Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA), one of the largest bottlers of non-alcoholic ready-to-drink beverages in the Asia-Pacific region, has announced it has reached a deal to sell the SPC fruit and vegetable processing business to Shepparton Partners, a joint venture between Perma Funds Management and The Eights, for A$40 million ($28 million). CCA originally announced it was putting its SPC unit up for sale last August. Commenting on the deal, CCA group …
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German discount retailer Aldi is planning to open two physical stores in China, according to reports in Retail Detail and the South China Morning Post. The stores are to be located be in the Shanghai region (in the Jing’an and Minhang districts), supplied by a new distribution centre also to be built in the locality. Aldi has been present in China as an online store since 2017 via Alibaba’s online …
Fonterra, the New Zealand based dairy giant, has announced it is to close its processing plant in Dennington, Australia due to overcapacity and constrained milk supply. The closure of the factory, which is located in the south west of the state of Victoria and currently produces “lower value” products, comes amid “significant changes, including a declining milk pool” in the Australian dairy industry, Fonterra said. Commenting on the news, Fonterra Australia …
A new instant coffee plant built for Indian drinks conglomerate Tata has opened its doors in the Binh Duong province of Vietnam, the firm’s construction partner GEA has revealed. The plant, Tata’s first instant coffee factory outside of India, will reportedly produce 5,000 tonnes of instant coffee per annum. In a previous statement, Tata said: “We believe that Vietnam will not only open up new markets for us, but it …
Kameda Seika, a Japanese snack firm, is forming a joint venture with LT Foods to produce its flagship crispy rice cracker in the northern Indian state of Haryana, according to a report in the Japan Times. LT Foods is described as a leading local food maker engaged in the milling, processing and marketing of branded and non-branded basmati rice, as well as the manufacturing of rice-based products for its domestic …
Saputo, a Canadian dairy company, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire the specialty cheese business of Lion Australia for A$280 million ($197 million). The deal is said to include all of Lion Australia’s specialty cheese brands, including King Island Dairy, Tasmanian Heritage, South Cape, Mersey Valley, Heidi Farm and Australian Gold, as well as cheese manufacturing assets at Burnie (The Heritage) and King Island (King …
Tata subsidiary Tata Global Beverages, the world’s second largest tea producer, has announced it has reached a deal to acquire the total branded packet tea business of rival Indian firm Dhunseri for a total consideration of 101 crore INR ($14.4 million). The proposed acquisition, which includes the brands Kala Ghora and Lal Ghora, is said to be subject to due diligence, the signing of definitive binding agreements and other approvals. …
Suntory, the leading Japanese drinks firm, is rolling out a new version of its flagship Pepsi cola that is said to be based on popular Japanese flavours. Labelled Pepsi Japan, the new product is reported to be flavoured with the Japanese citrus fruit yuzu as well as a “a carefully balanced combination of spices [and] a subtle flavour of salt”. The cola will be available from 9th April in regular and …
Bubs Australia, a goat milk products manufacturer, has agreed to acquire infant formula producer Australia Deloraine Dairy for a consideration including A$25 million ($17.8 million) in cash and A$10 million ($7.1 million) in shares, according to a FoodBev report. Australia Deloraine Dairy is a multinational food company predominately involved in manufacturing and marketing dairy, staple and natural foods. Its Melbourne facility is said to have the capacity to process 10 …
Lion, the Kirin-owned Australian food and drinks firm, is expanding further in the non-alcoholic drinks space with the acquisition of New Zealand ice tea brand Teza. Teza previously belonged to Greenstone Drinks and is described as the first “real-brewed” iced tea in New Zealand. The product is said to be made with batch brewed organic leaf tea and is available in flavours such as Feijoa & Lime Blossom and Lemon …
Chinese dairy firm Yili has announced that it is set to acquire New Zealand’s Westland Milk Products, a New Zealand dairy firm, via its subsidiary Hongkong Jingang Trade Holding for an enterprise value of 588 million NZD ($400 million). Westland Milk Products manufactures a range of dairy products and ingredients for foodservice, industrial and retail clients. Its retail lineup includes Westgold butter and UHT milk, and the make-at-home yoghurt brand …
Nestle, the Switzerland-based consumer goods giant, has announced an expansion of its research and technology activities in China with the inauguration of a new research & development centre in Beijing and a system technology hub in Shenzhen. In a statement, Nestle said the new R&D centre would enable it to accelerate trend-based innovation in China to meet fast-changing consumer demand. The site, accommodating over 40 R&D specialists with expertise in …
Australian beverage and dairy company Lion is making its first major foray into the spirits sector with the acquisition of a 50% stake in Four Pillars Gin. Founded in Healesville in 2013, Four Pillars Gin is a craft distiller offering gins such as Rare Dry, Spiced Negroni, Navy Strength and Bloody Shiraz. It currently has distribution in 25 markets worldwide including UK, Nordics, Singapore, New Zealand or USA. Lion added …
McCain, the Canada-based frozen potato firm, is expanding its french fry chip manufacturing site in Smithton, Australia through a A$40 million ($28.3 million) investment, according to Australian media reports. Tasmania Talks reports that, following the upgrade, Smithton will become McCain’s main french-fry production facility in Australia and New Zealand. As a result of the investment, McCain will be capable of manufacturing 25 new retail products and providing additional capacity across …
Halewood, the UK-based wine and spirits firm, is expanding its footprint in Australia by buying local spirits firm Ironbark Distillery and setting up a dedicated Australian division, according to a report in Spirits Business. Based in New South Wales, Ironbark Distillery markets vodka, gin, rum and moonshine, which are described as being produced using local mountain spring water. Under the terms of the deal, the distillery’s flagship brand Ironbark Dry …
7-Eleven, the world’s largest convenience retailer, has revealed it is entering the Indian market for the first time through a master franchise agreement with a subsidiary of Future Retail. The new master franchisee plans to build 7‑Eleven stores as well as convert some of its existing locations to the 7‑Eleven brand, with the first store set to open this year, the company said, adding that “internationally popular” products, beverages, snacks and …
Varun Beverages, PepsiCo’s Indian bottling partner, is set to acquire PepsiCo’s company-owned bottling, sales and distribution operations in the south and west regions of India, according to a report in the Economic Times. Varun Beverages is already the franchise partner for PepsiCo’s bottling operations in the North and East, having acquired those divisions in 2014. The latest acquisition, the value of which is said to be between 24 and 27 billion INR ($340 and $380 …
Lactalis, the French dairy giant, has announced it has acquired the Indian milk processor Prabhat Dairy, with the operation set to be effective at the beginning of the second quarter of 2019. Economic Times reports that Lactalis paid about 1,700 crore INR ($283 million) through a slump sale, and that the deal includes Prabhat Dairy’s milk processing business as well as its subsidiary Sunfresh Agro Industries. Established in 1998 in Shrirampur, Maharashtra, Prabhat Dairy …
Ajinomoto, the Japan-based seasonings and ready meals firm, has announced plans to construct a new plant to manufacture soup and other products at its Kawasaki site at a cost of 20 billion JPY ($180 million). The company said the new plant was part of a strategy that includes the restructuring of the value chain of its Japan Food Products business, and will achieve flexible production capabilities and high productivity (about double current levels) …
FMCG giant Unilever has announced it has secured a deal to acquire GSK’s health consumer products division in India, Bangladesh and other predominantly Asian markets, for a total consideration of €3.3 billion ($3.8 billion). The transaction is said to consist of an all-equity merger of Hindustan Unilever Ltd with GSK Consumer Healthcare India, the acquisition of an 82% stake in GSK Bangladesh Limited, and the acquisition of certain other commercial operations and assets outside India. …
FMCG multinational Nestle has announced the launch of its first products developed by its incubator team in China. According to Nestle, the products were released under the new brand name Xingshan and comprise three herbal drinks and three herbal soups, offering the benefits of Chinese medicine and cuisine. Developed jointly by the Nestle China incubator team and the company’s brand division Totole, the new products are said to feature rose, …
Vitasoy, a manufacturer and distributor of plant-based food and beverages, has announced a 1.21 billion HKD ($154 million) investment to build a new manufacturing facility in Dongguan, China. 100,000 sq m in size, the Vitasoy facility will be the firm’s largest production facility in mainland China and it is expected to be operative by 2021. Winston Lo Vitasoy’s executive chairman commented, “Mainland China is now our biggest and fastest growing …
Multinational food and beverage company Kraft Heinz has annoucned an agreement to sell its India brands to consumer health firm Zydus, the personal care arm of Indian pharmaceutical company Cadila Healthcare, for approximately $625 million on a debt free and cash free basis. The portfolio of brands includes Complan, Glucon-D, Nycil and Sampriti. “The sale of this niche business fits into our overall global growth strategy and our focus on investing in …
Nestle’s Malaysia arm is to invest over 100 million MYR ($24 million) to expand its Chembong Milo production facility, investing in what the company describes as a “key manufacturing hub”. According to Nestle, the Chembong facility expansion will establish the world’s biggest Milo manufacturing centre, with capacity to better meet growing local and export demand. “This move is an investment to further strengthen our Nestle presence in Malaysia”, commented Alois Hofbauer, CEO of Nestle …
Australian fruit and vegetable cannery SPC, part of the Coca-Cola Amatil group, has sold the IXL jam and Taylor’s marinade and sauces brands to Kyabram Conserves. Terms of the sale were not disclosed. According to a company statement, Kyabram Conserves will continue to produce IXL and Taylor’s products from the site in Kyabram. “IXL and Taylor’s are great brands, but the Spreads and Sauces/Marinades categories were a small part of the …
Nestle, the Swiss consumer goods giant, has expanded its product range with the launch of a new Kit Kat variety for its Southeast Asian market. The new Kit Kat Duo Milk Tea was launched in Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore. According to Nestle the new flavour is a “full-bodied, creamy and soothing flora scent of a steaming cup of hot Milk Tea” that maintains its traditional crispy wafer centre while featuring …
The Australian arm of soft drinks giant Coca-Cola has announced the acquisition of kombucha maker Organic & Raw Trading , owner of the Mojo organic live culture kombucha drinks brand. The acquisition of Mojo sees Coca-Cola enter the kombucha category for the first time. Commenting on the acquisition, Coca-Cola Australia president Vamsi Mohan said: “This is another important step in our company’s ongoing work to offer beverages for all occasions, which …
Leading bakery and snacks producer Mondelez International has announced the launch of its cookie brand Oreo in two unconventional flavours. A limited edition for the Chinese market, the new Hot Chicken Wing flavour, featuring a buffalo sauce-esque orange cream, and Wasabi green, were announced by the firm on Twitter. Mondelez International has also announced a contest on Twitter and Instagram that invites Oreo fans to suggest the next limited edition, …
Indian snack food company Prataap Snacks has announced the acquisition of an 80% of share in Avadh Snacks, a Gujarat based snack food company, for 148 crone INR ($2.1 millon ). Prataap Snacks manufactures fried and sliced crisps made from potatoes, hummus, lentils, and namkeen, a type of traditional savoury Indian snack, under the Yellow Diamond brand name, while Avadh Snacks manufactures namkeens under the Avadh brand name. Amit Kumat, …
Nestle, the Swiss consumer goods giant Nestle, has announced that it is “considering alternative options” for its Lean Cuisine brand in Australia. The announcement comes after Simplot revealed that it will not renew the licence agreement that it signed in 2009 to manufacture and market Lean Cuisine under licence in Australia. The decision was taken as part of Simplot’s strategy to exit the frozen meals category and focus on its …
Cola-Cola Amatil, the Australian softt drinks and food firm, has started a “strategic review” of SPC, an Australian processor of packaged fruit and vegetablea. According to Alison Watkins, managing director of Coca-Cola Amatil, the review coincides with the completion of a four-year, A$100 million ($72 million) co-investment in SPC in conjunction with the Victorian government. “We believe there are many opportunities for growth in SPC, including new products and markets, further …
Freedom Foods Group, the Australia based cereal and snacks producer, has announced the acquisition of nutrition products manufacturer Crankt Protein for A$3.5 million ($2.5 million). Based in New South Wales, Crankt Protein produces protein snack bars and shakes which are sold in Australia and New Zealand through fitness retailers, petrol stations and other channels. Freedom Foods Group manufactures and markets breakfast cereal, snacks, dairy and non-dairy milk as well as …
Fonterra, the multinational milk processor, has announced that it has joined forces with the consumer goods firm Future Consumer, part of Future Group, to market dairy products in India. The new venture, which is to be called Fonterra Future Dairy Partners, will market a range of products for both retail and foodservice channels that will “help meet the growing demand for high-quality dairy nutrition in India”, according to a company statement. …
Hindustan Unilever, the Indian arm of the Anglo-Dutch multinational, has announced the acquisition of the ice cream brand Adityaa Milk from Vijaykant Dairy for an undisclosed sum. The firm said the proposed acquisition was in line with its strategic objective of strengthening its position in the rapidly growing ice cream and frozen dessert market in India. Incorporated in September 2004, Adityaaa Milk is described as a fast-growing brand with origins …
Multinational brewer Heineken has announced the signing of a non-binding agreement with China Resources Enterprise (CRE) and China Resources Beer (CR Beer) that will strengthen the Dutch firm’s presence in the Far East. The $3.1 billion agreement will create a long-term strategic partnership in which Heineken will become a 40% minority partner of CRH Beer, the Chinese beer market leader and controller of CR Beer. Under the terms of the …
Gama spoke to Mithun Appaiah, Chief Executive Officer, Sumeru (Innovative Foods Ltd). How is the way food companies are looking to reach and engage with consumers changing? “Consumer companies are currently grappling with both digital and traditional media. The choice of media and engagement depends on the category. Many brands are myopic and follow the digital trend without understanding the media that their specific target group consumes. Then there are …
US confectionery firm Hershey has announced the sale of Golden Monkey, a Shanghai-based confectionery brand, to Henan Yuxiang Food Technology for an undisclosed amount. The move comes as volume sales of sugar confectionery have reportedly declined in China as consumers switch to healthier options. Alongside confectionery, Golden Monkey also markets a tofu-based snacking brand called Munching Monkey. Commenting on the news, Hershey spokesperson Jeff Beckman said: “We are constantly evaluating …
PepsiCo, the global food and drinks giant, is to invest $100 million upgrading a facility located in Shanghai, China, according to a FoodBev report. The company said it was installing a new production line as well as adding advanced packaging and warehousing operations at the plant in Sonjiang. The investment will enable PepsiCo to meet demand for crisps from Chinese consumers. Commenting on the move, Ram Krishnan, president and CEO …
Britannia, the Indian food manufacturer, has announced plans to open a new manufacturing site in Assam, India, according to a report in the Economic Times. Located in the town of Rampur, the new site will reportedly manufacture a broad range of Britannia products to meet demand in north-eastern states. The unit will increase Britannia’s production capacity in Assam, where the firm already has two sites, from 30,000 to 90,000 tonnes annually. …
Bega Cheese, the Australian cheese firm, is to acquire a manufacturing facility in the state of Victoria, Australia from Canadian dairy giant Saputo, according to an ABC report. Saputo was required to sell the plant by Australian competition regulators as a result of its acquisition of dairy firm Murray Goulburn. Located in the town of Koroit, the plant is described as being one of the largest milk drying facilities in …
International frozen food giant McCain has announced a new range of ready meals in Australia, marketed under the name Slow Cooked. Described as being inspired by traditional dishes, the new line offers “a meal that delivers flavour and has a ‘homecooked’ feel without having to wait for hours for it to cook”. Available in a 300g size for an RRP of A$6.99 ($5.16), the new range comes in three options: …
Confectionery firm Darrell Lea has announced the purchase of the Life Savers brand from the Australian arm of multinational consumer goods giant Nestle for an undisclosed sum. The agreement will see Darrell Lea, which is owned by Quadrant Private Equity, acquire rights to the Life Savers brand in Australia and New Zealand. Darrell Lea will then move its confectionery manufacturing operation from New Zealand to Australia, with the production line …
Lion, the Australian drinks and dairy firm, has announced the acquisition of UK craft beermaker Fourpure Brewing Co for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 2013 by brothers Daniel and Thomas Lowe, Fourpure Brewing Co offers a range of beer “inspired by adventure”. The flagship range comprises Session IPA, Easy Peeler Citrus Session IPA, American Pale, Pils Lager and Oatmeal Stout. The company also offers a range of seasonal and special edition …
The Indian arm of FMCG giant Nestle, as part of its Cereal Partners Worldwide venture with General Mills, has announced the launch of a new range of family breakfast cereals range under the brand Nesplus. The firm had previously announced its intention to launch a line of cereals in the country. The range is said to feature a combination of multigrain wheat, rice, oats and millet, and will be available …
Century Pacific, a seafood processor, is setting up a new plant in General Santos City to cater for growing demand for tuna, according to a report in the Philippine Star. The firm, which enjoys a market leading position in canned fish in its domestic market, said the move was in line with its efforts to grow its business by 10 to 15% over the next 10 years. Funding from the project …
Soft drinks giant Coca-Cola, together with local partner Swire, has announced the opening of a new production plant in Yunnan province, China. Described as the largest Coca-Cola production plant south of the Yangtze River in China, the new facility is said to have achieved a gold certification of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). “The investment is another example of the Coca-Cola system’s commitment to investing and growing in China”, Coca-Cola said …
Manpasand Beverages, an Indian manufacturer of fruit drinks, has announced the construction of a new facility in the east Indian state of Odisha, according to a report in the Economic Times. The new plant, located in the Chhatabar Industrial Area in the Khurdha district of Odisha, is being built at a cost of 150 crore INR ($22 million) and is one of four new facilities the firm is currently establishing. The first, …
The dairy arm of Australian food and drinks firm Lion is launching a new version of its Farmers Union iced coffee enriched with protein and fibre, according to an article in Australian Food News. Named Edge, the brand extension is being made available in Original and Mocha flavours and is promoted as a quick ‘liquid breakfast’. The products are being made available through supermarket, independent and convenience channels across the …
MTR Foods, the Indian food manufacturer that is part of the Orkla group, is making an investment in the children’s food maker FirmRoots, according to a report in the Economic Times. The deal is the first to be concluded as part of Orkla’s 50 crore INR ($7.4 million) MTR Seed Fund, established last year to invest mostly in food-tech start ups in India. The amount of the stake and the …
The Indian arm of FMCG giant Nestle is to expand its portfolio in the country by producing and marketing a range of breakfast cereal products. The products set to be introduced come from the range of Cereal Partners Worldwide, Nestle’s global joint venture with US cereal maker General Mills. Nestle said the move, which has been approved by the board of directors of Nestle India, was “in line with the …
L’Oreal, the global beauty firm, has announced the acquisition of the Korean fashion and cosmetics firm Nanda for an undisclosed sum. Founded in the South Korean capital Seoul in 2004, Nanda is spearheaded by its make-up brand 3CE which today represents more than 70% of its business. The firm generated revenues of €127 million ($152 million) in 2017 and employs nearly 400 staff. Described as “a highly desirable brand among Korean and Chinese …
Australia-based food producer Patties Foods is launching a range of pies in partnership with winemaker Andrew Peace Wines under the Herbert Adams name. The new range is described as being made using wines from the Andrew Peace Wines range, which are produced in the Swan Hill region of Victoria. Labelled Herbert Adams Gourmet Wine Infusions, the line is available in the varieties Slow-Cooked Beef with Caramelised Onion & Cabernet Sauvignon, …
Parag Milk Foods, a dairy firm based in Maharashtra, India, is to acquire a manufacturing plant formerly owned by French dairy giant Danone with an investment of 30 crore INR ($4.5 million). The plant, located in Rai near Delhi, became available following Danone’s decision to exit the dairy sector in India and refocus its business in the country on infant nutrition, a move announced at the start of the year. “In …
Food and drinks giant PepsiCo is expanding its Doritos snack brand with the launch of a new line of crackers, exclusive to the Australian market. Available in the varieties Cheese Supreme, Mexicana, Texan BBQ and Sweet Chilli & Sour Cream, the new product range consists of oven baked “bite-sized” crackers that are designed to provide an “intense flavour hit”, according to the company. Doritos Crackers will be available across Australia …
Varun Beverages, PepsiCo’s bottling partner in India, has announced that construction has started on a new production facility in the northern state of Punjab. Located in the city of Pathankot, the new greenfield plant will add in-house production capacity for Tropicana fruit juices, Quaker Oats milk drinks and Gatorade energy drinks, according to a report in the Economic Times. The factory will reportedly be the first fully backward integrated facility …
Parmalat, the global dairy firm, has announced the launch of Ice Break Bold Espresso, described as the most highly caffeinated RTD coffee on the Australian market. Ice Break Bold Espresso is described as containing the equivalent of three shots of coffee (44mg of caffeine) per 100ml, and is further claimed to be a bold, creamy drink containing real coffee flavour, 100% robusta roasted coffee beans and fresh full cream milk. “We …
Consumer goods giant Unilever has announced it is to invest $120 in Pakistan over two years as it seeks to unlock “the country’s high potential for long-term growth”. The Anglo-Dutch giant said the majority of the investment would be used to enhance manufacturing operations across Unilever’s four factories in Pakistan. “We have been a part of Pakistan’s growth for nearly 70 years, during which time we have seen our business grow …
Coca Cola, the soft drink multinational, has announced plans to launch a ‘chu-hi’ style alcopop in Japan that will be the company’s first alcoholic drink in its 132 years of history. ‘Chu-hi’ is a canned sparkling flavoured drink that traditionally includes a distilled local beverage called shochu. The drink ranges in alcohol content from 3 to 8% and is described as being particularly popular with female drinkers. Commenting on the …
Western Australian meat company D’Orsogna has announced that it has begun construction on a A$66 million ($51.9 million) food manufacturing facility in the city of Melbourne, Victoria. The firm said the new plant, which will employ 240 people, would establish the firm as a national market leader in the smallgoods and meat protein food sector. Headquartered in Perth, D’Orsogna markets a range of cured and cooked whole and sliced hams, …
San Miguel Pure Foods, the Philippine food manufacturer, has announced plans to open a new facility for ready-to-eat products in Santa Rosa, Laguna, by the first quarter of 2019. One of the leading food companies in the Philippines, San Miguel markets brands including Magnolia, Purefoods, Tender Juicy, B-MEG, Monterey, Dari Creme and La Pacita. In a statement, the company confirmed that the new facility would produce fully cooked viands and …
French dairy multinational Danone has announced that it has decided to sell the majority of the stake it owns in probiotic dairy drink firm Yakult as it “enters a new phase in its strategic partnership” with the Japanese firm. According to reports, Danone will sell its 21.29% stake for around $1.9 billion, before participating in a share buyback scheme through which it is targeting a total of 7% of Yakult’s …
The Australian arm of FMCG giant Nestle is launching an extension to its KitKat chocolate wafer range called KitKat 2 Ways, according to a report in Australian Food News. KitKat 2 Ways features two flavours, split half and half in the same ‘finger’: Mint 2 Ways combines “intense crisp mint” and “creamy smooth mint”, while Caramel Pretzel 2 Ways combines sweet caramel and salt caramel, both topped with a pretzel …
The Indian arm of global beer giant Carlsberg has announced that it has set up a new brewery in the state of Karnataka to further strengthen its capacity in the southern region of India. The new brewery will take Carlsberg’s total production facilities in India to eight. The “state-of-the-art brewery” is described as extending over 27.1 acres of land, with a green area of 48,000 sqm. Located in Nanjangud Taluka, near …
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass MANCHESTER – 22nd January 2018: The latest effort by FMCG firms to get on board with consumers’ changing breakfast habits is the subject of this month’s Innovation Insight. Under the microscope is a launch that melds fuel-rich rice with the convenience of pouch packaging for a new kind of breakfast experience – Forbidden Brekky Rice. Promoted as “an easy way to kick off the day”, …
Darell Lea, an Australian confectionery firm, has been acquired by the investment fund Quadrant Private Equity for A$200 million ($160 million), according to a Foodbev report. The sweetmaker, whose fortunes have been revived since being placed in voluntary administration in 2012, is the manufacturer of products such as Rocklea Road, Soft Eating Liquorice and Little Brittle. The firm operates two production sites and has more than 200 employees. Commenting on the …
Swiss multinational Nestle has announced the launch of a new KitKat variety coated with cocoa processor Barry Callebaut’s “ruby” chocolate. The new variety, called Sublime Ruby, will go on sale as part of the KitKat Chocolatory series, which is available in Japan in boutique stores of the same name. In a statement, Nestle said that “the launch of breakthrough innovation like KitKat Chocolatory Sublime Ruby underlines Nestlé’s commitment to growing its leading …
French dairy multinational Danone has announced its intention to close its dairy unit in India in order to focus on its infant nutrition portfolio. As a consequence of the decision, the firm’s facility in Rai, near Delhi, which produces milk, smoothies, buttermilk and yogurt will ceases production, while its factory in Lalru , Punjab that produces infant nutrition products will continue to operate as usual. FoodBev reports that infant nutrition …
The Australian arm of consumer goods giant Nestle has announced it has reached an agreement to sell its confectionery bar brand Violet Crumble to the Adelaide-based company Robern Menz for an undisclosed sum. As part of the deal, Robern Menz will acquire the plant, equipment and intellectual property associated with Violet Crumble. Manufacture is set to transfer to the Robern Menz factory in Adelaide, South Australia in the coming months. …
Patanjali, the fast-growing Indian FMCG firm, is seeking to further expand its manufacturing operations with the proposed construction of a new food plant in the state of Chhattisgarh, India. The company, which manufactures ayurvedic products, has reportedly signed a memorandum of understanding to build a food and herbal processing unit in the village of Rajnandgaon at a cost of 671 crore INR ($106 million). According to a Business Standard report, the new facility …
Arla, the Danish dairy business, has announced that it is seeking to expand its footprint in south-east Asia via a joint venture with local player Indofood (ICBP). Describing southeast Asia as “a strategic growth region in Arla Foods’ strategy, Good Growth 2020”, the cooperative said that the new joint venture would handle sales, distribution and production of dairy products, but did not disclose further details about product portfolio, production or launch …
Asahi, the Japanese drinks giant, has announced that it is selling its 20% stake in Chinese beermaker Tsingtao Brewery in a deal worth about $941 million. The group first announced that it was looking to sell its holding in Tsingtao Brewery in October 2017. An 18% stake is being sold to the Chinese conglomerate Fosun for about $847 million, while Tsingtao Brewery itself will pay about $94 million for the …
ThaiBev, the leading Thai drinks firm, has announced that it has made a successful bid to acquire a majority stake in Vietnam’s state-owned beer maker Sabeco. In a statement, ThaiBev said it had agreed to acquire approximately 53.59% of all outstanding ordinary shares in Sabeco for an aggregrate price of approximately 156 billion THB ($4.77 billion). ThaiBev ultimately emerged as the only bidder for Sabeco, despite previous reports that a number …
ITC, the Indian consumer goods giant, has announced that it has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art food manufacturing and logistics facility in Kapurthala, in the state of Punjab, India. According to sources, the new plant, which is spread over 72 acres of land, will boost the Punjab’s food processing sector and help to strengthen the state’s economy. As well as generating employment, the company claimed in a statement that the facility …
Italian based coffee company Lavazza has launched Il Mattino Vivace, a new ground coffee product to be sold to consumers in India. According to sources, Il Mattino Vivace (Lively Morning) coffee is the first made by the firm in India from Indian coffee beans, and specifically for consumers in the country. The filter coffee, said to be mild and aromatic, is claimed to be made with beans sourced from the …
Soft drinks giant Coca-Cola is launching a new variant of its Maaza mango juice drink which will be sold under the name Maaza Gold, according to a report in the Economic Times. Maaza Gold is described as being a thicker and smoother version of the traditional mango drink, which has been available in India since the 1970s and which was acquired by Coca-Cola in 1993. The firm said the launch …
Jacobs Douwe Egberts, the world-leading specialist coffee maker, has made a bid to acquire the entirety of OldTown, a leading Malaysian manufacturer of coffee products and operator of coffee shops. In a statement, OldTown said the proposed pre-conditional cash offer for all the issued ordinary shares of OldTown represented a total aggregate consideration of approximately 1.47 billion MYR ($360 million). Founded in 1999, OldTown is involved n the manufacturing, marketing and …
International food manufacturer Ajinomoto has announced plans to introduce a new facility that will consolidate the R&D functions of its group companies Ajinomoto Frozen Foods, Knorr Foods and Ajinomoto AGF “to promote further creation of high-value-added products and to reinforce the structure of the Japan Food Products business”. The new facility is being built with an investment of approximately ¥6 billion ($53 million) and will be constructed on the site …
SLN Coffee, an Indian coffee processor, is entering the branded instant coffee space with the launch of the Levista label. The firm, described as one of the leading exporters of coffee from India, and one of the largest suppliers of roasted and ground coffees in the country, said it aimed to generate 100 crore INR ($15.5 million) revenue from the brand within three years. “We have been supplying quality green …
Pirate Life, a craft brewer based in Adelaide, Australia is to be bought by global beermaker AB InBev via its subsidiary Carlton United Breweries. Announcing the move in a statement, the two firms said the deal would enable Pirate Life to “continue its unprecedented growth path”. Established in 2014, Pirate Life produces a range of largely canned ales and stouts from its brewery in Hindmarsh, South Australia. The acquisition is …
PepsiCo, the food and soft drinks giant, is launching a new Joosy version of its Mirinda fruit-flavour soft drink in India. According to a report in the Economic Times, the new version of the carbonated soft drink will contain orange juice and pulp sourced from Indian farmers. The drink is first being introduced in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, with a 500ml bottle retailing at 35 INR ($0.54). The …
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass MANCHESTER – 28th November 2017: This month’s Innovation Insight takes a look at the stellar rise of avocado in the FMCG space, as the fruit forges new roles across the food, drinks and personal care industries. The latest development sees avocado make a name in the world of ready-to-drink chocolate shakes with the introduction of a new ‘delicious’ yet ‘low fat’ product that has recently debuted …
Lotte, the Far East conglomerate active in confectionery and other categories, is to buy the Indian ice cream firm Havmor for 1,020 crore INR ($158 million), according to an article in the Economic Times. The South Korea based firm said it would buy 100% of the shares in Havmor, enabling it to begin operations in the ice cream space in India. Havmor produces a broad range of over 150 different …
Coca-Cola, the global soft drinks giant, is tapping into the trend for ‘fizzier’ soft drinks with the launch of a new high-carbonation cola under the Thums Up name in India. Said to be the first extension to the Thums Up brand in 40 years, Thums Up Charged will offer “an intense combination of the strong taste of Thums Up with even more thunder”, a company spokesperson is quoted as saying. Sugar content …
Global retailer Spar is set to expand its geographic footprint with the opening of its first store in Pakistan. The firm’s foray into the country is being conducted in partnership with Burque Group, described as one of Pakistan’s largest sales management and distribution companies in the FMCG sector. The first outlet is being opened in Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city, and will expand Spar’s footprint to 46 countries. Commenting on the move, SPAR International …
Heritage Foods, the Indian dairy firm, is stepping up its presence in northern India with the acquisition of milk processor Vanam Foods. Mohali, Punjab based Vanam Foods was founded in 2015 and reported turnover of 1,296 lakh INR ($1.98 million) to the year ending 31st March 2017. Heritage Foods has been stepping up its presence in the dairy space following its exit from the retail and bakery business as the result …
Saputo, a leading global dairy firm, has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire its Australian counterpart Murray Goulburn for a purchase price of A$1.31 billion ($1.0 billion) on a debt-free basis, subject to shareholder approval and regulatory clearance. Murray Goulburn produces a full range of dairy products, including milk drinks, milk powder, cheese and butter, as well as a range of ingredient and nutritional products, such as infant formula. …
Bega, the Australian dairy firm, is moving into the nut butter category with its acquisition of a Kraft Heinz facility in Victoria. According to the firm, the packaging will be “slightly ‘refreshed’” to feature the Bega logo. “Despite the label change, Bega assures Australians that the Peanut Butter they love is exactly the same… the same ‘never oily, never dry’ recipe, the same taste, made by the same people, at …
India-based tea producer Goodricke has announced the acquisition of the packaged tea division belonging to tobacco firm Godfrey Phillips India. According to India Retailing, the agreement gives Goodricke Group the rights to the trademarks, titles and brands of the Godfrey Phillips tea business including the brands Tea City, Tea City, SC Gold, Symphony, Samovar, SC Premium, Super Cup, Rangoli and Utsav. Goodricke CEO AN Singh said: “This acquisition will bring …
Kraft Heinz, the leading US-based food firm, is to acquire the Cerebos Food & Instant Coffee business from Japanese firm Suntory, according to an article in Retail World. The deal, which excludes the Cerebos Fresh Coffee business, is worth around A$290 million ($227 million) and is expected to be completed in early 2018, subject to regulatory clearance. The Cerebos Food & Instant Coffee units includes leading food brands in Australia and …
ThaiBev, Thailand’s largest beverage company, has announced the purchase of a 75% of stake in Myanmar Distillery Company (MDC) for $1 billion. MDC, the largest spirits company in Myanmar, produces and sells a range of whiskies and gins at its facilities in Mandalay and Yangon, including the flagship Grand Royal whiskey brand which has over 60% market share. Commenting on the move in a statement, ThaiBev said: “The acquisition enables …
China Foods, a division of Chinese conglomerate Cofco, has announced that it is to offload its wine and non-beverage business, including the flagship Great Wall brand, in a deal worth 5,069 million HKD ($649.2 million). Explaining the rationale for the decision in a statement, China Foods said: “The wine industry in the PRC has faced increasing competition and is expected to remain in a slow growth rate in the next three …
Coca Cola Amatil (CCA), a leading bottler of Coca-Cola and other soft drinks in the Asia Pacific region, has announced the acquisition of Australian craft brewer Feral Brewing. Based in Perth, Western Australia, Feral Brewing produces a range of bottled craft ales under brand names such as Smoked Porter, Karma Citra and Sly Fox. The product range is distributed across Australia through speciality retailers. Commenting on the move, CCA Alcohol …
Japan-based drinks firm Asahi has announced its intention to sell part or all of its 20% stake in Tsingtao Brewery, the second-largest beer maker in China, for around $1.2 billion. The stake was originally acquired by Asahi in 2009 from Belgium-based beermaker AB InBev for around $666 million. Asahi has been shedding a number of its assets in Asian markets in order to refocus on the growth of its overseas …
Multinational beverage company Coca-Cola is looking to tap in to a “growing” juice category in Australia by launching a new brand called Keri Juice Blenders. According to Coca-Cola, the new single-serving juices are targeted at working adults who are focused on their health and wellbeing, and are made with natural and “unique” ingredients. The range comprises two 100% juices (Orange and Cloudy Apple), and three 99.9% juice blends (Carrot Apple …
Unilever, the global FMCG firm, has announced that it is to buy South Korean skincare and cosmetics firm Carver Korea in a €2.27 billion deal. Founded in 1999, Carver Korea originated as an aesthetics company supplying professional products to beauty salons, and is now said to be the fastest-growing skincare business in South Korea, through sales of its brand AHC. The AHC portfolio includes essences, toners, moisturisers, masks, and sun protection, including …
Global beer giant AB InBev has announced the acquisition of Manly, Australia based craft beer maker 4 Pines Brewery for an undisclosed sum. The purchase will see 4 Pines Brewery join other Australian brands that are under the Carlton & United Breweries umbrella in the country, including Victoria Bitter, Carlton Draught, Pure Blonde and Great Northern. 4 Pines will reportedly continue to operate from its Manly and Brookvale breweries, while …
Patties Foods, an Australian food manufacturer and owner of the Four’N Twenty brand, has launched a line of hot snacks that are inspired by popular meals. According to a report in Inside FMCG, Patties Foods has released three new varieties of ‘hand-held’ snack that are designed to be eaten on the go: Lasagne, Mac ‘N Cheese and Chicken Cordon Bleu. The products come frozen and are being sold under the …
Indian hypermarket chain Big Bazaar, owned by retail conglomerate Future Group, has unveiled plans to open 100 new stores across India in the next 12 months. The announcement came as Big Bazaar inaugurated a new store in the P&M Hi-Tech City Centre Mall in Bistupur, which at 32,989 sq ft will be the chain’s second largest location in the city. The company owns eight stores in Jharkhand including two in …
Norwegian-based Orkla Group, the parent company of India’s MTR Foods, has announced its entry into the confectionery market in India with the Laban brand. The firm’s ‘human’-shaped fruit flavoured vegetable chews come in a variety of flavours including Strawberry, Mango, Green Mango and Orange, and will be sold in packs of 26g and 65g, priced at 10 INR ($0.16) and 30 INR ($0.47) respectively. Alongside the launch, the group also announced a …
Global cigarette manufacturer Japan Tobacco has announced that it is buying Mighty Corp, the number two cigarette company in the Philippines, for 46.8 billion PHP ($936 million). According to executive vice president of Japan Tobacco, Mutsuo Iwai, “This major acquisition in Southeast Asia adds to our recently announced full-scale entry into Indonesia, and will further enhance our business base in the region”. In August, Japan Tobacco announced that it would take a …
International seasoning and food firm Ajinomoto has revealed plans to enter India’s instant drinks market with the launch of powdered tea and coffee products. Under the plans, the company will begin selling its Blendy brand outside Japan for the first time after acquiring the trademark rights for Blendy in November 2016. The launch will be carried out through Ajinomoto’s affiliate Ajinomoto India Private and will see Blendy 3 in 1 …
Consumer goods manufacturer Britannia has announced plans to build a new plant in Ranjangaon, Maharashtra. Representing an investment of 1,000 crore INR ($156 million), the plant will be Britannia’s largest and will initially produce biscuits, cakes and croissants, according to Franchise India. Operations will start in phases, the first including six production lines of biscuits and one line each for cakes and croissants. In later stages, product lines for rusks, flour …
Unilever, the FMCG giant, has announced that it is to buy Australian ice cream maker Weis for an undisclosed sum. Weis is described as a second-generation Australian ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturer with a variety of ice cream formats including single bar, multi-pack bars, dairy-free sorbet tubs and frozen yoghurt tubs. Unilever said that these products would continue to be made in the firm’s factory in Toowoomba, Queensland post …
Global tobacco firm, Japan Tobacco has announced the acquisition of kretek cigarette company Karyadibya Mahardhika and its distributor for $677 million, in a deal that will see it buy 100% of the outstanding shares in the Indonesian firm. Japan Tobacco said the acquisition would “give the JT Group immediate scale and presence on a nationwide level in the Indonesian kretek market”. Indonesia is described as the world’s second largest tobacco …
FMCG multinational Nestle has opened a new Kit Kat factory in Japan to cater to growing demand for the confectionery brand, according to BCC Japan. The new facility – located in Ginza – started operations on 1st August and specialises in flavoured varieties of KitKat. It is said to be Nestle’s first new factory in Japan in 26 years. Takuya Hiramatsu of Nestle Japan’s corporate affairs control department said: “Since …
Japan based dairy specialist Yukijirushi Megmilk (trading as Megmilk Snow Brand) has announced an investment of ¥20 billion ($180 million) into its Isobunnai plant in Hokkaido, Japan, with work to be completed by 2020. The plant, positioned as a leading butter, cream and skimmed milk facility in Japan, was established in 1960 and is said to require upgrading and expansion. As a result of the new investment, the plant will …
International frozen food giant McCain has launched a range of ‘man size’ frozen meals in Australia that are claimed to be better quality, more satisfying, and larger than traditional products. According to Inside FMCG, McCain Man Size Ready Meals are claimed to be 50% larger than regular frozen meals, and made with “quality cuts of meat” and “hearty sides”. Despite the “Man Size” name, the range is said to be targeted not …
Leading beverage maker Asahi has announced the launch of a new coffee jelly drink under the long established coffee brand Wonda. The new Wonda Shake Jelly Coffee is presented in a plastic bottle and is sold with a separate sachet of milk powder that is designed to be mixed into the drink before being consumed. In this way consumers are said to be able to ‘customise’ the ‘milkiness’ of the …
RP Sanjiv Goenka has announced the acquisition of a 70% stake in Gujarat-based snacks firm Apricot Foods. According to RP Sanjiv Goenka, Apricot Foods’ E-Vita range will enable the firm to move into the mass market savoury snacks space. The deal is described as being part of the company’s strategy to be present in three different FMCG categories. “We have acquired 70% in Apricot Foods which sells e-vita branded snacks …
Japan’s leading brewer Sapporo has acquired US firm Anchor Brewing for $85 million. Described as one of the US’s original craft breweries, Anchor Brewing was founded in San Francisco in 1896 and is now the 22nd largest in the country, according to the Brewers Association, generating $33 million in revenue in 2016. Many of Japan’s leading brewers have been strengthening their hand in overseas markets in recent times. Kirin has …
Probiotic dairy drink manufacturer Yakult Honsha has announced the construction of a new plant in Foshan, Guangdong, China. According to Yakult, Guangzhou Yakult started construction on the Foshan plant in July. The new factory will produce Yakult and Yakult Light fermented milk drinks and will be the third plant for Guangzhou Yakult, and the sixth for the Yakult group, in China. “Guangdong Province is witnessing strong demand for Yakult in …
International seasoning and food firm Ajinomoto has announced the acquisition of French frozen food maker Labeyrie Traiteur Surgeles (LTS) through Ajinomoto’s consolidated subsidiary Ajinomoto Foods Europe for €21 million ($24.1 million). The acquisition, made under an agreement between Ajinomoto and LTS’s parent company Labeyrie Fine Foods, is aimed at enabling Ajinomoto to expand its business platform of frozen foods in France “by combining LTS’s production base and market reach in the home-use …
Coca-Cola Singapore has announced the opening of a new storage and distribution center in Tuas. Located opposite to an existing Coca Cola plant, the new $57.5 million facility includes an “overhead bridge with a conveyance system to transport products from the manufacturing facility to the storage warehouse and vice versa”, according to information reported on Foodbev. President of Asia Pacific Group of The Coca-Cola Company John Murphy commented: “Asia is …
Freeze Dry Industries, an Australian company specialising in the freeze drying of fresh fruits, vegetables and other raw materials, has opened a new “state-of-the-art” manufacturing facility on the Sunshine Coast. Michael Buckley, chief executive officer of Freeze Dry Industries, commented: “The official opening today of our new facility is a huge step for us, something that I’ve been looking forward to over the past 12 months”. The facility will create freeze-dried …
Australian confectionery company Haigh’s Chocolates has announced the construction of a new processing plant facility in Adelaide. The company, which produces “premium chocolate” from “premium quality cocoa beans from cocoa growing regions around the world”, will spend $10 million on the new “state-of-the-art” chocolate facility, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. According to sources, the new facility will include the latest machinery, technology and software. …
Nature One Dairy, a dairy firm based in Melbourne, Australia, has signed a strategic partnership with Chinese pharmacy giant Sinopharm to manufacture baby formula, specialised milk powder products and other health-related products to import to China. China is reported to be introducing a new policy from January 2018 that will limit the number of infant formula brands that manufacturers can register in China. The agreement is said to include a deal …
Ferrero, the Italian manufacturer of chocolate and confectionery products, has opened an innovation centre to develop new products in Singapore. According to a company statement, the hub has been created to develop innovation functions in areas as health and nutrition, new raw materials and product research and development, consumer insight and foresight activities. Giovanni Ferrero, chief executive officer of Ferrero, commented: “Innovation has always been a core value for Ferrero. …
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced the investment of $500 million over the next five years to expand in Indonesia. The investment is planned to be used to increase production capacity at the company’s nine factories across Indonesia. The spend will be mainly used to focus on home and personal care, as well as food and refreshments, according to information. A growing economy is one of the reasons cited by the …
Dairy food and beverage maker Morinaga has introduced a new jelly product called Shinkankaku Kakimaze Jelly (Mixable Textured Jelly) under the Morinaga brand. Promoted as “unique”, the product comprises a jelly and sauce, presented in separate compartments, that are designed to be mixed together by the consumer; the larger compartment contains soda-flavoured jelly while the smaller one contains a sauce. Colour, flavour and textural changes are said to occur when the sauce …
Beverage maker Coca-Cola has announced the launch of original Coca-Cola and Coca-Cola Zero in a new bottle that changes colour when the bottle gets cold. The new package is said to feature an indicator ink label that displays the words “ice cold” when chilled, informing consumers the drink is at the right temperature to be served. The feature is said to have been created as the result of a customer survey conducted …
Leading Indian FMCG firm Marico has launched a new deodorant under its male personal care brand Set Wet that can reportedly be personalized for each consumer. Said to be targeted at a ‘younger’ audience, the product is described as a “first of its kind individualised deodorant that features the possibility of being personalised”, as each pack can be customized with a different colour, photo and name. Anuradha Aggarwal, chief marketing officer …
Indian dairy giant Kaira District Co-operative Milk Producers’ Union (Amul) has announced the opening of a new processing plant in West Bengal and the expansion of operations to the states of Bihar and Assam. According to India Retailing, the new plant in West Bengal represents an investment of 250 crore ($38.8 million). “We are expanding milk procurement operations in districts like Malda, Darjeeling, Howrah and East Midnapore in Bengal”, said …
A new snack bar called enrGIsustain, claimed to be “a delicious between-meals formulated snack bar with specially selected low GI ingredients”, has been launched for consumers in Australia The product, launched by Set The Bar, is said to be designed to keep blood sugar stable as well as maintaining a healthy weight, ensuring sustained energy. Claimed to be “the perfect snack for the health conscious, pre-diabetics and those with Type …
Dutch multinational retailer Spar has announced a new partnership in China with Yunnan Anning Jinfang Commercial Group (Jinfang), with plans to open 32 new stores in the country. The new partner, Jinfang, operates in the retail sector in China and will invest in converting 32 of its stores into the Spar brand in the coming months. With the agreement, the companies will be able to combine Spar’s global retail expertise …
FMCG multinational Nestle has expanded its breakfast range of oat sachets in Australia by launching a range called Nature’s Mix under the Uncle Tobys brand. The product, said to be launched due to increased demand from consumers for low-sugar products, is described as a “no added sugar” range that is “naturally sweetened with dried fruit and healthy nuts”. Designed to “help Australians to lead healthy and active lifestyles”, the new …
Japan based snack manufacturer Ezaki Glico has released a plan to set up a new, wholly owned subsidiary called Glico Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd. in Singapore on 1st June 2017. According to a press release, the new company has been set up to engage in business control as well as marketing activities within the ASEAN (Association of South‐East Asian Nations) area, a region which the company describes as “expanding year …
FMCG multinational Mondelez International has recently announced the expansion of its Cadbury chocolate factory in Hobart, Australia, and the introduction of a new range of Cadbury Dark Milk chocolates. According to Inside FMCG, the company invested A$4 million ($2.9 million) to expand the site, by acquiring new equipment for two new production lines. Mondelez spokeswoman Amanda Banfield said: “We have a $25 million annual investment fund for Claremont which is …
Japanese dairy specialist Yukijirushi Megmilk (trading as Megmilk Snow Brand) has announced plans to increase production capacity for yoghurt drink in western Japan by extending its Kyoto facility. The reason for the investment is said to be high demand for on-the-go yoghurt drinks due to heightened health concerns, and the popularity of the company’s Megumi branded Lactobacillus Gasseri SBT2055 Yoghurt Drink. The new JPY 620 million ($5.6 million) investment will …
Japan based beverage maker Asahi has unveiled two new “innovative” spirits brands in Japan under the brand name Coffey. The “premium” brands, to be available from June, are Coffey Gin and Coffey Vodka, sold under the Nikka brand. Both are said to have been distilled in a “Coffey still”, which is claimed to be”a very traditional and rare patent Nikka still imported from Scotland in 1963″. Coffey Gin is said …
Japan-based snack manufacturer Calbee has decided to invest ¥700 million ($63.4 million) at its Kyoto plant to start producing Frugra, a brand of fruit granola products. Once built, it will be the third plant producing Frugra brand products in Japan and the third investment Calbee made for the brand in recent times. It has previously invested in a facility in Hokkaido, where it will start operations from August this year, as …
New Zealand based dairy firm Fonterra has invested 20 million MYR ($5 million) in its Malaysian milk powder facility at its Susumas site in Kuala Lumpur. According to Jose Miguel Porraz-Lando, managing director of Fonterra brands Malaysia and Singapore, the investment is part of Fonterra’s commitment to food safety and quality. “We continually invest in our infrastructure to ensure we remain world-class in food safety, health & safety, and consumer …
US-based food and soft drinks giant PepsiCo has announced the launch of a new Oats + Milk beverage under the Quaker Oats brand. According to sources, the nutritional grain and dairy drink was developed using a patented SoliOats technology that blends oats with milk, and marks the entry of the company in the dairy market in India. Regarding the new product, Deepika Warrier, vice-president of the nutrition category at PepsiCo …
Leading global dairy firm Parmalat is to invest A$12 million ($8.8million) to upgrade its facility in the suburb of Clarence Gardens, Adelaide, Australia, it has been reported. According to sources, investing in new the processing capability will allow the site to start exporting three milk brands from South Australia to China. Craig Garvin, the company’s Australian chief executive, said: “These new capital expenditure investments will allow Parmalat to significantly increase …
Global confectionery giant Mars has launched its first M&M’s chocolate block in Australia. The new launch will see the entry of the brand into the chocolate bar category with a combination of M&M’s mini chocolates and smooth milk chocolate, according to information. “We’re really excited to bring something new to chocolate lovers across Australia”, commented Andrew Loader, general manager of Mars Chocolate Australia. “Mars is a family-owned company and we’re proud …
Multinational beverage firm Coca-Cola has announced that its 44th facility in China has begun operations in Changsha, central China. According to COFCO Coca-Cola Huazhong Beverages, the plant is the largest in Central China and is prepared to have nine production lines: four for water, four for sparkling beverages, and one for juice and juice drinks. Only four of these lines are currently operational but all of them are planned to …
India-based dairy company Drums Food has launched Epigamia Snack Pack, a product which is described as an alternative to traditional snacks. The snack pack is a combination of savoury yoghurt with cereal, such that Jalapeno Greek yoghurt and Cream & Onion Greek yoghurt are paired with fibre rich barley puffs, while Mango and Strawberry Greek yoghurt varieties are paired with chunky granola. “At Epigamia, we want to change the way people approach …
FMCG manufacturer Dabur has announced the inauguration of a new manufacturing facility in Tezpur, Assam. According to India Retailing, the facility will produce the whole range of Dabur’s products including health supplements, ayurvedic medicines, hair oil, shampoo, toothpaste, skin care and household products. Dabur chairman Dr Anand C Burman said: “I am extremely proud to announce the commissioning of Dabur’s most-modern factory in Tezpur. This factory will become the largest …
Consumer goods manufacturer Britannia has announced a partnership agreement with Greek company Chipita to produce and market ready-to-eat croissants in India. According to India Retailing, the new joint venture company, which will have the name Britchip Foods Ltd, will be 60% held by Britannia and 40% held by Chipita. “The company has signed a joint venture agreement with Chipita SA, a Greek company for the purpose of developing, producing and selling …
Australian supermarket chain Woolworths has launched a ‘Delicious Nutritious’ line of ready meals, developed in partnership with celebrity fitness trainer Michelle Bridges. According to Australian Food News, the line is targeted at consumers who are looking for healthy and quick meals. Michelle Bridges, who is said to have worked closely with the retailer to create the range, commented: “I’m pleased to continue my mission to help busy Australians eat well …
A new range of instant cup noodles called Cup Noodle Nice has been introduced in Japan by food manufacturer Nissin. The new Nice range is marketed as an “impossible combination” of a thicker soup that is also ‘better for you’: it offers a stronger taste andt hicker soup than the original Cup Noodle products yet contain fewer calories (178kcal), 50% less fat and 40% fewer saccharides, according to Nission, delivering …
Fruit based concentrate maker Rasna has unveiled its plans to set up a new plant in the Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh, the firm’s 10th in India but the first in the south of the country. The company said its new production facility would be especially built to focus on strengthening market share in the powder drink segment in southern India. Delivered through an investment of 60 crore INR ($9.12 million), the …
Leading Japanese snack maker Koikeya has announced the launch of a new snack range called Hitokuchi Deli (Bite Size Deli). The new range, added under the tortilla crisp brand Dontacos, is claimed to be “more than a snack, less than a meal”, and is designed as a ‘mini-meal’ that busy consumers can consume in between main meals, whenever and wherever they prefer. The snack, described as having two types of texture …
PepsiCo, the global snacks and soft drinks giant, is expanding its breakfast foods portfolio in India with the launch of Quaker Nutri Food. The new launches are described as familiar breakfast foods called Dosa (a type of pancake), Upma (a porridge made from semolina and rice flour) and Khichdi (a rice and lentil dish), said to contain “40% more oats and vegetables” to make them healthier options. “The lifestyle of millennials …
Danone, the France-based dairy and drinks multinational, has recently expanded into the health drinks segment in India, with the launch of Protein Grow, a drink developed for teens. According to The Economic Times, Protinex is a nutritional supplement made with hydrolised proteins that is able to satisfy the nutritional needs of both adults and children. “The launch of Protinex Grow is a unique innovation in the family Health Food Drinks’ …
Nestle Waters. the bottled water division of the food and drinks giant, has invested 1.8 billion THB ($51.5 million) to open a new manufacturing and distribution hub for Nestle Pure Life in Surat Thani. The new Surat Thani factory, the second for Nestle Waters in Thailand, is described as featuring advanced technology for an improvement of environmental performance and is designed to “distribute high-quality drinking water trusted for healthy hydration …
Japan based dairy maker Morinaga Milk Industry has announced that it will enter the yoghurt business in the USA. The launch is due to be made between July and September 2017 by working with a local contract manufacturer, and the company has set a sales goal for 2019 of $34 million. The company estimates the yoghurt business in the US has big potential, although consumption is lower than that of …
Suntory, a leading international beverage company, has recently announced the launch of new wine series called Shiojiri Winery. Wines from the new series are claimed to be made with 100% Japanese grapes, fermented at Suntory Shiojiri Winery. The “high quality” grapes used are grown in the prefecture of Nagano, claimed to be one of the best wine-growing regions in the country. In launching the Shiojiri Winery series, Suntory said it was hoping …
Murray Goulburn, Australia’s largest dairy foods company, has posted a loss of A$31.9 million ($24.5 million) for the first half of its financial year. The firm booked 14.8% less revenue compared to the same period a year ago, attributed to lower supplies, production cuts on farms and adverse seasonal conditions. According to Murray Goulburn CEO Ari Mervis: “Record rainfalls and high levels of competitor activity have reduced our milk intake, …
Leading Japanese baby food manufacture Wakodo, part of the Asahi group, has launched a new brand called Rakuraku Manma (Easy Food). The brand offers two dried noodle products to support mothers to reduce the time it takes to cook baby food. Claimed to be “easy to scoop”, the noodles are pre-cut into 1cm lengths, reportedly making them easier for babies to eat and more convenient for mothers since the cooking time is shorter than regular noodles. …
Coca-Cola South Pacific, a division of the global soft drinks giant has launched two new Fanta soft drink products called Jelly Fizz and Sour Tingle. According to Inside FMCG, Jelly Fizz is claimed to be a soft drink blended with juicy liquid jelly pieces and is recommended to be shaken 10 times before opening so it releases the jelly. The Sour Tingle variant, meanwhile, is said to be “loaded with extreme sours and tingles”. “What we know …
Coca-Cola Amatil, a manufacturer and distributor of beverages in the Asia-Pacific region, has announced the closure of South Australian manufacturing facilities in 2019 and the investment of A$90 million ($69.4 million) of capital expenditure in its Richlands manufacturing facility in Queensland, Australia. The new investment is said to include installing “a new glass production line and new dairy and juice production capacity”, as well as optimising the firm’s logistics network …
Australia’s upscale department stores David Jones announced 70% of foods sold in stores will be private label products by 2020 from current 24 per cent. Announced by South African-based parent Woolworths Holdings, this new strategy is believed to involve an investment of between A$75 (US$57.5 million) and A$100 million (US$76.7 million), aiming to be profitable by 2019. Chief executive Ian Moir from the parent company Woolworths Holdings said “modern department …
Japanese beverage giant Suntory has announced plans to expand production of coffee products by establishing a new factory in Ebina, Japan. The new factory, especially designed for freshly roasting coffee beans, is set to produce coffee products such as for Boss brand, to meet higher demands of these type of products. The New factory will not only focus on production from roasted coffee beans but also on new product development, …
Japanese brewery firm Kirin Brewery has announced the launch of new non-alcohol, beer-flavour beverage brand called Zero Ichi. The launch comes after Kirin’s previous foray into alcohol-free beer-style drinks – a brand called Kirin Free, introduced in 2009 – failed to meet consumers’ taste expectations, a Kirin spokesman said. The new Zero Ichi is described as a “first of its kind” product in the alcohol-free beer sector, since it uses an Ichiban Shibori …
FMCG company Cargill Foods India has announced the introduction of an anti-counterfeiting technology to its products, so that consumers can check if goods are genuine or fake. According to F&B News, the new technology uses a 3D hologram of Cargill Foods India to signify the authenticity of the brand and also includes an app called Mojo Tag where consumers, retailers and distributors can scan batch codes to verify authenticity. Neelima …
Australian brewer Broo has announced the acquisition of Victorian beer company Mildura Brewery. Established in 2004, Mildura Brewery has a core range of six beers and a pub at its Victorian brewery. According to Inside FMCG, the investment of A$1 million ($768,600) will allow Mildura to expand its product range as well as giving it the capacity to distribute nationally. “The acquisition provides Broo with an exciting extension of our existing …
Austrian multinational confectionery company PEZ International is reportedly planning to enter the Chinese market in the second half of 2017. The confectionery company, which already has a worldwide presence, will enter China with its regular sweets dispensers and licenses and will focus on big cities. Commenting on the move, a PEZ International spokesman commented “Many people in China are looking for European brands”. Together with US-based PEZ Candy, PEZ International sells 70 …
Carlsberg, the Danish brewer, is said to be weighing up a move for Asahi’s stake in Chinese beermaker Tsingtao, according to a Bloomberg report quoting “people familiar with the matter”. Asahi, the leading Japanese beer producer, acquired its 20% stake in Tsingtao in 2009. Bloomberg estimates the value of the stake to be around S1.2 billion. Tsingtao, China’s second biggest domestic beer producer, faces stiff competition from major players such …
Australia based cereal and snacks producer Freedom Foods Group has announced a new strategic partnership with Seamild Group in China, a manufacturer of oat based cereal and foods. As a result of the deal, cereal products into China will have tariffs on imported products under the China Australia Free Trade Agreement reduced to zero over the remaining 3 year period. Under the new partnership, the range of Seamild branded oat …
Tuatara Brewing Company, a New Zealand has been acquired by Heineken-owned DB Breweries. Tuatara will continue to product its beer at its current facilities and other beers. Tuatara brewing was established in the year of 2000 based in Paraparaumu, and grew from a small operation to one of the larges craft breweries in New Zealand. The company has spent the last two years focusing on innovation and increasing brewing capacity to break …
Mondelez International, the global food giant, has announced that it has reached an agreement to sell most of its grocery brands in Australia and New Zealand to dairy firm Bega Cheese. The deal, which excludes the Philadelphia cream cheese business, is valued at A$460 million ($345 million). Included in the sale are brands such as Vegemite, ZoOsh, Bonox, as well as other products that use the Kraft brand under license, …
Kewpie, the Japanese seasonings firm, is launching a new “green cap” series of salad dressings that are claimed to “maximize the flavour of vegetables”. Made with a blend of fruit vinegar and fruit juice, the new varieties offered, are Lemon Dressing (described as a mix of lemon vinegar, lemon juice and grapefruit juice for a refreshing taste), Tamanegi To Shiro Budo Dressing (Onion and White Grape, described as a mix …
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCBL), the bottling arm of Cola-Cola in India, has announced an additional investment of 1,000 crore INR ($147 million) to set up two further new, plants according to an article in The Economic Times. The “greenfield” plants will reportedly have lines for soft drinks, juices and bottled water to bottle brands as Coca-Cola, Fanta Thumps Up, Limca, Minute Maid and Maaza. The news follows an announcement just last …
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages, Coca-Cola’s Indian bottling arm, has broken ground on a new plant in Hoshangabad, Madhya Pradesh, India, according to a report in the Economic Times. The 110 acre bottling facility will house lines for the firm’s carbonated beverage brand including Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Thums Up and Limca, the Economic Times article said. As well as soft drinks, the plant will bottle juices and juice-based drinks under the Minute Maid and …
Japan-based international snack producer Calbee has announced a plan to invest ¥2 billion ($17 million) to build a new facility within its existing factory in Chitose city in Hokkaido. The new facility is said to be have built in order to open a new production line for its Furugura brand fruit granola products. The investment in the new facility will serve an expanding granola market, Calbee said, adding that the …
Bikano, an Indian manufacturer of confectionery and snack products, is to increase its daily production capacity by 50 tonnes through a 40 crore INR ($6 million) investment, according to a report in FNB News. The move follows a previous announcement by the firm that it was set to enter the ready-to-eat sector with with a range of savoury dishes comprising Shahi Paneer, Rajma and Sarson Ka Saag. Commenting on the …
NHF Manufacturing, a joint venture between leading Japanese fresh meat, ham and sausage firm NH Foods and Malaysia-based poultry company Lay Hong, has announced plans to build a new factory in Malaysia. According to reports, the 51:49 joint venture has invested $10 million to build a new factory in Selangor to increase capacity, with the aim of producing 1,000 tons of food monthly by the first half of 2018 and …
Leading Japanese beverage maker Kirin has announced the launch of new variety of its Kirin Gogo No Kocha (Afternoon Tea) ready-to-drink tea called Milk Tea Dolce Waguri (Japanese Chestnut) Mont Blanc. This limited edition is advertised as being made with two types of Japanese origin ingredients to offer flavour and high quality: the first is a black leaf teaf from Sashima in Ibaraki, Japan, that is claimed to have low …
Patties Foods, an Australian pie and pastry firm owned by Pacific Equity Partners, is to acquire New Zealand based convenience food manufacturer Food Partners, according to an article in the National Business Review. Food Partners, which trades as Leader Products, produces a range of frozen meat-based products for both retail and foodservice channels, including chicken and beef burgers and patties, finger food such as hotdogs, chicken goujons and meatballs, and “meal …
New Zealand based dairy specialist Fonterra has launched a new specially-developed “premium” product range in China under the Anchor brand, in response to “ongoing growth in demand for safe, high-quality dairy nutrition”. According to an article in the Asia Food Journal, the new Upline UHT milk range comes in a high-protein version called LiveUp and an organic version called NaturalUp. The former is said to contain 5.7g of protein per …
Nissin, the Japanese instant noodle manufacturer, has announced plans to invest in manufacturing capability with its first new manufacturing plant in Japan in over 20 years. The plant, slated for Ritto City, Shiga prefecture, is due to be started in May 2017 and is scheduled for completion in December 2019. Just under 100,000 sq m in size, the plant is the result of a ¥57.5 billion ($500 million) investment and …
Japanese snack maker Koikeya has announced the launch of a new brand called Koikeya Pride Potato as part of a wider review of brand positioning. The new snack brand will be introducing to consumers in Japan from February 2017 with three different flavours: Hiden Noko Nori Shio (Secret Rich Nori Laver Salt), Matsutake Kaoru Kiwamidashi Shio (Ultimate Stock Salt with Matsutake Mushroom Aroma) and Miwaku no Aburi Wagyu (Fascinating Grilled …
Global snack brand Pringles, owned by multinational food maker Kellogg, is set to see see the launch of a new product range in Japan featuring locally-themed flavours. The two flavours to be introduced are Karaage (Japanese Fried Chicken) and Takoyaki (a savoury ball typically filled with octopus). The former is described as having a juicy and aromatic chicken flavour with a hint of soy sauce, garlic and onion , and …
ITC, the Indian consumer goods giant, is set to expand its manufacturing operations with the opening of a consumer goods facility in Odisha (Orissa), according to a report in the Economic Times. The 700,000 sq ft plant, located in the Khordha district, will produce goods under brands such as Aashirvad (spices, dried ready meals and baking aids), Bingo! (savoury snacks), Sunfeast (biscuits) and YiPPee! (noodles and pasta). The facility is part …
Australian popcorn maker Cobs Fine Foods is extending its line of products with the launch of crisps under the new Hip Chips name, according to an article in Food & Beverage Industry News. The gluten-free range, claimed to contain “nothing artificial” and promoted as “never oily”, is said to contain high oleic sunflower oil rather than vegetable oil so as not to mask the product’s flavours, and is advertised as …
Spar, the world’s largest food retail voluntary chain, has announced its entry into the Thai market. The company has formed a retail partnership with Bangchak Retail Company (BRC) for a 300 store venture, representing an investment of €74 million ($78 million) over the next five years. According to a company press release, BCR will open seven new convenience and neighbourhood stores in 2016 and 50 to 80 stores each year …
Indian rice specialist LT Foods and Japanese rice-based snack firm Kameda Seika have announced the launch of joint venture to sell rice based snacks in India, according to the Economic Times. The new 51:49 joint venture is described as being backed by a $10 million investment and is designed help the companies enter a new category of snacks, as “consumers are looking for healthier snacking options and there are limited …
Frozen food manufacturer WestCoast Fine Foods has launched as what is described as India’s first ready-to-cook tawa pizza under the Frish brand. Tawa is a type of flat Indian frying pan typically used for cooking flatbreads. According to sources, Frisch Tawa Pizza provides an advantage over other frozen pizza products as it doesn’t require an oven or microwave for cooking, instead being suitable for traditional tawa cooking. WestCoast Fine Foods …
Finnish dairy firm Valio is to start selling lactose-free milk powder in China via online channels, according to a report in ESM. The launch, described as the first lactose-free consumer offer on the market, will reportedly see packaged milk made available in skimmed, semi-skimmed and whole varieties. The product range is intended to benefit from a long shelf life to be suitable for consumers that don’t drink milk every day, and …
Picard, the French frozen food retailer, has made a definitive step into the Far East market with the opening of its first store in Japan, according to a report in Les Echos. Described as being located in an upmarket area of Tokyo, the new store has been launched in partnership with Japanese retail group Aeon, via a subsidiary called Aeon Saveur, and is reportedly a first step in a planned …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 24th November 2016: ‘High vitamin’ claims are continuing to notch upwards in new product launches, according to Gama’s latest study of patterns and trends in global FMCG innovation, with non-alcoholic drinks proving particularly fertile ground for vitamin-related positioning. Based on data from Gama Compass™ between 2014 and 2016, and segmenting vitamin claims by five principal types – vitamins A, B, C, D and E …
Accolade Wines, one of the world’s largest wine companies, is to acquire Fine Wine Partners (FWP) in Australia for an undisclosed sum. In a press release, Lion, the Australian alcoholic drinks, soft drinks and dairy firm that owns Fine Wine Partners, described it as “a quality fine wine business offering exposure to the attractive and growing premium wine segment in desirable viticultural regions”. “However, following a comprehensive strategic review it …
The Malaysian unit of international confectionery and snacks giant Mondelez plans to invest $21 million MYR ($4.7 million) to add a production line for BelVita breakfast biscuits, according to a report in Marketing Interactive. The new line is set to be added at the firm’s 24,330 square metre site in Tampoi, Johor Bahru, Malaysia, “[in] response to the growing consumer preference towards healthy snacking and convenient breakfast options”. Mondelez Malaysia …
Thailand’s CP Foods has announced the acquisition of the US-based frozen food producer Bellisio for $1.075 billion. The transaction is expected to close in December 2016. Bellisio is the third largest manufacturer and distributor of single-serve frozen foods in the US and markets its products under brands such as Atkins, Boston Market, Chili’s, EatingWell and Michelina. Its product line of more than 400 items includes single and multi-serve entrees, snacks, …
Japan-based baked goods producer Yamazaki has announced that it is to build a new plant in Kobe, Japan at a cost of ¥20 billion ($183 million). Described as the first baking factory of its kind to be built in 28 years, the facility is designed to enable the company promised to deliver fresh and high quality products mainly to the Eastern area of Japan. The new plant is expected to …
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 17th November 2016: This month’s Innovation Insight brings evolutions in the world of soft drinks into sharp relief, with a look at a new launch adding an extra dimension to the cola category via ‘ultra’ carbonation technology – Pepsi Strong 5.0GV Cola. Recently launched in Japan, Pepsi Strong 5.0GV Cola is an extension to Suntory’s Pepsi Strong line of carbonated soft drinks that …
Dutch coffee and tea company Jacobs Douwe Egberts has announced that it has made a pre-conditional offer to acquire all issued shares of Singaporean instant food-to-coffee maker Super Group for 1.45 billion SGD ($1.03 billion). Super Group manufactures instant coffee and tea, instant tea mixes and instant cereals, with a portfolio of over 160 instant beverage and food products distributed in over 65 countries. Its brands include Super, Essenso, Owl …
Australian supermarket chain Woolworths has introduced a new range of private label products with names that exclude Woolworths branding, News Limited reports. According to the article, the supermarket claims that the line – which includes new brands such as Smitten and Apollo pet food, Chevron batteries and Little Ones nappies, as well as the removal of Woolworths and Homebrand branding from other products – was developed in response to insights …
Meiji, the Japanese food and pharmaceutical firm, plans on investing $47.9 million in order to expand capacity for functional yoghurt within its domestic operations. According to a report in FoodBev, the company will add an additional production line for the manufacture of the company’s functional yoghurt drinks at its Toda plant north of Tokyo, with the expectation that it will be operational by the end of December. Meiji said it …
General Mills, the US food manufacturer, has announced a restructure of its operations in Australia that will see the closure of its manufacturing facility in Mount Waverley, Victoria. The Mount Waverley plant, which produces goods such as Latina chilled pasta meals, is set to close between April and June 2018, General Mills said. The move would also see the consolidation of its Australian manufacturing activity into an expanded production facility in Rooty …
Hangzhou Wahaha, China’s largest beverage producer, has shown interest in a potential takeover of Dean Foods, the largest milk processor in the US, according to a Financial Times article quoting “four people familiar with the company’s plan”. The Chinese firm has reportedly approached a number of banks to seek financial backing for a possible move. Hangzhou Wahaha produces bottled water, milk and tea drinks and reported $7.4 billion in sales …
Thailand-based food giant CP Foods has announced an investment of 700 million THB ($20 million) to build a new plant in Wang Noi, Thailand, according to a report in Undercurrent News. The new facility will reportedly specialize in manufacturing meal soups, producing 70,000 tons a day. “The elderly, sick persons, and vegetarians” are described as the target market for the product. “Our key challenge lies in the fact that Thailand …
Yili, China’s leading dairy company, has purchased a 37% stake in rival dairy firm Shengmu for $680 million, according to a report in Bloomberg. Shengmu, which specialises in organic milks and yoghurts, is the only Chinese dairy company to sell and produce organic milk which is certified European-standard, Bloomberg reports. It claims to have a 54.2% market share in China based on 2013 organic raw milk production volume. They are …
Schwarz Group, the German retail giant behind the Lidl and Kaufland brands, is considering opening stores under the Kaufland brand in Australia, according to an article in N-tv.de. The supermarket group is currently conducting a feasibility study, “only after which a decision on a possible entry into the market will be made”, N-tv.de reports, quoting the firm. Previous German media reports had suggested that the first Kaufland stores might open in …
Future Consumer, an Indian consumer goods firm operating in the food, drinks, personal care and household space, has launched a new brand called Kosh with the stated objective of increasing the popularity of oats among Indian consumers. The new Kosh brand will be available as Instant Oats, Broken Oats, Oats Atta and Wheat + Oats Atta. Future Consumer said it planned on growing and sourcing the product in Australia and …
Creamline Dairy Products, a subsidiary of Godrej Agrovet (part of the Godrej group) and a dairy player in southern India, is investing 30 million crore ($4.5 million) to set up a new plant in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India to increase dairy production, according to a report in the Business Standard. The company currently owns seven factories – two in Hyderabad and one each in Madanapalli, Vijayawada, Karnataka and Nagpur – …
Kirin, the Japanese brewery firm, has announced that it has bought a minority share of 24.5% in the US based Brooklyn Brewery as a first step towards a business partnership between both companies. Under the partnership, Kirin said it planned to further energize the craft beer market in Japan and Brazil while supporting the growth of the Brooklyn Brewery through technological and procurement assistance. Both companies plan to establish the …
Japanese beverage giant Asahi is set to table a bid in the order of ¥500 billion ($4.87 billion) to acquire brewer SABMiller’s assets in eastern Europe, according to reports in Nikkei and Beverage Daily. The brands to be sold include Pilsner Urquell in Czech Republic, Tyskie and Lech in Poland, Dreher in Hungary, Topvar in Slovakia and Ursus in Romania. In April 2016, Asahi also agreed a deal to purchase …
Be Natural, the Australian cereal and snack foods firm, has launched a new granola product that is specifically recommended to be partnered with coconut water rather than milk. Be Natural Coco-nutty Granola, flagged with the words “plant power”, is made with spelt, shredded coconut, nuts, seeds or fruits, and is offered in the varieties Coconut, Almond, Spelt & Cinnamon and Coconut, Spelt & Fig, both presented in a 450g box …
Indian consumer goods firm Dabur has announced the launch of the cosmetics brand Jaquline USA brand in its domestic market, according to a report in the Economic Times. Dabur will debut the Jaquline USA brand exclusively through its NewU outlets around India, offering a range of make-up and beauty products and with further launches in the pipeline. “The awareness levels among consumers in India for beauty products and beauty trends …
Kirin, the Japanese beverage firm, has announced a new marketing initiative that will see its latest coffee offering promoted to consumers in unmarked and unbranded cans. The new ‘blind’ marketing campaign, promoted as “secret sampling”, sees free cans distributed among Japanese consumers without revealing either the product’s name or its formulation. The sampling initiative was launched in mid September in seven of the largest cities in Japan, with one million …
Two of Japan’s largest Coca-Cola bottling firms have agreed to merge next year to create a company with combined annual sales of $9.95 billion, according to a Nikkei report. Tokyo-based Coca-Cola East Japan and Fukuoka-based Coca-Cola West bottle and distribute the majority of Coca-Cola’s products in Japan. A combined company would have 90% of domestic market share for Coca-Cola products and would aim for greater efficiency and pricing power, Nikkei reports. …
Food multinational Nestle is seeking to expand in the chocolate space in India with new launches from its global premium portfolio and the launch of new varieties of existing products, according to a report in the Economic Times. Among the products slated for launch are a new Trio variety of the firm’s leading Munch branded chocolate wafer bars, and a new version of its Bar One confectionery bars called Charge, …
Indian-based company Wipro Consumer Care and Lighting has acquired 100% of Chinese FMCG company Zhongshan Ma Er for an undisclosed amount. Wipro focuses on products including soaps, toiletries, personal care & baby care and has a presence in countries such as India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, China, as well as the Middle East. With this new acquisition, China will become Wipro’s third largest market behind India and Malaysia. The deal includes …
Raw C, an Australian manufacturer of coconut water products, is a launching a new drink that combines coconut water with organic Arabica coffee, according to a report in Food Mag. Raw C Organic Coffee & Coconut Water is said to feature “100% natural single source coconut water” combined with “the very best organic coffee from Columbia”. Sweetened with coconut flower nectar, the drink is said to contain “a full shot of coffee” for …
Mamee Double Decker, a Thailand-based snacks and drinks firm, has announced the launch of new sweet potato crisps in its home market under the Mister Potato brand. Mister Potato Sweet Potato Crisps are “naturally purple”, a phenomenon that is said to derive from the natural colours of the purple sweet potato itself. According to a company press release, the new product is “addictive” with a “delicious, sweet taste” and is …
HyFun Foods, a venture launched by Indian potato and onion firm Asandas and Sons, has officially inaugurated a new potato processing facility at Ganeshpura, Mehsana, India, according to a report in FnB News. The result of an investment of around 75 crore INR ($11 million), the new plant is spread over 12 acres and will produce a wide range of potato products including french fries, burger patties, potato wedges and hash browns, …
PepsiCo, the global snacks and soft drinks giant, has launched a new concentrated form of its Gatorade sports drink for consumers in Australia and New Zealand. The product, which is available in Blue Bolt and Lemon Lime flavours, will come in a 1 litre container that will reportedly enable consumers to make 5 litres of Gatorade by diluting in water. Commenting on the move, PepsiCo senior director of franchise beverages …
China Resources, the firm behind China Snow, the world’s most consumed beer brand, is considering a bid for SABMiller’s central and eastern European assets, according to a source quoted by Bloomberg. The reported deal would include the brewer of Czech beer Pilsner Urquell and could be valued at around $6 billion, Bloomberg continues. SABMiller owns such brands as Foster’s in Australia, Pilsner Urquell in Czech Republic and Miller Genuine Draft in …
Japanese confectionery firm UHA Mikakuto has announced the introduction of a new throat lozenge that is said to combine a variety of functional benefits. Named UHA Mikakuto Off Zeitakuna Off Nodoame, the new throat lozenges are said to prevent the absorption of fat, to help regulate the absorption of sugar, and to relieve digestive complaints. The sweet candy, described as a juicy and healthy medicated throat candy that is made …
Consumers in Japan can now purchase a new lemon yoghurt flavoured soy milk drink, courtesy of Japanese beverage company Pokka Sapporo. Released under the Soyafarm name, the new launch is said to have a refreshing flavour, making it ideal for the morning, according to Pokka Sapporo, citing research that found that more soy milk was drunk in the morning than at other times of day. According to information, Soyafarm Lemon …
Hamdard, a Bangladesh-based drinks manufacturer, is moving its RoohAfza brand into the world of ready-to-drink beverages with the launch of RoohAfza Fusion in India. RoohAfza Fusion is an extension of Hamdard’s flagship RoohAfza brand of vivid red fruit and herb cordial, which has been available since 1907. Blending “a fusion of pure fruit juice with RoohAfza” cordial, the new line is being sold in cartons and in the varieties Luscious Litchi, Exciting …
International seasonings and food manufacturer Ajinomoto has announced that its subsidiary Ajinomoto Thailand is to invest 800 million THB ($23.1 million) to “meet growing demand for flavor seasonings in Thailand”. According to Ajinomoto, the expansion is expected to increase the production capacity of Ros Dee, a flavour seasoning, by approximately 40%, by automating the packaging process at its Nong Khae Factory in Saraburi Province. It is also said that the …
Japanese personal care giant Shiseido and Seven & I Holdings, one of the largest retail groups in Japan, are teaming up to launch a new skin-care brand called Sept Beaute. Aimed at women in their 30s and 40s, Sept Beaute is described as an “aroma body brand” and is designed to offer a pleasant scent based on Shiseido research into brain activity. It is described as being formulated with seven …
The Australian division of New Zealand dairy conglomerate Fonterra has announced that it is selling its Wagga Wagga business, the owner of the Riverina Fresh brand, to investment firm Blue River Group. Riverina Fresh is present in retail and foodservice channels, producing full cream, light and skimmed milk alongside cream, yoghurt and flavoured milk drinks. As well as local independents, Riverina Fresh milk is sold in Woolworths stores across the state …
Chinese dairy company Yili, in partnership with packaging firm SIG Combibloc, has launched a new UHT yoghurt drink under the Baoquzhu brand that contains alginate balls filled with juice that are said to burst in the mouth when chewed. Head of marketing Asia Pacific North at SIG Combibloc Eric Ding said: “The local market is invigorated by new product developments that offer added value for consumers – for example, with …
FMCG multinational Nestle has launched Ceregrow, a ready-to-cook breakfast cereal targeted to children, for the Indian market. Said to Fortified with 15 vitamins and minerals, the product is described as being specifically designed for children aged between two and five, providing 17% of the daily requirement of iron and 25% of the daily requirement of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D and valcium. Positioned as a “nutritious & tasty” breakfast …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 25th August 2016: New ingredients and formats, along with an emphasis on the ‘real’ and ‘rustic’, are some of the hallmarks of product innovation in the frozen potato category over the last two years, as the latest insights from Gama Compass™ reveal. Despite representing a relatively small fraction of NPD within the overall retail frozen food space – only 4% of total launches in the last …
Philippine food and beverage manufacturer Universal Robina has expanded its business in Australia by acquiring Snack Brands Australia for $460.86 million. URC International Co Ltd, a subsidiary of Universal Robina, will purchase 100 % of the shares in the Australian company. Snack Brands Australia manufactures potato and corn snacks under brands such as e CC’s, Cheezels, French Fries and Kettles. The company produces 200 million packets per year with its …
FMCG manufacturer Britannia has announced plans to set up three factories in the north-east of India in the next three years. According to Progressive Grocer India, the company expects an investment of 100 to 150-crore INR ($15 million to $22 million) for each factory, and the process of setting up each of the three factories to take from 12 to 14 months. “We are looking at putting up a factory …
Marya Day Agro Foods, a producer, distributor and exporter in the food, personal care and household industries in India, has opened its first four retail stores in the country since June 2016 and plans to open 100 more by the end of next year, according to a report in Progressive Grocer India. Marya Day has opened stores in Aligarh and Bareilly in quick succession after making its debut in June …
Australian supermarket chain Woolworths is launching a new range of ready-to-heat meat and vegetable dishes under the name Woolworths Simply , according to an article in Australian Food News. The range comprises 21 SKUs in total and is sub-divided into products labelled Simply Heat Slow-Cooked, Simply Stir Fry, Simply Roast, Simply Bake, Simply Roast and Simply Steam. Targeted at consumers looking for an easier way to create a home-cooked meal, the …
Household and personal care firm Godrej is set to expand its presence on the continent of Africa with the acquisition of two haircare firms, according to a report in Progressive Grocer India. The Indian firm, through its Africa-based subsidiary Darling Group, has reportedly acquired 100% of the shares in a company called Hair Credentials Zambia, and 51% in Weave Senegal. Godrej will pay “nil consideration for acquisition as the target entities …
Australian supermarket chain Coles has launched a new chain of convenience stores branded as Big Yum at Little Coles, complementing its existing Coles Express banner, according to an article in the Australian. The new Coles stores are said to offer a range of products designed for immediate consumption, such as take-out coffee and cold drinks, in addition to bakery goods such as croissants, as well as a “healthier” product range …
In a bid to keep pace with rapidly-expanding ayurvedic specialist Patanjali, health and household care multinational Colgate-Palmolive has announced the launch of a new herbal toothpaste for the Indian market, according to a report in the Economic Times. Colgate Cibaca Vedshakti is said to have been launched in response to a growing preference for products with natural ingredients and, at a retail price of around 50 INR ($0.75) for a pack …
US chocolate and snacks group Mondelez International is set to launch its $2 billion Milka brand in China, according to a report in the Financial Times. The newspaper said that the confectionery giant planned to price the chocolates “slightly above average” compared to the rest of the market, and would launch a standard line of 12 different products alongside special holiday editions. According to the Financial Times, the Chinese market …
Health and wellness company Lore Australia is launching a new herbal tea based on “native bio-food” guradji, according to an article in Inside FMCG. According to the company, gurạdji is a traditional native plant that has been used by indigenous people for thousands of years to heal ailments, cleanse the body and clear the mind Lore Australia Guradji Tea is described as caffeine free and naturally rich in bio compounds, …
Akagi Nyugyo, a Japanese manufacturer of ice cream and confectionery products, has announced the extension of the long-standing ice cream brand Gari Gari Kun with the launch of a new flavour that is claimed to taste like an isotonic drink. Offered under the Shari Shari Kun brand, the novelty Sports Drink flavour has been designed for the hot summer months and offers “coolness and hydration”. Unlike the ordinary Gari Gari …
From 12th July 2016, consumers in Australia will be able to purchase a new flavour variety of Doritos tortilla chips called Meatlovers BBQ. The flavour was developed in partnership with pizza restaurant chain Pizza Hut. The two firms had previously worked together in 2014, when a Doritos-stuffed pizza crust was released in Pizza Hut restaurants. This time, the partnership has resulted in the Meatlovers Pizza flavour, which is described as …
Japan Tobacco, the world’s third largest tobacco firm by market share, has announced that it has signed an agreement with the Ethiopian government to acquire 40% of the total shares in National Tobacco Enterprise Ethiopia, which has a monopoly in Ethiopia, for $510 million. Japan Tobacco outbid a number of competitors in a tender process, including British American Tobacco, which is believed to have offer $230 million, according to an …
A new milk confectionery brand called My Chewy is being made available in Thailand by Thailand Prairie Marketing. a leading importer and distributor of personal care, confectionery and food products. The candy comes in two flavours: one containing matcha (green tea powder) at its heart and the second with a coffee filling. Described as soft, chewy sticky sweet made with dairy milk, My Chewy Milk Candy is round in shape and …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 14th July 2016: ‘Fresh’, ‘locally-sourced’, ‘quick’, ‘no flavour enhancers’ and ‘additive-free’ are some of the key claims associated with products described as ‘real’ or ‘authentic’, while drinks concentrates, coffee and tea are among the most significant product categories for ‘real’ claims in new launches, according to Gama’s latest look at patterns in innovation and new product positioning. The analysis, conducted on products reported on Gama …
Leading Chinese e-commerce firm Alibaba and confectionery giant Mars have teamed up to offer online distribution for Mars products in China, enabling consumers to enjoy “a more convenient and international one-stop shopping experience”. 17 Mars brands including M&Ms, Snickers, Dove, Extra, Pedigree and Royal Canin are set to be sold in China on Tmall.com, a business-to-consumer platform for global and local brands, and Ruraltaobao.com, a relatively new platform aiming to …
Treasury Wine Estates, the Australian-based wine group, has announced that it has divested 12 non-core brands within its US portfolio. The firm, which owns Wolf Blass and Blossom Hill, said that the brands were sold at approximately book value and represented around one million cases of non-core Commercial wine. The name of the buyer was not specified. In a statement to the Australian stock exchange, Treasury Wine Estates said: “Over the …
South Korea’s major bread maker Samlip Foods has recently introduced a new croissant with banana flavour under its brand name Sand Farm. This new bread is described as round shaped croissant buns filled with banana cream, and then topped with fruit cocktail and chocolate chips, adding sweet and sour flavour to the buttery taste of the croissant. Commenting on the product, the company said: “We developed a new style of …
Japan-based beverage multinational Asahi is to expand its Wilkinson brand of carbonated soft drink range, first introduced in 1904, by introducing a new Dry Cola flavour. Tagged “Carbonation X Cola”, the new variety offers “a new type of stimulation” by combining strong carbonation and “polished” water with a dry cola flavour. The flavour and strong carbonation is enhanced by a sharp, non-sweet aftertaste that provides a refreshing effect, the company says.. …
FMCG multinational Nestle is set to release a swathe of new product launches in India as it seeks to reinvigorate its business in the country in the wake of the Maggi instant noodles controversy, the Times of India reports. According to the newspaper, the Swiss-based firm will be launching around 25 products across a range of categories, having seen its share of the instant noodle category slip back to 55.5% from …
Walmart, the leading supermarket chain in the US, and JD.com, China’s largest e-commerce company by revenue, have announced the formation of a strategic alliance “to better serve consumers across China through a powerful combination of e-commerce and retail”. The agreement between the companies includes a wide range of business initiatives, covering both online and offline retail. For Walmart, the alliance greatly expands its opportunity in China e-commerce and provides its stores …
Aldi, the discount retail chain, has opened new outlets in Perth, the first four of 70 planned supermarkets for western Australia, according to a report in Inside Retail. Aldi’s Australian website lists a total of four stores now open in the Western Australia region, located in Belmont, Kwinana, Lakeside Joondalup and Mirrabooka Square. A further 13 future store locations are also detailed on the company webpage. Just six weeks prior to …
Asahi, the Japanese drinks firm, is to launch a second edition of its Oishi Mizu Plus (Tasty Water Plus) line in collaboration with Calpis, a brand it acquired in 2012. The new bottled water features the same lactic acid bacteria used in Calpis dairy drinks, which is claimed to offer natural sweetness and obviate the need for artificial sweeteners. Said to be processed using Asahi’s original “clear water method” to …
Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Ltd (CP Foods), a leading agro-industrial and food conglomerate in Asia Pacific with a presence in over 40 countries, has announced the company’s entry into the packaged foods business in India. The new products are said to be nutritious, tasty, safe, traceable and of high quality, having been developed by in-house chefs, with a vision of the “Kitchen of the World and India”. The product …
Investment firm Pacific Equity Partners has offered A$232million ($165 million) for 100% of the shares in Patties Foods, according to reports in AFN and ABC. Australia-based Patties Foods is the owner of a number of brands in the bakery industry, including Four ‘n’ Twenty Pies, Herbert Adams Pies, Snowy River, Pies Chefs, Patties and Nanna’s. According to sources, Patties revealed that Pacific Equity Partners (PEP) has approached the company with …
US-based infant and toddler products firm Munchkin has launched its first formula, claimed to be made from milk produced only by 100% grass-fed cows, for the Australian market. The launch comes after the California-based firm struck a deal with New Zealand dairy producer Synlait to launch grass-fed formula milk in Australia and China. According to a report in InsideFMCG, the grass-fed cows that supply the milk are raised in New Zealand where …
C&C Group, the producer of Magners cider, has signed an agreement with Dutch beer importer Vandergeeten for the distribution of its Tennent’s portfolio in China. Vandergeeten will initially launch Tennent’s 1885 Lager, Tennent’s Stout, Tennent’s Whisky Oak Aged Beer, Tennent’s Scotch Ale, and Tennent’s Extra. Vandergeeten has been distributing food and beverage products from Belgium and Western Europe into China for over 20 years and currently manages a portfolio of …
Gama Innovation Award – Packaging MANCHESTER – 30th May 2016: Addressing environmental concerns while also offering the appeal of convenience, Kao Essential Refill Pack is May’s recipient of the Gama Innovation Award – Packaging. Named the Raku Raku Pack (‘Easy Easy Pack’), the new pouch for health & beauty manufacturer Kao’s Essential line of haircare products is designed to take the inconvenience, waste and mess out of refilling shampoo and conditioner bottles. The pouch pack features gussets on the top and …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 20th May 2016: Baby drinks, dairy, snacks, dairy & dairy alternative drinks and functional drinks are among the key markets for high protein claims in new food and drink launches over the past two years, according to Gama’s latest study of global food and drinks innovation. Taking into account products reported on Gama Compass™ since May 2014, Gama’s research also found significant parallels between ‘high protein’ …
FMCG multinational Nestle is set to expand its coffee offering in India with the launch of Nescafe Sunrise Insta-Filter Coffee – “which provides the taste of filter coffee and yet does not require a filter”. According to Nestle, the new coffee is made from 100% Indian coffee beans, handpicked from Coorg and Chikmagalur, blended, roasted and transformed into a dry product that “locks the rich aroma and fresh taste of …
Mondelez India Foods, part of food conglomerate Mondelez International, has inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Sri City, Andhra Pradesh, India that is described as the company’s largest factory in Asia Pacific. According to a company press release, the plant is part of an investment of $190 million and is expected to produce approximately 60,000 tons of “India’s favourite” Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate annually. By 2020, the yearly production capacity …
Patanjali Ayurveda, the fast-growing ayurvedic consumer goods firm, is seeking to establish a new production facility in Pithampur, near Indore in Madhya Pradesh, as it looks to ramp up its production of personal care products, according to a report in the Times of India. Official sources are reported as saying that the firm, which manufactures 45 types of cosmetic item, had asked for around 40 acres of land to start …
Gama Innovation Award – Positioning MANCHESTER – 28th April 2016: Koikeya Pototto+ Potato Snack picks up the Gama Innovation Award – Positioning for April, by virtue of its haircare-inspired functional seasoning oil – a first in the snacks space. Seeking to bring beauty benefits to the mainstream savoury snack arena, Koikeya Pototto+ Potato Snack is a launch that plays on the new-found popularity of plant oils as health-enhancing and beautifying …
Gama Innovation Award – Packaging MANCHESTER – 26th April 2016: This month, the Gama Innovation Award – Packaging goes to Tata Tea Fusion Tea, which promises to bring tea blending to the masses by means of an unusual multi-layered jar. “For the first time in India, tea lovers will get to prepare and enjoy their tea the way they want it”, boasts Tata Tea Fusion Tea, a new product concept from tea …
Advertised as “your gateway to the Japanese wine, beer, spirits, gourmet food and foodservice market”, Wine and Gourmet Japan – a recently-established trade event staged by Koelnmesse, the organisers behind major European shows such as Anuga and ISM – returned to the showgrounds of Tokyo’s Big Sight Exhibition Center for its latest edition. Visitor numbers for the 2016 event showed a modest increase on the previous year, with a total …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 21st April 2016: Baby food stands top of the pile for both ethical and environmental claims, with baby cereals leading the way at the category level, Gama’s latest research into patterns in new food launches has found. Based on a study of products reported on Gama Compass™ over the last two years, Gama has found that baby food categories are hotspots for messages that address …
The Australian arm of FMCG multinational Unilever has launched a green tea said to have been blended “to remove any bitter aftertaste”. According to an article in Australian Food News, the new Lipton Delicately Fresh Green Tea was developed following consumer research that revealed consumers tended to avoid green tea due to the often bitter after-taste. The new launch “is uniquely blended with steamed Green Tea leaves, to give your …
The Australian division of US cereal and snacks giant Kellogg is to open a pop-up “cereal cafe” in Sydney for a limited time, according to reports in Australian Food News and the Daily Mail. Located in the Surry Hills area of the city and open for one week from the 19th April, the cafe will reportedly feature a dessert, brunch, lunch and drinks menu and is being operated in collaboration …
Dutch beer maker Heineken has announced the launch of a new global campaign called Shape Your City that “aims to broaden the imagination of and ignite creative ideas in the new generation of people living in urban cities”. According to an article in Thai PR, the campaign will be launched together with a new 320ml ‘sleek’ can priced around 44 THB ($1.25) that is said to be the first in …
The Indian arm of food and drinks multinational Danone has announced that it will invest $22.5 million to expand a plant in Lalru, Punjab, where it will set up a new spray dryer unit to manufacture infant nutrition products, according to a report in the Ecomonic Times. Commenting on the investment, Danone India MD Laurent Marcel said: “India is a strategic market for us with immense potential in value added …
Lactalis, the French dairy multinational, has agreed a deal to acquire the dairy business of Indian firm Anik Industries, according to reports in Just Food and Les Echos. Subject to competition clearance, the deal, which is valued at 4.7 billion INR ($70.6 million), is expected to be concluded within the space of four months. The acquisition includes two plants, one located in Bhopal in Madya Pradesh and the second in Etar …
Huiyuan Juice, a Chinese fruit and vegetable juice producer, has announced that one of its wholly owned subsidiaries has entered into an agreement with a subsidiary of Yeo Hiap Seng to enter the Malaysian market through the manufacture and distribution of fruit and vegetable juices. The agreement sets out the establishing of a joint venture company which will combine the production management, distribution and marketing expertise from Yeo Hiap Seng, …
Pulmuone, South Korea’s leading tofu manufacturer, has announced that it will purchase substantially all of the assets of Vitasoy USA for $50 million. Pulmuone said that the deal, which includes America’s number one tofu brand Nasoya, would give it outright market leadership of the US tofu category as well as a consolidated operations foothold within the global tofu markets of South Korea, the US, Japan and China. According to the …
Japanese confectionery company Ezaki Glico, which own brands such as Pocky (Mikado in Europe) and Pretz, has announced a new health drink based on the fashionable ‘superfood’ coconut oil. Claimed to be an easy way to daily get all the benefits of coconut oil, Glico Cocosmart is described as being made through an emulsification process and contains 15g of coconut oil and 7.6g of medium chain fatty acids. It is …
It’s Skin, South Korea’s major cosmetic manufacturer, has signed a deal with retail giant Dabur to sell 120 products under its name in India, according to a report in Yonhap News. The products will be sold in 10 New U shops in New Delhi before rolling out a further 20 shops in the capital and other cities later in the year. According to an article in Cosmetics Design Asia, the …
Health-food manufacturer YGC Group, in collaboration with the National University of Singapore, has unveiled the launch of a new range of health drinks made with eucheuma, a type of seaweed found locally in South-East Asia. Announcing the launch, YGC Group said the line was suitable for a broad demographic and was promoted as an “everyday drink targeted at the health-conscious”. The line, which features omega-3 rich eucheuma as its primary …
Gama Innovation Award – Packaging MANCHESTER – 23rd March 2016: Nisshin Cooking Flour Shaker, with its ‘miniature’ format and unusual dosing devices, is this month’s recipient of the Gama Innovation Award – Packaging. New in Japan from flour firm Nisshin, the Nisshin Cooking Flour Shaker innovates through its multiple measuring devices and preservation benefits. Promoted especially for “small families and less frequent users”, the flour comes in a compact PET …
Amado, the health and wellness firm, has announced the introduction of a new “health tea” for sale in its domestic market of Thailand. According to the company, Amado DH Tea offers relaxation and refreshment and promotes good sleep. In addition, the use of “natural matcha from Japan” is claimed to reduce blood sugar levels and normalise blood pressure through regular consumption, which in turn assists in reducing the risk of …
Coca-Cola South Pacific is set to launch a new strawberry sherbet variety of its Fanta soft drink in a bid to bring more “fun” to the category, according to an article in Food & Beverage Industry News. The new Strawberry Sherbet Fizz flavour, launched in Australia, is promoted as a fruity and refreshing strawberry sherbet soft drink with “extra tingles & bold bubbles” for added “zing”. Fanta brand manager Ramona …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 15th March 2016: Functional claims go hand in hand with ‘greek’ formulations in new yoghurt launches, while North America continues to be a hotspot for greek yoghurt NPD, according to Gama’s latest study of product trends in new FMCG launches. Despite the now global dimension to the greek yoghurt boom, Gama’s research continues to point to significant variations in the proportion of ‘greek’ products launched …
Trend Insight by Gama Compass™ Unlocking trends and pointing the way to new opportunities in consumer goods innovation MANCHESTER – 8th March 2016: A continued focus on ‘homeliness’, exploiting changing needs at the breakfast occasion, satisfying the appetite for indulgence, and catering to growth in single-serve and ‘sharing’ options are among the areas in which frozen bakery and pastry firms can look to direct their innovation efforts in the year ahead, …
Calbee, the Japanese snack and confectionery company, has announced the release of three new unusual potato crisp flavours, launched as a part of promotion of celebrating the firm’s 40th anniversary. Due to go on sale this March, the new varieties stem from an ‘audition’ held last year to find interesting and innovative flavours for the Calbee brand. Calbee has now revealed that the ‘winning’ flavours were Gomayopon, a mix of …
Dutch dairy firm FrieslandCampina has unveiled its intention to aquire a majority stake in Engro Foods, the leading Pakistani dairy firm, as it announced its latest financial results. The company said that the proposed acquisition formed part of its updated Route2020 programme, which sees strategy resources deployed to achieve sustainable long-term growth through existing and new product-market combinations. FrieslandCampina said that it would start investigating a possible acquisition of an interest …
Lotte Chilsung Beverage Co, a unit of South Korean retail conglomerate Lotte Group, is expected to acquire a major share in a PepsiCo bottling company in Pakistan, the Maeil Business News reports. Quoting sources from Lotte Group and the investment banking industry, Maeil Business News said that the South Korean firm was reportedly looking to buy 51 to 52% of shares in Lahore PepsiCo, a PepsiCo bottling company located in …
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 3rd March 2016: This week’s Innovation Insight looks at the latest attempt by Japanese firm Koikeya to innovate in the crisps category, this time via a new oil-based ‘shake and season’ concept that allows consumers to adjust the amount of fat present in the final product – Pototto+ Potato Snack. Seeking to bring beauty benefits to the mainstream savoury snack arena, Pototto+ …
Coca-Cola is contemplating the sale of its bottling operations in India, valued at $1 billion, as it moves to focus on brands, marketing and strategy in line with global policy, according to sources quoted by the Economic Times. “Coca-Cola plans to start talks with large industrial houses for the potential divestment”, an unnamed source is quoted by the newspaper as saying. “The deal could take 12-18 months to close”, the …
New Zealand dairy firm Fonterra has launched a new version of its Anchor Milk in that is claimed to feature a microfiltration technology to extend shelf life. Initially available in the Australian state of Victoria, Anchor Finely Filtered Milk uses microfiltration to remove 99% of the naturally occurring bacteria in milk via a technique that pushes the milk through a special ceramic filter. This creates a “beautifully fresh tasting” finished product …
Drink and snacks giant PepsiCo has announced the expansion of its Lay’s crisp brand in Thailand with the launch of two new sweet flavours. Promoted as offering a “perfect blend” to “creates delicious new ways” with flavour, the new Lay’s offering includes Honey Butter and Caramel Popcorn varieties, the former topped with “super sweet honey” with a “tantalizing” taste, and the latter featuring a “delicious, fantastic” popcorn flavour “carefully” combined …
As part of a recent strategic shift, Japanese bakery firm Yamazaki Bakery has decided against renewing its licencing agreement with international food giant Mondelez International, under which it manufactures products under the Yamazaki Nabisco banner, according to a report in the Nikkei Asian Review The decision marks the end of a relationship dating back to the 1970s through which Yamazaki has produced goods for the Japanese market under brands such …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 23rd February 2016: Orange and lemon flavours are associated with premium claims and higher price points, while strawberry flavours are especially common in Latin America and in launches targeted at children, the latest information from Gama Compass™ indicates. For this month’s study of trends and patterns in new product launches, Gama has pinpointed the five leading fruit flavours in global innovation over 2014 and 2015 …
Fujian, China based candy manufacturer Yake Food has entered the mineral water market with a “premium” offering under the Changbai Springs brand name. The line is said to feature an award winning packaging design and is based around the core idea of a “Changbai Oasis” offering “the first morning cup of water”. According to PET Engineering, the company behind the bottle, the design was “born from the idea of enobling the …
Coca-Cola South Pacific has launched Fuze Tea, a new line of ice tea described as an “aspirational iced tea offering” and a “premium product”. The Fuze brand was first launched in the US, where the current lineup now includes ice tea in flavours such as lemon, strawberry and mango orange, as well as a range of juice drinks. In Australia, the range is said to comprise the flavours Wild Raspberry …
Australian supermarket chain Woolworths has recently announced the launch of an extension to its click & collect service using local transport hubs, to be trialled at Sydney’s Bondi Junction train station. According to a report in InsideFMCG, the 12 month click & collect initiative will allow customers to place an online order with the retailer before 11am and then collect their purchases from specially designed lockers later in the day. Woolworths …
Arnott’s, the Australian biscuit and cracker firm, is extending its Tim Tam range of chocolate biscuits to include four new mocktail-inspired flavours as a limited period release. Promoted by the manufacturer as a “hassle free drinking experience”, the new line of Tim Tam Chocolicious chocolate biscuit is available in the varieties Virgin Pina Colada, Virgin Espresso Martini, Virgin Strawberry Champagne and Virgin Chocolicious Velvet Mudslide. Claimed to offer consumer “the …
German food manufacturer Dr. Oetker is setting up a new manufacturing plant in Rajasthan, India with an investment of 250 crore INR ($37 million). Dr. Oetker, which sells a range of products including mayonnaises, sauces, spreads, salad dressings, cakes and dessert toppings, has two existing production units with a manufacturing capacity of 12,000 tonnes. Speaking to the Press Trust of India, Dr. Oetker India managing director Oliver Mirza said: “We have …
Sajo Group, a South Korean processed seafood manufacturer, has agreed to acquire a 85% stake in Korea Flour Mills, the holding company of DongA One Group, for 100 billion won ($82 million), according to a report in the Korea Times. DongA One Group produces a range of flour products for retail and foodservice channels, and is also active in the animal feed sector. A spokesman for Sajo said: “We expect …
In the latest of a line of unusual cola launches, beverage firm Suntory has unveiled what is claimed to be the world’s first cola with the flavour of cherry blossom (sakura). Pepsi Cherry Blossom Cola is said to have the same pale pink colour as cherry blossom itself and is described as having a fragrant, sweet aroma that “adults can enjoy”. The 490ml bottle is designed to be high impact …
Indian company Mother Dairy has announced its intention to set up a new processing plant for fruit and vegetables in the east of the country. The leading dairy firm is investing 75.65 crore INR ($11.1 million) in the new plant, which will have a processing capacity of 25,000 metric tonnes per year and which will be located in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The two-phase project is expected to conclude in 2017 when …
Godrej, one of India’s leading home and personal care companies, has announced plans to expand into new African markets with the acquisition of a majority stake in Kenya-based Canon Chemicals. Canon Chemicals manufactures and distributes products in the personal and home care categories. Its major brand is Valon, a petroleum jelly, although the company is also active in air fresheners, detergents and candles. In 2015, the annualised revenue of the business was 1,146 million …
Dairy cooperative Murray Goulburn has signed a deal to become the supplier of private label cheese products to supermarket chain Coles from 2017, according to a report in Australian Food News. Commenting on the deal, Murray Goulburn said: “The contract includes the supply of a range of Coles brand cheddar-style cheese including tasty, colby, mild and light cheese in blocks, shreds and slices for Coles supermarkets across Australia. The national …
QAF, the parent company of Gardenia Bakeries, has opened a new factory in Laguna, Philippines that will enable it to increase its production by 50%, according to reports in the Philippine Star, Business World Online and the Manila Times. The new factory – the company’s sixth – has capacity for 150,000 loaves per day. Built at a cost of 1 billion PHP ($21 million), it is said to have been …
Food and drinks giant Nestle is expanding the KitKat chocolate biscuit bar range in Australia with a focus on Chinese-inspired flavours, according to a report in Australian Food News. The news source reports that consumers will be enticed with flavours such as Tangerine Creme Brulee, Taro & Black Sesame, Red Bean & Toasted Coconut and Almond Cookie, with the limited edition options retailing at A$6 ($4.19) from the brand’s new …
Danone India is expanding its dessert portfolio to introduce ready to eat flavored custard, a first of its kind product in the packaged dessert category in India, according to reports in FnB News and Just Food. Although custard is already available in India as a premix, the new product aims to address the need for convenience by eliminating the need for cooking. Danone Ready To Eat Custard is available in …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 22nd January 2016: ‘Natural’ continues to be a cornerstone of product marketing in new food and especially new drinks launches, according to Gama’s latest study of claims in global new consumer goods. In product launches reported on Gama Compass™ over the course of 2015, ‘natural’ was the fifth most likely claim to be used by product marketeers, while two other ‘non-artificial’ claims – ‘no artificial …
Irish dairy cooperative Ornua has announced that it acquired Ambrosia Dairy, a dairy producer based in Shanghai, China. The acquisition of Ambrosia represents Ornua’s first step into manufacture in China. Ambrosia produces dairy products such as sour cream, yogurt and speciality cheeses which are supplied to Shanghai’s retail and food service markets, and Ornua said that the acquisition would increase its access to those markets. Ornua’s purchase of Ambrosia also …
The Chinese arm of FMCG multinational Nestle has signed an e-commerce partnership with web portal Alibaba that will see Nestle products made available online for a Chinese audience, according to a report in New Food Magazine. The purpose of the partnership is to expand Nestle’s online sales through the introduction of new products to internet consumers, along with the strengthening of the company’s brand image in China. The project follows …
CP Meiji, one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of dairy products in Thailand, is launching a new yoghurt drink for the market in Thailand, according to a report in in NNA. The new Meiji Bulgaria Yoghurt Drink, which launches this month in the varieties Low Sugar Mild Flavour and Wild Berry Flavour, is described as being targeted at the over 25, health conscious market. According to NNA, CP Meiji …
FMCG major Emami is extending its ayurvedic brand Zandu with the addition of new packaged honey, according to an article in the Economic Times. Promoted as being sourced “from the best and most indigenous breeders and beekeepers”, Zandu Pure Honey is said to be “packed following stringent international quality standards to ensure purity & best quality honey”. In addition, it claims to contain no added sugar, unlike rivals that are …
Too Cool for School, a cosmetics manufacturer based in Seoul, South Korea, has recently rolled out a new “transforming” mascara under the brand Dinoplatz Twisty Tail. The new product is described as featuring an adjustable dial that allows consumers to customize the brush to the desired angle in a choice of three positions. When the dial is turned furthest the angle of the brush is at its most acute, allowing …
Global food and drinks firm PepsiCo is aiming to expand its position in the Indian snacks market with the launch of various new products for different market segments, according to reports in Just Food, the Economic Times and Restaurant India. The company is said to be planning to launch both mass market and more niche products in order to compete with regional players. Under the Lay’s brand, the firm is …
Sanitarium, a manufacturer of spreads, snacks, drinks and milk alternatives, has released a limited edition of its Up & Go Liquid Breakfast in a peanut butter flavour. According to a report in Australian Food News, Up & Go is promoted as a “the perfect breakfast option for when you are on the go”. The drink, which is available in a range of flavours as well as in Gluten Free, Oats2Go, …
Leading Japanese beverage maker Asahi Group Holdings is planning to make an offer to buy European beer brands Grolsch and Peroni, according to reports in Yomiuri and the Japan News. In November, it was reported that AB InBev was giving consideration to a disposal of Peroni and Grolsch in order to head off possible competition concerns over its takeover of SABMiller. A deal between Asahi and AB InBev for the …
With Patanjali Ayurveda aggressively launching new products in the ayurveda and natural beauty segment, leading FMCG firm Dabur India is set to launch new ayurvedic products of its own in order to counter the increased competition and maintain its market share. The ayurvedic and natural beauty segment has been the focus of significant NPD activity in India in recent times, with Patanjali in particular launching an array of new products …
Mineral water firm Bisleri International is set to expand in the competitive soft drinks space in early 2016 with a new range of flavoured products, according to reports in ET Retail and The Hindu BusinessLine. The new launch will be made available in lemon, spicy, mango and pina colada flavours and is set to be manufactured in at least five different locations, the company said. The expansion is part of …
Pocky, one of Japan’s leading snack brands, is to undergo a temporary rebranding exercise in a marketing effort centred on personal messages. The campaign from brand owner Ezaki Glico will see pack designs altered to communicate messages of affection, gratitude and good fortune. Among a total of 10 options, the original Pocky snack will be renamed as a choice of Sukky (“I like you”) and Giricky (“I care for you”) …
Japanese snack manufacturer Koikeya has added to its line of sweet flavour potato crisps with a new Strawberry Shortcake variety. Koikeya Strawberry Shortcake Crisps were said to be have been launched in time for Christmas season when cake products are in high demand. The special edition flavour is said to be made with domestically produced Tochiotome-type strawberries, and is claimed to have an authentic strawberry shortcake flavour. The company began …
Gama Innovation Award – Positioning MANCHESTER – 17th December 2015: Nepia Deodorizing Toilet Paper, new in Japan from Nepia, is this month’s recipient of the Gama Innovation Award – Positioning. Nepia Deodorizing Toilet Paper offers new functionality in bathroom odour removal through a plant-derived deodorizing ingredient added to the inner cardboard tube. Specifically, the product’s active agent is claimed to tackle hydrogen sulfide and ammonia that are said to be particularly …
USL, a subsidiary of Diageo operating in India, has taken the strategic decision to move out of the FAB market due to lack of scale in domestic RTD sales, according to reports in the Economic Times and the Times of India. Premixed vodka drink Smirnoff Ice was launched by USL to challenge Bacardi Breezer, which is said to currently enjoy more than 90% share of the Indian FAB market. According …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 11th December 2015: The breakfast foods space is being increasingly characterized by new functional claims, convenient and single-serve pack formats, and a diversity of product choices across a broadening range of categories, the latest research by Gama can reveal. Gama’s study, based on products reported on Gama Compass™ over 2014 and 2015, has examined trends and patterns in the world of cereals and breakfast foods, …
Singha, one of Thailand’s leading food and beverage firms, has announced that it has entered a joint venture with Japanese rice cracker maker Sanko to expand into the snack market. According to a report in the Bangkok Post, the move forms part of Singha’s plan to become one of the top five food and drinks firms in South East Asia by 2020 and aims to boost the popularity of rice …
Leading Korean cosmetics firm Etude House has released a lip tint ‘pudding’ under the Snowy Dessert brand as a part of its 2015 Holiday Collection line. According to a report in Daily Cosmetic, the product packaging comes in the form of a mini ‘cake box’ emphasising its design concept, and with a texture that replicates that of a real pudding. It is applied just as a pudding would be consumed …
Aldi has recently announced the extension of its frozen desserts range in Australia with the launch of a new summer ice cream under the Milfina private label brand name. According to Australian Food News, the new individual stick ice cream is called Summer Delight and consists of “caramel and vanilla flavoured ice cream which is dipped in chocolate and wrapped in biscuit pieces”. The product is described as being free …
Fast-growing consumer goods firm Patanjali Ayurveda is set to invest 1,000-crore INR ($150 million) early next year on various expansions plan, with a particular focus on e-commerce and export, according to reports in the Economic Times and Wellness India. Patanjali Group promoter Baba Ramdev said: “We are likely to invest about Rs 1,000 crore in 2016 for various initiatives. Banks have already sanctioned Rs 500 crore as working capital loan …
Coca-Cola is considering strengthening its presence the Indian dairy market with the launch of its US dairy brand Vio in the country. An Indian version of Vio would be adapted for the local market and, unlike the US offering, would be non-carbonated, according to information. In the US, Vio is offered as a skimmed dairy carbonated drink, available in citrus, peach and berry flavor, free of preservatives and fortified with …
Tata Global Beverage Limited, in association with its subsidiary Tata Coffee, is looking to strengthen its hand in the branded instant coffee category in India with the launch of Tata Coffee Grand. Tata Coffee already has some presence in instant coffee in India – a market currently dominated by Nestle and Unilever – through brands such as Tata Cafe, Tata Kaapi and Mysore Gold. Speaking on the launch to FnB …
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 26th November 2015: Gama returns to the RTD coffee shelves for this week’s Innovation Insight, taking a look at innovative microwaveable packaging that enables consumers to recreate the ‘coffee shop’ experience in their own home – Suntory Renji De Torokeru Hot Latte. In an apparent first for the RTD coffee space, Suntory is expanding its long-standing RTD tea and coffee range with …
Convenience store chain Family Mart is to start selling four varieties of latte, tea and jelly drinks under the Cafe& Meal MUJI name in what will be the brand’s first foray into chilled drinks. The brand, first established by Japanese retail firm Ryohin Keikaku in 2014, is claimed to offer products made with simple methods for the best flavour. The new line, claimed to “maximize the flavour of each of …
Five South Korean cosmetics companies have signed a joint venture agreement with Indian firm Rajshree Empires through their South Korean arm PLK International to enter the Indian market, according to a report in Net Indian. PLK International, Coson, Outin Futures BCL Cosmetics, Kell Cosmetics and Esthetic House Company are all part of the new venture. As part of the deal, the companies and Rajshree Empires are said to be investing …
Patanajali Ayurved, the fast-growing FMCG based on the traditional Indian principles of ayurveda, has announced the launch of Patanajali Instant Atta (Wheat) Noodles, just a few days after Nestle’s Maggi brand noodles returned to shelves. Priced at 15 INR ($0.23) for a 70g pack, the new launch is claimed to be more affordable than rival products from competitors such as Nestle, ITC and Unilever. As reported by The Economic Times, …
Japanese personal and household manufacturer Kao has announced that it has developed a new pouch pack that is designed to make it easier to refill shampoo bottles and similar products. Named the Raku Raku Pack (Easy Easy Pack), the product has a “universal design” that “anyone can understand and use easily” and also has environmental benefits, according to Kao. The package is particularly intended for viscous liquids such as shampoo …
Tassal, the largest salmon producer in Australia, has introduced a new line of ready-to-eat, “healthy” ambient fish-based snacks. Described as a ”quick, healthy and delicious snack that loves you back”, the new range aims to offer a new on-the-go meal option. The product is available at an RRP of A$4.29 ($3.06) and in the varieties Salmon & Quinoa (“packed with omega 3”), Salmon & Beans (“packed with protein”) and Salmon …
China’s Yashili New Zealand Dairy, a subsidiary of Yashili International and Mengniu Dairy, has opened an infant formula plant in Pokeno, Auckland, New Zealand after a three-year construction period. Yashili New Zealand general manager and director William Zhao said the company chose Pokeno because of its geography, location and excellent dairy farming facilities. “The operation of the Mengniu-Yashili New Zealand plant will help to build a global network for Mengniu …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 12th November 2015: This month, Gama’s study of dynamics in new consumer goods launches looks at flexible packaging, focusing in particular on the penetration of pouch formats – in their varied manifestations and applications – across different categories and regions. Concentrating on the food, drinks and household industries, Gama has looked at new launches reported on Gama Compass™ over the last 18 months to …
United Biscuits, the UK manufacturer of bakery products under the McVitie’s brand, has officially opened its flagship eCommerce store for consumers in China on Alibaba Group’s Tmall platform. The launch of the new store was timed to coincide with Alibaba’s 11.11 Global Shopping Festival (a 24-hour annual sales event in China) and aims to further the interest that Chinese consumers have been showing in McVitie’s products since the brand’s launch …
Coca-Cola has announced that it is expanding its Share A Feeling marketing campaign – first trialled in Vietnam in July – to Thailand. According to the company, the campaign brings the “online emoticon communication trend to real-life, inviting Thais to Share a Coke, Share a Feeling via a proprietary set of 39 emoticons” that will be printed on bottles and cans of cola. Together with the campaign, the company will offer animated …
Maeil Dairies, a Korean manufacturer of milk products, infant formula, coffees and juices, has entered into a joint venture agreement with Hangzhou, China based Beingmate Baby & Child Food, a leading Chinese baby formula manufacturer, to develop new health-focused baby milk products. Named Hangzhou Beingmate Maeil Food Company, the joint venture will reportedly focus on the production of a special instant formula for premature or low-weight babies, lactose-intolerant infants and …
Organic meat manufacturer Cleaver’s is expanding its paleo range with the launch of two new sausage varieties as well as new beef burger options. According to a report in Inside FMCG, the launch of the new products is a result of the success of the brand’s paleo beef sausage launched in early 2015. Pete Evans, the chef and ‘paleo advocate’ who has partnered with Cleaver’s on its paleo line, commented …
Hengan, a Chinese manufacturer of nappies and sanitary towels, is reportedly considering selling off its confectionery business QinQin Foodstuffs. A Bloomberg report, quoting “people with knowledge of the matter”, said that the division, which includes the sweet brand Qinqin and the waffle brand Ai Le Ge, could fetch about $300 million. While QinQin Foodstuffs reported 1.53 billion HKD ($198 million) of sales in 2014, revenue dropped 8.1% in the first half …
US-based food producer General Mills has announced plans to close two more plants as it looks to streamline its manufacturing operations globally, according to reports in Manufacturing.net and the Star Tribune. The company has earmarked two more facilities – one in the UK and one in New Zealand – for closure as part of its restructuring plans. The first is a plant in East Temaki, New Zealand that produces pasta, …
Nestle has announced that it has invested 87 million CHF ($88 million) in new food and drink production facilities in Malaysia to cater for rising demand. The firm’s new beverage plant cost 66 million CHF ($67 million) and is Nestle’s eighth plant in Malaysia. Over 40,000 sq m in size, it will produce ready-to-drink products including Milo chocolate and malt drink, Nescafe coffee, Sjora fruit juices and drinks, and Nestle Omega Plus milk. …
Abe’s Bagel Bakery has partnered with Kraft to offer consumers Vegemite flavoured Bagel Crisps. According to Australian Food News, Abe’s Bagel Bakery Vegemite Bagel Crisps are thinly sliced oven baked bagels, with the Vegemite flavour “offering a hint of the spread.” The new flavour joins existing varieties Marlborough Sea Salt, Roasted Garlic, and Caramelised Onion & Balsamic Vinegar in the ABE’s Bagel Bakery line up. The bagel crisps are said …
Skin and hair care firm Carol Joy has released what it claims to be the world’s first pure collagen skincare spray. Made from a combination of 100% pure collagen and plant stem cells, Carol Joy Pure Collagen Spray is said to deliver long lasting transformation instantly with confirmed results that show 95% more revitalised skin, 90% more moisturised skin and 85% more even skin tone. According to the company: “Skin-identical …
Nutrina Interfood has launched a new instant soy powder for the Thai market that is claimed to offer “genius nutrition”. Advertised as “good for the heart and the brain, and disease” by manufacturer Nutrina Interfoods, Nutrina Instant Soy Powder is claimed to be organic, rich in amino acids, calcium (960mg per stick) and dietary fibre as well as high in vitamins K and D. The product uses non GMO soybeans …
Beer firm Tsingtao has announced that it will acquire its remaining stake in its Suntory joint venture, according to a report in the Want China Times. In a statement to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, the company said that it woul buy a 50% stake in both the beer manufacturing and sales companies in its joint venture with the Japanese beverage conglomerate for 822.9 million CNY ($129.5 million) in the …
Nestle is to bring its Maggi brand of instant noodles back to the Indian market having cleared the mandatory quality tests as directed by the Bombay High Court. The company is now eyeing a comeback in time for the Hindu festival of Diwali. Earlier this year, Maggi noodles were banned in India after the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) found concentrations of lead higher than permitted levels. …
Japan Tobacco has bolstered its presence in the Iranian tobacco industry through the acquisition of a local cigarette manufacturer, according to a report in the Financial Times. Through its Iranian subsidiary JTI Pars, the company is said to have purchased tobacco firm Arian Tobacco Industry (ATI) for an undisclosed sum. Japan Tobacco currently produces cigarette products – including brands such as Winston, Magna and Monte Carlo – at a JTI …
Confectionery giant Lotte has announced the launch of a new milk chocolate product in Japan that is claimed to be especially rich in lactic acid bacteria. According to information, Sweets Days Lactic Acid Bacteria Chocolate contains 100 times as much beneficial bacteria as conventional chocolate, enabling consumers to “take a piece of wellness” with them on the move. Lotte describes how the bacteria are coated and stored within the fat …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 16th October 2015: Lime and peach are the most popular flavours in new alcoholic drinks launches, according to the latest study of global NPD by Gama. Based on analysis of products reported on Gama Compass™ over the past 18 months, lime was the leading flavour across new alcoholic launches globally, featuring on just over 5% of products in the study sample. Second in the …
Australian wine giant Treasury Wine Estates has announced that it is to acquire the majority of assets from Diageo’s wine operations in the UK and the USA in a cash deal worth $600 million. As a result of the acquistion, the company behind brands such as Penfolds, Rosemount Estate and Wolf Blass will now also add Blossom Hill – the UK’s second-biggest wine brand by value and volume in FY 2015 – …
Tata Chemicals , a subsidiary of Tata Group, has added a new “nourishing” brand called Tata Sampann to its food portfolio, according to reports in the Times of India and AFAQs.com. Sampann, which means “enriched”, “prosperous”, or “complete” in Hindi, aims at providing extra nourishment within everyday foods. The new brand will initially include a range of unpolished high-protein dal (pulses) and low-oil absorb besan (gram flour) but in future …
Japan Tobacco has announced that it is to buy $5 billion of cigarette assets from rival tobacco firm Reynolds American to acquire the Natural American Spirit business outside the US. The company said that the deal included the trademarks and all outstanding shares of Reynolds American’s subsidiaries outside the US which sell the brand. Japan Tobacco added that the Natural American Spirit brand had “provided a unique product offering and …
Lactasoy, which produces and distributes Lactasoy UHT soy milk products, has announced a 2.1 billion THB ($33.7million) investment plan that will see the opening of two new factories in Thailand. The company plans to establish one factory at its complex in Prachin Buri and a second facility in the northeast of the country. At the former site, the company currently has annual capacity for about 2 billion packs of soy …
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 9th October 2015: In this week’s Innovation Insight, we look at the launch of a drink seeking to bring the benefits of ‘freshly brewed’ to the chilled coffee space through packaging innovation – L Cafe Snowing Black Coffee Drink. Starting from the principle that ‘fresh is best’ when it comes to coffee, L Cafe Snowing Black Coffee Drink is a new product …
Heineken, the world’s third biggest brewer by volume, has announced that it has entered into a partnership with global spirits firm Diageo to realign its ownership interests in a number of emerging markets. The deal sees Heineken take control of Desnoes & Geddes by acquiring Diageo’s 57.9% shareholding and also gives the firm full ownership of GAPL. Desnoes & Geddes is engaged in the brewing, bottling and distribution of beers, stouts and spirits in …
Coca-Cola South Pacific has announced the launch of a new version of its Powerade sports drink in Australia, in move described as the brand’s “biggest reformulation since 2006”. According to Australian Food News, the new formula has been named Powerade ION4, with Coca- Cola saying it contains 5% more electrolytes than the current version. The publication also went on to say that the the launch would be supported with a …
Japanese beer company Asahi has furthered its interest in the craft beer sector with the acquisition of 100% of the Australian brewer Mountain Goat. Launched in 1997 by Cam Hines and David Bonighton, Mountain Goat produces low-volume beers at a facility in Richmond, Melbourne, while bottled and canned beers are brewed at a larger plant in Laverton, Western Australia. “We’ve been contract partners with Asahi for three years now, and …
Suntory is expanding its product range in Japan with the launch of the limited edition Pepsi Ghost for the Halloween period. Pepsi Ghost comes in a total of four varieties, sold in a 490ml bottle, and each is said to feature a ‘mystery flavour’. According to Suntory, the line was designed to offer an element of surprise and fun for Halloween events. The packaging features “cute” and colourful ghost designs, …
French dairy producer Les Maitres Laitiers du Contentin (MLC) has signed a supply contract with Synutra, a Chinese infant formula company, which will provide for the construction of a production plant in Normandy France. “This contract will enable the construction of a new plant in Meautis, in the Manche department, with an investment of €114 million, and will create 200 jobs”, MLC management is reported as saying. Financial details of …
The Australian owned Sesion Tequila is set to hit the market at the end of October this year, according to reports in Australian Food News and Just Drinks. According to Australian Food News, the beverages are made with no additional sugars, extracts or processing, and are designed to be “sipped and savoured”, although they can also be used in cocktails. The tequila will be available in the varieties Blanco, which …
Japan’s second-largest meat processor Itoham and the number seven player Yonekyu have agreed to a new combined management structure through the setting up of a joint holding company in April 2016. The two merging companies anticipate synergy effects from the integration, with Itoham having an advantage in production of beef and pork as well as packaged retail foods, while Yonekyu focuses more on business sales, specialising in pork and chicken …
South Korean cosmetics and toiletries manufacturer Skinfood has announced that it has released a new line of skin care products under the brand Beer One Shot For Men. Targeting urban men with a busy lifestyle, the line is designed to simplify skincare routines and comprises three products: a Moisture Balancer (100ml), a combination of cream and lotion; a Moisture Essence Toner (155ml), a combination of toner and essence; and a …
Confectionery firm Perfetti Van Melle and ice cream specialist Baskin Robbins have come together for the first time to launch a new ice cream based on the Alpenliebe Juzt Jelly branded sweet. Made with 25% fruit pulp, Alpenliebe Juzt Jelly from Perfetti is the market leader in the jelly category and will be used as an ingredient in the specially designed co-branded ice cream created by Baskin Robbins, which is …
Megmilk Snow Brand, the Japanese dairy firm, has announced the launch of “edible coffee” as an extension to its product range. The launch is an addition to the Yukijirushi Coffee range, which has been on the market for more than 50 years. The pack design is almost identical to the long-standing coffee drink but instead bears texts saying “to eat” and “the same taste – now as a dessert!” The …
Australian ice cream firm Bulla Dairy has partnered with global spirits company Diageo to launch a range of ice creams flavoured with the Irish cream liqueur Bailey’s for the Australian and New Zealand markets. Although described as an “adults-only” product, the new ice cream will contain less than 0.5% alcohol, according to a report in Australian Food News. The range comes on the market in three flavours – Original, Burnt …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 10th September 2015: North America is the leading region for low calorie claims but also for high calorie products in new food industry launches, Gama’s latest study of global FMCG product innovation can reveal. Focusing on products reported by Gama Compass™ over the last 18 months, Gama’s analysis has revealed the often stark variations, both in terms of low-calorie claims and actual calorie content, exhibited in …
ITC, the leading Indian FMCG firm, has announced that it will expand its offering by launching its first dairy product – ghee – by the end of Q3 this year. The company has built a milk processing plant in Munger, in Bihar – where it has a network that covers more than 2,800 dairy farmers with an average procurement of over 10,000 litres per day – and is already investigating …
Japanese food firm Calbee has announced its first foray into the yoghurt category with the launch of a new range under the Furugura (Fruit Granola) brand. The company has previously established the brand in the breakfast cereals category and is now looking to extend it to dairy. According to a Calbee press release, the yoghurt is “perfectly soured” with “crunchy textured” granola that makes it ideal as a “quick, filling” …
Mondelez International has announced the launch of a new premium chocolate range in Australia under the name Cadbury Coco, according to reports in B&T and Australian Food News. The new range, which is designed to expand the Cadbury brand into the premium arena, comprises only dark chocolate and will come on the market in plain varieties with 70% and 80% cocoa as well as flavoured versions named Dark Mint and …
An announcement has been made that Thailand-based food giant CP Group and Australian meat company Thomas Foods have signed a memorandum of understanding to being the planning of an “advanced food processing centre” to produce ready-made meals for export. The agreement between them will reportedly lead to the planning of a new large-scale advanced food processing centre in Australia, linking to one of the biggest food distribution networks in the …
Discount retailer Aldi has unveiled plans for as many as 120 new stores in Australia as part of long-term expansion plans in the country, according to a report in Australian Food News. In a statement, the chain revealed that it would be looking to open 65 new stores in 2016, including 20 that had been previously been announced for each of South Australia and Western Australia, along with 25 new stores …
Patanjali Ayurved Limited (PAL), the rapidly growing ayurveda goods company led by yoga guru Baba Ramdev, is rolling out a new brand of wheat noodles under the name Atta Noodles. The move comes as the result of a gap in the market created by the recent ban on the sales of Nestle’s Maggi instant noodles. The Atta brand product will be launched once approval has been granted by the Food …
Multinational tea specialist Ito En has announced the launch of a new yoghurt drink for the Japanese market containing the green tea powder matcha. Due to hit shelves in Japan on 7th September 2015 , Ito En Matcha Yoghurt Drink is said to be made with Uji-type matcha and lactic acid bacteria for lower acidity. It is said to combine the mildly bitter flavour of matcha with the smooth, mild …
Seasonings firm Ajinomoto has announced that it sold its stake in Nissin-Ajinomoto Alimentos, a Brazilian joint venture established between itself and fellow Japanese firm Nissin, to Nissin Foods Holdings. The sale of the 50% stake, which is reportedly valued at R$1 billion ($270 million), is set to be concluded by the 30th October 2015. According to sources, the move means Nissin-Ajinomoto will now become the wholly-owned subsidiary of Nissin Holdings. …
Consumers in Japan are now able to purchase coffee in a metal bottle under the Starbucks brand. The new product is manufactured by Suntory and is the company’s first canned coffee for the Japanese market. Launched on the 25th August, the new launch is called Black Coffee Pike Place Roast and replicates a product that is also sold at Starbucks coffee stores in Japan. Claimed to contain no calorie, fat …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 27th August 2015: Innovation dynamics in tea and coffee are the subject of our latest study of product innovation from Gama Compass™. Based on introductions reported over the last 18 months, Gama has analysed factors such as claims, pack format and pack design to find that– despite often being bracketed together – tea and coffee often reveal quite significant differences in relation to both product …
Mibelle, a private label cosmetics producer that is part of the Swiss retail group Migros, is seeking to make its products available in India through a cooperation agreement between Migros and Indian retail firm Future Group. Migros CEO Luigi Pedrocchi commented on the move by stating that the objective was to develop new brands and products for the Indian body care market. The step would also allow the company to …
Lion has recently launched a radler style beer especially for the Australian market. According to a report in Australian Food News, Hahn Radler contains 70% beer and 30% natural lemon compared to a more conventional 50:50 split: Lion is said to have increased the amount of beer after consumer product testing revealed this was the preferred mix. Hahn Radler is described as being the first beverage to be launched as …
Global brewer Carlsberg has released its latest financial figures in India, revealing that is has managed to almost double its market share in the country to nearly 15% of the Indian beer market in the quarter ended June. “Our Indian business grew 43% organically in a market growing by an estimated 5%. In Q2, our Indian market share was around 15%, the highest level ever and Tuborg became the second …
Sapporo has announced that it will market a small release of Japanese wines in Singapore in a move designed to test the waters in the southeast Asian market. According to reports in the Japan Times and Nikkan, the company will release a total of 960 bottles comprising four types of red and white wines under the medium-priced brand range Grande Polaire. The price range will be between 58 SGD and …