Global snacks and drinks giant PepsiCo has announced the closure of its factory in the Free Economic Zone of Manaus, reportedly after changes to taxes in the soft drinks sector. According to Exame, PepsiCo said that the decision to leave the region “was taken with the goal of efficiently managing our operations throughout Brazil and positioning the company for long-term growth, regardless of the recent change in the tax regime”. …
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Consumer goods giant Unilever has announced an investment of R$127 million ($32.8 million) to expand its facility in Pouso Alegre, Minas Gerais, Brazil. According to an article in O Tempo, construction works are already in progress and operations are expected to start between April and May 2019. Unilever’s Pouso Alegre site currently produces stocks and soups for the Arisco and Knorr brands and soy-based drinks for the AdeS brand, as …
Mexican supermarket chain La Comer has announced plans to expand the chain to 100 new stores by 2022, according to a Forbes article. The announcement was made at a launch event for the chain’s C’est la Vie campaign, which will see more than 3,500 French products offered in the chain’s stores. Rogelio Garza, director of administration and finance of La Comer, said: “We are confident that Mexico has good potential. …
Brazil’s leading supermarket chain Grupo Pao de Acucar has announced the decision to reposition its private label Qualita brand, launching a number of new sub-brands. According to the retailer’s press release, the private label’s entire product portfolio and pricing have been revisited, with the aim of offering quality items at a lower price than leading brands in each category. Among the cahnges are the creation of ‘Leve’ (Light) and Premium lines, planned …
Brazilian confectionery maker Florestal Alimentos has announced the acquisition of chocolate firm Chocolates Planalto. Florestal Alimentos and Chocolates Planalto are both base in the Rio Grande do Sul state in southern Brazil, but whilst Florestal Alimentos is specialised in sugar confectionery, Chocolates Planalto is focused solely in artisanal chocolate. The deal will enable Florestal Alimentos to enlarge its portfolio beyond its current 420-strong product range and move into more artisanal products. …
Multinational Mexican bakery company Grupo Bimbo will invest $20.1 million to boost production at the Argentinian plant of San Fernando, to supply neighbouring countries. Four new lines will be added to the existing lines of white and wholegrain bread products to produce pre-cooked frozen baguettes. “Since 1995, we have been betting on this great province, where our first factory was installed in the province of Pilar”, said Diego Bustos, general manager …
Global food and drinks giant PepsiCo has announced the investment of over $28.7 million to expand its Mar Del Plata plant in Argentina. According to a statement released by PepsiCo, the investments made between 2017 and 2018 were used to improve the plant at a technical and structural level, adding a total of 7,490 sq m to the site footprint and creating six new production lines. PepsiCo said the new …
Calu, a Brazilian agricultural cooperative, has announced the sale of its plant in Uberlandia’s industrial district in Minas Gerais to dairy firm Polenghi, part of the French Savencia group. The deal follows suspension of construction at the site in 2015, with 90% of the works completed, due to the economic situation in Brazil. According to sources, Polenghi plans to restart construction works soon and expects production to begin in January …
Latin American wine maker Vina Concha y Toro has announced the acquisition of a 50% stake in US distributor Excelsior Wines, America Retail reports. Excelsior Wines is the exclusive distributor of Concha y Toro as well as its Argentine property Trivento in North America. It also markets the Little Black Dress and Five Rivers lines of Californian wines. According to the Chilean firm, the acquisition represents an investment of $40.5 …
Galdisa, a maker of snack and peanut based products, has opened its first processing plant in the USA in Conroe Park North Industrial Park, in the north of Houston, Texas. Based in Mexico, Galdisa markets a range of nuts and other seeds and beans under brands such as Gold Fritz and Golden. According to sources, the plant was officially opened on the 6th July through the firm’s subsidiary Galdisa USA …
Arcor, the Argentinian confectionery giant, is to establish a new factory in Angola in order to further its footprint in African markets. The manufacturer is said to be forming a joint venture with construction firm Webcor in order to build the new facility, which will be the company’s first outside Latin America. The total investment is described as being $45 million, of which Arcor is said to be contributing half. …
Coca-Cola FEMSA, the largest Coca-Cola franchise bottler in the world by sales volume, has announced the acquisition of Montevideo Refrescos (Monresa) from Coca-Cola Co for $250.7 million in an all cash transaction. The deal, which was made on a cash-free and debt-free basis, increases the presence of Coca-Cola FEMSA to 11 countries aroundthe world. With a market of 3.4 million consumers and 26,000 sales points, Montevideo Refrescos is the exclusive …
Germany based coffee and coffee accessories firm Melitta is introducing a range of coffee capsules in Brazil that is compatible with Nespresso coffee makers. The new product lineup comprises Ristretto, Marcato, Staccato, Audacce and Tenuto, which are divided according to their aroma profiles of intense, balanced and fruity. According to Embalagem Marca, the range is manufactured in Brazil, in an exclusive production line in Melitta’s unit in Avare (Sao Paulo). …
Soft drinks firm Coca-Cola Brasil has expanded its portfolio of dairy alternative drinks in Brazil with the launch of new plant-based beverages under the AdeS brand. A year after buying the AdeS business from Unilever, Coca-Cola Brasil said it was launching the new products to cater to consumers looking for alternatives to animal milk that also contained a source of calcium. The new lineup of plant-based milks comprises Almond, Vanilla …
Mexican Coca-Cola bottler Arca Continental has announced that it will build a new production and distribution facility in Houston, TX, USA, through its subsidiary Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages. In a statement, the company said that the $250 million facility would be the first Coca-Cola production plant built in the US in a decade. Manuel L Barragan Morales, chairman of the board of directors of Arca Continental, said: “This significant investment confirms …
Multinational Mexican bakery firm Grupo Bimbo has announced the launch of a new line of high-iron bread products targeted at children, which is being marketed under the Bimbo Iron Kids brand. According to La Republica, the product launch is part of the company’s ‘Let’s Talk About Iron’ campaign, which is described as being focused on improving children’s intake of iron in order to prevent diseases such as iron-deficiency anaemia. The …
The Argentinian arm of global soft drinks giant Coca-Cola has announced an investment of $1.2 billion over three years to modernize its production activities in the country. The strategy for 2019-2021 comes on top of a $1 billion investment for 2016-2018 which Coca-Cola said it was “executing as planned”, together with local bottling partners Andina, Arca Continental, FEMSA and Reginald Lee. The planned upgrades and capacity increases in Argentina “form part …
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced plans to build a new personal care plant in Palmira, Colombia for brands such as Tresemme, Dove and Sedal, according to a report in Dinero. The decision comes a year after Unilever acquired Quala’s personal hygiene unit, which includes brands such as Savital and Savile hair care and skin cleansing products, male hair care and hairstyling brand eGo, hair care brand Bio-Expert, oral hygiene brand …
Diageo, the global spirits firm, is making a further play in the mezcal space with the acquisition of ultra-premium brand Pierde Almas. Pierde Almas is produced in Oaxaca, Mexico from naturally fermented agave and is know for its social, cultural and environment awareness, the Spirits Business reports. The mezcal will be the second in Diageo’s portfolio. Its first was launched last year, following the company’s acquisition of the Casamigos business in a …
FMCG giant Nestle has announced the opening of a new pet food plant for its Purina brand, located in Teno in the Maule region of Chile According to Economia y Negocios, the company has invested $120 million in the new plant, which it expects to produce 65,000 tons of pet food per year. This will enable the firm to supply 80% of its local market, instead of being reliant on …
The Argentinian arm of US retailer Walmart and Mercadoni, a leading online shopping platform, have announced a partnership agreement enabling online orders to be delivered faster, according to a report in America Retail. According to sources, the agreement allows orders in the city of Buenos Aires to be delivered within two hours of being placed. Fernando Rubirosa, associate director of e-commerce at Walmart Argentina, said: “The pilot scheme that we …
Coca-Cola FEMSA, the world’s biggest Coca-Cola bottler by volume, has announced plans to invest $430 million in a new plant in Tocancipa, Colombia. The new facility, located in Coca-Cola FEMSA’s industrial facilities in Cundinamarca, is part of a network of seven plants that the bottler has throughout the country. The new facility will reportedly handle 40% less water and non-renewable resources than the firm’s other plants operated in Colombia, and is …
French retailer Carrefour has announced that it intends to invest R$1.8 billion ($532.7 million) in Brazil across 2018, with plans in place to open 50 new stores over the course of the year. According to InfoMoney, the investment was announced by the company’s CFO Sébastien Durchon during a meeting with investors. The retailer said it planned to open 20 of its Atacadao wholesale stores in 2018, along with 10 hypermarkets …
Consumer goods giant Mondelez has expanded its portfolio in the confectionery space with the launch of Milka Bis! wafers in Argentina. The new product is described as a set of crunchy wafers that are coated with Milka chocolate. The size is said to be ideal to enjoy the combination of wafer and chocolate “anytime, anywhere”. The launch comes two years after the company entered the coated wafers segment with the …
The US arm of Mexican grocer Chedraui has reached an agreement to acquire the Texan supermarket chain Fiesta Mart. The deal was made through Chedraui’s California-based division Bodega Latina, owner of the El Super chain, and allows Bodega Latina to expand to Texas, where Fiesta Mart operates 63 supermarkets. Commenting on the purchase, Bodega Latina’s president and CEO Carlos Smith said: “The acquisition of Fiesta allows us to meaningfully expand …
Constellation Brands, the US-based alcoholic drinks firm, is to invest $900 million to upgrade capacity at its Obregon brewery in Mexico, according to a report in Just Drinks. Constellation Brands bought the plant from AB InBev subsidiary Grupo Modelo at the end of 2016 with the aim of enhancing its ability to serve its largest beer markets in the western USA. The investment at the Obregon site is set to …
Snacks and confectionery multinational Mondelez has announced plans to close two factories in Sao Paulo, Brazil. According to InfoMoney, the decision to cease operations at the two factories – one in Buaru and the other in Piracicaba – was taken in order to optimise the company’s production network and guarantee sustainable growth. The company will transfer production from the two site to its facilities in Curitiba and Pernambuco, which are …
FMCG giant Nestle has announced that it is investing R$200 million ($61 million) in its Nescafe Dolce Gusto Factory in Brazil, located in Monte Claros, Minas Gerais. According to InfoMoney, the investment will double the factory’s current production capacity to 800 million capsules per year. The investment will allow the opening of two new production lines to manufacture varieties already being produced at the facility: Espresso Coffee, Espresso Intenso, Barista, …
Italian-based gluten free company Dr Schar has announced the acquisition of Beladri, a Brazilian firm that has been producing gluten free products exclusively for 11 years. According to Giro News, Dr Schar has been studying ways to expand its portfolio in the Brazilian market and Beladri was seen as an opportunity to achieve that goal. Fernando Menezes, managing director at Dr Schar Brazil said: “Beladri has a product line that …
Potato and frozen food specialist McCain, via its Brazilian subsidiary, is taking a 49% stake in Forno De Minas, a manufacturer of traditional Brazilian pao de queijo (‘cheese bread’), according to a report in Foodbev. Founded in 1990, Forno De Minas manufactures a range of frozen and fresh products including waffles, filled pasta and puff pastry, in addition to its flagship pao de queijo product line, a category in which …
Mexican brewer Grupo Modelo, owned by global beermaker AB InBev, is entering the food space with the launch of a bottled hot sauce, according to a report in Periodico Central. The firm’s Chingona Sauce is being launched under the name Victoria – a local beer brand – in a venture that reportedly represents 30% of Cerveza Victoria’s annual budget. According to Periodico Central, the new product is made with 100% …
The Brazilian arm of consumer goods giant Nestle has announced that it is set to expand its cereal offering with the launch of two organic cereal products in March. Noting “the promising potential of the organics market” in Brazil, Nestle said it was planning to launch its organic oats in the varieties Flocos De Aveia (Large Rolled Oats) and Farelo (Oat Bran). Both products are promoted as being high in fibre, …
FMCG giant Nestle has introduced a new powdered drink under the Nescafe Smoovlatte brand in Brazil. According to Nestle, the launch is in line with global trends and is aimed at introducing coffee to young adults. The new drink, which marks the entry of the Nescafe brand to the powdered “frappe” category in Brazil, is available in the flavour variants Chocotino and Chocomelo, blending a ‘hit’ of coffee with the …
M Dias Branco, the market leader in biscuits and pasta in Brazil, has announced that it has agreed a deal to acquire its rival Piraque in a deal worth R$1.5 billion ($475 million). The company, which owns brands such as Adria, Richester and Vitarella, said that “the translation reflects M Dias Branco’s commercial strategy of accelerating growth in the South and Southeast regions, as well as expanding its portfolio with …
Cereal and snacks giant Kellogg has announced an investment of R$215 million ($68 million) to expand a factory belonging to subsidiary Parati, located in Sao Lourenco do Oeste, Brazil. Kellogg acquired Parati in 2016 for R$1.38 billion ($429 million), the company’s largest acquisition in Latin America to date. Parati operates two facilities in Santa Catarina and has a brand portfolio that includes Parati, Padua, Minueto, Zoo Cartoon and Hot Cracker. …
Kobber, a Brazilian manufacturer of bakery and snack products, is launching a line of snack bars based on tapioca, according to a report in Giro News. The new products are described as featuring an exclusive recipe that incorporates tapioca flakes. They are promoted as being gluten free and low in sodium, and are as flagged as containing only 62 to 65 calories per 16g bar, depending on the variety. Kobber Tapioca Bars are …
Lactalis, the global dairy giant, is to cement its presence on the Brazilian market with the acquisition of milk processor Itambe Alimentos from CCPR, a dairy cooperative based in Minas Gerais. CCPR excercised a right to acquire the outstanding 50% of Itambe Alimentos from fellow Brazilian firm Vigor, following the latter’s acquisition by Mexican dairy giant Grupo Lala. The deal value will be in the order of $600 million, according to …
Brazilian food and beverage manufacturer Yoki Alimentos has recently expanded its beverage range by entering the ready to drink functional tea market. The new tea has been launched under the Yoki Mais Vita brand and all the varieties are claimed to be free from sodium, calories, sugar and carbohydrates. Four variants have been introduced in total: Green Tea with Lemon, Black Tea with Orange and Guarana Extract, Green Tea with …
Nestle, the global FMCG giant, is further developing its Nescau drinking chocolate brand with the launch of Nescau Protein + Milkshake, a ready-to-drink chocolate flavour shake that is claimed to be especially high in protein. According to a report in Giro News, Nestle said the new drink targeted younger, urban consumers with busy lifestyles who were seeking products with a dietary benefit. Nescau Protein + Milkshake is flagged as containing 13g of …
Uni Alimentos, a manufacturer of food products, is launching a new line of snacks based on traditional Brazilian staple ingredients. Chips Brasil is a range of four snacks made from manioc and sweet potato and comes in a choice of four flavours. Vagner Gomes, Uni Alimentos CEO said that aim of the launch was to link Brazilian staple foods with modern dietary trends. “Today we are marketing products that meet the …
Walmart Brasil, the Brazilian arm of the world-leading grocery retailer, has announced the opening of a new store concept in Brazil called Walmart Supermercado (‘Supermarket’). According to a press release from the retailer, the initiative is part of an investment of R$500 million ($152 million), in which the new concept will be adopted by 120 stores that are currently under the banners Bompreco, Mercadorama and Nacional. The new concept is …
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced the acquisition of Brazilian natural and organic food business Mae Terra for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 1979, Mae Terra manufactures organic foods and healthfood products, with a portfolio of more than 120 products including organic cereals, cookies, snacks and culinary products. “Growing at over 30% per year, Mae Terra has a strong brand equity and a clear purpose of making nutritious food accessible to …
Brazilian food conglomerate BRF has announced an investment in a new distribution centre to be built in the state of Parana, Brazil. The new facility, located in the city of Londrina, represents an investment of R$80 million ($25 million) and will occupy an area of over 150,000 sq m, according to the company. “The centre will be designed to receive up to 150 trucks per day, of different sizes, that …
Multinational Mexican bakery company Grupo Bimbo has announced the construction of a new metropolitan distribution centre in the Azcapotzalco district of Mexico City. The result of an investment of M$2.3 billion ($129 million), the 89,000 sq m facility, the purpose of which is to enhance the company’s logistics capacity and to increase productivity and efficiency, will become the largest and the most modern bakery distribution centre in the Americas, Grupo …
Sigma Alimentos, the frozen and refrigerated foods firm, has strengthened its presence in eastern Europe with the acquisition of a further 51% stake in Romanian meat firm Caroli, taking its shareholding in the company to 100%. Caroli is a leading producer of ready-to-eat packaged meats with more than 23 years of operation, marketing products under local brands such as Caroli, Sissi and Primo. The company operates a plant in the …
Grupo Lala, the Mexican dairy company, has announced that it has reached a deal to acquire its Brazilian peer Vigor for an implied value of R$5.725 billion ($1.839 billion). The deal is set to include the acquisition of up to 100% of the shares of Vigor Alimentos SA, as well as up to 100% of the shares in Itambe Alimentos. Founded in 1917, Vigor is described as having 14 production plants, 31 …
Mexican bakery firm Grupo Bimbo has acquired East Balt Bakeries, a US foodservice supplier of bakery products, for $650 million. With annual sales of over $420 million, East Balt Bakeries is a leading producer of bakery products with a presence across 11 countries in the US, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. “With the entry into eight new countries, this acquisition boosts the company’s vision of expanding our global …
Brazilian beverage producer Ambev has introduced a new alcoholic drink inspired by flavours from the northeast of Brazil, named Livramento (‘Deliverance’). Produced in the northeast of Brazil and described by being inspired by the culture of the region, the new lightly sparkling drink is available in the flavours of Honey & Lime and Catuaba (a medicinal plant that reputedly has aphrodisiac effects). According to Embalagem Marca, Livramento was designed around …
Swiss food and drink multinational Nestle, has announced the investment of 600 million UYU ($20.8 million) to set up a new operations centre in Uruguay. The “state-of-the-art” tecchnologies facility, located in El Parque Industrial Zona Este, a suburb of Canelones, will comprise a production plant, a distribution centre and the headquarters of the company in the country in the same location. “Uruguay is an expanding market for Nestle with many opportunities …
Sigma Alimentos, a unit of conglomerate Alfa, has acquired Sociedad Suizo Peruana de Embutidos (Supemsa), a producer of cold meat and dairy products in Peru. Financial terms were not disclosed. Sumpensa operates a cold meat plant in Chancay with 800 employees. In 2016 the company had sales of $54.2 million. The deal will expand the presence of Sigma Alimentos in Central America. The firm had previously enhanced its footprint in …
L’Oreal, the global personal care giant, has announced that it has signed a contract for the sale of The Body Shop to Brazil-based Natura Cosmeticos. The French firm announced earlier in June that it was in “exclusive discussions” with Natura Cosmeticos over a potential deal, which valued The Body Shop at an enterprise value of €1.0 billion ($1.1 billion). Speculation regarding a possible sale first surfaced in February, although the …
Coca-Cola has introduced a new guarana flavour of its Fanta soft drink in Brazil. According to Coca-Cola, the new Guarana Fanta is the first to reach the market containing guarana that is 100% certified as being sourced from the Amazon. Flavio Camelier, vice-president of operations at Coca-Cola Brasil, said: “Our goal is to make Fanta a leading brand. After a five-year period focusing on sponsoring the World Cup and the …
Swiss FMCG multinational FMCG Nestle has laid out plans to open new plants in Latin America. According to Reuters, the manufacturer is working with government officials in the four countries that are members of the Pacific Alliance – Chile, Mexico, Peru and Colombia – with the particular aim of creating employment for younger workers. In an interview with Reuters, Laurent Freixe, VP of the Americas zone at Nestle, said : “Our …
Mexican dairy company Grupo Lala is set to invest $30 million in the construction of a new facility in Guatemala, according to a report in FoodBev. Located in Escuintla, the new dairy facility will be 12,000 sq m in size and will produce pasteurized milk, ultrapasteurized milk (UHT) and ice cream, with capacity for five thousand tons of products per month. It is set to support 3,500 direct and indirect …
Brazilian retailer Pao de Acucar, part of the global Casino chain, has introduced an app called Meu Desconto (‘My Discount’). The new app is claimed to feature exclusive deals for customers who are members of the retailer’s loyalty programs Pao de Acucar Mais and Clube Extra. According to information, Meu Desconto will feature customized deals for each customer, taking into consideration the products that they usually buy. With the launch, the …
Mexican bakery firm Grupo Bimbo has acquired a 65% stake in the Indian company Ready Roti for an undisclosed amount. The New Delhi-based maker of bread, pizza bases, as well as sweet and savoury buns, operates four plants, generating annual sales of around $48 million. “This acquisition represents Grupo Bimbo’s entry to the Indian market, strengthening its presence in emerging markets, in line with its vision”, Grupo Bimbo said. Grupo …
Brazilian dairy firm Vigor has announced the launch of a new Greek yoghurt with fruit pieces. Said to be unique due to the large size of its fruit pieces, Vigor Greek yoghurt is available in the three flavours of Cranberry, Apricot and Coconut. It is sold in packs that feature black and gold colours with the images of each fruit, aiming to give it a premium and indulgent look, according to …
Superbom, a Brazilian producer of health-oriented foods, has announced new product launches for 2017, including jam with chia seeds and 100% fruit juice. According to a statement released ahead of the APAS tradeshow , the company is intending to introduce a range of 100% fruit jam with no added sugar and also a line of 100% fruit juices. The new range of Superbom Jam include the varieties Strawberry with Chia …
FMCG multinational Nestle is currently in negotiations to sell a number of its brands, as well as brands owned by Garoto, according to a report in Valor. The sale is described as a requirement by Brazilian antitrust authorities to approve the merger of Nestle with Garoto, which was first announced in 2004. Valor reports that Brazilian regulators are aiming to reduce Nestle and Garoto’s market share for choocolate in Brazil – …
Ambev Brasil, the Latin American drinks firm, has launched a limited edition of Skol beer cans that are said to feature different skin tones in order to celebrate diversity. The limited edition cans are part of the ‘Skolors’ campaign with the slogan of a “A toast to diversity”. According to sources, the campaign is predicated on the idea that “your gender, skin tone and social status don’t matter – we are all …
Brazilian beverage producer Ambev has launched its first mineral water in the market under the AMA brand. According to the company, the product will initially be distributed in the states of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, but it is expected to be available in the rest of the country by the end of the year. The company is said not to be profiting from sales of the new launch, …
French retail giant Carrefour has announced plans to almost double the number of Carrefour Express stores it operates in Brazil, according to an article in Giro News. The retailer currently has 75 stores operating under the Carrefour Express banner in Brazil and plans to open 70 more in 2017, Carrefour CEO Georges Plassat is reported as saying. The move comes as hypermarket sales have fallen as a share of Carrefour’s overall …
Swiss based food giant Nestle has revealed that it is close to reach a deal with Cuba to form a new venture to build a factory in the country, according to a report in Fox Business. The new $50 to $60 million factory is set to produce coffee, biscuits and cooking products, employing around 300 people. “The idea is to create a new joint venture to produce and distribute these …
German household and personal care giant Henkel, has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire haircare firm Nattura Laboratorios and associated companies in the USA, Colombia and Spain. Headquartered in Guadalajara, Mexico, Nattura Laboratorios is primarily a manufacturer of professional haircare products, but is also active in the retail space through the styling brands Moco De Gorila, Funk and Punky Junky and shampoo and conditioner brand NatturaLabs Linea …
Food and soft drinks giant PepsiCo has reportedly opened negotiations to acquire Vigor, a Brazilian dairy company owned by J&F group. According to Valor, PepsiCo has made two proposals to acquire the dairy company but up to this moment there was no consensus on the value of the transaction. The last value offered was reportedly approximately R$6 billion ($1.91 billion), which is equivalent to one year of Vigor’s revenues. Industry …
Grupo Bimbo, one of the world’s leading bakery firms, has reached an agreement to acquire Panattiere, a frozen bakery firm based in Colombia. Established in 2015, Panattiere specializes in pre-baked and frozen baked products, including baguettes, ciabatta, puff pastry, croissant, soft bread, sandwich rolls and muffins. Daniel Servitje, Grupo Bimbo chairman and chief executive officer, said the acquisition of Panettiere would “enable us to participate in the in-store and food service …
Parmalat, the Italian dairy firm owned by the Lactalis group, has announced the acquisition, through its subsidiary La Vaquita Holding, of a number of Chilean companies specialised in the production of cheese. According to company press release, four cheese facilities were acquired for about € 100 million (£ 86 million), where the full amount was financed with the company’s own resources. With the new acquisition, Parmalat said to aimed to strengthen …
US multinational Procter & Gamble has recently announced the investment of R$150 million ($50 million) in an innovation centre in Campinas, Brazil. According to Meio & Mensagem, the centre will focus on research and development for Latin America in the segments of baby care, beauty, household and hygiene, women’s and oral products, with the goal of developing products, packaging and production processes that are more sustainable. Consumer research will also …
Multinational Dutch brewer Heineken has agreed to acquire Brasil Kirin, one of the largest beer and soft drinks producers in Brazil, in a €665 million ($702 million) deal. As a result of the acquisition, Heineken said it would extend its footprint in Brazil, increasing its brand portfolio and becoming the second largest beer company in the country. Commenting on the deal, Heineken chairman and CEO Jean-Francois Van Boxmeer said: “This transaction …
Food and drinks multinational Nestle has announced an investment of R$270 million ($86 million) in the opening of a new Nestle Purina plant to manufacture pet food in Brazil, reportedly the first to produce wet pet food in Latin America. According to a statement released by Nestle, the plant will be located in Ribeirao Preto in Sao Paulo and will produce wet food for cats and dogs under the Friskies, …
Dairy producers in the state of Sonora, Mexico have joined forces to launch a line of products under the brand name Ilis via an investment of M$132 million ($6.1 million). According to El Financiero, the investment is part of an effort to support milk producers in the state, backed by the UGRS (Regional Livestock Union of Sonora). Commenting on the move, UGRS president Héctor Platt Martínez said: “This is a …
Brazilian meat manufacturer Frimesa has announced an investment of R$800 million ($251 million) to develop Brazil’s largest plant for pork-based products. According to Giro News, the facility will be 141,000 sq m in size, constructed on a plot of 115 hectares, and located in the city of Assis Chateaubriand in Parana. The first phase is expected to be finished by 2018, with the whole complex set to be completed by 2025. …
Gavea Investimentos, a Brazilian investment fund, has received approval from regulatory authorities to take a 49.9% stake in fruit juice firm Natural One, according to a Reuters report quoting a dispatch from the Diario Oficial da Uniao. It had previously been reported that major global firms including Coca-Cola, Ambev and Britvic were vying to buy into the natural tea and juice producer. As a result of the transaction, Natural One founder …
Pharmaceutical and consumer products manufacturer Hypermarcas has announced the sale of its disposable hygiene products business that includes nappies for babies and sanitary products for adults. Ontex Group, an international manufacturer of personal hygiene products, has acquired the business for R$1 billion ($312 million), according to a report in Supermercado Moderno. The divested business includes nappy brands Pom Pom, Cremer and Sapeka, as well as the adult sanitary brand Bigfral, …
Global soft drinks giant Britvic has decided to acquire Brazilian juice company Bela Ischia for £54.5 million ($66.9 million) in order to expand its presence in Latin America. The deal is set to conclude at the latest by the end of March of this year. Bela Ischia produces and sells RTD juices, frozen fruit, liquid concentrates and powder concentrates. Its products are principally available in the regions of Rio de …
Diageo, the global spirits giant, is set to launch a new line of vodka and fruit juice drinks in Brazil under the name Smirnoff X1. The new drinks range – available in the varieties Strawberry & Lime, Triple Citrus and Brazilian Berry – is described as being the first vodka product in Brazil to be sold in a screw cap carton, and is said to have been developed with the ‘house …
SC Johnson, the US household and personal care firm, is to acquire insect repellent brand Exposis and assets under the Lysoform brand as it looks to strengthen its position in Brazil. Insect repellent brand Exposis is available exclusively over the counter in pharmacies throughout Brazil. It uses Picaridin as the active ingredient to repel mosquitoes and other insects. Meanwhile, certain assets under the Lysoform brand are also being acquired by SC …
Brazilian ice cream manufacturer Sorvetes Jundia has announced the opening of its first physical store, which is located in the city of Sao Paulo. The opening is described as being part of the celebrations for the company’s 40th anniversary in 2017. The concept store, on the corner of Alameda Lorena and Rua da Consolaçao, will list all of the ice cream flavours and products manufactured by the company, and will …
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 …
Brazilian company Grupo Petropolis, owner of the beer brand Itaipava, is among the firms to have declared an interest in acquiring the assets of alcoholic drinks firm Brasil Kirin, according to a report in Supermercado Moderno quoting O Estado de Sao Paulo. It is reported that Grupo Petropolis has organised visits to three of Brasil Kirin’s plants – Alagoinhas (Bahia), Itu (Sao Paulo) and Igrejinha (Rio Grande do Sul) – …
FMCG multinational Unilever is expanding further into laundry services with the launch of an online launderette platform in Brazil under its Omo detergent brand. Named Omo Express, the new service is promoted with the tagline “The best way to do your laundry? Don’t do it” and offers a “professional” online launderette service including pickup and delivery. Initially operating in the greater Sao Paulo area only, Omo Express offers packages including …
Minerva, one of the principle meat manufacturers in South America, has announced the acquisition of Frisa Frigorifico, a leading Brazilian beef products company. Frisa Frigorifico operates abattoirs in Colatina (ES), Nanuque (MG) and Teixeira de Freitas (BA), as well as a distribution centre in Niteroi (RJ). The purchase represents an investment in the order of R$205 million ($59 million) for Minerva, which is looking to consolidate its position in South …
Soft drink giants Coca-Cola, Ambev and Britvic have all showed preliminary interest in buying stakes in Brazilian juice producer Natural One, according to sources quoted in Reuters. Natural One, founded 10 years ago by Ricardo Ermírio de Moraes, has hired the investment banking unit of ABC Brasil to advise it on the transaction, sources said. In addition to the three FMCG firms, at least three investment companies, one of which …
Argentina confectionery firm Arcor’s Brazilian arm has announced the expansion of its line of filled panettone products with the launch of Churros and Brigadeiro Gourmet varieties. According to New Trade, the churros flavour panettone features a touch of cinnamon and a milk caramel filling and is recommended to be sprinkled with cinnamon and icing sugar. The brigadeiro (chocolate fudge) flavour features chocolate chips and a brigadeiro flavoured filling. “We’ve noticed …
Pipo, a Brazilian producer of gourmet popcorn products, is collaborating with traditional malt drink brand Ovomaltine to create a new special edition flavour, according to a report in Giro News. The new Pipo Ovomaltine Popcorn is being launched to celebrate 70 years of the Ovomaltine brand in Brazil, and is being sold in 500ml and 1l canisters, recalling the packaging used for the malt powder drink itself. Commenting on the …
The Brazilian division of General Mills is expanding its Yoki line of microwaveable popcorn in Brazil with a new line that includes the unusual flavours of hamburger and pizza, according to a report in Giro News. The new line features images from the Warner Bros’ film Justice League used under licence, and comes in a traditional Butter flavour in addition to Hamburger and Pizza. Launched in time for Dia Das …
Gruma, a Mexican manufacturer of corn flour, tortilla, flatbread and pizza base products, has opened a new plant in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. According to Gruma’s president and CEO Juan Moreno, the investment of $55 million represents a “solid step” towards “consolidating our global presence and strengthening our position as the world leader in the production of corn flour, tortillas and wraps”. The facility is reported to have an annual production …
Kellogg, the US-based cereal and snack firm, has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Ritmo Investimentos, the controlling shareholder of Brazilian company Parati Group, which manufactures biscuits, powdered beverage & pasta brands. According to the company, the acquisition is the company’s largest in Latin America to date and a step in the company’s strategy to become a global snacking powerhouse, expanding its presence in emerging markets. “With …
Multinational Danone has recently expanded its line of flavoured sparkling water in Argentina with the launch of two varieties under the brand We Lemon Ice. The diet drinks, said to contain 5% lemon juice, are marketed as “new We, new freshness” and are being promoted via space-themed adverts featuring a 70s rock song “Cum on feel the noize” performed by Quiet Riot. We Lemon Ice Bottled Water is available in …
Nestle has announced the opening of a new infant formula plant in Jalisco, Mexico at a cost of $245 million. Described as Nestlé’s largest investment in the child nutrition category worldwide in the last 10 years, the new plant, named Nantli, will have a footprint of 600,000 square metres and will triple the firm’s current capacity for manufacturing child nutrition products in Mexico, Nestle said. Nestle Nutrition global CEO Heiko Schipper said: “The opening of …
As part of its Nutrella Supreme branded line of nutritionally-enhanced breads, bakery giant Bimbo has unveiled a new sliced loaf named Cereals & Cacau in Brazil, according to an article in Giro News. Nutrella Supreme Wholegrain Bread with Cereals & Cacau is promoted as high in fibre and is said to combine sweet and savoury flavours. Sunflower seeds, oatflakes and oatmeal are listed among the ingredients alongside whole and fortified …
Puig, the fashion and fragrance giant, has bought a minority stake in the Brazilian toiletries firm Granado, according to reports in Reuters and Cosmetics Business. The Spanish firm, which is behind the Jean Paul Gaultier and Carolina Herrera brands, is to acquire a 35% stake in Grupo Granado for around R$500 milllion ($155 million), according to sources quoted by Reuters. Puig itself did not disclose the terms of deal. Granado is …
Coca-Cola FEMSA, the biggest Coca-Cola bottler in the world by volume, is set to acquire the Brazilian bottling firm Vonpar, according to an article in Correio do Povo. Under the terms of the deal, Coca-Cola FEMSA will reportedly acquire 100% of the shares in the firm, which is one of the largest private Coca-Cola bottlers in Brazil, through its subsidiary Spal Industria Brasileira de Bebidas. Vonpar is a family business …
Watt’s, the Chilean food firm, has announced that it is acquiring the Chile arm of dairy multinational Danone. The deal includes 100% of the shares in Danone Chile SA, as well as a production facility in the city of Chillan and the domestic milk and yoghurt brand Calan. The Chilean firm said it had also agreed the principles of a licensing agreement for the Danone, Danone Light and Activia brands …
Mexican dairy company Grupo Lala has announced the creation of a division in the US under the name Lala US, to be headquartered in Dallas, Texas. This decision, furthering the firm’s presence in the US market, comes after the $246 milliun acquisition of US-based Laguna Dairy in May. According to the source, the US arm will focus on the production of value-added products with a portfolio that includes brands such …
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 …
The Brazilian arm of FMCG giant Nestle has released new dual filtration technology for its Nescafe instant coffee that reportedly ensures that only the best flavours end up in each cup of coffee. According to an article in Revista Alimentos e Bebidas, the concept is unprecedented in Brazil and allows the consumer to experience a coffee that is less bitter and has a more intense flavour, since the double filtration removes …
US multinational Procter & Gamble has announced the closure of a plant in Anchieta, Brazil, ceasing production of Ariel powder detergent in the country. According to Revista Exame, the plant, which is located in the Sao Paulo region, employs around 175 staff, some of whom will be transferred to other company factories in Brazil. P&G will now focus on selling concentrated liquid detergent, a product which currently represents only 20% …
Brazilian food manufacturer J Macedo has announced an investment of R$30 million ($9.2 million) to launch new products and revamp the packaging of existing products under the Dona Benta brand through a partnership with celebrity chef Buddy Valastro. According to Meio & Mensagem, J Macedo will launch a Dona Benta Delicias (‘Delicacies’) line featuring the varieties of Chocolate, Chocolate with Hazelnuts, Black Forest Gateau and Brownie. Meanwhile the Dona Bento …
Piracanjuba, a Brazilian producer of drinks and dairy products, has announced the launch of a new dairy drink made with quinoa, chia and flax. Piracanjuba Quinoa and Flaxseed + Chia Drink is described as combining the various different nutrients present in quinoa, chia seeds and flaxseeds, such as fibre, protein, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. The new semi-skimmed drink is available in Mocaccino (coffee, chocolate and milk) and Chamomile varieties …
Coca-Cola Brasil, the Brazilian arm of the US-based soft drinks giant, has announced that it is entering the coffee market with the launch of the Cafe Leao brand in August. The coffee is described as being made with 100% Arabica beans, grown, roasted and packed in the country, and was developed with the aim of expanding consumer access to specialty coffees. Packs are labelled with slogans such as “exported from …
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 …
Grupo Lala, a Mexican dairy firm, has announced a partnership agreement with two companies in Costa Rica to start operations in the Central American country. The company will work with Costa Rican firms Coopeleche and Florida Bebidas for the manufacture of their brand and local brand Mu!, according to the company. “Coopeleche’s almost 40 years of experience and its extraordinary knowledge of the local milk production standards were vital in …
Pao de Acucar, Brazil’s leading supermarket chain and part of the French Casino group, has started selling a number of items in bulk with the reported aim of encouraging the reuse of packaging, according to an article in Giro News. Dubbed “Reusing #tobehappy’, the project will allow consumers to fill their own containers (pots, cans, cartons or any other suitable packaging) brought from home, or else to purchase resusable glass …
FMCG multinational Nestle has launched Nesfit Smoothie, a 100% plant-based drink made with whole grain rice and fruit juice, for the Brazilian market. The low-calorie beverage is described as a light and smooth drink containing whole grains that preserve the three parts of the grain (bran, endosperm and germ), alongside fruit juices such as passion fruit, blackberry and grape. Promoted as a source of fibre, calcium and vitamin D, it …
Food and drinks firm Idilia Foods is extending its established Cola Cao dairy-based powder drink with a new version sweetened with stevia, according to a report in Tecno Mercado Retail. Available in Chocolate, Strawberry and Vanilla options, Cola Cao with Stevia is said to contain “richer energy” and to be sugar-free , while still providing the same “exquisite and distinctive flavour” as the original product. The product is sold variously in …
Heineken, the Dutch beermaker, has announced that it will cease operations at its plant in Feira de Santana (Bahia), Brazil. According to Heineken Brazil, “the decision was taken based on viability studies and on the need to drive the company’s operations to the next level of excellence, while maintaining its financial sustainability”. The company said that the regions previously served by the Bahia unit would now be supplied by breweries in …
Danone Early Life Nutrition, the infant nutrition division of Danone Group and the producer of baby milk and dairy compound formulas, has announced the opening of a new factory in Pocos de Caldas, Minas Gerais. Danone said that the unit, which is the firm’s eighth in Brazil and the first in its category, would allow the company to operate more closely to Brazilian consumers “This inauguration is an important step …
Unilever has announced the sale of its AdeS soy beverage business in Latin America to Coca-Cola FEMSA and The Coca Cola Company for $575 million. Commenting on the deal, Unilever EVP Miguel Kozuszok said: “This sale is a step in reshaping our portfolio in Latin America to deliver sustainable growth for Unilever and enables us to sharpen our focus. AdeS is an iconic brand and we believe that its potential can be …
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’ …
Ambev, the Brazilian beer and soft drinks firm, has officially announced the acquisition of Brazilian juice brand Do Bem, according to reports in Giro News and Globo. The official confirmation puts to an end a number of months of speculation about a possible deal, although no figures have been disclosed and it is currently unclear whether the transaction involves the entirety of the Do Bem business or just a controlling …
Forno de Minas, the leader in the frozen pao de queijo segment in Brazil, has launched a new version of the Brazilian ‘cheese bread’ that targets health-conscious consumers. Unlike conventional pao de queijo, Forno De Minas Fit Pao De Queijo is described as wholegrain, multigrain, free of lactose and gluten, and a source of protein, fibre and calcium. Commenting on the launch, Forno de Minas president Helder Mendonça said: “We …
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 …
Jacobs Douwe Egberts (JDE), the ‘pure play’ coffee firm formed from the merger of DE Master Blenders and Mondelez International in 2014, has announced its intention to acquire the Brazilian coffee firm Cafe Seleto, according to reports in Giro News and Supermercado Moderno. The owner of the Cafe Pilao brand announced its plans on 15th April and said it expected the transaction to be completed in the first half of …
BRF, the Brazilian meat conglomerate, has announced that it has acquired the Argentinean firm Campo Austral, according to a report in Giro News. Campo Austral operates a chilled pork facility in San Andres de Giles, near Buenos Aires, processing the equivalent of 3,000 tonnes of fresh meat per month for both domestic and export markets. A second plant in the Parque Industrial Pilar produces a line of cold meats as …
Danone Uruguay, a division of the dairy and drinks multinational Danone, has announced the launch of a new line of yoghurts that uses an unusual pack device to target on the go consumption. According to Montevideo Portal, the new Ser Click range is exclusively Uruguayan and has been designed to fit “dynamic and modern lifestyles”. The yoghurt cups feature a lid that is opened by lifting a device similar to …
Pandurata Alimentos, the Brazilian bakery firm, has announced an investment totalling $66 million to increase production of cakes and biscuits, as well as on the construction of a new distribution centre. The firm, which owns the Bauducco, Visconti and Tommy brands, is set to make the invesmtent over the next two years. The stated goal is to expand production capacity of rusks and cakes at its Extrema plant in Minas …
US-based multinational Procter & Gamble has announced the investment of $50 million in production facilities and other projects in Argentina from 2016 to 2017. In a statement, the firm said that the investment included the expansion of existing local operational capacity, as well as incorporating the latest technology into its Pampers line of nappies. Additional funds are earmarked for the Pantene brand in haircare, as well as razors through Gillette …
Uruguayan firm Plucky, a producer of confectionery, snack and ice cream products and part of the multinational Bimbo group, is to open a new plant to manufacture products with significant export potential, according to a report in El Pais. Among the products set to be manufactured at the new plant are cereal bars, sandwich cookies, nougat, alfajores, Easter eggs and coated products such as chocolate coated peanuts, in addition to …
BRF, the leading Brazilian meat processing firm, has announced the acquisition of K&S Alimentos, the firm formerly responsible for the production and distribution of Philadelphia branded products in Brazil. In an official statement released on 18th March, BRF explained that the new deal would effectively bring to an end the previous arrangement for the production and distribution of the Philadelphia brand in Brazil: K& S having been a joint venture …
Jeronimo Martins, the Portuguese supermarket group, has announced the investment of €500 million ($560 million) in Colombia, where it expects to open 1,000 stores by 2020. According to a report in Economico, Jeronimo Martins chairman Pedro Soares dos Santos, speaking at a gathering of journalists, said as a “source of innovation”, Colombia was crucial to the group since the demographic was younger than in the country than in the firm’s …
Arcor, the Argentina-based confectionery company, has announced the expansion of its butter toffees candy range with the release of Arcor Grego (‘Greek’), a new line based on greek yoghurt. Claimed to combine the unique flavour of butter toffees with the creaminess of greek yoghurt, Arcor Grego has been launched in the flavours Greek Yoghurt and Greek Yoghurt With Red Fruit, the latter featuring exclusive ‘double colour / double flavour’ technology, …
Gama Innovation Award – Product MANCHESTER – 22nd March 2016: The Gama Innovation Award – Product for March goes to a launch that gives in-vogue greek yoghurt a new savoury spin – Vigor Savoury Greek Yoghurt with Croutons. Purportedly addressing the lack of “snacks with health appeal on the market”, Vigor Savoury Greek Yoghurt with Croutons is a new offering in Brazil from dairy firm Vigor oriented around the tastes of …
Dutch brewer Heineken has announced plans to invest R$1 billion ($275 million) in Brazil through the expansion of two plants and the opening of a wholly new one by the end of 2017. According to a report in Supermercado Moderno, the company plans to expand its plants in Ponta Grossa (Parana) and Jacarei (Sao Paulo), in addition to the development of a new plant in Goias (Itumbiara). Despite a slowdown …
The Brazilian coffee company 3Coracoes is set to acquire its smaller rival Cia Iguacu, which is part of the Japanese group Marubeni, according to a report in New Trade. 3Coracoes said the acqusition, which is subject to approval from competition authorities, would reinforce its market leading position in coffee products in Brazil, in particular strengthening its position in the “competitive” instant coffee category, where it said ti would now become …
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 …
In the latest of a series of divestments, leading FMCG multinational Procter & Gamble has announced the sale of its Hipoglos brand in Brazil to health & beauty firm Johnson & Johnson for an undisclosed sum. Hipoglos nappy cream has been present for over 70 years in Brazil and sells in a tube format of various sizes in regular and almond varieties. The brand was purchased by Procter & Gamble …
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, …
US-based multinational Procter & Gamble (P&G) has announced plans to sell soap brand Escudo to rival Kimberley-Clark for an “undisclosed amount”. Launched more than 50 years ago, Escudo is the leading local antibacterial soap brand in Mexico. The brand’s product line includes bar soap, hand soap, odour-protection soap and more recent introductions such as a range of foaming hand soap. The sale of Escudo forms part of a programme of …
Swiss FMCG giant Nestle is to invest about R$400 million ($101 million) to expand production capacity in Brazil over the course of 2016, Supermercado Moderno reports. According to the news agency, the plan is to increase capacity by introducing new production lines, allowing some items that were previously imported to be manufacturer locally. Among the areas slated for investment are pet food and coffee, especially to meet expected growth in …
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 …
Santa Cruz, a subsidiary of UK-based cigarette manufacturer British American Tobacco, has announced the closure of production facilities at its Cachoeirinha location in Porto Alegre, Brazil. According to Correio do Povo, the move will see the factory itself closed down, although the research and development facility at the site will remain in operation. In a statement, Souza Cruz blamed the measure both on the impact of counterfeit goods in the …
Integralmedica, a supplement product company, is launching a new hazelnut-based spread in Brazil that is claimed to contain enhanced levels of protein. Part of the company’s Body Size product line, the new launch – branded Nutwhey – is claimed to be an innovative combination of hazelnut, cocoa and whey protein. Amongst its benefits, the product is said to be a source of energy, to provide strength and to help increase …
Alcoholic and soft drinks producer Ambev has opened a new production facility in Uberlandia, Brazil. according to a report in Supermercado Moderno. The plant is Ambev’s 27th in Brazil and was constructed at a cost of R$770 million ($179 million). According to Supermercado Moderno, the new plant will employ 480 staff and has a production capacity of 600 million litres per year. The facility will produce beer and soft drinks …
Pharmaceutical and consumer products manufacturer Hypermarcas has announced the sale of its condoms division to the British household and personal care group Reckitt Benckiser for R$675 million ($173 million), according to a Reuters report. Hypermarcas’ condoms division is comprised by the brands Jontex, Olla and Lovetex which together in 2014 represented 2% of the company’s total net revenue. The brands will join Reckitt Benckiser’s existing portfolio that includes the condom …
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 …
Alcoholic drinks manufacturer Constellation Brands has announced that it is investing in a new 10 million hectolitre brewery in Mexico in addition to an expansion of its Nava brewery business. The new brewery will be built in Mexicali, Mexico with the intention of being close to the US state of California, the company’s largest beer market. The facility is expected to scale production capacity to 20 million hectolitres in the …
American multinational General Mills has announced that it has acquired Brazilian dairy manufacturer Carolina for an undisclosed sum. Carolina operates in southern and south-eastern Brazil and is known for the regional brands Carolina, VeryGurt and Gluck. It started producing yoghurt in 1995 under the Gluck brand and now markets more than 20 lines of dairy products. The acquisition of Carolina marks the entry of General Mills, which owns the Yoplait …
Nestle’s first Nescafe Dolce Gusto factory outside Europe is set to begin operation with the inauguration of a new coffee capsule facility in Montes Clares, Brazil. Nestle said the investment was in response to demand for the brand´s coffee pods in Latin America, especially in Brazil where Dolce Gusto has been the market leader since its introduction in 2009. The facility, which cost 2 million CHF ($2 million), will produce …
Coca-Cola is entering the dairy sector in Brazil with the acquisition of Verde Campo, a producer of yoghurts, cheese and drinks based in the state of Minas Gerais. According to a report in Veja Abril, Coca Cola will be acquiring Verde Campo through Leao Alimentos, a partner of Coca-Cola and its bottlers in Brazil. Verde Campo is said to have significant operations in Rio De Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Belo …
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, …
Confectionery and bakery firm Arcor, through its subsidiary Bagley Argentina, has invested $60 million for a 25% stake in Mastellone Hermanos, the firm behind dairy company La Serenisima. La Serenisima branded products include milk, butter, caramel, yoghurt and yoghurt drinks and cheese. According to an article in La Voz, the transaction will enable Mastellone to invest in its production facilities in General Rodriguez, Trenque Lauquen and Villa Mercedes, and also …
Conaprole, the Uruguayan manufacturer of dairy products, spreads and desserts, has announced a new addition to its product range that combines dairy, cereal and superfood grains. Conaprole Vital + Bio Transit Yoghurt with Granola & Chia is described as having been developed in response to consumer demand for healthier products. According to a Portal Montevideo reports, a plain flavoured yoghurt said to help regulate intestinal transit has joined forces with …
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 …
Supermarket chain Dia has announced a new marketing initiative in Brazil – launched with the hashtag #pfdodia – based around the concept of ‘food trucks’. Food trucks – vehicles fitted out to produce and sell street food – have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially within major cities in North America. Dia’s new ‘food truck’ campaign will see the company offer freshly prepared food made from its own brand …
AmBev, Latin America’s largest brewer, has announced the closure of its plant in Natal, blaming a rise in VAT rates on drinks, according to reports in Estadao and Exame. “The decision was made after an analysis of the consequences that the increase in the Tax on Goods and Provision of Services (ICMS) on cold drinks, announced on the 30th October, will bring to the company in the state”, explained the …
Global spirits firm Diageo has announced that it has agreed the sale of its wine interests in Argentina to Grupo Penaflor. The sale includes the Navarro Correas and San Telmo wine brands, together with production sites and vineyards. Grupo Penaflor is the largest wine producer in Argentina and one of the 10 largest globally, with a brand portolio that includes Finca Las Moras and Trapiche. In addition to the purchase, Diageo said Penaflor …
US firm Mars has announced that it is making an investment of R$1 billion ($250 million) in Brazil by 2020, according to a report in O Globo. The announcement was made following a meeting between the company and representatives of the state of Sao Paulo. Sao Paulo will ultimately be the main focus of the company’s spend, with a total of R$750 million ($190 million) to be invested in the …
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 …
Global food firm Mars has announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire Mexican chocolate manufacturer Grupo Turin. A family business operating since 1928, Grupo Turin is the owner of well known brands such as Conejos and Turin. The agreement will provide more opportunities of growth for Turin’s team and brands, whilst remaining a family business, Mars added. Jean-Christophe Flatin, global president of Mars said: “When this transaction is completed, …
Brazilian drinks firm Ebba has introduced what it claims to be the first fruit nectar containing real fruit pieces available in South America. Maguary Nectar With Pieces is being made available in supermarkets across Brazil in a choice of four varieties: Peach, Pineapple, Apple and Mango. Commenting on the launch, Ebba commercial director Fábio Levalessi said: “With the new ‘Maguary Pedacos product range, consumers will have a totally new drinking …
Brazilian dairy firm Vigor is investing R$150 million ($40 million) to establish the company’s first plant in the state of Rio de Janeiro, according to reports in Sistema FAEMG and O Globo. The facility, in Barra do Pirai, Sul Fluminense, will employ 350 staff when operating at full capacity. Vigor, whose major shareholder is J&F Investment, owner of JBS, began planning to enter Rio about three years ago when it …
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 …
BRF, one of the world’s seven largest food companies, has announced that it has started the process of acquiring the meat and margarine brands Vienissima, GoodMark, Manty and Delicia from leading Argentinian firm Molinos Rio de la Plata. The deal aims to “develop the businesses, consolidate production capacity and amplify [BRF’s] portfolio of brands and products”, the company said in a statement. BRF has invested more than $300 million in …
The Xtreme brand of hair gel has been acquired by the German personal and household care firm Henkel, according to a report in Revista Neo. The brand was previosly owned by Wet Line, a Mexican manufacturer of perfume, cosmetics and toiletries. The transaction includes the brand along with products formulas and packaging. “We are making efforts to position ourselves as a leader in the styling segment globally, as hair products …
Colombina, the Colombian food multinational, has announced the acquisition of Spanish confectionery firm Fiesta for €16.88 million ($19.27 million). Established for over 50 years, Fiesta produces sweets and other confectionery products under brands such as Kojak, Piruleta, Fresquito and Lolipop. It operates a production facility in Alcala de Henares which employs around 124 staff. Through the acquisition of a leading firm with an excellent distribution network, Colombina will be able to …
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 17th September 2015: Gama’s latest Innovation Insight offers a window into the potential future evolution of the Greek yoghurt trend. This week we take a look at a product launch that looks to redefine the ‘yoghurt + granola topping’ concept by giving it a new savoury spin – Vigor Savoury Greek Yoghurt with Croutons. Purportedly addressing the lack of “snacks with …
The Coca-Cola bottlers Arca Continental of Mexico and Corporacion Lindley of Peru have announced an alliance that will create one of the world’s largest Coca-Cola bottling firms. The new entity will have revenues of approximately $5.4 billion and EBITDA of $1.1 billion. Currently, Mexican firm FEMSA is the largest private Coca-Cola bottler with revenues of nearly $10 billion in 2014. Manuel L Barragan Morales, chairman of the board of directors …
Mexican bakery firm Bimbo is looking to strengthen its operations in Latin America after announcing a new investment of $54 million in Argentina, according to a report in Revista Info Retail. The company said the investment would be used to build a new factory and a distribution centre, both of which are to be located in the town of Malvinas Argentinas, in the province of Cordoba. The company will also …
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 …
Carozzi, the Chile-based food, non-alcoholic drinks and pet care multinational, has announced the acquisition of 100% of the shares in Alimentos Pancho Villa, a company in the flour and corn tortilla segments that manufactures wraps, burritos, corn chips, sauces and seasonings. The transaction is said to have closed at 7,643,000 CLP ($11.1 million), corresponding to a total of 19,999 shares. According to a company announcement, the purchase “will enable Carozzi …
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. …
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 …
Hershey Brasil, the Brazilian arm of the US confectionery company, and Bauducco, a Brazilian firm manufacturing biscuits, panettones and other bakery products, are to cease their joint venture in Brazil, according to a report in Globo. Having been given the green light by the Brazilian competition authority CADE, the Bauducco group company Pandurata will sell 49% of its shares in Hershey Brasil to Hershey Netherlands, another Hershey subsidiary. The joint …
After a negotiation that is said to have lasted nearly 9 months, Brazilian bakery firm Wickbold has acquired rival Seven Boys for an undisclosed sum. With revenue of approximately R$200 million ($57 million), Seven Boys is said to be the fourth-largest bakery firm in Brazil, operating plants in Porto Alegre (Rio Grande do Sul) and Belo Horizonte (Minas Gerais) as well as owning nine distribution companies that enable the company …
Femsa, the Mexican FMCG and retail conglomerate, is preparing to move into Chile, according to a report in America Retail. The company, which is also the world’s largest Coca-Cola bottler, is said to be looking to install its Oxxo retail chain in the country and also to be exploring a partnership with Andina, Chile’s main bottler of Coca-Cola. Currently Femsa has 64 bottling plants in the Philippines and Latin America …
Unilever is investing R$600 million ($172 million) in a new plant and a distribution centre in Pernambuco, Brazil, according to a report in Diario de Pernambuco. The investment is said to be largest amount invested by the group in a new manufacturing complex in Brazil this year. Building work is reportedly scheduled to start next month and is estimated to be finished by the end of 2017. According to sources, …
Grupo Exito, the leading Colombian supermarket that also has a presence in Uruguay, has announced the acquisition of the Argentinean chain of hypermarkets Libertad. In the same transaction, the group also acquired 50% of the voting shares of the Brazilian chain GPA (Grupo Pao de Acucar), equivalent to 18.8% of total capital of the firm. The value of the transaction is said to be in the order of $ 1.826 …
Mexico-based bakery firm Grupo Bimbo has announced the acquisition of Italian Home Bakery, the company’s third Canadian acquisition in just over a year. In a conference call, the company’s CEO Daniel Servitje said that the deal had been finalised but did not disclose the amount of the transaction. Toronto-based Italian Home Bakery produces fresh European-style breads and rolls and frozen bread products and its products are sold in foodservice chains …
Brasil Kirin, the Brazilian subsidiary of Kirin Holdings Company, has announced plans to extend its production line in Igarassu, in Pernambuco state, Brazil. The expansion works are reportedly already underway and will be divided into six stages, with an initial investment of R$400 million ($124 million). They are estimated to be completed within the next five years. The expansion covers an area of 38,000 sq m throughout the plant, which …
Ambev, Brazil’s largest alcoholic drinks company, has announced the acquisition of the craft brewer Colorado for an undisclosed sum. Based in Ribeirao Preto in the state of Sao Paulo, Colorado is described as having an annual turnover of R$18 million ($6 million) and yearly production of 120,000 litres. The move is reportedly part of AmBev’s strategy of buying premium brands amid stagnant sales volumes in South America’s biggest beer market. …
British American Tobacco (BAT) has announced the closing of its operations in Chile due to changes in tobacco regulations in the country, according to a report in ABC News. The move is said to be in response to new restrictions and requirements on cigarette companies in the country, including the banning of additives such as menthol and larger warning messages on packaging. The company commented on its decision by saying: …
Bimbo Group has announced that it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Panrico, the Spain-based bakery business, for €190 million ($209 million). The acquisition includes brands such as Donuts, Donettes, Bollycao, La Bella Easo, Eidetesa and Qe!, but excludes the packaged bread business, the company said. Panrico had annual sales of approximately €280 million ($308 million) in 2014 and is one of the leading bakery producers in Spain and …
Grupo Pao de Acucar, the leading Brazilian supermarket chain, has opened a new branch of its Minuto Pao de Acucar convenience stores that is scheduled to be open for only one month during the wintertime. Located in in the Market Plaza shopping centre in Campos do Jordao, Sao Paulo, the store opened on the 3rd July and is due to close again on the 2nd August. The aim of the …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 9th July 2015: Gama turns its attention to the household care industry for its latest analysis of product launches reported by Gama Compass™, focusing on innovation patterns in the air care, laundry & fabric care and cleaners & detergents markets. According to Gama’s analysis, leading the way from a fragrance perspective in new household care launches was lavender, appearing almost twice as frequently as …
Bauducco, the Brazilian producer of biscuits, crispbreads, panettones and other bakery products has announced plans to build its first factory outside of Brazil to support growth in its export markets. The new factory is scheduled to be completed in 2016 and will be located in Miami, USA. Bauducco, which is part of the Pandurata Alimentos group, exports products to 80 countries and, according to the company, the new plant is …
Coca-Cola Femsa, the world’s largest Coca-Cola bottler, is looking to enter the Brazilian dairy market through inorganic means, according to a report in Supermercado Moderno. The company is reportedly investigating the possibility of acquiring a Brazilian dairy producer, allowing it to replicate investments already made in Mexico and Panama. Speaking at the inauguration of the company’s newest plant in Minas Gerais, the president of Coca-Cola Femsa Brasil, Jose Ramon Martinez, …
Brazilian meat firm JBS is set to acquire Moy Park, the British unit of Marfrig Global Foods, for $1.5 billion, according to a report in Business Insider quoting AFP. The purchase is said to further JBS’s plans to expand its presence in the European processed foods market. JBS will pay $1.19 billion in cash as well as assuming Moy Park’s debt of £200 million ($318 million), according to reports. Moy …
PepsiCo in Argentina has announced its first commercial developed in collaboration with fans of the drinking chocolate brand Toddy, inspired by contributions on the company’s social media accounts. As part of a campaign labelled “we know about making chocolate, not adverts”, the initiative took place at 6pm local time on the 12th June. Consumers participated by posting ideas on the brand’s social networking sites, with the most promising ideas then …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 11th June 2015: The key characteristics of new ice cream & dessert products are the subject of Gama’s latest analysis of recent launches from Gama Compass™, examining in particular how private label launches compare to the market as a whole in terms of category breakdown, price and brand positioning. Encompassing launches reported over approximately the last 12 month period, Gama’s research shows that dairy-based …
Coca-Cola Femsa has opened the doors to its latest facility in Brazil, located in Itabirito, in the state of Minas Gerais. The result of an investment of US $258 million, the new plant is reported to have been constructed over an area of approximately 65,000 square metres, on a site of around 300,000 square metres. The factory is described as having an annual production capacity of 2.1 billion litres of …
Marfrig, Brazil’s third largest food processing company, has announced a net loss of R$ 570.9 million ($188 million) for the first quarter of 2015. Describing the start to the year as “challenging”, the company said that its bottom line had been especially affected by currency fluctuations, although the exchange rate is said to also have helped boost Marfrig’s revenue. The company pointed to difficulties in the bovine division, mainly in …
Insight by Gama Compass™ MANCHESTER – 13th May 2015: The reality of steadily climbing obesity rates across the world has become a hot political topic and, with the threat of increasingly stringent regulation of high-calorie, high-fat and high-sugar food and drinks ever present, the potential impact of rising obesity levels on FMCG categories is now impossible for the industry to ignore. In the latest study of recent product launches reported …
Arca Continental, Coca-Cola’s second largest bottler and the largest in Latin America, has announced an investment for 2015 of Ps. $5.200 million ($341 million), mainly to strengthen market and sale operations in Mexico and also to establish new production facilities in South America. In addition to automating a plant in Mexico, the company plans the construction of new plants for Coca-Cola and Tonicorp in Ecuador and a new bottling plant …
Danone has launched its latest yoghurt product – Ser Joyful – in an attempt to boost growth in the fat-free yoghurt sector in Argentina, according to a report in Adlatina. The new yoghut is described as featuring fruit pieces and twice as much protein as a regular yoghurt, as well as containing fewer than 99 calories. The launch is hoped to drive 10% medium-term growth for the health-oriented Ser brand, …
French retail giant Carrefour has announced its plans to invest in Brazil in 2015 with the remodelling of its larger hypermarkets and the expansion of its chain of local stores in Sao Paulo. During a press briefing, Group CEO Charles Desmartis announced that 20 stores would be remodelled over the course of the year, with a further 40 to follow by 2016. Among the stated improvements will be a ‘cleaner’ …
Modelo Group, a leader in the manufacture, distribution and sale of beer in Mexico, has announced the launch of a new online platform focused on speciality beer. Named Beerhouse and available at www.beerhouse.mx, the new portal offers a wide variety of domestic, craft and imported beer, including brands that are not yet available in the country, according to Modelo. In addition, consumers can use the platform to learn about the …
Heineken has announced that it is investing M$7.5 billion ($480 million) to build a new brewery in Mexico. Located in the city of Meoqui in Chihuahua, the new facility is designed to meet demand in the US and Mexican market. Since entering Mexico, Heineken has become one of the country’s two main beer producers, selling well-known Mexican brands such as Tecate, Indio Sol and Dos Equis. The new brewery will …
Bacardi has signed an agreement with leading spirits producer Beam Suntory to distribute the latter’s range of products in Brazil. The agreement includes Teacher’s, the top selling Scotch whisky brand in Brazil, and the bourbon brands Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam. The partnership aims at expanding Beam Suntory’s geographical reach and strengthening its long-term commitment to Brazil, the company said in a statement. Stan Auber, CEO of Suntory Liquors Brazil, …
Gloria Group, Peru’s leading player in milk and dairy products, has announced the closing of its subsidiary Ecolat Uruguay S.A. The Uruguayan company, which was acquired by the Peruvian conglomerate in 2012, was the second biggest exporter of dairy products in the country and employed 400 people. According to reports, the viability of the plant had been affected by the adverse financial climate, with the price of milk powder decreasing …
Helados Conaprole has added a new limited edition Splash De Frescura (‘Fresh Splash’) variety to its ice cream range for the summer season in Uruguay. Described as a “refreshing strawberry and mango sorbet made with natural fruit puree”, Splash De Frescura is said to feature a texture and flavour that allow for new ways of eating ice cream. As part of the launch activity, the company demonstrated various ways the …
British American Tobacco (BAT) has revealed that it is considering buying out the minority of its Brazilian unit, Souza Cruz SA, thus allowing it to take full control of the largest tobacco company in Brazil, according to a report in Bloomberg. BAT said that it was evaluating a possible public tender offer to acquire up to all of the 24.7% of Souza Cruz shares which are not currently owned by …
San Rafael has introduced a product which is described as the first sausage made with turkey breast on the Mexican market. Promoted as a healthy part of a main meal, each sausage contains 7.7 grams of protein and 101 calories. Packs contains eight sausages in two separate portions to maintain freshness. Commenting on the launch, Antonio Romero, San Rafael brand manager said: “The new San Rafael Turkey Breast Sausage is …
Coca-Cola Brazil is to invest R$ 2.7 billion ($0.95 billion) in new production and distribution capacity over the course of 2015, according to a report in Supermercado Moderno. The sum, part of a planned investment of R$ 4.1 billion for the period 2012-2016, will be used to open five new production lines and two distribution centres, according to reports. Compared to the previous year, Coca Cola said the budget for …
Muffato, a supermarket chain based in the state of Parana in the south of Brazil, has announced plans to extend its presence with the opening of three new stores over the course of 2015. The expansion, the result of an investment of around R$ 100 million ($36 million) involves the opening of two supermarket outlets as well as a wholesale store. The largest of the new stores, receiving an investment …
Pernord Ricard has announced that it has signed an agreement to sell the Mexican FAB brand Mexican Caribe Cooler to Grupo Bepensa. The company said the sale was in line with the strategy of focusing on its wine and spirits business. The deal will include the bottling line related to the production of Caribe Cooler together with the relevant inventories. Philippe Dreano, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Pernod Ricard …
Grupo Modelo is to build a new plant in Yucatan, Mexico to expand its beer production, according to an article in El Economista. The 2,200 million peso ($151.7 million) investment is designed to increase Modelo’s production capablitiies. The facility will have an initial capacity of 5 million hectolitres per year, but this is expected to increase in future years to 15 million hectolitres. The new opening reflects the company’s need …
Mexico’s Grupo Bimbo has made another step towards strengthening its position in Canada, reaching an agreement to acquire, through its subsidiary Canada Bread Company Ltd, the total shares outstanding of Saputo Bakery Inc., a subsidiary of Saputo Inc. Canada Bread joined the Grupo Bimbo business last February having been acquired from Maple Leaf Foods for C$1.83 billion (about US$1,655 million) as part of the company’s strategy to enter the Canadian …
The Argentinian brewery Quilmes has opened the doors to the Quilmes Hostel, promoting its beer brand by means of a venture into the hospitality sector. Sited in Mar del Plata, a famous tourist destination on the Atlantic coast, the hostel is primarily geared towards young people looking for somewhere that offers “opportunities for new encounters at every moment they are there”, according to a report in Dossier Net. Designed as …
Exclusively online and for the Brazilian market, PepsiCo is launching its new fruit-flavoured water brand Drinkfinity. Described by the company as a “personal and portable hydration system”, the new product system is composed of a reusable plastic bottle dubbed “Vessel” that is designed to be used in conjunction with Pods – small capsules containing a blend of flavouring and nutrients in liquid or powder form which are inserted into the …
Brazil, the world’s largest coffee producer in the world by volume, will be the site of a new production facility for Nescafe Dolce Gusto coffee capsules, Nestle’s first such plant outside Europe. The new facility is the result of a CHF 72 million ($73 million) investment and is intended to supply Brazil and other Latin American countries where demand for coffee products is rising. Nescafe Dolce Gusto is the most …
Impulse ice-cream specalist Diletto and bakery company Bauducco have united to create a new single serve ice cream for the festive period. Launched in Brazil at the beginning of December, Diletto Classic Pannetone Ice Cream is described as featuring the traditional flavours of classic panettone combined with Bauducco glace fruits, and is said to contain only 88 calories. “The Classic Panettone ice cream from Casa Bauducco has a delicious hand-crafted …
Cooca processor Barry Callebaut has inaugurated a new chocolate factory in Paine, Chile as the company looks to strengthen its presence in Latin America. Located not far from the capital Santiago de Chile, the facility will produce liquid chocolate and compound for food manufacturers and confectionery companies to serve demand in the fast-growing Chilean chocolate market and to tap into new opportunities in the Andean region as a whole. Juergen …
Mondelez International has announced plans to refresh its Pepitos! Biscuits brand in Uruguay with new product launches and new pack designs. The brand update will see the launch of Pepitos! White, chocolate flavour cookies containing ‘pearls’ of white chocolate which will be available in packs of 118 and 354 grams. Meanwhile a further product launch is that of Mini Pepitos!, a smaller version of the traditional Pepitos! cookies available in …
Coca Cola, through its Frescolita brand of cream soda, has expanded its social media presence in Venezuela through the launch of a digital platform related to traditional Venezuelan food. According to Confirmado, the new platform, which is called “El Radar del Sabor” (“The Flavour Radar”) will help users find, recommend, rate and share the best places to eat traditional foods, as well as allowing also them to share recipes and …
Danone has expanded its product portfolio in Latin America with the launch of a new flavoured water called We by Ser. The product is being launched in four varieties – lemonwe (lemon), pomelwe (grapefruit), citruswe (citrus) and naranwe (orange) – and is described as being naturally flavoured, sugar free and with “the ideal amount” of carbonation. The line is being promoted with the slogan “our meal habits have changed, and …
Finnish food products company Raisio has announced that it is launching its Benecol brand, associated with cholesterol lowering benefits, in Brazil. Working in partnership with Shefa, a local dairy producer, Raisio has unveiled a UHT milk under the name Shefa Benecol Lacteo. The new partnership supports Raisio’s target of expanding its business into other markets, according to a company statement. Shefa is a major Brazilian producer of dairy products and …
The Colombian alcoholic drinks market is set for the debut of Central Cervecera de Colombia, a new joint venture aimed at tapping demand for beers and malted drinks in the country. According to a statement sent on Monday to the Chilean Securities and Insurance Regulator, Chile’s Compania de las Cervecerias Unidas (CCU) and Postbon SA, Colombia’s largest soft drinks maker, will participate 50-50 in the business with an initial investment of $400 million …
The uncertainty over the future of the Chiquita business appears one step closer to being resolved as the company announced that it had signed a definitive merger agreement with Cutrale Group and Safra Group. In August, Chiquita announced that it had received an unsolicited offer from the two Brazilian companies – the former one of the world’s largest orange-juice suppliers and the latter an investment firm – having previously agreed …
Gama spoke to Carlos Mateo, Chief Executive Officer, Sweetwell. What are your day-to-day activities as General Manager? I organize my work, and that of our key managers, around two key priorities: furthering projects that are of strategic importance to the company, and carrying out essential daily tasks. What key trends do you expect to shape food and drink innovation in 2014? Growth in healthy food that is indulgent, driven …
The low cost Spanish perfumery chain Equivalenza has announced that has secured an in-store agreement to open 80 stores in Chile in Walmart’s commercial centres, America Economia reports. While some of the stores will be located in Walmart shopping centres, Espacio Urbano, many will be located in Lider hypermarkets and Lider Express stores. According to the perfumery company’s strategy, the first 60 stores will be opened within 3 years. The …
Patron Spirits has announced the launch of a “fiery-hot” chilli chocolate liqueur called XO Cafe Incendio to its portfolio of ultra-premium luxury spirits. The new product is described as combining the taste of Patron Silver tequila with fiery-hot Arbol chilli, said to be characterized by its smoky and spicy complex flavour, and Sweet Criollo Chocolate, produced in Mexico’s Tabasco region. “Patrón XO Cafe coffee liqueur has always been one of …
Gama spoke to Cristiana Arcangeli, Chief Executive Officer, Beauty’in. What are your day-to-day activities as Chief Executive Officer? I am involved in all processes, but am more focused in product development, marketing and sales. I also do research into new ingredients, packaging, and marketing strategy. What key trends do you expect to shape food and drink innovation in 2014? Functional products is a growing market. That’s why this year …
Carrefour Express, the convenience store brand operated by the Carrefour Group, has arrived in Brazil with the opening of its first store in Sao Paulo. Located in the Tatuape area of the city, the store is 250 square metres in size and is designed to meet the growing need for stores nearer to homes and places of business where consumers can make small but frequent purchases, the company said. According …
Heineken, the world’s third-largest brewer, has signed an agreement to sell Empaque, its packaging arm, to the American food packaging company Crown for $1.225 billion. As part of the deal, which is awaiting approval from the relevant authorities, Empaque will continue to be the packaging supplier for Heineken through a long-term contract. Reuters reports that Empaque – acquired by Heineken in 2010 – last year generated revenue of $660 million …
L’Oreal, the world’s largest cosmetics firm, has announced the signing of an agreement to acquire Niely Cosmeticos, Brazil’s largest independent hair coloration and hair care company. The value of the deal has not been disclosed. Niely Cosmeticos has two main brands – Cor & Ton for hair coloration and Niely Gold for shampoos and care – and is sold at accessible prices, enjoying a large penetration among the country’s middle …
Dairy firm Parmalat, a subsidiary of dairy giant Lactalis, is to acquire the dairy units of Brazilian food company BRF for $805 million. The deal will seee Lactalis Group will became the second largest dairy company in Brazil. “Lactalis intends to use the Parmalat brand in Brazil, as it does in other emerging markets”, said Samuel Oliveira, a director at Indusval & Partners bank which represented Lactalis in the deal. …
Nestle Mexico has announced its intention to reduce the quantity of salt and sugar in its Gerber baby food, Enfasis Alimentacion reports. The move is part of the campaign “United by Healthy Children” designed to emphasize the company’s commitment to healthy eating . The measure will affect around 100 baby food items in the coming months. According to Mario Vega, Nestle Mexico’s vice president of communications, the Gerber line will …
Swiss chocolate producer Barry Callebaut is planning to expand its presence in Latin America with the opening of a new factory in Chile, its seventh factory in the region. The new factory will produce liquid chocolate and compounds for a variety of regional food manufacturers and confectionery companies located in Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay and Peru, the company said. The company already owns two cocoa factories and a chocolate factory …
La Costena Group, a privately held global leader in a wide range of packaged foods categories, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Faribault Foods, a privately held manufacturer of canned beans and vegetables based in Minneapolis. According to the agreement, Faribault Foods will be combined with La Costena’s US affiliate Arizona Canning and the combined companies will operate as Faribault Foods and be headquartered in Minneapolis. As …
Brazilian food giant JBS has announced that it is to acquire the business of poultry of Tyson Foods in Mexico and Brazil for $575 million. The announcement of the acquisition comes a month after Tyson and JBS battled for control of the American company Hillshire Brands, with the latter finally winning out. JBS said that the Mexican business – Tyson de Mexico – would be acquired for $400 million through …
Juan Valdez, the Colombian coffee shop chain backed by the the Colombian Coffee Federation, has opened its first outlet in Florida as it looks to take on Starbucks in the latter’s home market. Procaferol SA, the company which manages the Juan Valdez brand, has plans to open 60 new coffee shops in Florida over the next five years. The first has opened in the centre of Miami with a further …
The Coca Cola Company plans to invest $8.2 billion over the next 6 years in Mexico, Food Business News reports. This combined with previous amounts will add up to a total of over $12.4 billion worth of investments during a 10 year period (2010-2020), the company said. The new investment will be allocated to increased infrastructure and production capacity, new jobs, and developing a product range which includes 70 brands …
The American coffee company Starbucks has announced that it is opening its first coffee shop in Colombia. The opening, in the capital Bogota, makes Colombia the 62nd country where Starbucks operates. The outlet is be the first of 50 stores that the American company is planning to open until 2018 in Colombia, America Economia reports. Howard Schultz, CEO of Starbucks, commented: “We want customers get into our stores and immediately …
The FIFA World Cup in Brazil is expected to generate revenues of R$ 1.8 billion ($810 million) in retail food and drink sales, according to figures from the Sao Paulo Supermarket Association (APAS). Quoting APAS, Giro News reports that the categories seeing the biggest lift over the four weeks of the competition have been beer, soft drinks, processed meat and barbecue foods. APAS also reports that many fans in Brazil …
In a move designed to “promote healthier lifestyles”, Kellogg’s Mexico has reworked the packaging of its flagship Choco Krispis brand as part of a strategy to modernize the brand image. The primary change sees the brand character Melvin the elephant redesigned to become more athletic in appearance. The new packs have been made available from the beginning of July. “We introducing a more friendly, cheerful and charming Melvin, there is …
PepsiCo has announced that it has opened a new baking category innovation centre in Apodaca, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, with the aim of driving new product innovations across the company’s brand portfolio. In a statement, PepsiCo described the new facility as being equipped with an advanced culinary center and development laboratories focused on creating and tailoring new baked products for distinct consumer benefits and taste preferences in Mexico and in PepsiCo markets …
Gruma, the world’s leading supplier of corn flour and corn flour derivatives, has announced investments in acquisitions and in the construction of new production facilities as it seeks to expand its business. The Mexican company is investing between $150 and $170 million as part of its expansion plans. This includes the takeover of the Spanish tortilla Mexifoods as well as the opening of new plants in Russia and Malaysia. “In …
Yves Rocher, the leading French manufacturer of natural health & beauty products, has revealed that it intends to establish its first dedicated outlets in Brazil, with 10 stores to open by the end of 2014. Speaking to a French website, Arnaud Williart, the company’s Director of Africa, Middle East & Brazil said that the firm would take an approach of “humility but determination” in accessing the world’s third largest cosmetic …
Nestle has announced that it is to resume dairy production in various parts of South America in a deal that sees it buy back a number of facilities from dairy multinational Fonterra, as the two companies review their partnership in the region. Nestle and Fonterra first signed an agreement on dairy production in the continent in 2003, through the joint venture Dairy Partners Americas. The revised deal will see Nestle …
Enhancing the sensory and indulgence appeal of yogurt is the strategy behind a new Brazilian product line featured by Gama this week – Batavo Yogoflan. Marketed with the tagline “as delicious as a dessert, as healthy as yogurt”, Batavo Yogoflan is a further example of how yogurt is increasingly turning to indulgence as well as health in order to appeal to consumers. In opting for ‘healthy indulgence’ positioning, Yogoflan enters …
The Colombian dairy company Alqueria has announced plans to invest $13 million ($17.8 million) in its business over the next three years to upgrade its production facilities and expand into new markets. The company currently produces 300 million of litres of milk per year but, as a result of the investment, intends to increase capacity to 500 million litres. Among recent developments, the company has invested COL$6,000 million ($3 million) …
Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B. de C.V.’s acquisition of Canada Bread Co. Ltd. is set to close on May 23rd after the Canadian Minister of Industry gave approval for the transaction to be completed. Food Business News reports that the transaction previously received shareholder approval and clearance under the Competition Act and the Hart-Scott-Rodino Act. It also had approval at a special shareholder meeting on April 3, by Canada Bread shareholders, with …
Sagatiba, a leading producer of the Brazilian sugar cane spirit cachaca, is marking its 10th anniversary with the launch of a special edition bottle design. Unveiled in 2004, Sagatiba has now completed its first decade in business and is marking the occasion with a new design which is described as promoting the genuine ‘Brazilianness’ of cachaca. The launch is a first for Sagatiba, the company not previously having introduced a …
Avon, the world’s leading direct sales cosmetics company, is expanding its social media presence in Brazil with the launch of a new virtual shop on Facebook. Dubbed ‘Avon Beleza Vitrine’, the new portal will alow the company to promote its products and facilitate communication with its resellers. Customers will be able to ‘like’ Avon products and also order them by creating a wish list which they can share with the …
In Brazil, Ducoco Alimentos e Bebidas, the manufacturer of the brands Ducoco and Menina, has launched a new line of coconut water targeting kids, a product described as the first of its kind for the country. The coconut water drink, a blend of coconut water and fruit juice, is sold in 200ml cartoons and is available in three flavours: strawberry, apple, and pineapple & grape. It is claimed to be …
Beiersdorf has announced that its new facility in Mexico City, Mexico will be complete by the middle of this year, in a project described by CEO Stefan Heidenreich as the company’s most ambitious anywhere in the world. With an investment of $130 million, the new plant will act as a regional laboratory where products targeted at the Latin American market will be developed. The company plans to transfer part of …
Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget (SCA), the Swedish manufacturer of paper products, is to invest $31.5 million in Mexico in 2014, El Universal reports. In an interview with the Mexican newspaper, Pablo Fuentes, CEO of Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget in Latin-America, explained that the funds would be used to expand a factory in Ecatepec as well as boosting investment in innovation. SCA has reportedly invested over $400 million in Mexico in the last …
In an attempt to tap into the market for health-oriented and ethical snacking, Fhom Alimentos has launched Bem Organico Crisps, a product claimed to be the first organic product of its kind in Brazil, according to Diario do Grande ABC. According to information, the product line took over a year and more than R$250 million ($108 million) of investment to develop, requiring changes to production facilities and the creation of …
The Mexican company Grupo Bimbo has agreed to pay C$1,830 million (about US$1,655 million) to acquire all the shares of Canada Bread Limited. As part of the acquisition, Bimbo will pay C$72 (US$65) for each of the 25.4 million shares in the company, it is reported. According to a Bimbo statement, the purchase “will drive Bimbo’s global growth strategy and enables Grupo Bimbo to enter the attractive Canadian market through …
Exito, a subsidy of French retailer Groupe Casino, has expanded its operations in Colombia through the acquisition of 19 Colombia Super Inter stores in 2014 and the operation of 31 remaining stores that will be subject to purchase in 2015. Casino has operated in 83 cities in Colombia through its Exito offshoot since 1999, mostly in the hypermarkets and supermarkets segment but also through convenience and discount stores, and is …
The Colombian National Federation of Coffee Growers is looking to expand its reach in markets such as Kuwait and Dubai where consumers are willing to pay for luxury and high quality products, Portafolio is reporting. Colombia is the world’s largest coffee producer of washed Arabica coffee and exports beans to major markets including the United States, Japan, Germany, Belgium, Canada, England, Korea, Spain and France. “The focus of our strategy …
Swiss dairy producer Emmi has agreed a deal to acquire 50% stake in Mexican dairy importer Mexideli, Just Food reports. The value of the deal was not disclosed. The move comes as Emmi looks to approach its target of generating 50% of its sales from overseas markets. At presents, 43% of the company’s revenues are derived from outside of Switzerland. Described by Emmi as “Mexico’s leading importer of speciality cheeses”, …
Sales in the supermarket sector grew 5.24% during the month of October compared to the previous month, according to a survey released on 27 November by the Brazilian Association of Supermarkets (Abras). Versus October 2012 sales were up 7.93%. Given the rate of growth in October, and a drop in the unemployment rate in Brazil to 5.2%, Abras has revised its sales forecasts for the last two months of the …
Brasil Alimentos reports that Seletti Health Food Company, which has a network of franchise outlets specialized in healthy eating, and Diletto Company, which produces handmade ice creams, have signed a new partnership for the launch of Seletti Ice Cream. The ice creams were specially developed by Diletto for Seletti and will go on sale in the food courts of shopping centres across the country. The two exclusive flavours created are …
The Mexican parliament has passed a new law imposing taxes on foods high in sugar, salt and saturated fat, the Guardian reports. The new taxes will increase the price of ‘junk foods’ by 8% and will also add one peso (approx 6 cents) to each litre of high-sugar drinks, with the money raised helping to fund health programmes and improve access to drinking water in schools. Meanwhile an accreditation for …
Mexican frozen food manufacturer Sigma Alimentos has made a bid to acquire the business of Campofrio Food group, a Spanish producer of meat products and prepared foods. According to Sigma, the deal is in the order of $940 million. It will require the purchase of the remaining 55% of Campofrio shares – Sigma having already secured agreements to acquire a stake of around 45% through the acquisition of shares held …
Brazilian magazine Brasil Alimentos has reported that Subway has launched its new chicken lemon & pepper sandwich exclusively in Brazil. The sandwich is made with chicken strips and cheese sauce base, with a squeeze of lemon and a touch of pepper. It joins a list of “lighter” option sandwiches available on the menu, as the chicken used in the sandwich is described as being grilled rather than fried. This is …
Up to 28 million tonnes of sodium could be removed from processed food and drinks products in Brazil by 2020 if the latest joint initiative between government and the industry succeeds, Brasil Alimentos reports. The Brazilian healthy ministry and Abia, which represents the Brazilian food industry, have signed a new agreement commiting to further reductions in salt levels in processed foods. The latest agreement – the fourth of its kind …
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