need for costly building modifications. Despite its size, the oven maintains high versatility, capable of handling diverse product categories including: Coated poultry and meat products. Plant-based alternatives. Steam-cooked and baked items. Ready meals. Sustainability and Digital Integration The oven has been awarded GEA’s 'Add Better' label, validating its resource efficiency credentials. Through features like an intelligent active exhaust system and adjustable product gates, the unit minimises air leakage and heat loss. Combined with water reuse capabilities, the company reports potential reductions in energy and water consumption of up to 12% . On the operational side, the machine is integrated with the GEA SmartControl HMI . This interface provides operators with real-time process monitoring, alarm management, and a 24-hour event timeline. It also connects with GEA Insight Partner technology, enabling remote diagnostics and predictive maintenance planning to minimise downtime. Market Context The CookStar First sits as the entry-level solution in the wider CookStar range, which includes the original smoking-capable model and the high-capacity CookStar Turbo (12,000 kg/h). By standardising the footprint technology across the tier, GEA offers a scalable pathway for manufacturers seeking to modernise operations with improved product consistency and sustainable resource use. Manufacturing GEA Targets SMEs with Compact ‘CookStar First’ Spiral Oven to Boost Yield and Efficiency News February 11, 2026 New Solutions Patco Products Launches Starplex Nova Clean Label Emulsifier Platform Facilities Cargill Doubles Production Capacity for FR3 Dielectric Fluid in Türkiye Alcohol Asahi Beer USA Installs High Speed Bottling Line at Wisconsin Facility Technology KPM Analytics Launches MCT700 Series In Line NIR Sensors for Food Processing Food Manufacturing New Solutions Technology Related news