Dole, the leading fruit processor, has announced the launch of Good Crunch, a dried fruit snack that promises “an ultra-craveable crunch”. Available as Pineapple Bites, Banana Bites and Pineapple Bites with Chili, the new line is claimed to use a gentle dehydration process to lock in fresh fruit flavour and preserve nutrients. It is further claimed to be all-natural and free from genetic modification, artificial …
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UK: Sainsbury’s launches laundry detergent in cartons
Sainsbury’s, the UK grocery retailer, has announced what it claims is a UK first, with the launch of a new line of laundry detergents in cartons, replacing its existing 750ml plastic bottles. The supermarket chain said the switch from plastic to cardboard would halve carbon emissions associated with the range, as well as taking 13 lorries off the road and saving around 22 tonnes of …
Look Ahead: Sabine Schommer, ISM 2023
Gama spoke to Sabine Schommer, Director of ISM, ahead of the latest edition of the confectionery and snacks tradeshow. What are your expectations for this edition of ISM? ISM offers the industry the opportunity to look beyond current challenges and focus instead on finding solutions, discussing ideas and getting inspiration – all that from 90,000 square metres of exhibition space! It’s here that market-leaders and …
USA: Pernod Ricard to acquire majority stake in Skrewball whiskey
Wine and spirits multinational Pernod Ricard has announced that the company has signed an agreement to acquire a majority stake in Skrewball, a producer of flavoured whiskey Skrewball was founded in 2018 and produces a peanut butter whiskey that is now available in the US, Canada and the Caribbean. “Skrewball has proven its uniqueness and success with a large audience, so we are delighted …
USA: Tillamook to open new ice cream facility in Illinois
Farmer-owned dairy co-operative Tillamook has announced plans to open a new ice cream manufacturing facility in Decatur (IL), in 2024. Tillamook currently operates two facilities in Oregon, mainly dedicated to the production of cheese. The new facility will be the first to focus exclusively on ice cream manufacture. Mike Bever, executive vice president of operations at Tillamook, said: “Consumer demand for Tillamook Ice Cream …
France: Picard to open 20 ‘new concept’ stores in 2023
French frozen food retailer Picard has announced plans to open 20 new franchise stores in 2023, incorporating the “Bienvenue en cuisine” (“Welcome to the kitchen”) concept unveiled by the retailer at the end of 2022. Picard’s “Bienvenue en cuisine” format is described as featuring a new reception and “entertainment island”, focusing not only on frozen products, but also other bulk products and kitchen accessories, …
Canada: McCain to invest C$600 million in Alberta facility
Canada-based potato processor McCain has announced an investment of C$600 million (approx. $436.73 million) to double the size and workforce of its processing facility in Alberta. The investment will allow the company to create two new state-of-the-art production lines and achieve its commitments to cut greenhouse gas emissions, McCain said. “The development in Alberta marks our largest global investment in our 65-year history, totalling $600 million, …
Ireland: BWG Foods to expand Spar, Eurospar chains
BWG Foods, the Irish retail and consumer goods congolmerate, has announced plans to open 60 new Spar and Eurospar stores in Ireland over the next three years. In a press release, the company said it was investing €65 million ($68 million) in its retail network in response to strong sales growth for both brands, with revenues topping €1.6 billion ($1.7 million) in 2022. BWG …
USA: Nestle to launch dairy alternative made from broad beans
FMCG giant Nestle has announced plans to launch a new plant-based milk alternative in the US made from a blend of oat and broad (fava) beans. In a press release, the company said the new dairy alternative has strong nutritional value, with 5g of protein per serving and the benefits of amino acids. Claimed to have a mild, nutty taste and smooth texture, the …
USA: Amazon to reportedly shutter eight Amazon Go stores
US-based retailer Amazon has announced that the company is closing eight of its Amazon Go physical convenience stores, according to a report in Supermarket News. The e-commerce giant has reportedly already closed two Amazon Go stores in Seattle, with plans to close two more in New York City and four in San Francisco by the start of April. “Like any physical retailer, we periodically …
Spain: Pascual starts dairy production in Africa
Spanish dairy firm Pascual has set up its first manufacturing unit in Africa, producing and marketing milk for the Angolan market. According to an article in Revista Inforetail, the move is part of company plans to nearly triple its international turnover over the next three years. Pascual is said to have been operating in Angola for more than 25 years via an export model …
Look Ahead: Philippa Christer, IFE 2023
Gama spoke to Philippa Christer, event director, ahead of the latest edition of IFE, International Food & Drink Event. What are your expectations for this year’s IFE? I’m so excited for this year’s edition of IFE. There are so many new aspects of the show and additional features for visitors to explore. This year we’ve introduced the Startup Market for newly launched food & drink …
USA: Altria Group to buy e-cigarette firm NJOY
Altria, the multinational tobacco firm, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire e-cigarette company NJOY Holding for about $2.75 billion in cash. NJOY is described as a leading brand of pod-based e-vapour products with 33,000 retail stores in the US. Commenting on the deal, Altria CEO Billy Gifford said: “We believe we can responsibly accelerate U.S. adult smoker and competitive adult vaper adoption of …
USA: Sweet Harvest Foods acquires Sweet River Honey
Sweet Harvest Foods, the self-proclaimed leader in the US natural sweetener industry, has announced the acquisition of Sweet River Honey, a honey producer based in the state of Texas. In a press release, the firm said the acquisition would add hives and beekeeping experience to its portfolio and enable it to expand its operations. Ken Stickevers, CEO of Sweet Harvest Foods, commented: “Sweet Harvest …
UK: Pembrokeshire Creamery invests in new plant
UK-based dairy firm Pembrokeshire Creamery has announced that the company is investing in its first manufacturing facility, a milk processing site in Pembrokeshire Food Park, in the Welsh town of Haverfordwest. According to a Business Live report, the new milk-bottling facility is currently under construction and it is expected to create 80 jobs over the next three years. The firm will reportedly invest £17 …
USA: Danone to expand Jacksonville facility to meet RTD coffee, creamer demand
FMCG giant Danone has announced plans to invest up to $65 million over the next two years to create a new bottle production line at its existing facility in Jacksonville, Florida, according to a Food Manufacturing Report. The investment aims to increase production of coffee and coffee creamer products under brands such as International Delight and SToK to meet consumer demand. The new production …
Germany: Muller to sell Tuffi brand, license Landliebe to allay anti-trust concerns
Muller, the leading Germany dairy firm, is to divest the Tuffi brand of milk and cheese products to a third party dairy company. The sale was a condition of Muller’s purchase of part of FrieslandCampina’s portfolio in Germany, which has just been greenlighted by competition regulators. Similar anti-trust concerns lay behind the regulator’s decision to require Muller to grant exclusive, irrevocable brand licences for use of the Landliebe …
Finland: Fazer to discontinue dairy business at Koria factory
Fazer, the leading Finnish food group, has announced it will be ceasing dairy production at the Koria factory in southern Finland by the end of August 2023, with 82 jobs expected to be affected. Fazer noted it was only a small player in the highly-competitive Finnish dairy industry, mainly producing private label products, and that the changes were part of its strategy to focus …
Saudi Arabia: Almarai acquires International Dairy and Juice stake from PepsiCo
Saudi Arabia based dairy firm Almarai has recently announced the purchase of a 48% stake in International Dairy and Juice from FMCG giant PepsiCo to become the 100% owner of the business According to a report in The National, International Dairy and Juice was formed as a joint venture in 2009 via a partnership between Almarai and PepsiCo to produce and distribute food and …
Lentils muscle into breakfast foods
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass MANCHESTER – 27th February 2023: This month, Gama turns its gaze towards continued advances in on-the-go breakfast foods, examining a launch pushing in-vogue pulses and legumes as a contender to rival oats in the hot cereals category – Lentiful Instant Lentils. New to consumers in the US, Lentiful is a four-strong range of single-serve pots that position lentils …
USA: Tyson Foods to acquire Williams Sausage Company
US multinational food firm Tyson Foods has announced that the company has signed an agreement to purchase Williams Sausage Company, a producer of fresh and cooked sausages, bacon and sandwiches. Based in Union City, Tennessee, Williams Sausage Company currently has 500 employees and supplies to both retail and foodservice custpmers. Stewart Glendinning, group president, prepared foods for Tyson Foods, said: “The addition of Williams …
India: Hindustan Unilever to sell Annapurna and Capitan Cook brands
Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL), Unilever’s Indian subsidiary, has announced it has sold its atta and salt business under the Annapurna and Capital Cook brands to Uma Global Foods and Uma Consumer Products, both subsidiaries of Reactivate Brands International. The sale is part of HUL’s strategy to divest non-core categories and focus on the growth of its packaged foods business of dressings, scratch cooking and …
Portugal: Dia studying exit with Minipreco sale – reports
Spanish retailer Dia is exploring the possibility of selling its business in Portugal, where it operates under the Minipreco banner, according to reports in Jornal de Negocios and Inforetail. The company currently has 499 Minipreco supermarkets in the country, 297 of which are said to be operated under franchising arrangements. Dia also owns three distribution centres in Portugal. The retailer has hired Societe Generale …
Mexico: Casa Maestri to acquire Bellagave Infused Tequila
Mexican tequila distillery Casa Maestri is to acquire Bellagave Infused Tequila, a 100% blue agave tequila brand, for an undisclosed sum, according to a FoodBev report. The acquisition, which will expand Casa Maestri’s portfolio of premium tequila brands, comes a month after the firm acquired Santera Tequila, a blue weber agave tequila line. “It’s a perfect time to innovate”, commented Jose Coira, VP of …
Germany: CCEP to invest in production line for reusable bottles
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has announced an investment of over €40 million ($43 million) in a new production line at its factory in Luneburg, Germany for reusable glass bottles. The new filling line, which is expected to be operating by summer 2024, is designed for the Coca-Cola, Fanta and Sprite brands. 30 new jobs are expected to be created as a result of the …
Australia: V2food to close Wodonga plant
Plant-based firm V2food has announced that it plans to close its manufacturing facility in Wodonga Australia, with production transitioning to other facilities over the course of the year. According to an article in Grain Central, the company originally established the plant in 2020 to manufacture the soya isolates on which V2food’s products are based, but had been hampered by Australia’s limited processing infrastructure for …
USA: Morinaga Nutritional Foods to buy Tofurky and Moocho
Morinaga Nutritional Foods, a US-based manufacturer of soya and dairy products, has announced the acquisition of the Tofurky and Moocho plant-based brands in the US. In a statement, Morinaga Nutritional Foods said it would use the acquisition to strengthen its presence in the plant-based sector and boost new product development. Founded in 1980, Tofurky is a leading manufacturer of plant-based meats, while sister company …
Brazil: Diageo opens new distribution centre
Alcoholic drinks firm Diageo has announced the opening of a new distribution centre in the city of Extrema in Brazil’s Minais Gerais state. The centre, which opened its doors on 2nd February, is intended to consolidate operations from three other facilities and will be responsible for supplying 60% of national demand, according to sources. The new distribution centre is the company’s second largest in …
UK: Serious Sweets Company acquires Mallow & Marsh
UK confectionery firm Serious Sweets Company has announced the acquisition of Mallow & Marsh, a producer of handmade marshmallow products. Serious Sweets Company is a supplier of confectionery to major retailers and foodservice and manufactures private label products such as fudge, toffee, marshmallows, brittles and butterscotch. The acquisition will add a premium marshmallow business to its portfolio. Rob Whitehead, Serious Sweets Company founder, said: …
Look Ahead: Danila Brunner, Biofach 2023
Gama spoke to Danila Brunner, Director of Biofach / Vivaness, ahead of the latest edition of the organic consumer goods tradeshow. What are your expectations for this edition of Biofach? After the one-off BIOFACH and VIVANESS Summer Edition 2022, we are looking forward to seeing the organic sector again from 14th to 17th February 2023. We expect over 2,700 exhibitors for the combined BIOFACH …
‘Plant-based’ the new ‘vegetarian’ as meat-free claims evolve
Insight by Gama Compass MANCHESTER – 13th February 2023: Plant-based claims have overtaken vegetarian claims in new food and drink launches for the first time, the latest insight from Gama Compass can reveal, underlining shifting consumer demands as the meat- and dairy-free space continues to evolve and mature. The shift could prompt new thinking from brands and retailers keen to optimise their product positioning, especially …
Look Ahead: Marina Calheiros, Lisbon Food Affair 2023
Gama spoke to Marina Calheiros, Coordinating Manager, ahead of the inaugural edition of Lisbon Food Affair. What is the rationale and the vision for Lisbon Food Affair? Lisbon Food Affair has a distinguishing positioning, featuring a strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and internationalization adapted to the recent needs and demands of consumers/markets and, consequently, to the challenges of companies and the global market, with …
Mexico: Unilever to build personal care manufacturing plant
FMCG multinational Unilever has announced plans to build a new manufacturing facility in the state of Nuevo Leon, in North Mexico. According to an article in Reuters, the new plant is part of a $400 million program of investments that Unilever intends to make in Mexico over the next three years. Located on the outskirts of Monterrey, in Salinas Victoria, the facility will reportedly …
UK: Europe Snacks acquires Burts Snacks
Burts Snacks, the firm behind the Burts brand of upscale crisps, has been acquired by Europe Snacks, the self-proclaimed leading pan-European private-label player in savoury snacks, according to a report in Insider Media. Founded in 1995, Burts Snack is predominantly known for traditional potato crisps but has also recently expanded into ridged crips and lentil chips. Commenting on the move, Jitu Patel said “Burts …
France: Danone inaugurates R&D centre for “products of the future”
Danone, the French consumer goods giant, has inaugurated its new Daniel Carasso Research & Innovation Center in Paris with the aim of creating “the products of the future” The new centre, located on the Paris-Saclay campus, will be dedicated to development and innovation in the categories of “fresh dairy and plant-based products” and “natural mineral water” . In a statement, Danone said the facility would …
USA: CVS Pharmacy launches own brand line of “self-care staples”
CVS Pharmacy, the US personal care and drugstore chain, has announced the launch of over 200 own brand “self care staples” under the One+other brand. The company’s goal was to “democratize access to personal care products so that everyone can practice self-care in their own unique way at an accessible price point”, the company said in a statement. The new brand, pronounced “one another” …
South Korea: Philip Morris International to extend collaboration with KT&G
Philip Morris International (PMI), the leading tobacco firm, has announced it will be continuing its partnership with South Korean tobacco and nicotine manufacturer KT&G as the two companies look to “extend and deepen” their collaboration. The agreement, which covers 15 years, will allow PMI to continue commercialising innovative smoke-free devices and consumables on an exclusive worldwide basis (except South Korea), the company said. PMI …
Ireland: Dole to sell fresh vegetables division to Chiquita
Dole, a global leader in fresh produce, has announced it has entered into an agreement to sell its fresh vegetables division to Fresh Express, a subsidiary of fruit supplier Chiquita, for approximately $293 million in cash. The fresh vegetables divisions comprises operations related to the processing and sale of whole produce, as well as salads and meal kits. It has agricultural operations and four processing facilities …
USA: Milo’s expands production to South Carolina
Milo’s, an Alabama-based firm that manufactures, distributes, markets and sells ice teas and lemonades throughout the USA, has announced plans to build its fourth manufacturing plant in Spartanburg County, SC. The company said the expansion was a direct response to the growth of the Milo’s brand, which it claimed was the number one refrigerated tea and fastest growing lemonade in the U.S. The 110,000 sq ft facility will initially employ …
USA: Danone exploring potential sale of organic dairy brands
Danone, the French consumer goods giant, has announced it is exploring strategic options, including a potential sale, for its organic dairy activity in the US, comprising the Horizon Organic and Wallaby businesses. “This announcement is an additional step in the portfolio review and asset rotation program the company announced in March 2022, as part of the Renew Danone strategy”, Danone said in a statement. While touting …
Mexico: Grupo Bimbo acquires Romanian bakery firm Vel Pitar
Grupo Bimbo has reached an agreement to acquire Romania’s largest bakery firm Vel Pitar, thus adding a new market to its portfolio, according to a report in Profit.ro. The manufacturer was purchased from Broadhurst Investments, an investment fund controlled by NCH Capital, in a deal reportedly worth around €200 million. In 2021 (the last year for which financials are available), Vel Pitar reportedly had …
‘Ice cube’ soup hones in on convenience, waste-free benefits
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass MANCHESTER – 31st January 2023: This month’s Innovation Insight spotlights a new launch aiming to ally the distinct virtues of chilled and dried soup through a novel ‘ice cube’ format – Soupologie Souper Cubes. An extension to Soupologie’s health-focused line of ready-made, vegetable-forward soups in the UK, Soupologie Souper Cubes are a novel retail format that seeks to combine …
Germany: Korch and Hermann Wein announce merger
German meat producers Radeberger Fleisch- und Wurstwaren Korch (Korch) and Hermann Wein have announced the two businesses are to combine, according to a report in Lebensmittel Praxis. Korch’s Original Radeberger Premium Lachsschinken ham is said to be particularly popular in the former east, while Hermann Wein is described as the market leader in Germany for black forest ham. Rieker Investment, which acquired a stake in Korch in …
France: Discount retailer Toujust to make debut
Toujust, a new French grocery retailer, is planning to make its debut in the first quarter of this year, promising prices that are up to 10% lower than its direct competitors. The chain, whose name is a play on the expression “tout juste” (“just right”), will be 25% owned by its suppliers, with whom the company intends to work directly to eliminate the costs …
UK: Sainsbury’s partners with Just Eat for deliveries
UK based supermarket retailer Sainsbury’s has signed a partnership agreement with takeaway food app Just Eat for rapid grocery deliveries. According to an article in Retail Gazette, the partnership will allow Sainsbury’s customers to benefit from 30-minute deliveries. In a first phase, the service will be available in London, Edinburgh and Bristol, launching in 175 stores by the end of February 2023, although Sainsbury’s …
Germany: AsCom Confection acquires Bodeta
German chewing gum manufacturer AsCom Confection has taken over confectionery producer Bodeta after the latter had filed for insolvency, according to a report in Lebensmittel Praxis. Bodeta was reportedly struggling financially due to rising energy and raw material costs, leading the firm to trigger a process of self administration in order to restructure its business. According to sources, Bodeta’s 120 employees will remain in …
Italy: Latteria Soresina to acquire Fratelli Oioli
Latteria Soresina, the leading Italian dairy cooperative, has announced the acquisition of Fratelli Oioli, a dairy company specialising in the production of gorgonzola cheese with protected designation of origin (PDO). In a press release, Latteria Soresina said the acquisition would make it the first company able to offer PDO gorgonzola from ‘farm to table’. “The Fratelli Oioli company has always upheld the importance of …
Manchester to host global gathering of food & drink innovators
MANCHESTER – 23rd January 2023: Fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) suppliers, retailers, and other industry stakeholders are today being invited to connect with like-minded professionals from across the globe in Manchester, on Thursday 19th October 2023, for the eighth edition of the annual Gama Innovation Conference & Awards (GICA). GICA’s trademark informal setting and invitation-only guest list will once again enable leading executives from small and large companies alike …
Canada: Bimbo to invest in tortilla production line
Bakery firm Bimbo has announced it plans to invest C$15 million ($11.2 million) in a new tortilla production line in Hamilton, in Canada’s Ontario province. According to an article in Canadian Grocer, the company made the decision to invest in the new line in order to meet growing market demand in Western Canada. Bimbo’s investment is supported by the Ontario government which is providing …
Brazil: General Mills to shutter Parana plant
US food giant General Mills has announced that the company will close its manufacturing facility in Cambara, in Brazil’s Parana state. According to sources, the facility processes cassava, potato and peanut products, and the company plans to transfer production to another plant in Pouso Alegre, Minas Gerais. The closure will reportedly lead to the loss of 880 direct and indirect jobs, although General Mills …
USA: P&G acquires haircare brand Mielle Organics
Procter & Gamble (P&G), the global personal and homecare firm, has announced the acquisition of Mielle Organics, a US haircare brand that particularly serves women in the Black community. Founded in 2014, Mielle Organics has become a leading brand for consumers with textured hair through innovative, technology-driven products, natural ingredients, and inspirational and educational content, P&G said in a statement. The company’s products can …
Philippines: Diageo to acquire Don Papa Rum
Diageo, the leading alcoholic drinks company, has reached an agreement to acquire Don Papa Rum, a super-premium, dark rum from the Philippines. In a press release, Diageo said the acquisition involved an upfront consideration of €260 million ($282 million) with a further potential consideration of up to €177.5 million ($192.5 million) through to 2028 subject to performance. Founded in 2012, and available in over …
Australia: Endeavour Group to acquire Cape Mentelle Winery
Endeavour Group, which claims to be Australia’s leading retail drinks and hospitality business, has announced it has reached an agreement with global alcoholic drinks firm Moet Hennessy to acquire winemaker Cape Mentelle Winery. Located in Western Australia’s Margaret River, Cape Mentelle Winery was established in 1970 as one of the founding five wineries of The Margaret River, and is described as being the pioneer …
Ireland: Kerry to sell Sweet Ingredients Portfolio to IRCA for €500 million
Global food manufacturer Kerry Group has entered into exclusive negotiations to sell its Sweet Ingredients Portfolio to INCA, an international leader in chocolate, creams and high-quality semi-finished food ingredients, for €500 million. The Sweet Ingredients Portfolio is a manufacturer of sweet and cereal products with a broad range of technological capacities serving the markets of bakery, cereal, confectionery, dairy and ice cream in Europe …
Russia: Magnit to create new discount supermarket – reports
Russian retailer Magnit is reportedly planning to open a new discount supermarket chain, according to an article on the Kommersant newspaper. Sources close to the retailer reported that the retailer plans to develop a new chain of discounters, a concept that started being planned in 2022, it is expected to be approved in Q1 2023 and afterwards the first stores will open. The discount …
China: Geek Bar to build a new production facility in China
E-cigarette brand, known for its disposable vape devices, Geek Bar has made an investment of $146 million in a new production facility as part of its plans of growth in the UK. The facility will be built in the Zhuhai National Hi-Tech Industrial Development District in China’s Guangdong province, and according to sources, the assembly will be 90% automated “to provide the highest levels …
Colombia: AB InBev to invest $413million in new Colombia brewery
Bavaria, local AB InBev brewer, has announced the investment of $413 million in the construction of a new brewery in the municipality of Palmar de Varela in Colombia. The brewery plans to begin operational by mid-2024 expecting to generate 350 direct jobs and 7,000 indirect job. The facility will produce beer brands such as Aguila, Poker and Club Colombia. “We firmly believe in Colombia …
USA: Sovos Brands to complete the sale of Birch Benders
US-based consumer-packaged food company Sovos Brands has announced that it has completed the divestiture of the pancake & waffle mix brand Birch Benders and related assets to Hometown Food Company. Sovos Brands offers a portfolio of pasta sauces, dry pasta, soups, frozen entrees, frozen pizza and yoghurts, sold under the brand names Rao’s, Michael Angelo’s and Noosa, while Hometown Food Company owns a portfolio …
USA: Silver Bay Seafoods to acquire Orca Bay Foods
Fishermen owned company Silver Bay Seafoods has announced the acquisition of food processing company Orca Bay Foods. Both companies formed a joint venture over the past few years where Silver Bay was the supplier of seafood and Orla Bay was processing, selling, and marketing the products. “Orca Bay is excited to join Silver Bay Seafoods as we continue our mission of delivering sustainable, delicious, …
India: Reliance Consumer Products to create joint venture with Sosyo
Reliance Consumer Products has announced the acquisition of 50% equity stake in carbonated soft drink company Sosyo Hajoori Beverages Private. Founded in 1923, Sosyo is a leading company in the soft drink market in India with brands such as Sosyo, Opener, Kashmira, Lemee, Hajoori Soda, Ginlim, Runner and S’eau with over 100 flavours launched in the market. “We are delighted to enter into this …
Denmark: Royal Unibrew to acquire Norrebro Bryghus microbrewery
Brewing and beverage company Royal Unibrew has expand its portfolio with the acquisition of the Danish microbrewery Norrebro Bryghus. “We have found a new owner who we believe can continue the Norrebro Bryghus brand and the business we have built up over two decades,” said Martin Thomsen, managing director and co-owner of Norrebro Bryghus. “We are proud of the chapter we have written.” “Royal …
USA: Benson Hill to sell Fresh business to IMG Enterprises
Food tech company Benson Hill has announced the sales of the assets related to its Fresh business in a two-part transaction to IMG Enterprises for a price of US $21 million. The divestiture will enable the company to focus on its ingredients business and meet the growing demand for its soybean product portfolio. “We believe there is tremendous opportunity to grow our proprietary ingredients …
Netherlands: Refresco to complete acquisition of alcoholic beverage Avandis
Global independent beverage solutions provider Refresco has acquired Avandis, a manufacturer of alcoholic beverages, from cocktails spirits companies Lucas Bols N.V. and De Kuyper Royal Distillers. With the acquisition, Refresco will expand the offering in the alcoholic category in Europe and according to company’s press release, the company is now a step closer to achieve its goal of “Our Drinks On Every Table”. The …
Gama News – October – December 2022
The October – December 2022 edition of Gama News is now available. In this edition: o Innovation Insight: Soupologie Souper Cubes o Gama Innovation Conference & Awards 2022 o Tradeshow Insight: Abu Dhabi International Food Exhibition 2022 CLICK HERE to read it now.
Russia: Kellogg to divest Russian operations to snacks maker Chernogolovka
Kellogg Co has announced the divestment of its Russian operation to local snacks and drink maker Chernogolovka, joining the list of Western companies that have sold their assets in the country. The movement comes after the cereal maker suspended earlier this year all imports of its products in Russia and pulled investments including advertising and promotions in the country, following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. …
Sweden: Orkla to acquire Swedish confectionery company Bubs Godis
Orkla Confectionery & Snacks has acquired confectionery company Bubs Godis. Founded in 1992, Bubs Godis is a manufacturer of vegan sugar confectionery with a strong growth on the Nordick market. According to Patrick Axzell, CEO at Orkla Confectionery & Snacks Sweden the acquisition is aligned with strategic investment of the company in confectionery and sustainable brands, and a good platform to continue growth in …
France: Pernod Ricard to acquire majority stake in Cockorico brand
Wine and spirits multinational Pernod Ricard has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in start-up Cockorico, a French brand specialising in ready-to-serve cocktails. Founded in Lyon in 2019 by three spirits and hospitality business experts, the brand makes a range of premium pre-mixed, ready-to-serve bottled cocktails. “We are delighted to begin this partnership with Cockorico, which has experienced exceptional growth since its creation,” …
USA: Mars to acquire fruit snack brand Tru Fru
Global leader in confectionery, snacking, food, and pet care products and services Mars, Incorporated, has acquired whole-fruit snack brand Tru Fru. Founded in 2017, Tru Fru is a innovate, better-for-you, high-quality snack made from real fruit, coated in premium chocolate and available in both frozen and shelf-stable. “We are thrilled to welcome one of the most innovative fruit-based snacks in the U.S. into the …
USA: Mondelez International to sell gum business to Perfetti Van Melle
Snack and confectionery multinational Mondelez International has announced that has agreed to sell its gum business in the USA, Canada and Europe to Perfetti Van Melle Group for $1.350 billion. The sale is part of the strategy of Mondelez International to accelerate growth and focus portfolio on chocolate, biscuits, and baked snacks categories. The acquisition includes the gum brands Trident, Dentyne, Stimorol, Hollywood, V6, …
USA: Barilla Group to acquire bakery brand Back To Nature
Leading Italian food company Barilla Group has announced the acquisition of the bakery brand Back To Nature from B&G Foods. The acquisition of Back To Nature follows the strategy of Barilla to build a strong multi-brand bakery platform in the United States. Founded in 1960, Back To Nature has a portfolio of plant-based, non-GMO cookies, crackers, granola and nuts & trail mix categories. “At …
Netherlands: Dawn Foods to complete sale of frozen manufacturing business to Europastrys
Global bakery manufacturer and distributor Dawn Foods has announced the sale of its frozen bakery manufacturing business Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Asia and the Pacific (AMEAP) to Europastry. The sale includes Dawn’s frozen bakery manufacturing plant located in The Netherlands, R&D capabilities based in the United Kingdom, and all associated customer relationships in the region purchasing Dawn-produced frozen products. “Dawn and Europastry have …
Brazil: Fonterra and Nestle to sell DPA Brazil joint venture
Dairy firm Fonterra and FMCG multinational Nestle have agreed to sell Dairy Partners Americas (DPA) Brazil joint venture to French dairy company Lactalis for BRL 700 million (approx. $133 million), subject to closing transaction adjustments. The sale, which has been delayed due to the pandemic related market conditions, is aligned with the co-op’s strategy of prioritising its New Zealand milk pool. Created in 2023, …
Denmark: Rema 1000 to acquire majority of Aldi’s Danish store network
Rema 100 Denmark, part of Reitan Retail, has agreed to acquire the majority of German discount grocer Aldi’s grocery store network in Denmark. According to the company statement, Rema 100 will acquire 114 stores and three distribution centres in attractive locations which will help the company to accelerate growth and increase market share with high-quality products at low prices. “Rema 1000 Denmark has been …
India: Hindustan Unilever to invest in health & wellbeing category
Hindustan Unilever (HUL), a subsidiary of the multinational consumer goods giant Unilever, has entered the health & wellbeing category through strategic investments in Zywie Ventures Private Limited (OZiva) and Nutritionalab Private Limited (Wellbeing Nutrition). OZina is a plant-based and clean label consumer wellness brand focused on lifestyle protein, hair & beauty supplements and women’s health. Wellbeing Nutrition is focused on need spaces such as …
USA: Ferrero to acquire ice cream maker Wells
Confectionery firm Ferrero Group has announced the acquisition of US ice maker Wells Enterprises as part as Ferrero’s strategy to growth in the ice cream section and Wells’ vision for accelerated growth. Wells will remain a standalone business with its portfolio of brand such us Blue Bunny, Blue Ribbon Classics, Bomb Pop, and Halo Top under Ferrero’s ownership. “Ferrero is a likeminded company with …
USA: J.M. Smucker to build new R&D facility
US-based food and beverage company The J.M. Smucker Co has announced plans to build a new R&D facility in its Orrville campus in Ohio, USA. According to sources, the new 29,000 sq. ft lab will support the firm’s Smucker’s Uncrustables brand and the company plans to develop new products in the facility, test innovative products and to seek new opportunities to optimise productivity. Tina …
Italy: Auricchio acquires 3B Latte
Italian cheese producer Auricchio Group has announced the acquisition of 3B Latte, a manufacturer of goat, buffalo and cow’s milk cheese. According to sources, 3B Latte has been operating for 70 years and generates a turnover of €35 million (US$36.6 million) and its portfolio includes the Vaccino, Di Capra, and Senza Lattosio brands. Florindo Bertoni, CEO of 3B Latte, commented: “This project will allow …
UK: Asda to open 300 new convenience stores and create 10,000 new jobs
British supermarket chain Asda has announced plans to open 300 Asda Express convenience store and create 10,000 new jobs by the end of 2026. The strategy behind the development of a convenience store network is to become the UK’s second largest supermarket. Each Asda Express store will stock with 3,000 products to cover customer’s needs, including fresh ambient and chilled groceries, as well as …
USA: California Dairies to acquire DairyAmerica
Dairy family-owner cooperative in California, California Dairies Inc. (CDI) has acquired DairyAmerica a globally recognised supplier of quality and sustainable dairy ingredients. Founded in 1995, DairyAmerica is a federated cooperative currently co-owned by California Dairies, Agri-Mark, Inc., and O-AT-KA Milk Products. As part of the acquisition, California Dairies will purchase the ownership rights currently held by Agri-Mark, Inc. and O-AT-KA Milk Products. “This investment …
France: Campari and Moët Hennessy to acquire 100% of Tannico
Campari Group and Moët Hennessy has acquired, through their 50-50 joint venture, full ownership of online wine and spirits company Tannico. Founded in 2012, Tannico’s e-commerce platform offers a catalogue of over 1,500 labels from 2,500 wineries focusing 90% of the business in B2C. The platform also provides wine courses, video tutorial and in the B2B area, services to wineries professionals in the hospitality …
UK: A.G. Barr to acquire Boost Drinks
Soft drink manufacturer A.G. Barr has announced the acquisition of the functional energy drink brand Boost for an initial consideration of £20 million, on a debt-free, cash-free basis. Founded on 2021, Boost has a portfolio of energy drinks, RTD iced coffees and sport-focused beverages, operating an asset light model, outsourcing production, warehousing, and logistics. “Boost is one of the UK’s most recognisable functional drinks …
USA: Philip Morris International to become majority shareholder of Swedish Match
Philip Morris International (PMI) has become the majority shareholder of the leading oral nicotine company Swedish Match. PMI has acquired 93 percent of the shares in Swedish Match and its portfolio of oral nicotine products in a move to accelerate its objective of a smoke-free future replacing cigarettes with science-based, better alternatives to smoking products. “We are delighted to have obtained over 90 percent …
USA: Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits to enter joint venture for Cantera Negra Tequila
Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits has entered into a joint venture with Two Sons Imports, owners of Cantera Negra Tequila to acquire a partial ownership stake in Cantera Negra to become the exclusive global sale and marketing partner. Cantera Negra is handcrafted in small-batch quantities tequila made from 100% fully mature blue agaves. The portfolio of Cantera Negra tequilas includes: Silver, with natural hints …
India: Barry Callebaut to build a new facility
Belgian-Swiss cocoa processor and chocolate manufacturer, Barry Callebaut, has announced the construction of its third chocolate and compound facility in India. The company opened its first facility in India in 2007 and since them Barry Callebaut has continuously invested in the Indian chocolate and cocoa market. Upon completion of the new chocolate factory, India will become Barry Callebaut’s largest chocolate producing market in Region …
India: Bel Group to enter joint venture with Britannia Industries
French dairy producer Bel Group has entered into a joint venture with Britannia Industries to develop, manufacture and sell cheese products in India and some other markets. Bel Group will acquire 49% stake of Britannia’s wholly-owned subsidiary Britannia Dairy Private Limited for INR 2.62bn (US$32.1m). “This strategic partnership with Britannia in India is a new step for Bel Group’s development in Asia, in line …
Spain: Magellan & Cheers acquires Perucchi
New spirits group Magellan & Cheers has announced the acquisition of Spanish vermouth brand Perucchi. The new group is founded and led by Jean-Noël Reynaud, which has an international career of more than 30 years in companies such as Remy Cointreau, Coca-Cola, Lactalis, and Marie Brizard. Perucchi is a brand with 150 years, known especially for its vermouth that is made from wines, mistelles, …
France: Lavazza to acquire MaxiCoffee
Italian coffee producer Lavazza has reportedly made a binding offer to acquire the French firm MaxiCoffee, owned by the company founder Christophe Brancato, 21 Invest and other investors. According to sources, Lavazza made the deal so that the company can strengthen its position in France and also in e-commerce. Lavazza Chief Executive Antonio Baravalle said: “Our strategy is to support the further development of …
Saudi Arabia: Nestle to Invest $1.86bn in food industry over 10 years
FMCG multinational Nestle has announce the investment of SAR 7 billion (1.86 billion) over the next decade to support business growth. The company will initially invest SAR 375 million ($99.8 million) to build a manufacturing plant which is expected to be opened by 2025. The facility will make infant nutrition products and ready-to-drink coffee, exporting to countries in the Middle East and North Africa. …
UK: Danish Crown invests in new factory
Denmark-based meat processor Danish Crown has announced the investment in a new bacon factory in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, UK. According to the company’s statement, the aim of the new factory is to offer UK customers high quality, traceable pork products that are manufactured in a more sustainable way and to supply bacon to the UK market. The firm will invest over £100 million ($119 …
Chile: Fonterra divests Chile operations
Dairy firm Fonterra has announced the divestment of its Chilean Soprole business. According to the company’s press release, the business was sold for about CLP $591.07 billion ($638.51 million) to dairy firm Gloria Foods. The decision to sell was made in April 2022, after the company released Fronterra’s strategy to 2030. Fonterra CEO, Miles Hurrell, commented the deal: “A key pillar of our strategy …
UK: Asahi to close Dark Star Bewery
Japanese drinks giant Asahi Beverages has announced that the company is going to cease operations in its Dark Star brewery in Partridge Green, Sussex, on the 31st of December 2022 due to current economic challenges. According to sources, the company said that the facility is operating significantly below capacity, which is not sustainable. Asahi said in statement: “This is not a step we have …
Switzerland: Philip Morris International to launch Bonds by Iqos
Multination tobacco manufacturer Philip Morris International (PMI) has announced the launch of Bonds by Iqos, its latest heat-not-burn tobacco system to be used with specially designed tobacco sticks, Blends. The product offers an alternative to consumers who want to “replace cigarettes with innovative, science-based, smoke-free alternatives”. “Providing a range of alternatives to continued smoking—with a variety of taste, technology, usage, and price options—is imperative …
USA: Keurig Dr Pepper invests in Athletic Brewing Company
Leading beverage company in North America, Keurig Dr Pepper, has announced an investment in Athletic Brewing Company, America’s leading non-alcoholic craft beer maker. According to the Keurig Dr Pepper’s statement, the company purchased a minority stake of $50 million in Athletic Brewing Company in a move to tap into the rapidly emerging beverage categories. As part of the deal, Keurig Dr Pepper will have …
Germany: Aldi acquires companies from Altmuehltaler Mineralbrunnen
German retailer Aldi Nord has announced the acquisition of some companies from the beverage firm Altmuehltaler Mineralbrunnen Group. According to Aldi’s press release, the Altmuehltaler Mineralbrunnen Group is one of the most important producers and bottlers of mineral water and non-alcoholic soft drinks in Germany and the firm employs around 400 people, jobs that will remain secure after the transaction. The deal includes production …
USA: American Beverage Corporation acquires Poppilu
US-based firm American Beverage Corporation, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Harvest Hill Beverage Company, has announced the acquisition of Poppilu, a lemonade brand targeted to children. Founded in 2017, Poppilu was at a first stage targeted to adults but its target shifted in 2020, when the need for a lemonade for kids was identified. Poppilu is sold in pouches in three ‘bold and tangy’ lemonade …
UK: BAT to invest in Charlotte’s Web
Multinational tobacco manufacturer British American Tobacco (BAT) has announced a c.£48.2 million investment in Charlotte’s Web Holdings, a producer of hemp extract wellness products in the USA. “Our investment in Charlotte’s Web represents another step for BAT in our exploration beyond tobacco and nicotine, as we continue to build a strong foundation to deliver A Better Tomorrow,” said Kingsley Wheaton, Chief Growth Officer at …
USA: Grupo Bimbo to invest $630 million to build two new facilities
Multinational Mexican bakery Grupo Bimbo has announced an investment of $630 million to build two new facilities in Georgia and Ohio in the USA. The facility in Georgia, which will be the second plant of Grupo Bimbo in the city, will cost around $200 million creating nearly 300 new jobs, while the facility in Ohio will cost around $431 million generating over 320 jobs. …
USA: Juul to secure funds to avoid bankruptcy
Juul Labs has secured an investment from some of its early investors to keep the e-cigarette business operations avoiding the bankruptcy. Juul plans to lay off abut 400 people and reduce its operation budget by 30% to 40%. The company has been facing financial strains since the FDA banned Juul’s vaping products this year and then put the ban on hold pending further review. …
UK: Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company to sell Eagle Brewery
Carlsberg Marston’s Brewing Company (CMBC) has announced plans to sell the Eagle Brewery to its long-term partner, S.A. Damm. Damm is a Spanish brewer, best know for its premium beer Estrella Damm. Since 2010, the production of Estrella Damm for the UK has been packaged at the Eagle Brewery. As part of the agreement, the Eagle Brewery’s beers will remain part of the CMBC’s …
UK: Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses acquires Parlick
Lancashire based cheesemaker Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses has announced the purchase of Parlick, a brand from dairy firm Singletons & Co. According to sources, the Parlick brand had ceased trading since September this year and the deal enabled the Parlick’s products to remain stocked without any break in the supply to retailers like Sainsbury’s and Waitrose. The investment strengthens Butlers Farmhouse Cheeses’ portfolio, now including …
USA: Ferrero breaks ground on Kinder Bueno facility
Global sweet-packaged foods firm Ferrero Group has announced that the company broke ground on its new facility in Bloomington, Illinois. The new Kinder Bueno facility represented an investment of $214.4 million and it will create 200 new jobs, according to the company’s press release. Alanna Cotton, president and chief business officer of Ferrero North America said: “This investment will fuel our momentum in North …
USA: Diageo acquires Balcones Distilling
Alcoholic drinks firm Diageo has announced the acquisition of leading Texas premium whisky distiller, Balcones Distilling. Balcones Distilling is a craft distiller that is said to produce super premium whiskies, such as Texas “1” American Single Malt, Lineage American Single Malt and Baby Blue Corn Whisky. The firm differentiates from others by creating whiskies with distinctive flavours and the beverages are produced with high …
Mexico: Herdez del Fuerte acquires Inderdeli and Deli, Dips & Snacks
Herdes del Fuerte, a joint venture between Grupo Herdez and Mexican conglomerate Grupo Ku, has announced the acquisition of Interdeli and Deli, Dips & Snacks companies. According to sources, Herdes del Fuerte purchased the business for MXN $587 million ($29.4 million). The acquired Mediterranean food companies sell products under the Libanus, Flaveur and Liguria brands, featuring a range of products that include pita bread, …
Japan: JT Group and Altria announce joint venture
Leading international tobacco company Japan Tobacco has announced a joint venture between the JT Group, through its subsidiary JTI, and the leading US tobacco firm Altria Group, through PM USA. According to the Japan Tobacco’s press release, the join venture was formed to market and commercialise heated tobacco sticks (HTS) products in the USA, using Ploom devices and Marlboro consumables. A long-term, non-binding global …
UK: Morrisons to close unprofitable McColl’s stores
British supermarket chain Morrisons has announced the closure of 132 McColl’s convenience stores so that the retailer can make a profit in the medium term. According to an article in European Supermarket Magazine, the retailer plans to close most stores this year, leaving 55 stores with a post office to close in 2023. The McColl’s chain was acquired out of administration last May, but …
Mexico: Grupo Bimbo to acquire St Pierre Group bakery
Mexican bakery giant Grupo Bimbo has announced the acquisition of the UK based bakery St. Pierre Groupe. The deal is expected to accelerate the rapid growth of St Pierre Group in the USA and increase international expansion. St. Pierre Groupe is a producer of brioche buns, brioche bagels, and brioche sub rolls, inspired by the Parisian cafe culture and with a growing presence in …
Italy: Campari to acquire initial 70% stake in Wilderness Trail Distillery
Italian spirit group Campari has reached an agreement to acquire an initial 70% stake in Wilderness Trail Distillery for $420 million, strengthening its bourbon offer. Under the agreement, the company will be able to acquire the remaining 30% of the premium Kentucky Bourbon and Rye Whiskey producer in 2031. Bob Kunze-Concewitz, Chief Executive Officer Campari Group: “We are very excited to take a controlling …
Spain: Grupo Apex to acquire Pop Up brand
Spanish snacking firm Grupo Apex has announced the acquisition of popcorn brand Pop Up from Grupo Bimbo for an undisclosed sum. Grupo Apex said it had also signed a long-term agreement that grants the exclusive distribution in Spain, Portugal and Andorra for the Eagle nuts brand. “Both operations, which are added to the recent acquisition of the Catalan manufacturer of vegetable chips Viube Foods, …
UK: Asda to open Asda Express convenience stores
Asda, one of Britain’s leading retailers, has announced the launch of convenience stores under the banner Asda Express. According to the company’s press release, the first store is scheduled to open on the 8th November 2022 in Sutton Coldfield, and a second store is expected to open the following month on the 6th December in Tottenham Hale, London. Both stores are said to create …
France: Remy Cointreau enters perfume market
Remy Cointreau, the leading French spirits firm, has announced the launch of a ‘luxurious’ perfume house called Maison Psyche. According to a company press release, Maison Psyche was created as a collaboration between Baptiste Loiseau, cellar master of Maison Remy Martin, and Sophie Labbé, principal perfumer at Firmenich. Baptiste Loiseau and Sophie Labbé said: “Maison Psyche was born from our shared love for the terroirs …
USA: Philip Morris International to reach agreement with Altria Group
Philip Morris International (PMI) has reached an agreement with Altria Group (Altria) to end the companies’ commercial covering IQOS in the USA. From 30th April 2024, PMI will have full rights to sell IQOS in the USA. As part of the agreement, PMI will pay a total cash consideration of $2.7 billion. The agreement between the two companies for the commercialization of heat-not-burn products …
Australia: Minerva Foods acquires Australian Lamb Company
Minerva Foods Australia has announced the acquisition of Australian Lamb Company, an Australian meat firm. Minerva Foods Australia, a joint venture of Minerva and Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (35%), will own 100% of the issued shares in Australian Lamb Company, in a deal worth A$400 million ($253 million). Australian Lamb Company is one of the largest meat producers inAustralia, with the ability …
USA: JBS discontinues Planterra Foods
Global meat firm JBS has decided to discontinue its US plant-based foods unit Planterra Foods, according to a FoodBev report. The firm will reportedly now focus its efforts in plant-based foods Brazil and Europe, where its customer base and market share are said to be growing. Nikki Richardson, head of corporate communications at JBS USA, said: “JBS USA has made the decision to discontinue …
Australia: Carman’s acquires Fruit Wise
Australian cereal and snacks producer Carman’s has announced the acquisition of family-owned snacks and breakfast foods producer Fruit Wise. According to a statement released by Carman’s, the companies share their outlook on healthy snacks and the purchase comes after one year of discussions. Commenting on the acquisition, Bridget Beal, managing director of Fruit Wise said: “We’ve been family owned for 15 years, so wanted …
USA: Kroger and Albertsons announce merger
US retail chains Kroger and Albertsons, currently ranked No. 1 and No. 2 largest supermarket retailers in the country, have announced that the companies are to merge. According to a Kroger press release, the merger will expand customer reach and improve proximity to fresh and affordable food to around 85 million households. Under the terms of the deal, Kroger will purchase the outstanding shares …
USA: Primo Water acquires Crystal Spring Water Company
Florida-based Primo Water Corporation has announced the acquisition of all the assets of fellow bottled water producer Crystal Spring Water Company, which is based in Rhode Island. According to Primo Water Corporation, the purchase will allow it to increase its distribution in both Rhode Island and South-eastern Massachusetts, where Crystal Spring Water Company’s products are already present. Tom Harrington, CEO of Primo Water Corporation, said: “Crystal Spring Water …
USA: Constellation Brands divests a portion of its wine brands
Constellation Brands, the leading international beer, wine and spirits firm, has announced that it is divesting part of its mainstream premium wine brands to The Wine Group. According to a company press release, the decision to sell most of its popular and mainstream premium wine portfolio to The Wine Group, including the brands Cooper & Thief, Crafters Union, The Dreaming Tree, Monkey Bay, 7 …
China: Bubs enters production and distribution agreement for goat milk infant formula
Goat milk manufacturer Bubs Australia has announced that it has made an agreement with Heilongjiang Ubeite Dairy Group (HUG) to produce and distribute Bubs China label goat milk infant formula in China. According to a Bubs press release, the new “ultra-premium” Bubs China label infant formula range has been created exclusively for the Chinese market, based on easy to digest A2 goat milk protein, …
Australia: Asahi acquires soft drinks firm StrangeLove
Japanese drinks giant Asahi has announced the acquisition of Australian soft drinks firm StrangeLove. According to sources, StrangeLove offers a range of adult soft drinks including sparkling waters, low-calorie sodas and premium mixers. Robert Iervasi, Asahi CEO, said: “We expect StrangeLove to really shake things up in the on-premise premium mixer and adult soft drink space with a high-quality, Australian-made brand. This deal will …
Australia: Diageo acquires Mr Black liqueur
Alcoholic drinks firm Diageo has announced the acquisition of Mr Black, a premium cold brew coffee liqueur from Australia. In a statement, Diageo said it had already purchased a minority stake in Mr Black in 2015 through its incubator programme Distill Ventures. Mr Black’s liqueur is described as being made using modern coffee brewing techniques and has reportedly become the fastest growing brand in …
USA: Hilmar Cheese breaks ground on new facility
US based Hilmar Cheese has recently announced that it has broken ground on its new cheese and whey production facility in Dodge City, KS. According to a company press release, the new facility will be delivered through an investment of $600 million. Founded in 1984, Hilmar Cheese is claimed to be one of the world’s largest producers of high quality American-style cheese and its …
Mexico: Cazcabel to open new distillery
Tequila producer Cazcabel Tequila has announced plans to open a new $37 million distillery in Mexico in 2023. Located in the Jalisco mountains in the Los Altos region, the facility will be run by the Vazquez family, known for producing agave and tequila. The property is claimed to be close to agave fields and near natural springs area with optimum water minerality to produce premium tequila. …
Spain: Nestle to invest in Girona coffee facility
FMCG giant Nestle has announced that it is investing €100 million ($98 million) in a coffee plant in Girona, Spain. According to sources, the investment will be made over the next three years with the goal of increasing the factory’s medium to long-term competitiveness. Nestle plans to install state-of-the-art technology that, combined with automation and digital technology, will improve sustainability and logistics, as well …
USA: PepsiCo introduces Pepsi S’mores Collection
FMCG giant PepsiCo has launched a limited-edition range of S’mores inspired flavours for its Pepsi cola line in the US. Released on the last day of summer, the Pepsi S’mores Collection is available in the varieties Toasty Marshmallow, Graham Cracker and Chocolate. The Toasty Marshmallow variant is said to have a marshmallow base with toasted notes to bring out the “fireside flavour”, whilst the Graham Cracker …
USA: Diageo opens new distillery for Aviation American Gin
Diageo’s Aviation American Gin subsidiary has announced the opening of a new Aviation American Gin Distillery and Visitor Center in Portland, USA. According to a company press release, the 3,000 sq m facility features a tasting room, draft cocktail bar, and a gift shop. Ryan Reynolds, Aviation American Gin co-owner said: “About three years ago, we set out to create a one-of-a-kind distillery and tasting …
Germany: BAT to acquire minority stake in Sanity Group
Multinational tobacco company British American Tobacco (BAT) has announced the acquisition of a non-controlling minority stake in Sanity Group. Founded in 2018, Sanity Group aims to improve quality life using cannabinoids. The investment will help the German company to expand and strengthen research and development activities. “Our goal is to leverage the full potential of the cannabis plant and to explore and harness the …
Australia: Coles sells convenience store business
Australian retailer Coles Group has announced the sale of its fuel and convenience store business to fuel firm Viva Energy. According to sources, Coles and Viva Energy had been operating the business in a partnership that was planned to end in 2029. With this acquisition, Viva Energy will operate the largest fuel and convenience network in the country, under one single operator. Leases on …
Spain: Mercadona invests in €60 million in logistics platform
Spanish retailer Mercadona has made an investment of €60 million ($58.5 million) in its logistics platform in Riba-Roja del Turia, Valencia. According to an article in Revista Inforetail, the resources will be used to optimise and modernise its warehouse for fresh produce in the logistics centre. With the investment, improvements will be made in the centre’s processes, facilities and working conditions The warehouse will see …
USA: House Foods Holding to acquire Keystone Natural Holdings
House Foods Holding USA, a subsidiary of Japan-based House Foods Group, has announced the acquisition of US based Keystone Natural Holdings, described as a leading manufacturer of tofu and plant-based foods in North America. In a statement, Keystone Natural Holdings, whose brands include Nature’s Soy brand, will help House Foods to boost its portfolio of plant-based products and expand its presence in North America, increasing the factories it …
USA: AG Olives acquires Bell-Carter Foods
AG Olives (Aceitunas Guadalquivir), described as one of the world’s premier olive companies, has announced the purchase of US peer Bell-Carter Foods for an undisclosed sum. According to sources, the deal will enable Bell-Carter Foods to fund investment in its facility in Corning, California, including to expand warehouse space, install advanced olive cookers, and create new production lines. The investment will help the company …
Japan: Coca-Cola to partner with Kirin on immunity drinks
Soft drinks giant Coca-Cola is partnering with Japanese beverage firm Kirin to develop functional drinks, according to a Nikkei Asia report. The companies are said to be collaborating to create drinks that contain lactococcus lactis strain plasma (LC-Plasma), a postbiotic ingredient developed by Kirin Holdings that is claimed to boost immunity in healthy people. The collaboration will reportedly help Coca-Cola to bolster its position …
USA: Kellogg’s introduces Insta-bowls Cereal
Food giant Kellogg has announced the launch of Kellogg’s Insta-bowls, a cereal presented in bowls that can be prepared simply by adding water. Described as ‘delicious milk and cereal in a splash’, the cereal is claimed to contain real milk and is ready after adding cold water and stirring. The product was designed with the aim of creating a convenient, portable product for consumers …
Portugal: Baker & Baker acquires Peipen
Baker & Baker, one of Europe’s leading suppliers of bakery products, has announced the acquisition of Peipen, a pastel de nata (Portuguese custard tart) producer. According to sources, the deal will enable the firm to expand the production capacity of the Portuguese pastry with new production lines. The agreement includes a 5000 sq. mt. manufacturing facility located in Peniche, with all the equipment, and …
USA: Misfits Market to acquire Imperfect Foods
US online grocer Misfits Market has announced the purchase of fellow e-commerce firm Imperfect Foods. According to sources, the companies are intended to be operated separately at first, before being merged into a single brand. Both online grocers started out retailing mishappen products in order to prevent food waste, but currently also sell a broader range of fresh products such as meat, seafood and other groceries. Abhi Ramesh, CEO …
Ireland: Irish Distillers to build new whiskey distillery
Irish Distillers, a subsidiary of the French drinks conglomerate Pernod Ricard, has announced plans to build a €250 million ($247.7 million) whiskey distillery in Midleton, Ireland, according to a FoodBev report The new distillery will be located in a 55-acre area that is connected to the company’s existing Midleton Distillery, and will produce whiskeys for the Jameson, Powers, Redbreast, Midleton Very Rare, the Spot family …
Brazil: Danone stops producing Bonafont bottled water in Brazil
FMCG giant Danone has announced it is ceasing production of Bonafont bottled waters in Brazil, including all of its activities in the Jacutinga plant in the state of Minas Gerais. According to a FoodBev report, the decision is line with Danone’s decision to focus on dairy and plant-based products and specialised nutrition in the country, which are described as being more profitable and with higher growth rates. …
Austria: Billa introduces plant-based store concept
Austrian retailer Billa, a subsidiary of the Rewe Group, has announced the opening of a store with a plant-based concept called Billa Pflanzilla. According to sources, the new concept was launched in response to research that revealed that 46% of Austrians have recently reduced consumption of animal products and that 28% of 18 and 19 year olds don’t eat meat. Marcel Haraszti, CEO of REWE International …
Poland: Netto Poland moves headquarters to Warsaw
Polish branch of supermarket chain Netto has announced this week that it is moving its headquarters to Harmony Office Center II in Warsaw. According to sources, the retailer will take 2000 sq. metres within the complex which has a favourable position due to its proximity to Warsaw city centre and very good public transport access as well as a metro station that is only …
Brazil: PepsiCo sells biscuit assets to Camil Alimentos
FMCG giant PepsiCo has agreed to sell a set of biscuit assets to the Brazilian manufacturer Camil Alimentos, according to a Just Food report. The agreement is claimed to involve the biscuit brands Mabel, Doce, Mirabel, Elbi’s and Pavesino and to include a ten-year licencing contract with PepsiCo for the Toddy biscuits brand and the associated production line. The deal also includes a factory in Goiania …
Australia: Endeavour Group acquires Shingleback Wine
Australian alcoholic drinks retailer and hospitality business Endeavour Group has announced the acquisition of Shingleback Wine from McLaren Vale, South Australia. According to sources, the agreement includes the Shingleback Wine brand portfolio, a long-term lease of the McLaren Vale cellar door and an ongoing grape supply agreement. Shingleback was founded in 1997 by Kym and John Davey brothers and it will now be part …
Australia: Good Drinks Australia acquires Stomping Ground
Good Drinks Australia, an independent Australian brewer, has announced the acquisition of Victorian-based brewery Stomping Ground for A$11.5 million ($7.7 million). According to sources, the transaction will be closed for A$7 million ($4.7 million) in cash, 4.5 million Good Drinks Australia ordinary shares, and a trailing 5-year performance component. With this agreement, Stomping Ground is expected to contribute A$1.5 million ($1 million) to Good …
Spain: Grupo Apex acquires Viube Foods
Spanish-based snacks company Grupo Apex has acquired Spanish Viube Foods, a manufacturer of vegetable crisps. Viube Foods is based in Girona and produces and markets vegetable chips made with 100% natural ingredients and in an artisanal way, under the Mikso brand. According to sources, with the acquisition, Grupo Apex has now seven factories and aims to be a ‘benchmark’ in this segment, believing that …
USA: Eli’s Cheesecake announces expansion
Eli’s Cheesecake, a Chicago-based cheesecake and dessert maker, has announced that it is expanding its facility in northwest Chicago by 42,000 sq ft. According to the company, the new space will allow for the expansion of bakery operations including the addition of new production and packaging lines and storage areas. Once the expansion is completed, the facility will cover a total of 104,000 sq …
USA: Treehouse Foods to sell significant part of meal prep business
Treehouse Foods, a leading manufacturer and distributor of private label foods and beverages, has announced that it has come to an agreement with Investindustrial to sell a part of its meal preparation business for $950 million. In a statement, Treehouse Foods said the deal was intended to “simplify” its business proceedings and allow it to focus its efforts on other areas. Commenting on the move, Treehouse …
USA: Coca-Cola launches Dreamworld variety
Coca-Cola has announced Dreamworld, the latest offering within its Coca-Cola Creations concept. According to a company press release, Coca-Cola Dreamworld, which also comes in a zero sugar version, “explores the realms of the surreal, the imaginary, and the otherworldly” offering “a surprising and unexpected flavor from a dream world”. Commenting on the launch, Alessandra Cascino, creative and shopper programme director of Coca-Cola North America, said: …
USA: V&V Supremo Foods acquires Mill Creek Cheese
Hispanic food business V&V Supremo Foods has announced the acquisition of family-owned cheese producer Mill Creek Cheese. V&V Supremo Foods was founded in 1964 and produces Mexican cheese, crema and chorizo, and owns the Chihuahua quesadilla cheese brand. Founded in 1891, Mill Creek Cheese is described as the oldest family-owned cheese plant in Iowa County, Wisconsin. V&V Supremo Foods said it planned to use the …
USA: Del Monte Foods acquires Kitchen Basics
Del Monte Foods, the US food company, has announced the acquisition of cooking aids firm Kitchen Basics from McCormick. Kitchen Basics was founded in 1996 and has an extensive portfolio of ready-to-use stocks and broths, and is currently the market leader in the US. Greg Longstreet, president and CEO of Del Monte Foods, said: “Del Monte Foods has gone through a positive transformation over …
Thailand: Lotus Bakeries to open new Biscoff plant
Belgian biscuit and cake manufacturer Lotus Bakeries has announced an expansion in Thailand, with a new manufacturing plant for the Biscoff brand. According to the company, the plant is intended to increase capacity in the Asia region, as well as improve response times to local trends and reduce transport costs. Thailand was chosen due to its central location in the region and the availability …
USA: Colgate-Palmolive to acquire three plants from Red Collar Pet Foods
FMCG giant Colgate-Palmolive has announced plans to acquire three dry pet food manufacturing plants in the US from Red Collar Pet Foods for $700 million. According to Colgate-Palmolive, the acquisition aims to support the global growth of its Hill’s Pet Nutrition business and includes the transfer of approximately 350 employees. The manufacturing plants – in Orangeburg (SC), Clinton (OK), and Washington Court House (OH) – …
USA: Kroger announces opening of new fulfilment centre
Kroger, one of US’s largest grocery retailers, has announced that they are opening a new Customer Fulfilment Centre in Dallas, Texas, powered by the Uk’s Ocado group. According to sources, the centre will utilise automated robotics technology to improve customer experience. It is part of Kroger’s delivery network, with more than 1,000 bots traversing a large grid, controlled by proprietary control systems. The grid, …
France: Bel Group acquires majority stake in Shandong Junjun Cheese
French dairy producer Bel Group has announced the acquisition of 70% shares of the Chinese cheesemaker Shandong Junjun Cheese. As well as manufacturing cheese, Shandong Junjun Cheese is the fourth-largest milk producer in China. The company has reportedly achieved over 100% annual growth since 2018. According to a statement released by Bel, the investment will help the French giant with its international expansion strategy …
USA: PepsiCo invests $550 million in Celsius Holdings
PepsiCo, the leading US consumer goods firm, has announced a distribution agreement and the acquisition of $550 million stake in energy drink company Celsius Holdings at the price of $75 per share, corresponding to 8.5% ownership of the company. Celsius is a US global consumer packaged goods company that produces lifestyle energy fitness drinks. With this agreement, PepsiCo will become the preferred distribution partner globally …
USA: Carolina Foods to open new facility in Pineville
Carolina Foods, a bakery and pastry manufacturer, has announced it is building a new manufacturing facility in Pineville, NC. According to sources, the new facility will cover an area of 423,000 sq ft and will be operational by 2023. Commenting on the move, Carolina Foods CEO Dan Myers said: “In addition to being twice the size of our current space, our new facility will be totally …
Italy: Emmi sells 25% stake in Italian cheese firm Ambrosi
Swiss dairy firm Emmi has announced the sale of its 25% stake in cheese business Ambrosi in order to focus on “profitable growth segments”. Ambrosi is an Italian cheese specialist and producer of Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, mozzarella and gorgonzola cheeses. The stake was acquired in 2007, with the aim of generating international growth in several countries in the speciality and premium cheeses segment. …
France: Agrial acquires Rochebillard et Blein
Agrial, a French agricultural and agrifood co-operative, has announced the acquisition of dry charcuterie producer Rochebillard et Blein. Rochebillard et Blein has 115 employees over three production sites – two in Violay and one in Taninges, producing nearly 2,000 tonnes of various charcuterie products that are sold in supermarkets, charcuterie shops, and traditional butchers. Stephane Poyac, executive vice president of Agrial, said: “Co-operative has …
Chile: Empresas Carozzi to acquire Lecherias Loncomilla
Chilean FMCG manufacturer Empresas Carozzi has entered an agreement to acquire ice cream firm Lecherias Loncomilla. Lecherias Loncomilla, owner of the San Francisco ice-cream brand in Chile, was founded in 1975 and produces frozen desserts that supply the retail channel. According to sources, Empresas Carozzi was founded in 1898 and is the fourth-largest ice-cream maker in South America. The company entered the ice-cream category …
UK: Premier Foods to acquire The Spice Tailor
UK food manufacturer Premier Foods Plc has announced the acquisition of 100% of The Spice Tailor, a maker of Indian and South East Asian meal kits and accompaniments, for an initial consideration of £43.8 million ($52.4 million). In a statement, Premier Foods said the Spice Tailor would benefit from increased levels of marketing investment to drive product awareness and household penetration, new product development resources, and …
UK: Rollagranola acquires Primrose’s Kitchen’s assets
Granola company Rollagranola has bought Primrose’s Kitchen, the UK-based breakfast cereal business that went into liquidation in December 2021. Founded in 2014, Hitchin-based Rollagranola has acquired the stock, packaging, intellectual property, and brand name of Primrose’s Kitchen, a supplier of organic and vegan, and gluten-free muesli from the South of England. Rollagranola’s founder Robin Longden said the buy-out of Primrose’s Kitchen “signals a new …
USA: PepsiCo announces plant expansion
FMCG giant PepsiCo has announced the acquisition of 152 acres of land in the Denver Development Area that will be used for a new 1.2 million sq ft manufacturing facility. According to sources, the new plant will be PepsiCo Beverages North America’s largest and most sustainable. The new facility will replace a manufacturing plant in the River North Art District, tripling production capacity and created 250 …
USA: J.M. Smucker sells Red River Cereal to Arva Flour Mills
US-based food and beverage company JM Smucker has announced it has sold its breakfast cereal line Red River Cereal to Ontario-based firm Arva Flour Mills for an undisclosed sum. According to sources, JM Smucker had revealed in 2020 that the company was going to sell businesses that were not aligned with their “long-term strategy focus”. Mark Rinker, owner of Arva Flour Mills, said: “Since …
China: Yili to open world’s largest dairy industrial park
Yili Group has opened the Global Smart Manufacturing Industrial Park and Health Valley in the world in Hohhot, China, including the Chilechuan Ecological Intelligent Pasture and the Yili Intelligent Manufacturing Experience Centre, to produce both liquid and powder milk. According to a company press release, the group aims to establish an area that will serve as a global hub for the dairy and health industries, using …
Japan: BAT to launch Glo Hyper X2 heated tobacco device
Multinational tobacco manufacturer British American Tobacco (BAT) has announced the launch of its latest innovation, a state-of-the-art heated tobacco product in Japan. Glo Hyper X2 heated tobacco device has an innovative new ‘barrel styling’ design is shaped by consumer insights, offering new, innovative, user-friendly features. The item incorporates advanced induction heating technology encased in a smaller, lighter weight device. “The launch of glo™ hyper …
Canada: Royal Unibrew to acquire Amsterdam Brewery
Denmark-based brewing and beverage firm Royal Unibrew has announced that it came into an agreement to acquire the entirety of the Toronto-based company Amsterdam Brewery Co. Ltd., a Canadian craft brewing company with a normalised revenue of around CAD$34 million ($26.4 million). According to sources, the acquisition of the company will bring Royal Unibrew more premium offerings into the portfolio within Canada, Ontario in …
USA: Tyson Foods invests in Mississippi plant
US multinational food firm Tyson Foods has announced that the expansion of its Forest, Mississippi plant is now complete. According to sources, the facility’s expansion covers the chicken-related production capacity due to the increase in demand for protein. The expansion provides new automation technology and capacity designed for higher efficiency processing of chickens for both food service and retail. The expansion was implemented amidst …
USA: Ferrero to build new innovation centre in Chicago
Confectionery firm Ferrero North America has announced plans to open a 45,000 sq ft Innovation Centre with Strategic R&D Lab in Chicago’s Marshall Field and Company Building. This new facility will merge Ferrero’s R&D teams across the US and house employees from Ferrero’s Old Post Office location, including about 170 cross-functional teams. The Innovation Centre will represent a number of brands from the company’s …
Ireland: Diageo plans to invest in carbon-neutral brewery
Alcoholic drinks firm Diageo has announced plans to invest €200 million ($202 million) in Ireland’s first purpose-built carbon neutral brewery in Kildare. According to the company, the new facility will produce lagers and ales, and with a capacity of 2 million hectolitres, it will become the second largest brewing plant in Ireland. The brewery will reportedly use 100% renewable energy and will make use …
USA: Flower Foods invests in Base Culture
Flower Foods, one of the main producers of packaged bakery foods in the US, has announced an investment in Base Culture, a manufacturer of gluten-free and grain-free sliced breads and baked goods that are aligned with the paleo diet. According to Flower Foods, Base Culture’s products are currently available in nearly 15,000 retail locations across the US. The investment will reportedly allow the company to …
Italy: Sperlari Group to acquire Paluani
Sperlari Group, the Italian leader in the candy and nougat industry that belongs to the German group Katjes International, has announced the acquisition of Italian confectionery company Paluani. Paluani was owned by the Campedelli family, but the firm ended in an insolvency procedure. The Sperlani group was the only bidder that presented a proposal to the Bankruptcy Court of Verona to purchase Paluani. The …
Germany: Kaufland invests in new modern greenhouse
German supermarket chain Kaufland has announced that they’re investing on sourcing produce from Germany all year round and thus the firm is opening Germany’s most modern greenhouse, together with the Reichenspurner family, in the region of Chiemgau. According to sources, the greenhouse will grow strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, and the like throughout the year over an area of 22 football fields. Additionally, the greenhouse is …
Spain: Laumont to build a new production facility
Laumont, a company that produced truffles and mushrooms, has announced the construction of a new 4,000 sq. mt facility centre in Tarrega, Spain. According to a statement released by the firm, the new facility will increase the production capacity to answer the increasing demand of the business and it will allow the production of new truffle-based products. Additionally, there will be an investment in …
USA: Splash Beverage Group to acquire 80% stake in Pulpoloco Sangria
Splash Beverage Group, owner of leading beverage brands, announced the acquisition of 80% of Pulpoloco Sangria, giving the group control over the manufacturing and distribution in the US and international markets. Pupoloco Sangria is crafted in Spain, and Its distribution rights were acquired in 2020 by Splash, turning the giant into the exclusive importer of the drink in the US. Robert Nistico, Splash’s chairman …
Saudi Arabia: Tyson Foods buys stake in Tanmiah Food Company
Tyson Foods and Tanmiah Food have signed a strategic partnership in which Tyson Foods will acquire 15% of stakes in Tanmiah subsidiary Agriculture Development Company (ADC) and 60% equity in Supreme Foods Processing Company. Tyson Foods is a recognized leader in protein, whilst Tanmiah is a producer of fresh and value-added poultry and other meats, animal feed, health products, and a foods brand franchise …
Egypt: Offer submitted for 90% stake in Domty
Arabian Food Industries (Domty) has announced that an offer has been submitted for 90% of the Egypt-based food business by Expedition Investments for EGP5 ($0.26) per share. According to Daily News Egypt, Expedition Investments is a company created to acquire Domty owned by investors in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. According to sources, Egypt’s Financial Regulatory Authority is studying the submitted …
Thailand: Calbee buys Thailand snacks peer Greenday
Japanese snacks business Calbee has acquired a 75% stake in Greenday, a Thailand Based snack maker, for an undisclosed sum. According to sources, the deal may improve the reach of Jagabee products on a global scale. Calbee already has a presence in the North American, UK, south-east Asian markets and aims to expand its overseas business as a growth pillar in its plan to …
Australia: Cooke Seafood increases purchase proposal for Tassal
Privately-owned Cooke Inc. (‘Cooke’), parent company of Cooke Aquaculture Inc. has upped its stake proposal to purchase the Tasmanian salmon farmer Tassal Group Limited. Tassal is a vertically integrated salmon and prawn grower and processor for the Australian domestic markets and for exportations, employing over 1,700 people. Cooke Inc. has Atlantic salmon farming operations in Atlantic Canada, the US, Chile, and Scotland; seabass and …
Spain: Danone plans to sell factory
FMCG giant Danone has announced that they are looking for a buyer for its factory in the north west of Spain, since they are looking to close it. According to sources, last month Danone announced the closure of the factory in the town of Salas in the name of improving ‘competitiveness and industrial efficiency’. The workers of the factory held a demonstration against the …
UK: Lotus Bakeries acquires Peter’s Yard
Lotus Bakeries announced the complete acquisition of UK based Peter’s Yard artisanal sourdough business. Peter’s Yard produces a wide range of healthy crackers, crispbreads and flatbreads, and sourdough bites. Lotus Bakeries is well-known for the natural snack category and brands like Lotus, Kiddylicious, BEAR snacks, among others. Lotus Bakeries has been an investor in Peter’s Yard since July 2019, when the firm acquired 20% …
USA: Maytag Dairy sold to AgCertain Industries
Cheese producer Maytag Dairy Farms has been sold to AgCertain Industries, which is owned by private equity firm Midwest Growth Partners since 2019. Maytag Dairy Farms was founded in 1941 and sells and supplies jam, honey, popcorn, blue cheese, cheddar, and cheese spreads to retailers and foodservice businesses as well as selling products online. AgCertain Industries belongs to Midwest Growth Partners and produces private-label …
USA: Keurig Dr Pepper acquires non-alcoholic cocktail brand
Keurig Dr Pepper have recently announced the acquisition of the non-alcoholic cocktail brand Atypique from Station Agro-Biotech. The agreement made for the acquisition has both Keurig and Station Agro-Biotech fuel the growth of Atypique using the research done by Station Agro-Biotech in the product category and Keurig’s sales network. Chief financial officer for the international branch of Keurig Dr Pepper, Ozan Dokmecioglu said “We …
Portugal: Jeronimo Martins Group invests in Andfjord Salmon
Jeronimo Martins Group has acquired 10.1% (16.8 million euros) of the Norwegian company Andfjord Salmon for sustainable salmon production. “Just a few days before the 2022 United Nations Ocean Conference in Lisbon, we are investing in a promising and truly innovative sustainable business project that is fully aligned with our corporate responsibility priorities. Andfjord Salmon’s project is focused on using efficient technology to produce …
Canada: Coca Cola to invest in Lower Mainland region
Coca Cola Canada Bottling has announced its plans to invest nearly CAD$42 million ($32 million) into the Lower Mainland region’s operations due to growing demand in British Columbia and to help their capability in the region. According to sources, the investment will be applied to create a new manufacturing line in the Richmond plant, allowing the facility to use pre-form bottles at the location …
USA: Kellogg announces plans to split into three companies
Food giant The Kellogg Company has recently announced plans to restructure the company by splitting it into three companies in the US. The firm is planning to combine all of its cereal operations in North America into one singular entity. Similarly, Kellogg is planning to separate its plant-based and snacking businesses into separate companies as well. The reasoning the company provided for the decision …
USA: Mondelez International to buy Clif Bar
FMCG giant Mondelez has announced plans to buy Clif Bar & Company for $2.9 billion (€2.75 billion), paying additional amounts to the sellers according to its earnings from Clif Bar. According to the sources, the giant will get the Clif, Luna, and Clif Kid brands of bars in its portfolio through the acquisition, creating a $1 billion-plus global snack bar franchise for itself and …
USA: Athletic Brewing opens non-alcoholic brewery
US firm Athletic Brewing Company has officially started production at its 50,000 square foot new facility in Milford, Connecticut. Athletic Brewing is one of the country’s largest non-alcoholic beer producers and it has experienced exponential growth over the past five years, producing 1.4 million cases of beers in 2021. It is expected that with this new facility, the company will be able to produce …
Germany: FrieslandCampina sells some of its German portfolio to Muller
Dutch dairy multinational FrieslandCampina has announced that they will sell some of their brands and factories in Germany to their local peer Muller. A spokesperson from FrieslandCampina said: “Our local German brands need more scale, and Unternehmensgruppe Theo Muller offers this growth perspective through synergy benefits”. In the sale, there are included brands such as Landliebe, Tuffi, Sudmilch, Puddis, and Mondelice as well as …
Spain: Grupo Vall Companys to buy control of Sada
Spain-based meat processor Grupo Vall Companys has closed a deal to buy 75% of local poultry firm Grupo Sada from Netherlands agri-food business Nutreco. According to sources, Grupo Sada has a total of five plants in Spain and supplies poultry products to retailers and the foodservice sector. Grupo Vall Companys’ processes and supplies fresh and frozen products, including chicken and turkey. The poultry division, …
UK: Minor Figures attracts investment from Danone and Green Monday
Uk based Oat-milk business Minor Figures has received a minority investment from Danone Manifesto Ventures (DMV) and Green Monday Group, a plant-based food business. Founded in 2015, with offices in the US and Australia as well, Minor Figures produces barista oat milk for retail and coffee shops under its own brand name, RTD coffees and teas distributed in 16 countries. Green Monday produces the …
Brazil: M. Dias Branco acquires Jasmine Alimentos
Brazilian food manufacturer M. Dias Branco has agreed to acquire the Brazilian division Jasmine Alimentos of French dietary food specialist Nutrition & Santé. Jasmine Alimentos, based in the Parana state, is a producer of organic, vegetarian, gluten-free, and zero-sugar ranges of health foods such as breakfast cereals, seed mixes, burgers, bread, and, like M. Dias Branco, also produces biscuits, and crackers. According to sources, …
USA: New Berlin Beverage acquires iced tea maker Minna
New Berlin Beverage, a recently founded holding company with a focus on emerging and innovative beverages, has announced the acquisition of Minna, a line of sparkling iced teas. Minna’s portfolio consists of various types of sparkling tea, including fruity flavours such as cherry cacao green tea and pineapple passion fruit tea. CEO of New Berlin Beverage and Minna, Anshu Dua, said “This acquisition will …
Malaysia: Fraser and Neave plans to acquire Cocoaland
Malaysian food and beverage manufacturer Fraser and Neave Holdings is prepared to make moves towards obtaining full ownership of a local peer Cocoaland Holdings. According to sources, Fraser and Neave plans to buy all of the shares in Cocoaland that it does not yet own for just under 488.2 million MYR ($111.1 million) in total. Fraser and Neave first invested in the snack and …
USA: Atlas Holdings to acquire Foster Farms
US based company Atlas Holdings, owner of manufacturing and distribution businesses operating in various sectors, has announced the completion of the acquisition of Foster Farms, a producer of fresh and frozen poultry based in California. According to sources, Foster Farms has a history of being one of the leading brands in fresh chicken products in the west and has facilities in several US states. After the …
Chile: Grands Chais de France announces two acquisitions
Les Grands Chais de France (GFC) has closed two deals in Chile, marking the French wine group’s entry into South America. According to sources, the company recently announced the acquisition of Vina Las Ninas, which was purchased in 2021, a 40 hectares vineyard based in the Alpata region. That deal was closely followed by another. “GCF has already bought 150 hectares of vineyards in …
Germany: Katjes Group acquires UK gluten-free firm Genius Foods
Germany confectionery company Katjes Group has acquired the UK gluten-free bakery Genius Foods through its venture-capital arm Katjes Greenfood. Founded in 2009, Genius Foods has a product portfolio of rolls, bagels, loaves, wraps, and pittas sold in the major retailers and in the foodservice channel. Last year, the firm achieved EUR40m (US$42.7m) in sales. With this acquisition, Katjes Greenfood aims to expand its gluten-free …
USA: Borgman Capital acquires Dairyfood USA
Specialty cheesemaker Dairyfood USA has been acquired by Borgman Capital, a private-equity company, that will merge the business with Gilman Cheese, an own-label cheese manufacturer. The acquisition will allow Gilman Cheese to expand its portfolio of products and production capacity. Dairyfood USA was founded in 1953 and sells products under the Glacier Ridge Farms, Queso de Casa, and Sonoma Jacks brands, the company also …
India: PepsiCo to invest INR 186 crore to expand operations
Food and beverage business, PepsiCo India, has announced plans to invest INR 186 crore ($24 million) to expand its manufacturing facility in Kosi Kalan, Mathura, India. The facility, which already makes Lay’s potato chips, will increase the capacity of the state-of-the-art plant, by adding a new manufacturing line to produce snacks under the Doritos brand. “The progressive ecosystem and industrial climate in Uttar Pradesh …
UK: Northcoast Seafoods sold to Seafood Connection
UK seafood provider Northcoast Seafoods has been sold to a Dutch company Seafood Connection, a subsidiary of Japan’s Maruha Nichiro, for an undisclosed sum. With a workforce of 112 people, Northcoast Seafoods provides prawns and whitefish products to retailers. According to the Seafood Connection press release, both companies can complement each other and help Northcoast to grow thanks to the sourcing power of Maucha …
Poland: Grupa Sokolow builds a new meat processing plant
Grupa Sokolow, one of the largest meat producers in Central and Eastern Europe, has opened a new meat processing plant in Sokolow Podlaski. Sokolow already has ownership of 8 specialised production plants in Poland, being the plant in Sokolow Podlaski the largest of the company. The branch in Sokolow specialises in sliced cold meats, sausages, and grill products as well as a wide variety …
China: Iceland agrees to sell frozen food in JD.com
Iceland Foods has signed an agreement to supply its range of frozen food products through the Chinese retailer JD.com. JD.com is one of China’s largest online retailers offering everything from fresh food, apparel, electronics, and cosmetics, with next-day delivery that covers more than 1 billion consumers. With this agreement, Chinese consumers will be able to order some of Iceland’s frozen pizzas, snacks, ready meals, …
USA: Starbucks sells Evolution Fresh to Bolthouse Farms
Starbucks and Bolthouse Farms have entered into a definitive agreement for Bolthouse Farms to acquire brand and business of Evolution Fresh. Evolution Fresh is a producer of cold pressed juice products which was owned by Starbucks since the 2010s. The transaction will allow Bolthouse Farms to expand its beverage portfolio with cold pressed premium juices, while Starbucks will focus on growing the core Starbucks …
USA: General Mills to sell Helper and Suddenly Salad brands to Eagle Foods
US giant food General Mills has entered into an agreement with Eagle Foods to sell Helper and Suddenly Salad businesses for a $610 million cash transaction. With the acquisition, Eagle Foods will create three diversified platforms focusing on growing centre store categories for retailers and continue investing in its growing snacks and milk business in parallel with this new investment. “We are builders of …
Brazil: Nestle Health Science acquires Brazilian plant-based firm Puravida
Nestle Health Science agreed to acquire the Brazilian organic, natural, plant-based nutrition and health lifestyle food maker Puravida. The fast-growing brand Puravida was founded in Sao Paulo in 2015 to promote health through nutrition. With this agreement, the brand will complement Nestle Health Science’s portfolio in different categories with increased reliable, nutritious, and high-quality products. Monica Meale, head of Nestle Health Science Latam said …
Canada: Above Food acquires quinoa producer NorQuin
Canadian plant-based food supplier, Above Food, has acquired a local quinoa products supplier Northern Quinoa Production Corp. (NorQuin). NorQuin, is the leading quinoa producer in the world providing a broad portfolio of quinoa in a variety of formats, such as whole seeds, flour, flakes, crisps, IQF, multi-grain blends, among others. Lionel Kambeitz, CEO of Above Food, said: “The team at NorQuin has built a …
Australia: Lactalis to acquire yogurt firm Jalna
Lactalis, the French dairy giant, has confirmed the acquisition of Australia-based yogurt maker Jalna Dairy Foods together with a yogurt production facility in Melbourne and a milk farm in northern Victoria with around 90 employees, where the terms of the transaction weren’t disclosed. Jalna has a portfolio of yogurts made by blending pure milk with probiotics and natural ingredients. “This transaction expands Lactalis Australia’s yogurt …
Italy: Spar regional operator Aspiag opens logistics hub
Aspiag Service, Spar’s regional operator for three Northeastern regions in Italy, has opened a new 18,000 square-metre distribution centre in Emilia-Romagna, Italy. According to Spar’s press release, the company invested €33 million ($34.9 million) in the facility, which currently employs more than 50 people, and has a 25,500-pallet capacity, featuring three floors with 1,700 sq. m. of office space. Alessandro Urban, Aspiag Service regional …
Australia: Hairydog Group buys wholesaler S&P Liquor
E-commerce platform Hairydog Group has purchased the wholesaler S&P Liquor Group, which includes the retailer Liquor Emporium, for an undisclosed sum. According to sources, the staff at S&P Group will not undergo any changes due to the acquisition and the two bodies will also remain operating as standalone entities. Paul Ververis, the general manager of S&P Liquor, said “I’m delighted to continue to lead …
USA: Vital Farms to expand Egg Central Station facility
Vital Farms, a Certificated B Corporation with an offering of ethically produced food, has announced the expansion of Egg Central Station, its world-class egg washing and packing facility in Missouri. The 150,000 square foot facility has almost doubled its size, allowing Vital Farms to continue growing the pasture-raised egg business and generate new ‘high-quality’ jobs. The company is expected to generate over $300 million …
USA: General Mills acquires TNT Crust from Peak Rock Capital
US food giant General Mills has announced the acquisition of TNT Crust, a manufacturer of high-quality frozen pizza crusts for pizza chains, foodservice distributors, and retail outlets, from Peak Rock Capital. According to sources, TNT Crust products are highly complementary to General Mills’ existing frozen baked goods portfolio. With this acquisition, General Mills aims to invest in its portfolio reshaping strategy and expand the …
Italy: Campari acquires Picon aperitif
Italian company Campari Group, owner of Aperol, has acquired the French aperitif Picon from Diageo for €119 million ($125.5 million). Created in 1837, Picon is a ‘market-leading’ aperitif that has achieved net sales of €21.5 million ($22.4 million) and CAAP of €12.9 million ($13.4 million) in the 2021 fiscal year. According to sources, France is currently Campari Group’s fourth-biggest market (5.9% of the Group’s …
USA: Mondelez sell Halls and gum business
Mondelez International, snack and confectionery multinational, announced the divestment of its market gum, and global Halls business. According to sources, included in the sale of its market gum business are brands such as Trident, Stride, and Dentyne, which are part of a segment with annual revenue of about US$450million. This decision was the output of a portfolio review in an investor day update to …
USA: Sargento Foods acquires Baker Cheese Factory
Cheese maker Sargento Foods has acquired the Wisconsin-based Baker Cheese Factory, due to the increasing demand for more convenient on-the-go dairy products. According to Sargento Foods, cheese snacking has become ‘one of the fastest growing sections of the cheese category’, so the firm decided to acquire the local mozzarella string cheese producer, which had recently been ‘growing aggressively’, to face that demand. The CEO …
South Africa: Kerry Group to open taste manufacturing facility
Irish nutrition company Kerry Group, has recently announced the opening of the largest and most advanced taste manufacturing plant the group has ever had in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The new site, an investment of $40 million, covers a 10,000 sq. m. area and is said to be one of the most environmentally efficient manufacturing sites with features such as low energy …
UK: Morrisons buys McColl’s convenience stores
British supermarket chain Morrisons, owned by the US private equity group Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, was selected ahead of Asda owners’ in the bid for McColl’s chain ownership. According to sources, McColl’s was sold via a pre-pack administration, after the retailer’s lenders had declined a request to restructure its debt. With Morrisons’ offer, McColl’s stores and human resources will be retained. The 16,000 McColl’s …
China: Danone sells investments in Mengniu Partnership and acquires Dumex
FMCG giant Danone has announced the sale of its 25% remaining stakes in Yashili to Mengniu and the 20% of its holds owned in the Inner Mongolia Dairy joint venture. Simultaneously, the French giant announced the acquisition of the totality of Dumex Baby Food Co Ltd, a Chinese manufacturer of infant milk formula products, that had been previously sold by Danone to Mengniu in …
Portugal: Aldi opens its largest distribution centre
German discounter Aldi invested €60 million ($63.2 million) in the opening of a 57,000-square-metre distribution centre located in Moita, Portugal. According to sources, the new facility, which is part of the retailer’s expansion plan announced in 2020, will supply goods to more than 150 stores and it will centralise Aldi’s logistic operations, which were previously split between the Montijo and Quinta do Anjo platforms. …
India: Adani Wilmar acquires rice brand Kohinoor
India based food firm, Adani Wilmar, has announced the acquisition of the rice brand Kohinoor from McCormick Switzerland GMBH. According to sources, Kohinoor was one of the pioneers in the branded basmati rice in India, and the company has a portfolio that includes the brand Kohinoor for premium basmati rice, Charminar for budget rice, and Trophy for the HORECA segment. This acquisition will give …
Canada: Barry Callebaut to open new factory
Belgian-Swiss cocoa processor and chocolate manufacturer, Barry Callebaut, announced plans to build a new specialty factory in Ontario, Canada. According to the firm’s press release, the new factory will be designed for the purpose of making sugar-free chocolate, high protein, and other various specialty products to meet new demands and an estimated initial production capacity of 50,000 metric tonnes of chocolate products. The president …
USA: Utz Brands buys plant from Benestar Brands
US based salted snack manufacturer Utz Brands has announced that they have purchased a brand-new manufacturing facility in North Carolina from Benestar Brands, with the transaction totaling $38.4 million with $1.3 million in liabilities. According to the company’s statement, the acquisition involved the plant, equipment, and the land where the plant is located. Chief operating officer of Utz Brands, Cary Devore said: “This is …
USA: Jack Link’s to invest $450 million in Georgia expansion
US based meat snack company Jack Link’s has announced plans to expand with a new manufacturing plant in Perry, Georgia. According to sources, the company estimates an investment of $450 million and the creation of 800 new job positions. Chief executive of Jack Link’s, Troy Link, said “We are excited to partner with the state of Georgia and Houston County on this state-of-the-art facility, we are …
USA: Mondelez to buy Ricolino from Grupo Bimbo
Mondelez International, snack and confectionery multinational, has agreed to pay US$1.3bn for the Mexican confectionery business Ricolino from bakery firm Grupo Bimbo. Ricolino was launched in 1970 and sells snacks and confectionery products including lollipops, marshmallows, chocolates, and gummies under its brand name, and Vero, La Corona, and Coronado brands. According to sources, this acquisition is part of Mondelez International expansion strategy outside the …
USA: Mars to open new R&D hub in Chicago
Global confectionery giant Mars Wrigley has announced new investment for an approximately $40 million research and development hub that will be adjacent to its innovation centre in Goose Island, Chicago. According to sources, this expansion will make Chicago the largest innovation hub for the company and it will create 30 new jobs in the innovation centre, leaving the Mars campus with 1,000 employees in …
Canada: Simply Better Brands and Jones Soda to merge
Plant Based and holistic wellness firm Simply Better Brands Corp. and Jones Soda Co, manufacturer and distributor of premium craft beverages, have announced that the two companies have executed a binding letter in which Simply Better Brands will acquire the Jones Soda company and its assets. According to sources, the combination of the two rapidly growing companies is expected to produce an accelerated growth …
USA: Patriot Pickle acquires Farm Ridge Foods
US firm Patriot Pickle, a company by private equity firm Swander Pace Capital, has announced the acquisition of the pickle business from distributor Farm Ridge Foods. Patriot Pickle, which is based in Wayne, New Jersey, manufactures and delivers a variety of refrigerated pickles, sauerkraut, and other pickled vegetable products around the US. Farm Ridge Foods distributes pickle products under its own brand and third-party …
USA: Tyson Foods to invest $208m in rendering facility in Alabama
US multinational food firm Tyson Foods is investing $208 million in a new facility in Hanceville, Alabama, closed to the company’s last rendering facility, which was destroyed in a fire last year. According to sources, the new 121,000 sq. ft rendering facility will be serving many of the state’s poultry processors and others in neighbouring states. The rendering process is said to reduce waste …
UK: Windmill Organics assumes control of Machandel
Netherlands based firm Machandel has sold its 40% share in the business to UK based food firm Windmill Organics, which has owned a 60% majority stake in the business since 2012. Windmill Organics was founded in London in 1978 and sells products in 30 different countries, owning brands such as Biona, Bonsan, and Amisa, that can be found in large retail chains. Windmill will …
Germany: Nestle to acquire majority stake in Ankerkraut
Nestle has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in the German innovative spice mixes maker Ankerkraut, as the European private-equity firm EMZ Partners exits the German business. According to sources, the acquisition is part of the transformation of Nestle’s portfolio acquiring businesses with attractive growth prospects on consumer trends. “Our partnership with EMZ saw Ankerkraut go from strength to strength, and we thank …
UK: Kestrel Foods acquires Just Live a Little Granola
Northern Irish food manufacturer Kestrel Foods has announced the acquisition of non-HFSS granola brand, Just Live a Little Granola. Just Live a Little Granola will be joining Kestrel Foods’ portfolio which includes the Forest Feast and Acti-Snack brands as well as producing private label products in order ‘to continue its growth within the plant-based arena’. After the investment Kestrel Foods will be able to …
USA: Constellation Brands buys remaining stake in Austin Cocktails
Constellation Brands, a leading beverage alcohol company has acquired the remaining interest in ready-to-drink cocktail company, Austin Cocktails, from Austin, Texas. The female-founded Austin Cocktails is said to be rapidly growing and to be famous for its premium, award-winning bottled and canned craft cocktails. According to sources, Constellation Brands’ investment in Austin Cocktails started back in 2018 as part of Constellation Ventures’ Focus on …
Canada: Taylor Farms opens new facility
Leading North American producer of salads and healthy fresh foods, Taylor Farms, has announced the opening of a new facility in Toronto, Canada. According to sources, the new production facility will allow Canadian consumers to have access to Taylor Farms fresh products and, at the same time, it will support local growers and the job market. Kevin Silver, general manager of Taylor Farms Canada …
USA: Mars Wrigley invests $175 million in manufacturing facility
Global confectionery giant Mars Wrigley has announced the investment of $175 million in the expansion of its chocolate manufacturing facility in Kansas. According to sources, the expansion plans include increasing the production of Snickers products as well as introducing two other confectionery bars to manufacture at the facility: Milky Way and 3 Musketeers. Additionally, it will include new equipment to improve the efficiency of …
UK: Post-Holdings acquires Lacka Foods
UK-based Post Holdings, Weetabix breakfast cereal maker, has acquired UFit protein shakes brand owner Lacka Foods. Founded in 2012, Lacka Foods manufactures high-protein and high-fibre shakes fortified with vitamins and minerals that also include a range of vegan, plant-based options made with pea protein and coconut milk. According to sources, the company will operate independently after the transaction and no changes will be made …
UK: Diageo acquires 21Seeds
Alcoholic drinks firm Diageo has announced the acquisition of 21Seeds, a rapidly growing flavoured tequila infused with real fruit juice brand. According to sources, 21 Seeds was founded in 2019 by three female entrepreneurs, Kat Hantas, Nicole Emanuel, and Sarika Singh with the goal of creating great-tasting, smooth spirits with a light touch flavour, easy to mix and enjoy. After the deal, they will …
Germany: Lactalis to acquire BMI dairy assets
French dairy company Lactalis has entered into an agreement to acquire dairy businesses and brands of German company Bayerische Milchindustrie eG (BMI). According to sources, the agreement includes the firm’s production of fresh milk, yoghurt, quark, cream and ayran – a yoghurt beverage – as well as the manufacturing site in Wurzburg, Bavaria. BMI currently operates seven production facilities in Bavaria and Saxony-Anhalt and …
Australia: Proper Crisps opens new manufacturing plant
Proper Crisps, a New Zealand crisps brand, has announced the opening of a new manufacturing plant in Yarra Valley, near Melbourne, to manufacture its crisps using Australian potatoes. According to sources, Proper Crisps has been selling New Zealand made crisps in Australia since 2019 and the demand for their products in Australia doubled in 2021. With this investment, the firm is aiming to continue …
Japan: Maruha Nichiro invests in Happi Foodi
Maruha Nichiro, a seafood processor, has announced that it has invested in US based frozen-food business Happi Foodi. Happi Foodi, which was originally a producer of Belgian waffles called Waffle Waffle. was renamed Happi Foodi after a rebranding in 2018, as it started to diversify, producing frozen ready meals, pizza, snacks, and appetisers. According to sources, Happy Foodi supplies its products to retail chains …
USA: Coca-Cola launches pixel flavoured drink
Soft drinks giant Coca-Cola has announced the launch of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Bite, the second drink from Coca-Cola Creations and the first Coca-Cola flavour born in the metaverse, released to physical retail afterwards. According to sources, the limited-edition drink will be introduced digitally on an island created in Fortnight Creative and it will be sold in twin packs – one can drink and the …
UK: Fox’s Biscuits and Burton’s Biscuits to merge
UK based biscuit companies Fox’s Biscuits and Burton’s Biscuits, owned by Ferrero, are merging into a single business called Fox’s Burton’s Companies UK. According to sources, on the 28th March 2022, the two firms merged and will now be led by Simon Browne, the previous head of Burton’s Biscuits. Simon Browne said: “After many years of looking at one another, we are excited about …
UK: Lidl to open the largest Distribution Centre in Luton
German discount retailer Lidl has announced that it is opening a distribution centre in Luton, UK. The construction of the new 1.2million sq ft Lidl Regional Distribution Centre (RDC) is said to have started last year and the retailer is now looking to recruit warehouses jobs and expects to employ 1,200 people by 2025. Vacancies for operation managers to support roles in HR and …
South Korea: Diageo to sell Windsor business to Bayside/Metis
UK based multinational firm Diageo, producer of alcoholic beverages, has announced the agreement to sell its premium Scotch whisky brand, Windsor, to Bayside/Metis, a South Korean private equity group. According to sources, the agreement includes the brand’s W Series, and Bayside Private Equity and Metis Private Equity consortium are purchasing it for the price of KRW 200 billion (around $164 million). Sam Fischer, president …
South Africa: Tiger Brands to invest in Herbivore Earthfoods
South African consumer goods firm Tiger Brands has announced the investment in Herbivore Earthfoods, a producer of plant-based and vegan products. According to sources, Herbivore Earthfoods produces a vast range of alternative dairy and meat substitute products. This investment will allow Tiger Brands to reach new consumers looking for products that are healthier, with high nutritional benefits, and plant-based meat products, a type of …
USA: Local Bounti acquires Hollandia Produce Group
US based Indoor farming company Local Bounti has announced that it is acquiring the rival indoor farming company Hollandia Produce Group for $122.5 million. According to sources, the acquisition of Hollandia, which sells its products under the Pete’s brand name, may offer financial stability to Local Bounti as the Hollandia’s revenue totaled $22.7 million in 2021 with the gross margins reaching 45%, whereas Local …
UK: 2 Sisters Food Group acquires Banham Poultry
UK chicken giant 2 Sisters Food Group has recently acquired British poultry producer Banham Poultry. According to sources, the Competition and Markets Authority announced that it had rubber-stamped the deal on the 25th March 2022, after a merger inquiry back in January on the initial review of the purchase. Ranjit Singh Boparan, CEO of 2 Sisters Food Group, made a move to purchase Banham …
UK: PZ Cussons acquires Childs Farm
Consumer goods firm PZ Cussons has announced the acquisition of Childs Farm, the UK’s leading baby and children’s personal care brand. According to sources, after the investment, the maker of Carex soap and Original Source shower gel PZ Cussons will hold a 92% stake in Childs Farm for a total of £36.8 million ($48.5 million). Childs Farm portfolio includes bath and shower, skincare, and …
Canada: Walmart to build high-tech fulfillment centre
US-based retailer Walmart Canada is investing over $118 million to build a high-tech fulfillment centre in Alberta, Canada. According to sources, the 430,000 sq. ft warehouse, located in Rock View County, will be a delivery hub for orders in Western Canada. The investment is said to be part of the retailer’s strategy to improve shopping experiences both online and in-store and will allow the …
France: Coca-Cola invests in manufacturing site
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has announced an investment of €30 million ($32 million) to create a new production line in its manufacturing facility located in Dunkirk, France. According to Coca-Cola, the site produces a wide range of packs and sizes, and also produces aseptic, which is needed to make still drinks. François Gay-Bellile, CEO of CCEP France said: “Coca-Cola has been produced in France for …
USA: Goode Partners to invest $30 million in Jocko Fuel
Private equity firm Goode Partners has announced a minority investment of $30 million in Jocko Fuel a provider of premium sport and lifestyle nutritional products. Founded in 2017, Jocko Fuel is a provider of a broad range of premium sports nutrition products, that focus on clean, natural, and functional ingredients offered in several formats such as clean energy drinks, powders, and capsules. “The strategic …
Canada: Diageo to build carbon-neutral Crown Royal distillery in Ontario
Diageo, the leading alcoholic drinks company, has announced the opening of a CAD$245 million ($194million) carbon neutral distillery in Ontario to support the growth ambitions for its Crown Royal Canadian whisky brand. The new distillery will be built according to Diageo’s ‘Society 2030:Spirit of Progress’ sustainability action plan which will operate with 100% renewable energy. It will have the capacity to produce up to 20 …
Poland: Ocado to partner with Auchan Poland to develop online business
Digital grocery specialist Ocado has announced its partnership with Auchan Poland to help the retailer develop the online business using the Ocado Smart Platform. Ocado and Auchan Poland will build a customer fulfillment centre in Warsaw starting in 2024, with more centres to be built after that. Ocado said that Auchan will benefit from its in-store fulfillment software that will enable more efficient picking …
USA: Nestle to invests $675 million to build a factory in Arizona
Nestle USA has announced an investment of $675 million to build a new factory in Glendale Arizona to meet the growing demand for its products. The new facility will produce creamers for Nestle’s category-leading portfolio, including the Coffee mate, Coffee mate natural bliss, and Starbucks brands. “Beverages play an increasingly important role in the lives of consumers, a trend that’s been accelerated by the …
USA: LT Foods to acquire Golden Star Trading
Global food company LT Foods through its subsidiary LT Foods Americas has acquired a 51% controlling stake in Golden Star Trading Inc. along with its brand Golden Star. Golden Star Trading is an American company that markets jasmine rice products under the Golden Star brand being all GMO free, gluten free, and natural and/or organic. With the acquisition, LT foods will be able to …
India: Fonterra and Future Consumer end partnership
New Zealand dairy firm Fonterra and Indian food-led FMCG company Future Consumer have agreed to end their dairy joint venture in India. Fonterra is a global dairy nutrition company owned by 10,000 farmers and their families, united by a fundamental belief in the power of dairy to make a difference, while Future Consumer builds brands for India’s Fast Moving Consumer Generation. The joint venture …
USA: PepsiCo to invest $260 million to expand facility in Georgia
PepsiCo, the global snacks and drinks giant, has announced the investment of $260 million in its manufacturing facility in the city of Tucker, Georgia. The expansion will create about 136 new full time jobs, bringing up PepsiCo’s total workforce in DeKalb county to over 600. The facility will be expanded by more than 260,000 sq feet as well as is expected to increase production …
Netherlands: Group of Butchers to acquire Menken Keuken
The market-leading provider of premium artisanal meat products, Group of Butchers, has announced the acquisition of Menken Keuken. The acquisition will allow Group of Butchers to expand its portfolio of private label products with the addition of salads, dips, and tapas. Founder in 1997, Group of Butchers supplies meat products, ready meals vegetarian products, soups, and salads to supermarkets in the Netherlands, Germany, and …
UK: Real Drinks Group to acquire Beer Britannia
Real Drinks Group, known for bringing its innovative drinks to the market, has acquired the UK beer specialist distributor Beer Britannia for an undisclosed sum. The Real Drink Group will continue to curate, supply, and package branded and private label drinks, while Beer Britannia will complement and expand the offering of Real Drink Group into the off trade market across supermarkets, convenience stores, and …
UK: Little Moons sells minority stake to L Catterton European fund
Little Moons company, a family-run ice cream premium company, has sold a significant minority shareholding to private-equity firm L Catterton, for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 2010, Little Moons produces “ice cream from another world”, bite-sized balls of artisanal gelato wrapped in a layer of mochi dough without preservatives or artificial ingredients. Howard Wong, co-founder of Little Moons said, “This transaction marks an exciting …
Israel: Carrefour to enter Israel in partnership with Electra Consumer Product
Global retail giant Carrefour has announced a partnership with Electra Consumer Products and its subsidiary Yenot Bitan as part of its expansion strategy. This partnership will allow the global retailer to open stores under the Carrefour banner in Israel before the end of 2022 and will allow the sale of Carrefour branded products in more than 150 Yenot Bitan stores before summertime. Zvika Schwimmer, …
USA: Kroger partners with Impossible Foods to develop plant-based products
Kroger, the leading US grocery retailer, has announced a partnership with plant-based food developer Impossible Foods to expand Kroger’s meat-free offering under the private label Home Chef brand, according to a Food Business News report. The Home Chef brand, which Kroger acquired in 2018, is said to encompass more than 500 products including ready meals, meal kits, and ready-to-eat products. Commenting on the partnership, …
USA: Fermented Food Holdings acquires fermented food brands Wildbrine and Bubbles
Fermented Food Holdings, a recently-established specialist food company that aspires to become a category leader, has announced it has acquired the Californian food brands Wildbrine and Bubbies. Both companies produce fermented produce ranging from pickles and sauerkraut to kimchi and salsa, Fermented Food Holdings said. Wildbrine has also recently released a new WildCreamery brand with the aim of producing cultured plant-based dairy alternatives. Commenting …
USA: Diageo opens new FAB canning facility in Illinois
The North American subsidiary of alcoholic drinks multinational Diageo has invested $110 million in a new 25,000 sq ft facility for canned flavoured alcoholic beverages (FABs) in Plainfield, Il, USA to supplement existing ready-to-drink production in the area. According to Diageo, the new facility has two high-speed lines with capacity to produce more than 25 million cases of malt-based beverages and spirit-based ready-to-drink (RTD) …
USA: Rowdy Energy launches ‘calorie-burning’ energy drink
Rowdy Energy, a US-based manufacturer of energy drinks, has announced the launch of Power Burn, a new product that is claimed to burn up 135 calories per can, in addition to having energising benefits. Launched in Pink Lemonade, Pineapple Passionfruit, Mango Dragonfruit, and Watermelon varieties, Power Burn energy drink is described as containing only 5 calories per can and as providing 160mg of natural …
Finland: Gold&Green Foods to be acquired by Valio
Leading Finnish food firm Valio has announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire Gold&Green, known for the Pulled Oats plant protein brand, from food and drinks firm Paulig for an undisclosed sum. The agreement includes all the rights to the Gold&Green brand, intellectual property, and research and development, but does not include other Gold&Green Foods operations or the Gold&Green Foods production site …
USA: Breakthru Beverage Group to acquire JJ Taylor’s Minnesota business
US-based alcoholic drinks firm Breakthru Beverage Group has announced it has signed an agreement with beer distributor JJ Taylor to acquire and integrate the latter’s business in Minnesota. The move will strengthen the company’s position as it continues to expand its range of services and products, Breakthru Beverage Group said. The acquisition is expected to close later this spring season, and will also offer …
Italy: Heineken to invest €73 million in Italian facility
Heineken, the multinational Dutch brewer, has announced the investment of €73 million in Italy to modernise and expand its brewery in Assemiri, Cagliari. The investment will be used to renovate the existing machinery and add new three warehouses to store material and products. According to sources, the investment will support the growth of the beer production in Sardinia, with a positive impact on both, …
USA: Riviana Foods to acquire InHarvest for $48.75 million
Leading Spanish company Ebro Foods through its American subsidiary Riviana Foods has reached an agreement to purchase the assets of InHasvest for $48.75 million. InHarvest is a premier provider of rice, rice blends, exotic grains, & legumes with a strong presence in the industrial (B2B), Food Service, and Private Label businesses. The deal includes two production plants in California with a workforce of 140 …
Brazil: Nestle to invest over BRL$1.8 billion in 2022
FMCG multinational Nestle has announced plans to invest over BRL$1.8 billion ($352.9 million) in Brazil this year. According to sources, 40% of this investment is planned to be applied to a new plant, located in Vargeao (Santa Catarina), to produce Nestle Purina products. The new factory is already under construction since January this year. The company also plans to invest BRL$1.1 billion ($215 million) …
Germany: Henkel to merge Laundry & Home Care and Beauty Care
German household and personal care giant Henkel has announced the merger of its Laundry & Home Care and Beauty Care businesses into one unit, in a press release reporting its annual results and growth agenda. According to Henkel, the new Henkel Consumer Brands business unit will create a ‘multi-category platform’ for the consumer business under one roof. The integration is said to have already …
USA: Kraft Heinz announces partnership with TheNotCompany
Multinational FMCG firm, The Kraft Heinz Company, has announced a joint venture with food tech start-up TheNotCompany in order to accelerate plant-based innovation globally. According to Kraft Heinz, the partnership’s goal is to reimagine food production and move toward a more sustainable future. By forming the partnership, the companies will be able to join forces to develop new plant-based co-branded versions of products, using …
USA: Coca-Cola launches space-inspired drink
Multinational drinks company, The Coca-Cola Company, has announced the launch of a space-inspired drink, under the Coca-Cola Starlight brand name. According to the company, the limited-edition series, part of its global innovation platform Coca-Cola Creations, was inspired by ‘the infinite possibilities of space’, and it fuses the signature Coca-Cola flavour with ‘unexpected touches, including a reddish hue and cooling taste sensation evoking the feeling …
Germany: Rewe to invest €5 billion to expand international business
German retailer, Rewe Group has announced its plan to invest €5 billion between 2021 and 2025 to expand its international business. According to sources, the company’s target is to increase organic gross sales to more than €20 billion by 2025, and the number of stores to around 5,000. At the moment, Rewe counts with about 4,500 stores spread in Austria, the Czech Republic, Italy …
USA: Golden Grail to acquire children’ beverage Tickle Water
Golden Grail, a fast-growing company in the beverage sector, has announced the acquisition of Tickle Water, an innovative, premium sparkling water created for children, for an undisclosed amount. Founded in 2016, Tickle Water is a naturally flavoured sparkling water free from GMOs, gluten, sugar, sodium, calories, sweeteners, preservatives, and also Kosher certificated, available in four flavours, orange mango, watermelon, grape, and green apple. “Tickle …
Indonesia: Mondelez to invest $23 million to expand Oreo production facility
Mondelez International, the snack and confectionery multinational, has announced it has completed a $23 million expansion of its Oreo facility in Indonesia. The investment will increase the production capacity of the biscuits factory, by using the latest technologies, to meet the growing demand of consumers in 35 countries across Southeast Asia and the broader Asia Pacific and Middle East region. “I am very proud …
USA: Peak Rock Capital affiliate to acquire Ziyad Brothers
Peak Rock Capital affiliate has announced the acquisition of Ziyad Brothers, a Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food distributor. Peak Rock Capital is a leading middle-market private investment firm that makes equity and debt investments in companies in North America and Europe. “Ziyad represents a unique opportunity to invest in an exceptional business and team that has differentiated itself as the unparalleled authority on Middle …
Canada: GFI to acquire plant-based milk and snack brand YoFiit
Global Food and Ingredients (GFI) has announced the acquisition of Your Fitness Dish, a premium plant-based milk, and snack food company operating under the YoFiit brand. YoFiit is a manufacturer of high protein plant-based milk made with chickpeas, pea protein, and flax oil, and high protein plant-based and low sugar bars and granola. “We are very pleased to accelerate our plans to expand into …
Switzerland: Aryzta to double Malaysian bakery capacity
International bakery company Aryzta has doubled its manufacturing capacity in Malaysia by acquiring the bakery, equipment, and the corresponding land of co-manufacturer De-Luxe Food Services from Envictus International Holdings. The option to acquire the assets was part of the original agreement with Envictus, and it doubles the company’s manufacturing capacity in breads, buns, and pastries, which will help to meet its growing customer demands …
Ireland: Ornua to expand offering in Middle East and Africa
Ornua, the Irish dairy cooperative, has announced plans to expand its product offering into the Middle East and Africa. The company has announced the launch of Kerrygold butter sticks, in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Jordan. The dairy product is made from the milk of grass-fed cows and offered in a format of 100g. Ornua will also launch a new pizza cheese range targeted at …
Denmark: Dagrofa Group to invest in network expansion
Dagrofa Group, the parent company of Spar Denmark, has announced the investment of DKK 450 million ($68.35 million) over the next three years in three of its retail chains, including Spar Denmark. The plan includes the development of a new retailer model to attract more independent retailers, where the new license model will be based on shared earnings with retailers and support retail development. …
Canada: Above Food to acquire Sonic Milling Systems
Canadian plant-based company Above Food, has announced the acquisition of Sonic Milling Systems, a food technology company focused on developing processing techniques for plant-based ingredients and products. Sonic Milling uses water and pressure to create microscopic air bubbles capable of breaking apart a diverse range of ingredients such as grain, pulses, fruits, and vegetables into clean-label liquids and sauces without the need for stabilizers …
Turkey: Azelis to acquire ingredient manufacturer Tunçkaya
Azelis, a leading provider of food and chemical ingredients, has announced the acquisition of Tunckaya, a distributor of food ingredients and additives in Turkey. According to Azelis’ press release, the acquisition strengthens its position in the fast-growing Turkish market for food. “We’re very happy to bring Tunçkaya into the Azelis family. Their strong relationships in the food market and general market position is a …
Pakistan: FrieslandCampina Engro Pakistan to launch Pakistan–Netherlands Dairy Development Centre
FrieslandCampina Engro (FCE) has announced the launch of the Pakistan-Netherlands Dairy Development Centre in collaboration with the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences. According to the company’s press release, the centre will focus on sharing Dutch dairy expertise with Pakistani experts and decision-makers in dairy research and the dairy industry. The centre will offer conferences, training, research projects, PhD development, experience visits and policy …
USA: Heaven Hill to acquire Samson & Surrey
Heaven Hill, a large, independent, family-owned, and operated distilled spirits supplier, has acquired Samson & Surrey a premium spirits company, owner of a wide portfolio of craft whiskey brands for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition expands Heaven Hill’s portfolio with six high-growth, super-premium brands, Tequila Ocho, Widow Jane American Whiskey, FEW Spirits, Brenne French Whisky, Bluecoat Gin and Mezcal Vago, and facilities. “Throughout our …
Switzerland: Nestle Health Science to acquire majority stake in Orgain
Nestle Health Science, a business unit of Nestle SA, has acquired the majority stake in Orgain, a leading company in the plant-based nutrition business. According to Nestle’s press release, the acquisition will complement Nestle Health Science’s portfolio of nutrition products. Founder in 2009, Orgain makes protein-based shakes, powders, and snacks based on the belief that everyone deserves access to good, clean nutrition. “Nutritional protein …
USA: Benestar Brands to acquisition 4505 Meats
Leading salty snacks company with operations across the US and Mexico, Benestar Brands, has announced the acquisition of pork rind producer 4505 Meats. The acquisition will expand the wide portfolio of brands that Benestar owns in the snack category. 4505 Meats offers keto-friendly and paleo-certified meat snacks that it says are made prioritizing quality and using all-natural ingredients and responsibly raised meats. The company’s …
India: Healthways to opens new site in Gorakhpur
Healthways Dairy & Food products, one of India’s emerging dairy companies, has opened a new dairy facility in Gorakhpur to meet the demand of consumers in the region. According to sources, the new dairy facility, which has been equipped with best-in-class technology, will cut the journey and will make more accessible dairy products to the people of Gorakhpur and neighboring areas. Healthways Managing Director …
UK: Tesco to close Jack’s discount stores
UK-based supermarket chain Tesco has announced the closure of seven of its 13 Jack’s discount stores, while the other six remaining outlets will become Tesco stores. Tesco opened Jack’s store in 2018 with the promise to be “the cheapest in town” to win back shoppers from German discount stores Aldi and Lidl. According to sources, Tesco will try to find alternative roles for the …
Mexico: Industrias Bachoco to acquire RYC Alimentos
Mexican leading poultry processor, Industrias Bachoco has announced the acquisition of RYC Alimentos, a multi-protein meat processor, and distributor. The deal includes two processing facilities and around 21 stores located in four states of the Mexican Republic. Founded in 1983, RYC is a market leader in the meat industry, distributing premium quality food products in Mexico and part of the United States with a …
Canada: Leclerc Foods to open facility in Ontario
Canada-based cookies, crackers, and bars manufacturer Leclerc Foods has announced the acquisition of a 790,197 square-foot production facility in Brockville, Ontario. The acquisition is part of the company’s strategy to expand the business where C$100 million will be invested over the next five years and 200 new jobs will be created within the first two years of operation. The facility will be Leclerc’s largest …
UK: Unilever to cut 1,500 management jobs
Unilever, the multinational consumer goods giant has announced it will cut 1,500 management jobs globally as part of the changes in its organisation model. The company’s re-organisation comes under intense pressure from shareholders to boost growth. Unilever will move from three to five distinct business groups: beauty & wellbeing, personal care, home care, nutrition, and ice cream. It will reduce its senior management roles …
Saudi Arabia: Kerry Group to open a new facility in Saudi Arabia
Global food manufacturer Kerry Group has expanded operations in Saudi Arabia with the opening of a new 21,500-square-foot facility at the Jeddah site. The new facility, which is Kerry’s largest in the Middle East, Nort Africa can Turkey (MENAT) region, employs 130 people, and it will help companies to meet the growing consumer demand for healthier and more sustainable food and beverages. “Today’s consumer-led …
UK: Diageo to sell Meta Abo Brewery to BGI in Ethiopia
Diageo, the leading alcoholic drinks company, has entered into an agreement to sell its Ethiopian brewery Meta Abo Brewery to BGI, a subsidiary of the French multinational Casteel Group. Meta Abo Brewery was acquired by Diageo in 2012 for US$225 million, and since then, the company has invested US$344 million to expand and transform the brewery industry in Ethiopia. The company brews bottled and draught beer …
Canada: Eat Beyond to acquire Mylk Brands
Eat Beyond Global, an investment issuer focused on innovative food tech as well as plant-based and alternative food products, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Mylk Brands owner of Banana Wave for C$11.5 million. US-based, Banana Waves has a portfolio of five gluten-free, soy-free, and non-GMO beverages made from oats and real banana. All varieties have 90 calories or fewer and contain vitamin …
USA: C.H. Guenther & Son to acquire Baldinger and Sons bakeries
Branded and private label food multinational C.H. Guenther has announced the acquisition of Baldinger-Sons bakeries for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition of Minnesota-based Baldinger bakery and Canada-based Sons bakery will help C.H. Guenther & Son to expand its bakery manufacturing capacity and strengthen relationships with quick-service restaurant customers. Founded in 1888, Baldinger bakes hamburger buns, rolls, bagels, and other bakery items for multinational quick-service …
USA: Vintage Wine Estates to buy Meier’s Beverage Group
Winery company Vintage Wine Estates has announced the acquisition of Meier’s Wine Cellars, doing business as Meier’s Beverage Group. Founded in 1895, Meier’s is a leading producer, bottler, importer, and marketer of specialty beverage alcohol and non-alcohol products. The company owns a bonded winery, brewery, and distilled spirits plant with processing, blending and bottling capabilities for a broad variety of beverage alcohol and non-alcoholic products, including …
USA: DouxMatok to partner with Blommer to product reduced-sugar chocolate
Israeli-based food tech company DouxMatok has partnered with Blommer Chocolate to produce and sell a portfolio of chocolate products made with significantly less sugar content. DouxMatok offers sugar-based sugar-reduction solutions in response to consumers’ clear preference for taste and growing demand for healthier foods. The company produces Incredo Sugar, a product made from real cane or beet sugar, which allows for up to 50% …
UK: Aldi to open first Shop&Go store in London
German discount retail giant Aldi has opened its first Shop&Go store in London which uses state-of-the-art technology to allow customers to shop without scanning the products or going through the checkout. To use the checkout-free store, customers will have to download the Aldi Shop&Go app and register an account which will allow them to enter the store and pick up the products. Once the …
USA: Planting Hope Company to acquire RightRice from Betterer Foods
Planting Hope Company, a manufacturer of plant-based food and beverages, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Betterer Foods, the producer of legume-based rice alternative RightRice, for $7 million. RightRice is a shelf-stable, non-GMO, gluten-free, plant-based, and kosher vegetable grain that is a blend of over 90 percent vegetables, including lentils, chickpeas, green peas, and rice, that delivers on both taste and nutrition. …
USA: Welch Foods to expand facility in Michigan
Global food manufacturer Welch Foods has announced plans to invest $26.3 million to expand its facility in Michigan. As part of the expansion, Welch’s will build a new bottling line to meet the increasing demand for single-serve beverages, creating up to 57 new jobs. “Welch’s is pleased that our close partnership with UFCW Local 825 has enabled us to commit to this investment, which …
USA: US Beverage to form joint venture to acquire Uinta Brewing
American leading beverage company has announced that it has formed a joint venture to acquire independent craft brewer Uinta Brewing for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 1993, Uinta produces award-winning beers in a wide variety of styles and flavours. “Uinta is a strong brand with a state-of-the-art brewery. The team and culture that has been developed over the years is second to none in …
USA: Simmons Foods to expand facility in Arkansas
Simmons Foods has announced its plans to invest $100 million in the expansion of its prepared food facility in Arkansas. The expansion will meet the growing demand for cooked products at the same time that supports the local economy. The 65,000-square-foot expansion of the existing facility will add two automated production and packaging lines, creating 100 new jobs, including highly skilled positions to support …
UK: Regal Food Products Group to buy Just Desserts
Yorkshire-based food company Regal Food Products Group has announced the acquisition of premium dessert manufacturer Just Desserts for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 1985, Just Desserts bakes over 130 hand-crafted desserts and cakes including tarts, cheesecakes, and gateaux distributed throughout the foodservice industry. Younis Chaudhry, CEO of Regal Food Products Group, commented: “We immediately recognised a business that presented itself with opportunity, not just …
Canada: Regal Confections to acquire Kisko Products
Canadian leading distributors of global candy and chocolate confectionery brands Regal Confections has acquired local ice lolly firm Kisko Products for an undisclosed sum. Kisko is a manufacturer of freezer pops owning brands such as Mr. Freeze, Kisko and Mrs. J’s Natural, and licensed brands including Welch’s, Mott’s, and Crush. Mark Josephs, President of Kisko Products said, “We are incredibly proud of the impact …
USA: MidOcean Partners to acquire Casper’s Ice Cream company
Private equity firm MidOcean Partners has announced the acquisition of Casper’s Ice Cream, a manufacturer and distributor of frozen novelty and ice cream products in the United States. Founded in 1925, Casper’s Ice Cream produces a wide range of frozen products including ice cream sandwiches, cones, bars, sticks, cups, and other formats under brands such as FatBoy, Jolly Llama, and ChurnBaby. Daniel Penn, Managing …
USA: Constellation Brands to partner with Coca-Cola to launch alcoholic beverage
Leading beverage alcohol company Constellation Brands has entered into an agreement with The Coca-Cola Company in the United States to bring the Fresca brand into the beverage alcohol sector. The partnership will launch a new product this year, the new Fresca Mix, a distinctive line of spirit-based, ready-to-drink cocktails. “The Coca-Cola Company’s FRESCA® brand is not only trusted by consumers, but also directly delivers …
Canada: AB InBev to launch Corona Sunbrew a non-alcoholic beer with vitamin D
AB InBev-owned beer company Corona is launching Corona Sunbrew an innovative non-alcoholic beer which vitamin D. The ‘innovative, first-of-its-kind, non-alcoholic beer’ is said to contain 30% of the daily value of vitamin D in 330ml serving. The new Corona Sunbrew beer is made by extracting alcohol from Corona Extra and then blending the non-alcoholic beer with vitamin D and natural flavours. Felipe Ambra, global …
Netherlands: Schouten Europe to buy Nijland Food
Dutch family business of meat and alternative products, Schouten Europe, has announced the acquisition of Nijland Food from Goor, which recently declared bankruptcy. Both companies have been working together for twelve years, Nijland has been packaging products for Schouten and has also produced some Schouten products. According to sources, the acquisition of Nijland does not mean that Schouten will produce and package all its …
Gama News – October – December 2021
The October – December 2021 edition of Gama News is now available. In this edition: o Innovation Insight: Dug Potato-Based Milk o Gama Innovation Conference & Awards 2021 o Look Ahead: Saeed Al Mansouri, SIAL Middle East 2021 CLICK HERE to read it now.
USA: JM Smucker to sell natural beverages and grain business
US food and beverages manufacturer JM Smucker has entered into an agreement to sell its natural and organic beverage and grains businesses to Nexus Capital for $110 million. The sale includes assets of RW Knudsen and TruRoots brands, a licensing agreement for Santa Cruz Organic beverages and manufacturing facilities in Chico, California, and Havre de Grace, Maryland. Tina Floyd, vice president and general manager …
USA: The Urgent Company to acquire Coolhaus ice cream
Perfect Day a subsidiary of The Urgent Company has announced the acquisition of US-based ice cream maker Coolhaus and announced plans to turn it into an animal-free brand. Coolhaus is a leading women-owned ice cream brand and a pioneer in dessert innovation and novelties with its thoughtfully-crafted, super-premium, and innovative ice cream and plant-based frozen desserts. “Bringing together our social and climate missions is …
Finland: Fazer to acquire plant-producer Trensums Food
Fazer, the leading Finnish bakery and confectionery firm, has announced the acquisition of the Swedish plant-based drink producer Trensums Food from Profuragruppen for an undisclosed sum. Trensums Food is a growth company and a leading oat drink producer in Europe, the company was the first in the world to commercially produce oat drinks selling its products to a large part of the world. The …
USA: Hain Celestial to acquire That’s How We Roll brands
Hain Celestial, a North American organic and natural products company, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire That’s How We Roll brands, ParmCrisps and Thinsters, for approximately $259 million. ParmCrisps and Thinsters are better-for-you brands made of simple ingredients. While ParmCrisps are high-protein, low-carb cheese crisps and snack mixes, Thinsters are crispy thin cookies made from high-quality, non-GMO ingredients. “We …
Milk alternatives bet on the power of potato
The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass MANCHESTER – 16th December 2021: This month’s Innovation Insight shines a spotlight on a launch looking to shake up the dairy alternatives category through the power of the humble potato – Dug Potato-Based Milk. Recently launched by Sweden’s Veg of Lund and positioned as “the most sustainable alternative” to conventional milk on the market, Dug Potato-Based Milk sees …
Italy: JBS to acquire King’s Group and Principe charcuterie brands
Global protein-based food company, JBS, has entered into an agreement to acquire King’s Group by its subsidiary Rigamonti. The deal will help JBS to strengthen its presence in the United States and Europe. With an investment of €82 million (US$ 92.5 million), the company acquires four plants in Italy and the entire operation of Principe in the United States, having a portfolio and structure …
Indonesia: Yili Group to open a new facility in Indonesia
Asian dairy producer has opened a $139 million ice cream facility which will become the country’s largest ice cream factory in Indonesia. The facility will have a daily production capacity of four million ice cream to meet the increasing demand for Joyday ice cream products, and it is expected to create more than 5,000 new jobs. “Local consumers’ clear preference for and trust in …
Germany: Kraft Heinz to acquire majority stake in Just Spices
Multinational food company The Kraft Heinz Company has announced the acquisition of an 85% stake in German-based company Just Spices for an undisclosed sum. According to sources, the remaining 15% ownership stake in Just Spices will be retained by its three founders who will remain with the company once the acquisition is complete. Founded in 2014, Just Spices is a manufacturer of spices blends …
Mexico: Constellation Brands to build a brewery in Mexico
Constellation Brands, the leading international beer, wine and spirits firm, has announced plans to build a brewery in southeastern Mexico with an estimated cost of $1.3 billion. The announcement comes two years after the closure of a nearly completed $1.4 billion plant in the city of Mexicali near the US-Mexico border after residents voted against the project. According to sources, the announcement of the …
Ireland: McCain Food to invest in Strong Roots
Potato and frozen food specialist McCain Foods has announced the investment of $55 million for a minority stake in Strong Roots, a plant-based frozen food company based in Ireland. The partnership will allow both companies to meet the rising consumer demand for healthy and natural food products. Strong Roots will continue to operate independently however will use McCain Foods’ global presence to expand its …
UK: Brothers Drinks to reacquire Babycham brand from Accolade Wines
Brothers Drinks Co has reached an agreement with Accolate Wines to reacquire the sparkling perry brand Babycham. Launched in 1953 and invented by Francis Showering, who helped start Brothers Drinks, Babycham was a popular alcoholic drink during the 60s and 70s described as a light, sparkling perry made from pear and soda water and has an ABV of 6%. “We are proud to welcome …
UK: AG Barr to acquire Moma Foods
British soft drink maker AG Barr has entered into an agreement to acquire a 60% majority stake in plant-based milk manufacturer Moma Foods and plans to take full ownership of the company over the next three years. Founded in 2006, Moma is a manufacturer of dairy-free oat milk, bircher muesli, porridge, and low-sugar granola. Tom Mercer, founder, and chief executive at MOMA Foods, said: …
Germany: Beiersdorf to introduce eco-friendly aerosol can for Nivea Ecodeo range
German health and beauty company Beiersdorf has introduced a more climate-friendly aerosol valve system for its Nivea Ecodeo products as well as a range of 100% recycled aluminium cans. Some of the Nivea Men deodorants and most of the Nivea Men shaving gels will be available in this type of climate-friendlier packaging on the European market. Beiersdorf teamed up with the UK-based company, Salford Valve …
USA: Planterra Foods to open a new manufacturing facility in Denver
JBS owned Planterra Foods has announced the opening of a new 189,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Denver. The new facility will increase Planterra’s production capacity of plant-based protein products, allowing the brand to reach new customers and retailers and it will generate 200 new jobs. “This is a huge milestone for Planterra Foods, and a dream come true to be manufacturing our OZO products here …
Spain: Ferrero to acquire remaining share of ICFC
Italian confectionery group Ferrero has announced the acquisition of remaining shares of the Ice Cream Factory Comaker and relevant group companies (ICFC). Ferrero initially acquired a controlling stake in ICFC in July 2019, to support its long-term strategic goals in the ice cream market. ICFC is a company specialised in private label ice creams distributing its product to several countries. According to the company’s …
Ireland: Tesco to acquire Joyce’s supermarkets
Supermarket chain Tesco Ireland has announced the acquisition of ten Joyce’s supermarkets based in Galway for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition is the first significant investment made by Tesco since it entered the Irish market in 1997 and it is part of its strategy to grow its store’s footprint bringing quality and value to more customers. The stores will be rebranded as Tesco stores …
USA: Hungry Squirrel to open a new facility in Texas
Keto-friendly sauce and dressing company, Hungry Squirrel, has announced the opening of a new facility in Texas. The new facility will help the company to expand operations and serve the growing demand for keto-friendly all-natural products created for people with food limitations. Founder and CEO of Hungry Squirrel, Sandra DiCicco commented, “We are very excited to open our newest location in the great state …
Philippines: Universal Robina to acquire Munchy Food Industries
Philippines-based food and drink company Universal Robina Corporation (URC) has announced the acquisition of Munchy Food Industries for MYR 1.93 billion (approx. $453.8 million). Founded in 1991, Munchy Food Industries is a Malaysian- based biscuits manufacture with a wide portfolio of brands such as Munchy’s Cream Crackers, Lexus Cream Sandwich, Oat Krunch, Muzic Wafer, and Choc-O cookies, selling its product in over 50 countries …
Look Ahead: Saeed Al Mansoori, SIAL Middle East 2021
Gama spoke to Saeed Al Mansoori, Executive Director of Capital Events LLC at ADNEC Group, ahead of the 2021 edition of SIAL Middle East. What are your expectations for the 11th edition of SIAL Middle East? We are very much looking forward to the 11th edition of SIAL ME and welcoming people to ADNEC once again. The event is the perfect …
USA: General Mills to sell European dough business to Cérélia
US food giant General Mills has agreed to sell its European dough business to Cérélia, a global leader in ready-to-bake dough solutions. The transaction, which is expected to close by the end of fiscal 2022, includes General Mills branded and private label dough business in Germany, the UK, and Ireland, including the Knack & Back and Jus-Rol brands. According to a statement released by the …
USA: BlueTriton Brands to acquire Saratoga Spring Water
Natural spring water company BlueTriton Brands has announced the completion of the acquisition of certain assets of Saratoga Spring Water Company (SSWC). Founded in 1872, Saratoga Spring Water Company bottles natural spring water from Saratoga Spring selling throughout the United States and internationally. “We are thrilled to welcome Saratoga Spring Water Company’s products into the BlueTriton family,” said Tony W. Lee, managing partner of …
USA: Mondelez to invest $122.5 million in facility expansion
Mondelez International, the snack and confectionery multinational, has announced an investment of $122.5 million to expand supply chain operations during the next three years in Virginia. The investment will be used to expand the Richmond Biscuit Bakery by 68,000 square feet, enabling it to house a high-speech Oreo production line, and to open a sales fulfillment centre, which will create about 80 jobs. “We …
USA: Treasury Wine Estates to acquire Frank Family Vineyards for $315 million
Australian global winemaking and distribution business Treasury Wine Estates has reached an agreement to acquire wine business Frank Family Vineyards for $315 million. Founded in 1992 by Rick Frank, the Frank Family Vineyards has a portfolio of sparkling award-winning luxury hand-crafted wines complementary to Treasury Wine Estates offering. The acquisition includes the Frank Family Tasting Room, the Benjamin Vineyard, and the S&J Vineyard. Ben …
UK: Unilever to sell tea business Ekaterra for €4.5 bn
Unilever, the multinational consumer goods giant has announced the sale of its global tea business Ekaterra to CVC Capital Partners Fund VIII for €4.5 billion ($5.1 billion). Ekaterra has a portfolio of 34 tea brands such as Lipton, PG tips, Pukka, and T2, with 11 production facilities in 4 continents, and Tea estates in 3 countries generating revenue of around €2 billion in 2020. …
USA: The J.M. Smucker to build a $1.1 billion facility in Alabama
The J.M. Smucker has announced the investment of $1.1 billion in a new facility and distribution centre in Alabama to meet the consumer demand. The new manufacturing facility is the third dedicated to the production of Smucker’s Uncrustables brand and will support The J.M. Smucker’s strategy to more than double its current production capacity. The new facility and distribution centre will be built in three …
Netherlands: Heineken to create an African drinks group
Multinational brewer Heineken has announced its plans to acquire Distell Group Holdings and Namibia Breweries to form a southern African drinks group worth €4 billion ($4.6 billion). The acquisition of Distell will be a push into wine and spirits for Heineken, with liqueur brand Amarula and wines labels Nederburg and Two Oceans. “We are very excited to bring together three strong businesses to create …
Denmark: Danone to sell Aqua d’Or
Danone, the food and beverage multinational, has announced the sale of its water and beverage business in Denmark, to Royal Unibrew, a Denmark-based brewing, and beverage company. According to sources, the sale is part of Danone’s strategic portfolio review and of the continuous optimization of its capital allocation. Royal Unibrew’s CEO, Lars Jensen, said: “I am very pleased to announce that we have entered …
USA: PlantPlus Foods to acquire DEW Drink Eat Well and Sol Cuisine
PlantPlus Foods a provider of plant-based protein products has entered into an agreement to acquire Sol Cuisine and DEW Drink Eat Well. With the acquisition of the two companies, PlantPlus Foods will enhance operations in North America accelerating the growth of the plant-based protein category. DEW Drink Eat Well produces free-from plant-based burgers and sausages under Hilary’s brand in the USA and Canada. Canada-based, …
USA: The Planting Hope Company announces public listing
Julia Stamberger, CEO and co-founder, Planting Hope Company Planting Hope Company, a manufacturer of plant-based food and drinks, has announced plans to publicly list on Canada’s TSX Venture Exchange (TSX VE) on the 29th November. Described as a women-managed and woman-led company with a focus on nutrition, sustainability and diversity, Planting Hope Company claims to develop, launch and scale innovative plant-based and planet-friendly food and beverages. …
USA: Hershey to acquire two pretzel companies for $1.2 billion
The Hershey Company has announced the acquisition of two pretzel companies, Dot’s Pretzels LLC and Pretzels Inc for approximately $1.2 billion. Founded by Dot Henke in her home kitchen, Dot’s Pretzels started as a family business creating high-quality homemade pretzels. Pretzels Inc is a co-manufacturer of pretzels for Dot’s Pretzels and other brands, being a leading innovator in the pretzel category. The company operates …
Ireland: Glanbia plc to sell minority stake in Glanbia Ireland
Glanbia plc and Glanbia Co-op have today announced they have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding for the sale of 40 per cent stake in Glanbia Ireland to Glanbia Co-op for a purchase price of €307 million ($352 million). The transaction will allow Glanbia to focus on its two growth platforms, Glanbia Performance Nutrition and Glanbia Nutritionals, as well as strategic joint ventures. “Glanbia …
Spain: Grupo Palacios to acquire UK dessert producer Rhokett
Spanish-based foods business Grupo Palacios has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Rhokett, a chilled dessert supplier, for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 2002, Rhokett offers a wide range of hand-finished cheesecakes and other desserts from three production facilities. Grupo Palacios sells meat products, refrigerated pizzas, ready-made tortillas, prepared dishes, and desserts to more than 40 countries. The company has five production facilities …
Canada: Nature’s Path to buy Anita’s Organic Mill
Nature’s Path, an organic breakfast and snack food company, has acquired a majority stake in Anita’s Organic Mill, a producer of organic flours and baking products. Founded in 1997, Anita’s Organic Mill is said to be one of the most respected millers and manufacturers of organic whole grain flours in Canada, sourcing organic grains from local farmers. Its product range includes whole grain and sprouted flours, …
Ireland: Nomadic Dairy to be acquired in €29 million deal
Food investment specialist group BiaVest has partnered with Development Capital to acquire Nomadic Dairy from Donegal Investment Group for an upfront consideration of €23 million ($26 million) and €6 million ($7 million) as a deferred consideration contingent on financial performance next year. Nomadic Dairy has a portfolio of six yoghurt-based products with more than 20 varieties and flavours made with locally sourced Irish farm …
USA: Bobo’s to invest $10 million in new facility
US snack maker Bobo’s has announced it is investing $10 million in a new facility in Colorado. The investment will help Bobo’s to consolidate its two bakeries and warehouse into one building to increase capacity in order to meet growing demand. Along with upgraded manufacturing space, Bobo’s will also expand its staff headcount. By consolidating the facilities, the company will cut down the amount of driving needed …
Inspiration and new connections at the Gama Innovation Conference & Awards 2021
MANCHESTER – 5th November 2021: Last Thursday (28th October), over 250 senior professionals from the global fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) community came together for an afternoon of inspiring and thought-provoking presentations and a celebration of product innovation at the sixth edition of the Gama Innovation Conference & Awards (GICA). Once again held as a virtual event due to ongoing travel constraints, GICA 2021 brought together a broad range of delegates including some …
USA: Utz Brands to acquire RW Garcia
Utz Brands, the US savoury snack company, has announced the acquisition of crisp maker RW Garcia for $56 million. Founded in 1982, RW Garcia is a family-owned manufacturer of organic gluten-free tortilla chips, crackers and corn chips. The firm has manufacturing facilities located in Nevada and North Carolina. “We expect this strategic acquisition will enable strong supply chain synergies, enhance our ability to expand …
USA: Phillips Distilling to acquire two brands from Beam Suntory
Phillips Distilling, a US spirits brands, has announced the acquisition of the Leroux and Kamora brands from Beam Suntory for an undisclosed sum. The Kamora brand is a coffee liqueur in the US and Canada made with savoury coffee beans infused with vanilla, chocolate and caramel notes. The Leroux brand range comprises 19 varieties of liqueur and eight flavoured brandies. The flavoured brandies led by …
China: Diageo to build a new whisky distillery
Diageo, the leading alcoholic drinks firm, has announced the construction of a $$75 million whisky distillery in China. The Diageo Eryuan Malt Whisky Distillery, described as the first factory of its kind in China, will be built in a area selected for its temperate climate, rich natural biodiversity, and access to natural spring water in the Yunnan Province, Diageo said. “China is the world’s largest …
USA: Coca-Cola to acquire remaining stake in BodyArmor
Coca-Cola, the multinational drinks company, has announced the acquisition of the remaining stake in BodyArmor, a US sports drink, for $5.6 billion. In 2018, Coca-Cola acquired 15% stake in BodyArmor with a path to full ownership. The company will operate as a separate business and maintain its base in New York. “BodyArmor has been a great addition to the system lineup over the last …
USA: Grupo Bimbo to buy Popcornopolis
Multinational Mexican bakery firm Grupo Bimbo has acquired Popcornopolis from private equity firm NexPhase Capital through its Barcel USA subsidiary for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 2003, Popcornopolis is a California-based manufacturer of ready-to-eat gourmet popcorn snacks, best known for its cone-shaped packaging and indulgent flavours such Zebra, Unicorn, and Doble Drizzle. “We have only scratched the surface of the potential of this brand, …
Canada: George Weston to sell Weston Foods fresh and frozen business
George Weston has announced it has entered into an agreement to sell its Weston Foods fresh and frozen business to affiliated entities of FGF Brands, a technology-oriented bakery company, for an aggregate cash consideration of C$1.2 billion ($970.6 million). The Weston Foods fresh and frozen bakery businesses serve retail and foodservice customers with packaged fresh bread and rolls and alternatives, as well as frozen …
Italy: Granarolo to acquire Calabro Cheese
Granarolo, an Italian dairy company based in Bologna, has announced the acquisition of 100% of Calabro Cheese, a US fresh cheese distributor. The acquisition will allow Granarolo to build a strategic platform to distribute its wide range of typical and PDO products from Italy, the company said. “The consolidation of Granarolo in the USA is an important step in the Group’s foreign growth policy”, …
France: Biscuit International to buy Continental Bakeries
Biscuit International, a leading player in the private label biscuit market in Europe, has announced the acquisition of Continental Bakeries from its majority shareholders Goldman Sachs Asset Management. Continental Bakeries is described a leading European manufacturer of private label sweet biscuits, bread replacements, and toast with production facilities in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Poland, and Sweden and a workforce of 2,300 people. The acquisition …
Australia: Lark Distilling to acquire Kernke Family Shene Estate
Lark Distilling, Australia’s leading single malt whisky distillery, has announced the acquisition of Kernke Family Shene Estate, in an A$40 million ($29 million) deal. The acquisition of Kernke Family Shene Estate, the owner of the Pontville Distillery and Estate, will include 40 acres of land and buildings, a 130,000-litre distillery, a cellar door, eight bond stores, a working cooperage, and the historic stables and homestead. …
USA: Swift Prepared Foods to buy Sunnyvalley Smoked Meats
Swift Prepared Foods, a subsidiary of global meat firm JBS, has reached an agreement to acquire Sunnyvalley Smoked Meats for $90 million. Founded in 1990, Sunnyvalley Smoked Meats is a producer of smoked bacon, ham, and turkey products with gross revenues of $150 million annually. The company’s operates a production facility employing over 300 people. Swift Prepared Foods was acquired by JBS USA in 2017 …
Malaysia: Yeo’s to invest 20 million MYR in production and filling line
Yeo Hiap Seng (Yeo’s), a food and drink company based in Asia, has announced an investment of 20 million MYR ($4.8 million) in a high-speed combi production and filling line in Malaysia, according to a FoodBev report. The “Combi Line”, which is said to be the first of its kind in Malaysia, “fuels Yeo’s commitment to deliver on its brand promise, ‘Serving Up Goodness’, …
USA: Tyson to invest $61 million in Vicksburg facility
Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest meat firms, has announced an investment of $61 million in its poultry facility in Vicksburg, MS, according to a FoodBev report. The expansion, which is expected to be completed by next summer, will allow Tyson to increase poultry production capacity and create nearly 50 new jobs. The facility in Vicksburg makes fully cooked chicken products for both …
France: Savencia Fromage & Dairy to acquire plant-based company Hope Foods
Savencia Fromage & Dairy has announced the acquisition of Hope Foods, a US producer of plant-based products, for an undisclosed sum. Hope Foods has a manufacturing facility able to produce a wide range of plant-based products including its organic hummus made using state-of-the-art technology to retain freshness, peak flavour, and nutritional benefits, Savencia Fromage & Dairy said in a statemnt. “Hope enlarges our brands …
UK: CD&R to acquire Morrisons for £7 billion
US private equity firm Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) has won an auction to acquire the Morrisons supermarket chain with an offer of £7 billion ($9.4 billion), outbidding Fortress Investment Group, according to an Insider Media report. CD&R reportedly bid £2.87 in cash for each Morrison share, beating the £2.86 offer made by Fortress Investment Group. Morrisons has a workforce of about 120,000 staff in the UK, …
Mexico: Diageo to invest over $500 million to grow tequila category
Diageo, the leading alcoholic drinks firm, has announced its plans to invest more than $500 million to expand its tequila manufacturing footprint in Mexico. In a statement, the company said it was planning to build new facilities to expand production capacity in the state of Jalisco, creating over 1,000 jobs. “This exciting investment in Mexico will support our future category growth to meet Mexican …
UK: Britvic announces £26.9 million factory investment
Britvic, the UK-based non-alcoholic drinks firm, has announced that it is investing £26.9 million ($36.2 million) in its Rugby factory, creating 20 new jobs. The company will install a fourth canning line to produce recyclable 330ml cans for soft drinks range, increasing capacity by a further 18% per cent. “This new, state-of-the-art canning line will be a fantastic boost for Britvic’s Rugby facility which continues to …
India: Dr. Oetker to buy start-up dessert firm Kuppies
Dr. Oetker, the leading food multinational, has announced the acquisition of India-based start-up Kuppies, marking its debut in the ready-to-eat cakes and desserts segment. Describing itself as an Indian company with a western palate, Kuppies specializes in western savoury and dessert products and has a product portfolio that straddles ambient, fresh and frozen foods. Oliver Mirza, Dr. Oetker India managing director and CEO, commented: “This acquisition will enable …
USA: Sauer Brands to acquire Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa
US-based condiments, seasonings, and spices producer Sauer Brands has entered into an agreement to acquire Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa a shelf-stable salsa maker for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 2010 in Texas, Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa is described as one of the US’s leading independent salsa brands, marketing a wide range of salsas positioned as “all-natural”. The acquisition of Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa allows Sauer Brands to …
UK: Nomad Foods to acquire Fortenova Group
Nomad Foods, Europe’s leading frozen food company, has announced the acquisition of east European frozen foods business Fortenova Group for a purchase price of approximately €615 million ($694 million). Fortenova Group has a portfolio of products such as fish, ready meals, fruits, vegetables, pastry, and ice cream marketed under the Ledo and Frikom brands. The company operates in attractive markets that are new to Nomad Foods, …
USA: Koch Foods to invest $220 million to expand
International poultry processor Koch Foods has announced an investment of $220 million to expand its existing poultry processing facility in Fairfield, OH, according to a Food Business News report The company is said to be planning to build a 402,000 square-foot addition to the north of the existing processing facility, and to create 400 new jobs within three years of completing the expansion. Construction work …
UK: Calbee UK to complete £5 million investment in facilities
Calbee, the UK crisp and snack manufacturer, has completed a £5 million ($6.6 million) investment in two manufacturing facilities to meet increasing consumer demand, according to an Insider Media report. The investment in Calbee’s Deeside and Bradford factories comes after the company reported like-for-like growth in its financial results, boosted by enhanced demand for its Seabrook brand. “The real credit for our performance goes …
Italy: Barilla to team up with Unilever to sell ice cream and snacks
Leading Italian food company Barilla and consumer goods multinational Unilever have entered into a strategic agreement to sell ice cream and snacks in Italy, according to a Reuters report. The deal, agreed between Barilla and Unilver’s Algida division, will reportedly tap into increased demand, especially in the summer season, and allow Barilla to compete with larger overseas companies. Francesco Del Porto, head of the Italy Region …
UK: Aldi to invest £1.3 billion to accelerate growth
German discount retailer Aldi has announced an investment of £1.3 billion ($1.8 billion) in the UK over the next two years to accelerate growth and market share, according to a Reuters report. Aldi is Britain’s fifth-largest supermarket group and has experienced rapid growth over the last decade. The retailer currently has 920 stores in the UK, and is reportedly planning to use the billion-pound …
USA: Dr. Schar to expand facility
Dr. Schar USA has announced a 42,000 square foot expansion of its manufacturing facility in Logan Township to meet increasing demand for gluten-free bread. The New Jersey facility produces gluten-free sliced breads and rolls for the North American market. Founded in Italy, Dr. Schar is a producer of gluten-free food to celiac, gluten sensitive, and IBS consumers, offering a wide portfolio of products from bread, cookies, …
Brazil: Kraft Heinz to acquire sauces and condiments firm Hemmer
Kraft Heinz, the multinational food firm, has entered into an agreement to acquire the Brazilian sauces and condiments company Hemmer. Founded in 1915, Hemmer is makes pickled and preserved food, condiments, olive oil and beverages and has a portfolio of 250 products. The acquisition is part of Kraft Heinz’s strategy of growing its International Taste Elevation product platform and its presence in emerging markets. Last …
USA: HumanCo to acquire Against the Grain
Private holding company HumanCo has acquired a majority stake in grain-free foods maker Against the Grain, according to a Food Business News report. HumanCo has a portfolio of plant-based and natural products such as Coconut Bliss ice cream, and Monty’s vegan cheese and speads Against the Grain is specialised in grain and gluten-free frozen pizzas, bread, rolls, bagels, and baking mixes that are formulated with …
USA: Ardian acquires majority stake in Florida Food Products
Private investment house Ardian has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Florida Food Products (FFP) from MidOcean Partners for an enterprise value in excess of $1 billion. Founded in 1954, Florida Food Products is a producer of vegetable and “fruit-based” clean label ingredients. The firm is described as the largest provider of clean label cures for the protein sector, with a rapidly …
Thailand: Thai Union to invest in R&B Food Supply
Thai Union, a leading seafood company, has announced a 10% strategic investment in food ingredients company R&B Food Supply (RBF) valued at around 3 billion THB ($90 million). Thailand-based RBF is specialised in flavours, colours, and coatings. With the acquisition, Thai Union said its intention was to accelerate its growth in the food ingredients industry. “We look forward to working closely with the RBF team to …
USA: BelGioioso to acquire cheese maker Polly-O
BelGioioso, a US-based manufacturer of Italian cheeses, has entered into an agreement to acquire Polly-O from Kraft Heinz and Lactalis, according to a Deli Market News report. The acquisition of Polly-O, an Italian cheese brand, will expand BelGioioso’s portfolio and add to its existing Casaro brand range. Founded in 1899, Polly-O is known for its ricotta, mozzarella and string cheeses. “We are thrilled to add the Polly-O brand …
China: Diageo to create a R&D centre in Shanghai
Diageo, the leading alcoholic drinks firm, has announced the creation of a new research and development (R&D) centre in Shanghai to develop products for the Chinese market. The state-of-the-art centre, which is said to be the first of its kind in the beverage alcohol sector in Shanghai ,will primarily support the China market and will strengthen Diageo’s ability to rapidly innovate and develop premium …
USA: Full Sail IP Partners to acquire Odwalla brand
Full Sail IP Partners has announced the acquisition of juice and smoothie brand Odwalla from Coca-Cola for an undisclosed sum, according to a Reuters report Founded in 1980, Odwalla is a producer of plant-based fruit juices, smoothies, and energy bars. According to sources, Full Sail IP Partners plans to expand the Odwalla brand beyond the drinks category into food and supplements, making products with …
Spain: Grupo Apex to acquire Emilio Arias Lizano
Spanish-based snacks company Grupo Apex has acquired nut and seeds producer Emilio Arias Lizano for an undisclosed sum. Located in Ciudad Real, Productos Emilio Arias Lizano produces a wide range of nut and seed snacks including sunflower seeds, peanuts, hazelnuts, almonds and pumpkin seeds. According to sources, Grupo Apex sees sunflower seeds as a strategic snacking product for Spanish consumers and therefore a necessary addition to its portfolio. …
Sweden: Arla to invest 300 million SEK to expand organic range
Arla, the Danish dairy firm, has announced an investment of 300 million SEK (approximately $35 million) in its dairy facility in Gotene, Sweden, to expand its organic range, according to a FoodBev report. The investment, which follows a previous investment of 95 million SEK ($11 million) in Gotene to expand its butter capabilities, will allow the firm to double the capacity for handling organic …
UK: PepsiCo to invest £24 million to upgrade factory
PepsiCo, the global snacks and drinks giant, has announced an investment of £24 million ($31.7 million) to upgrade its facility located in Lincoln, UK, to meet growing consumer demand. The investment will be used to replace the existing machinery with new state-of-art equipment and technology, to increase the production of Quavers snacks, and make space for new product lines. A further £1 million ($1.3 …
USA: Altria to sell Ste. Michelle Wine Estates Business
Multinational tobacco firm Altria Group has announced that its subsidiary, UST LLC, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Ste. Michelle Wine Estates to Sycamore Partners Management private equity firm for a price of approximately $1.2 billion. Ste. Michelle Wine Estates is the largest winery in the Pacific Northwest and among the largest premium wineries in the United States, farming more than …
Portugal: Sonae to acquire UK plant-base brand Gosh Food
Retail and telecoms conglomerate Sonae has announced the acquisition of 95.4% of the share capital and voting rights in Claybell, owner of the Gosh Food plant-based foods brand, via its Food4Future subsidiary for £64 million ($85 million). UK-based Gosh Food is a manufacturer of free-from products such as burgers, sausages, and bites trading under the Gosh! brand, as well as a private label producer …
USA: Emmi Roth acquires cheese brand Athenos
Emmi Roth, a subsidiary of Switzerland-based Emmi Group, has announced the acquisition of Athenos, a Mediterranean-style food brand, from Lactalis Group. Athenos, known as a leading feta cheese brand in the US, will complement Emmi Roth’s offering, strengthen its position in the US cheese business, and create additional export opportunities for Swiss cheeses the company said. “This is an exciting day for Emmi Roth”, …
Uruguay: PepsiCo to invest $64 million to expand concentrates facility
PepsiCo, the global snacks and drinks giant, has announced an investment of $64 million to expand its drinks concentrates factory in Uruguay. Located in the free trade zone of Colonia, PepsiCo’s facility is one of eight in the world dedicated to the preparation of beverage concentrates for PepsiCo’s portfolio brands such as Pepsi, Seven Up, Mirinda and Gatorade. The facility, which has been operating …
USA: Saputo to strengthen dairy division with Carolina Aseptic and Carolina Dairy deals
Saputo, the Canadian dairy giant, has announced the acquisition of the Carolina Aseptic and Carolina Dairy businesses from AmeriQual Group for $118 million in a bid to strengthen its presence in the US market. The two new acquisitions will help Saputo to quickly tap into growing demand for aseptic protein beverages and nutritional snacks, the company said. Located in North Carolina, Carolina Aseptic develops, manufactures, …
UAE: Agthia to acquire BMB Group
Agthia, the leading Middle East food and drinks firm, has announced that it has acquired a 100% stake in BMB Group for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 2007, BMB Group is described as an innovative healthy snack and food company with a large portfolio of confectionery and other food brands such as Asateer, Al Qamar, Freakin’ Healthy, and Benoit, distributing over 2,000 SKUs across …
Poland: PepsiCo to build new 1 billion PLN snack facility
PepsiCo, the global snacks and drinks giant, has announced plans to build a 1 billion PLN ($245 million) facility in Poland to produce savoury snacks. According to a company press release, the new plant will have the capacity to respond to growing consumer demand, and will become the largest and most environmentally sustainable PepsiCo facility in Europe. With an estimated area of seven football …
USA: B&G Foods to sell facility in Portland
B&G Foods, a manufacturer of branded shelf stable and frozen products, has announced the sale of its Portland facility to the Institute for Digital Engineering and Life Sciences. The move to sell the 13.5-acre waterfront property is part of B&G Foods’ plans to improve productivity and reduce overall costs, the company said. “The Portland community has been the home to B&M for more than …
USA: Tyson Foods to build new facility in Virginia
Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest meat firms, has announced an investment of $300 million to construct a new plant in Virginia. According to a company statement, the project is part of Tyson Foods’ commitment to meet increasing demand and deliver on its strategy of accelerating long-term growth. The 325,000 sq ft facility, which is expected to be up and running by spring of 2023, will create …
Australia: McCain to sell Sara Lee to South Island Office
McCain has signed an agreement to sell its Australian Sara Lee baked foods business to New Zealand-based group South Island Office (SIO) for an undisclosed sum, according to a Food Business News report. Sara Lee will join Original Foods Baking, a complementary company acquitted by SIO in 2020, which makes brownies, slices and bites. The partnership will allow both businesses to gain exposure to …
USA: Surati Sweet Mart to open first facility
Canada-based Indian snack food manufacturer Surati Sweet Mart has established its first manufacturing and distributing site for specialty snacks and baked foods in the US. Surati has announced it is spending $16 million on the new 240,000-square-foot facility and expects to generate over 100 new jobs. “Our location in Springfield would be our first manufacturing investment in the United States and will allow us …
USA: Planterra Foods to open new R&D centre in Colorado
Planterra Foods, a JBS subsidiary specialising in plant-based foods, has announced the opening of a new R&D innovation centre in Lafayette, Colorado. The new facility will allow Planterra Foods to continue developing new plant-based ingredients and high-quality product innovations, the company said. Commenting on the move, Planterra Foods CEO Darcey Macken said: “I am proud of the team we’ve built at Planterra Foods and …
UK: Kendamil to launch ice cream made with infant formula
UK-based baby milk company Kendamil has released what it describes as the world’s first’ ice cream made with infant formula. The limited-edition product has reportedly been designed for adults to counter the perception that infant formula tastes fishy, metallic, sour or bitter. “We are proud to launch the first-ever ice cream made with formula milk,” said Ross McMahon, CEO and founder of Kendamil. “We have …
Brazil: Aryzta to sell Brazil bakery operations to Grupo Bimbo
Aryzta, the Switzerland-based manufacturer of bakery products, has announced the sale of its Brazil business to Mexican Grupo Bimbo, according to a report in Just Food. This sale is described as being in line with Aryzta’s commitment to focus its business on European and Asina markets. The company had earlier this year sold its North American business to an affiliate of US private equity firm Lindsay …
USA: First Bev to buy Health-Ade
US drinks business First Bev has announced it has acquired a controlling stake in the California-based kombucha firm Health-Ade. Founded in 2012, Health-Ade markets itself as a producer of “feel-good, bubbly beverages” with gut-health benefits, such as kombucha, prebiotic sodas and cocktail mixers, and has annual retail sales of over $200 million. “I couldn’t be more excited for Health-Ade to have someone with Jack’s …
Egypt: Coca-Cola HBC to acquire Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Egypt
Coca-Cola HBC, the Swiss-based international bottling company, has announced the acquisition of Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Egypt (CCBCE) for $427 million. The deal will give access to the second largest non-alcoholic ready-to-drink market in Africa by volume, Coca-Cola HBC said, adding that the acquisition also aims to increase the penetration of the Coca-Cola Company’s brand portfolio and expand the brand’s presence in high-growth areas. …
Mexico: Diageo to buy Casa UM
Diageo, the leading alcoholic drinks firm, has announced the acquisition of Mexican Mezcal Union through beverage producer Casa UM for an undisclosed sum. Both companies had previously worked in partnership, which reportedly enabled Mezcal Union to grow its brand distribution network in Mexico, the USA, and other countries. With this acquisition, the company will continue to be involved in the operations and supports its …
USA: Coca-Cola to close plants in California and Massachusetts
Coca-Cola, the soft drinks multinational, has announced plans to shut down operations in facilities located in American Canyon (CA) and Northampton (MA), according to a FoodDive report. The operation will reportedly affect around 500 staff and is set to be achieved in 2023. The decision is said to follow a restructure which has seen Coca-Cola stop the production of a number of its brands …
USA: Mizkan to acquire Born Simple
US-based Mizkan America (MA), a sauces and seasonings business, has announced the acquisition of Born Simple, an American organic barbecue sauce and broth brand. According to MA, the acquisition will allow it to expand into the natural foods channel and reach a new generation more attached to authentic and simple products. MA President and chief operating officer Diego Palmieri said: “Born Simple is an …
Ireland: Valeo Foods to acquire New World Foods Europe
Diversified Irish food business Valeo Foods has announced the acquisition of New World Foods Europe (NWFE), a British meat snack producer. Valeo Foods, which was recently acquired by Bain Capital Private Equity, owns brands such as Rowse honey, Kettle crisps, and Jacob’s biscuits. NWFE has beeing selling products under the brands Kings, Wild West, Speyside and Cruga, as well as The Meatsnacks Group, since …
Australia: JBS to acquire Huon for A$425 million
Brazilian meat firm JBS has entered into an agreement to acquire Australian trout and salmon business Huon Aquaculture for A$425 million ($312.5 million), according to a FoodBev report. Based in Tasmania, Huon operates fish farms and markets fish products across Australia. According to sources, the purchase is a strategic acquisition for JBS, creating a new growth platform for the business within the aquaculture sector. Commenting …
France: PAI Partners to acquire Tropicana and other juice brands from PepsiCo
PAI Partners, a French private equity firm, has announced an agreement to acquire Tropicana, Naked and other juices brands from US food and beverage company PepsiCo for about $3.3 billion. Pepsi Co will retain the exclusive US distribution rights to the brand portfolio. According to sources, the benefits from the sale are expected to enhance PepsiCo’s balance sheet and allow it to make organic …
Canada: Zoglo’s Incredible to buy Monday Swiss UK
Zoglo’s Incredible Food (Zoglo’s), a Canadian plant-based food company has announced it has acquired 50.5% interest in British Monday Swiss. Monday Swiss was founded in 2012 and manufactures a range of plant-based food products, including the Veggie Day and Monday Swiss lines. The experience in product development of Monday Swiss will allow Zoglo’s to expand and develop a new generation of plant-based foods. CEO …
India: Heineken to acquire United Breweries
Heineken, the multinational Dutch brewer, has announced the acquisition of United Breweries Limited (UBL) the India-based brewing company. The movement comes after the acquisition of additional shares, taking its shareholding in UBL to 61.5% on 23 June 2021. According to Heineken’s press release, India is an existing long-term growth opportunity for the company due to the emerging middle-class population in a country with a …
Mexico: Grupo Bimbo to acquire Emmy’s Organics
Grupo Bimbo, the Mexican bakery company has announced the acquisition of Emmy’s Organics, a US-based organic cookie producer. According to Grupo Bimbo, Emmy’s Organics is a manufacturer of ultra-premium organic cookies and a major player in gluten-free cookies. The company added that this acquisition allows an “entry point into the quickly growing better-for-you cookie and sweet baked goods market”. Bimbo CEO Daniel Servitjesaid said: …
USA: Flagship Food Group to acquire majority stake in Tortilla King
Flagship Food Group has acquired a majority stake in Tortilla King, the US tortilla and tortilla chips producer. Flagship, majority owned by Creo Capital Partners, sells a wide range of food products and services under the 505 Southwestern, La Tortilla Factory, Lilly B’s, Hatch Kitchen, TJ Farms, and other brands. Tortilla King is known for its premium tortillas and tortilla chips under Mama Lupe’s …
USA: Nestle to invest $70 million to remodel factory
Nestle has announced an investment of $70 million in its Burlington factory to start manufacturing Nestle Toll House refrigerated cookie dough. According to sources, the plant used to produce candy bars such as 100 Grand, Nestle Crunch, and Buncha Crunch. Nestle sold its confectionery business to Ferrero in April 2018, but the Burlington factory was not part of the sale, and its ice cream, …
Brazil: Pif Paf Alimentos acquires Uniaves
Rio Branco Alimentos, owner of Pif Paf and other brands such as Fricasa, and Ladell, has announced the acquisition of Uniaves, the largest chicken producer in the Espirito Santo state. Uniaves is completing 12 years in the market and produces around 80 products, in different lines, sold in traditional retail and food service, in addition to being exported to several countries. According to sources, …
UK: S-Ventures to acquire Pulsin
British investment firm, S-Ventures has acquired Pulsin, a plant-based nutrition company for £7.5 million ($9.99 million). Pulsin produces plant-based products such as protein and keto bars, powders, and shakes under its own brands as well as third parties. The acquisition follows S-ventures willingness to diversify in the health and wellness foods segment, earlier this year the company acquired Ohso Chocolate, a probiotic chocolate brand …
France: Henkel to acquire Swania SAS
German company Henkel has announced the acquisition of Swania SAS, a household care supplier based in France. The acquisition will allow Henkel to strengthen its position in the detergents and cleaning products market committed to limiting the impact on the environment. Swania is a French ecological home care company which portfolio includes Maison Verte a brand with detergents and household care products certified with …
Spain: Ebro Foods to sell Panzani
Spanish food company Ebro Foods has announced the sale of part of its Panzani unit to French private equity firm CVC Capital Partners for EUR550 million (US$648.4). Ebro Foods has a leading position in the global pasta and rice markets, with brands such as Panzani, Olivieri, Bertagni, Garofalo, Santa Lucia, Russo de Cicciano, and Roland Monterrat, among others. The agreement includes the dried pasta, …
Canada: Above Food to acquire plant-based brands Only Oats and Culcherd
Canadian plant-based company Above Food has announced the acquisition of two plant-based brands Only Oats and Culcherd. Only Oats is a premium certified gluten-free whole oat company sourcing, developing, manufacturing, and marketing oat-based ingredients and oat-based consumer products, while Clucherd is a 100% certified organic, vegan dairy alternative company. The acquisition, according to the company’s press release, has been done to meet the increasing …
UK: Unilever to partner with Arzeda
Unilever, the multinational consumer goods giant has announced a strategic partnership with Arzeda, the industry-leading Protein Design Company. Arzeda is a synthetic biology company that creates novel proteins, enzymes derived from nature, and specialty chemical products used through smart technologies to optimise their functionalities. Over the next three years, Unilever will use Arzeda’s world-leading digital biology techniques to innovate its own cleaning and laundry …
UK: Medina Dairy and Freshways Dairy merge
British dairy firms Medina Dairy and Freshways Dairy have announced a merger agreement to create a more sustainable and progressive dairy business. According to sources, the merged business called Medina Freshways Ltd is believed to have the “requisite scale and agility to compete with the two large players which dominate the dairy sector in the UK”. Medina Dairy supplies milk, dairy, and bakery products, …
USA: Beam Suntory and the Boston Beer Company form partnership
Japanese-American world leader in premium spirits firm Beam Suntory has announced that it has formed a long-term strategic partnership with The Boston Beer Company. According to Beam Suntory’s statement, the goal of the partnership is to expand iconic brands across fastest growing alcoholic beverages segments. The companies plan to initially launch Sauza tequila in the ready-to-drink beverages format and to introduce Truly Hard Seltzer …
Portugal: Paladin launches piri piri sauce with Cannabis
Portuguese brand of sauces and seasonings Paladin, owned by Mendes Goncalves, has announced the launch of a new product: a piri piri hot sauce with cannabis. According to sources, the hot sauce is produced with the seeds of Cannabis sativa L., an ingredient of natural origin that is now trending worldwide and is being increasingly used in food products. Available under the brand Paladin …
Saudi Arabia: Savola Group to acquire fruit and nut processor Bayara
Savola Group, a Saudi food conglomerate, has signed an agreement to acquire Bayara, a UAE-based manufacturer of nuts, spices, grains, pulses, dates and other dried fruits, for $260 million. Founded in 1993, Bayara is said to process 23,000 tonnes of goods a year, operating in the UAE and Saudi Arabia with a workforce of 900. Savola sells staples, such as olive oil and sugar, …
China: Spar to partner with Guizhou Heli Supermarket Group
Global retailer Spar has announced a partnership with Guizhou Heli Supermarket Group, a retailer that operates over 100 supermarkets, shopping centres, and department stores in Guizhou, China. The partnership has been in place since 1 July 2021 and will enable Spar to grow by expanding into Guizhou province, the company said. The partnership will allow Guizhou Heli to continue focusing on the local market, …
USA: Altria to sell Ste Michelle to Sycamore Partners
Multinational tobacco firm Altria Group Inc has announced that its subsidiary, UST LLC, has entered an agreement to sell the Ste Michelle Wine Estates business to Sycamore Partners Management, LP., a private equity firm specializing in consumer, retail, and distribution investments. According to sources, the sale will enable Altria to focus on their vision of transitioning adult smokes to a ‘non-combustible future’. Billy Gifford, …
Netherlands: Refresco to acquire Hansa-Heeman
Independent drinks bottler Refresco has announced that set to acquire the Germany-based beverage company Hansa-Heeman. Hansa-Heeman, which employs around 800 people, manufactures drinks for both private labels and manufacturer brands. 60% of the firm’s volume is in mineral water, with the remaining 40% in carbonated soft drinks. Its annual revenue is approximately €300 million ($356 million). Refresco said it would acquire brands such as …
South Africa: Rhodes Food Group to buy Pioneer Foods frozen business
South Africa-based food business Rhodes Food Group (RFG) has announced the acquisition of the frozen food business of domestic peer Pioneer Foods for an undisclosed sum. Pioneer Foods’ frozen foods portfolio includes pies, pastries, sausage rolls, pizza, and party packs, and the brands Today, Mama’s, Big Jack, and Man’s Meal. Manufacturing is conducted from a facility in Atlantis in the Western Cape and products …
France: Royal Unibrew to acquire Crazy Tiger energy drink
Danish beverage firm Royal Unibrew has signed an agreement to acquire French energy drink business MC Energy, owner of the Crazy Tiger brand, in a deal worth $97 million. Crazy Tiger reportedly holds around 10% volume share in the French energy drinks markets and employs 25 staff. Its flagship product is available in both bottles and cans and features a formulation based on caffeine, …
UK: Morrisons agrees takeover deal
UK supermarket chain Morrisons has agreed on a takeover offer from a consortium led by US-based Fortress Investment Group in a deal worth $9.01 billion, according to BBC and FoodBev reports. Morrisons, which has around 500 outlets and a workforce of more than 110,000, had previously rejected a bid from another US private investment group which valued the company at $7.65 billion. Fortress Investment …
Russia: KDV Group to become primary investor in Hak
KDV Group, the Russia snacks, and confectionery firm, has agreed on a deal to become a leading shareholder in Hak, the Dutch vegetable business, by signing a preliminary purchase agreement to acquire a stake previously held by NPM Capital. KDV Group operates 15 factories and has a workforce of more than 20,000 employees. It sells its products in 35 countries, mainly in Eastern Europe, …
USA: Mutandis to acquire tuna brand Season
Mutandis, a Morocco based “brand accelerator” for the consumer goods industry, is set to acquire Season, described as the US brand leader in premium canned sardines, from current owner RAB Food. Founded in 1921, Season brand tuna is sourced from a range of producers, but especially from firms based in Morocco. As well as sardines, the Season brand range includes kippers, anchovies, mackerel, and …
France: Danone to acquire majority stake in Harmless Harvest
French dairy multinational Danone has announced it has acquired a majority stake in Harmless Harvest, a US business offering coconut-based drinks and yoghurt, through its corporate venture arm Danone Manifesto Ventures (DMV). DMV first invested in Harmless Harvest in 2017 as part of a $30 million capital growth round. Founded in 2009, Harmless Harvest is described as a leader in the fast-growing premium coconut …
Denmark: Philip Morris International to acquire Fertin Pharma
Tobacco manufacturer Philip Morris International (PMI) has announced the acquisition of Fertin Pharma for DKK 5.1 billion (approximately USD 820 million). Fertin Pharma is a leading developer and manufacturer of innovative pharmaceutical and well-being products, specializing in the research, development and production of gums, pouches, liquefiable tablets, and other solid oral systems for the delivery of active ingredients, including nicotine. The company has more …
Australia: Accolade Wines to acquire UK brand Lambrini
Australian wine business Accolade Wines has announced the acquisition of the Lambrini perry brand from Halewood Artisanal Spirits for an undisclosed sum. Founded in 1994, Lambrini is a light and fruity perry manufacturer in the UK. According to sources, the deal follows Accolade Wines’ growth strategy to expand its presence in the UK. Lambrini will join Accolade Wines’ portfolio which already includes brands such …
Switzerland: Barry Callebaut to acquire Europe Chocolate Company
Swiss Barry Callebaut Group, manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, has signed an agreement to acquire Europe Chocolate Company (ECC), a Belgian privately-owned manufacturer of chocolate specialties and decorations. The acquisition will expand Barry Callebaut’s chocolate molding capabilities and allow the group to offer tailor-made solutions as well as cater to the increasing demand. Founded in 1993, ECC manufactures a wide range of …
USA : Once Upon a Farm to acquire Raised Real
Once Upon a Farm, a US children’s nutrition business, has announced the acquisition of Raised Real, an organic, plant-rich baby food meal delivery company for an undisclosed sum. The deal will expand Once Upon a Farm’s growing organic, refrigerated pouch portfolio to include frozen meal options and will also reintroduce the line of organic meals later this year. “We’ve watched and admired Raised Real’s …
Italy: Italian Wine Brands to acquire Enoitalia
Italian Wine Brands (IWB), an Italian winery, has announced the acquisition of 100% of its peer Enoitalia for an equity value of €150 million ($179 million). With both companies each generating a little over €200 million ($239 million) in annual sales, the deal is set to create Italy’s largest private wine company. The acquisition of Enoitalia will also support IWB’s geographic expansion, by virtue …
China: Fonterra to sell China JV farms
New Zealand dairy firm Fonterra, has agreed to sell off its two joint-venture farms in China to Singapore-based AustAsia Investment Holdings for $115.5 million. Fonterra has a 51% stake in the business and will receive NZD88 million (US$62.3m) in total asset sale proceeds, including cash on completion. To Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell, the sale is another important step for the Co-operative and aligns to …
USA: Danone to sell Vega brand
Danone, the food and beverage multinational, has announced the sale of its plant-based nutritional products brand Vega to WM Partners, a private equity firm. Vega’s products are available throughout Canada and USA and its portfolio includes plant-based sport and nutrition items such as protein powders, bars, supplements, and snacks. According to Danone, the deal is part of the company’s ongoing optimisation of capital allocation …
USA: Brand Holdings to acquire Healthy Skoop
US firm Brand Holdings LLC, has announced that it has acquired a plant-based protein powder brand, Healthy Skoop, from Seurat Investment Group. Based in Colorado, Healthy Skoop’s mission is to make plant-based products that are simple and tasty so that it’s easier for people to live a healthy lifestyle every day. Jeffrey R. Hennion, chairman & CEO of Brand Holdings said: “As the world …
USA: Wholestone Farms to build new pork plant
US pork firm Wholestone Farms has announced plans to build a new hog slaughtering and processing facility in Sioux Falls, SD at a cost of around $500 million. The project includes setting up a $45 million wastewater treatment system, including covered lagoons, designed to capture biogas and reduce overall carbon emissions, while managing air quality and minimizing odour. Founded in 2016, Wholestone Farms is …
Brazil: GPA considering spin off of Colombian Exito
Brazilian retailer GPA SA is reportedly considering a spin off of its Colombian unit Almacenes Exito, in an operation that would deliver shares in the subsidiary to GPA shareholders, including the French Casino Guichard Perrachon, according to sources. The transaction would be similar to the recent spin off of GPA’s cash and carry unit, Assai, and it would be part of the French group …
USA: GenTech Holdings to acquire NxtBar
GenTech Holdings, emerging leader in the high-end premium coffee and functional foods has announced the acquisition of protein bar brand NxtBar. According to sources, the company has signed a letter of intent to purchase NxtBar. NxtBar produces a range of protein bars that are claimed to be keto-friendly, low in carbohydrates, low in sugar, paleo friendly and gluten free. GenTech Holdings plans to increase …
Brazil: BRF to open new distribution centre
BRF, the Brazilian meat and poultry firm announced that the company will invest R$70 million ($13 million) to build a distribution centre in the greater Vitoria region in Espirito Santo, Brazil. According to an article in Newtrade, the new centre will have more than 13,000 sq. mt. of built area, with solar panels capable of generating up to 1.5 megawatts of energy. The facility …
USA: E&J Gallo to invest $423 million in new plant
US wine firm E&J Gallo has announced plans to build a new $423 million production facility and distribution centre site in Chester County, SC, to support future business growth. The new plant will provide bottling and canning capacity, as well as warehousing and distribution, for the company’s portfolio of wine and spirit brands. Construction is set to begin immediately and is expected to create …
Australia: Mighty Craft to purchase Adelaide Hills Group
Australian craft drinks firm Mighty Craft is set to add the Adelaide Hills Distillery, Mismatch Brewing, and Hills Cider brands to its portfolio through the acquisition of alcoholic drinks firm Adelaide Hills Group, in a deal worth A$47 million ($36 million). The Adelaide Hills Distillery’s range includes gins and Australian whisky under the 78 Degrees brand name, as well as a range of vermouths …
Turkey: Kraft Heinz to purchase sauce maker Assan Foods
Kraft Heinz, the leading US food and drinks multinational, has announced an agreement to purchase Turkish sauces business Assan Foods for approximately $100 million. Assan Foods manufactures and sells a wide range of products including tomato paste, ketchup, mayonnaise, and pasta and meat sauces under brands such as Colorado, Kingtom, and Oba, as well as private label. With approximately 400 employees, Assan Foods serves …
Netherlands: Livekindly Collective to purchase The Dutch Weed Burger
Livekindly Collective, described as an activist network focused on meat-free foods, is set to acquire The Dutch Weed Burger, a Netherlands-based company that uses seaweed to make plant-based meat alternatives, according to a FoodBev report. Founded in 2019, The Dutch Weed Burger offers a wide variety of plant-based foods enriched with algae and microalgae, such as Weed Burger, Weed Balls, Weed Dogg, Seawharma and …
USA: Flowers Foods acquires assets of Koffee Kup Bakery
Flowers Foods, a producer of baked foods known for brands such as Nature’s Own, Dave’s Killer Bread, Wonder, and Canyon Bakehouse, has announced it has acquired the assets of Koffee Kup Bakery (KKB) from the court-appointed receiver for an undisclosed sum. Based in Vermont, KKB produces a range of baked goods, including bread, doughnuts and English muffins, serving customers in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic …
USA: Cacique to build dairy processing facility in Texas
US-based Hispanic foods manufacturer Cacique has announced that the company is building an $88 million dairy processing facility in Amarillo, Texas, USA. According to sources, the construction of the new 200,000 sq. ft facility has already started and the decision to build the new plant was driven by the need to meet the growing demand for their market-leading products, such as Mexican style cheeses, …
USA: General Mills to cut jobs due to restructuring process
US food giant General Mills has announced that the company is restructuring and plans to cut up to 1400 jobs worldwide. According to sources, the company plans to cut from 700 to 800 jobs in the US and Canada and 500 to 600 jobs internationally. In May, General Mills filed a Form 8-K to announce the restructuring process aimed to align its organisational structure …
USA: Frito-Lay to invest $200 million in Rosenberg snack facility expansion
Frito-Lay, a division of PepsiCo and leading snack manufacturer has announced it is to invest $200 million on its Rosenberg, Texas, site. The investment will be used to create two manufacturing lines for snack brand Funyuns and tortilla chips, as well as increase the capacity in its warehouse. Expected to be complete by 2023, the expansion will create 160 new full-time jobs. “The Rosenberg site has the …
UK: Tesco and Carrefour to discontinue purchasing alliance
British retailer Tesco and French retailer Carrefour have announced that their purchasing alliance will not be extended. The global purchasing alliance was announced on July 2018, formed to cut down costs and secure better deals with major suppliers. Operational for three years, the alliance enabled the retailers to access new opportunities, suppliers, and new products. The retailers released a joint statement that said that …
China: Reckitt Benckiser to offload infant formula business for $2.2billion
British consumer goods multinational, Reckitt Benckiser has signed an agreement to sell its infant formula and child nutrition business in China to a private equity firm Primavera for $2.2 billion. The deal includes a manufacturing site in Nijmegen, the Netherlands and Guangzhou, China, and the royalty-free perpetual and exclusive licence of the Mead Johnson and Enfa family of brands in China. According to sources, …
USA: TreeHouse Foods to sell ready-to-eat cereal business to Post Holdings
North American leading manufacturer and distributor of private label packaged foods and beverages TreeHouse Foods, has simultaneously signed a definitive agreement and completed the sale of its ready-to-eat cereal business to Post Holdings for $85 million. The acquisition includes two manufacturing facilities located in Lancaster, Ohio and Sparks, Nevada and a research and development facility in Sauget, Illinois. “This transaction is another important step …
UK: Kraft Heinz to invest £140m in UK facility
US foods giant Kraft Heinz has announced its plans to invest £140m ($199m) in its Kitt Green food manufacturing facility located in the UK. According to sources, the investment would be the largest made by the company in a facility outside the US in more than two decades. The move, which is subject to approval in the US, will fund equipment and technology to …
UK: Ferrero to acquire Burton’s Biscuit
Ferrero-relative company has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Burton’s Biscuit from Ontario Teachers’ for an undisclosed sum. The acquisition will allow the Italian producer to enlarge its offer of sweet biscuits products by adding to its portfolio British iconic brands such as Maryland Cookies, Jammie Dodgers, Wagon Wheels, Paterson’s, and Thomas Fudge’s, in addition to the six manufacturing sites in the United …
Greece: Mondelez to buy snack maker Chipita for $2 billion
Mondelez International, the snack and confectionery multinational, has announced the acquisition of Greek snacking company Chipita for approximately $2 billion. Chipita is a producer of salty and sweet snacks in Central and Eastern Europe, with a leading position in the production of packaged croissant and baked snacks, having a portfolio of brands that among others include 7Days, Chipicao, and Fineti. According to company’s statement, …
Canada: Saputo to acquire two dairy alternative companies for CAD187 million
Canadian dairy company Saputo has strengthened its presence in the non-dairy cheese and value-added ingredients sector with two acquisitions for CAD187 million ($72.6 million approx). The acquisitions follow the company’s strategy to expand and accelerate its presence in the dairy alternative sector. The companies acquired by Saputo are the Scottish manufacturer, marketer, and distributor of vegan cheese Bute Island Foods, and the US-based company …
Portugal: Continente opens new store concept Continente Labs
Supermarket chain Continente, part of Portuguese retail and telecoms conglomerate Sonae, has announced the opening of a new store concept, Continente Labs. According to sources, it takes five seconds to buy something in the new 150 sq. mt. store, as the store is scan-less and cashier-less and the purchases are made through the Continente Labs app. The store is equipped with around 230 cameras …
Brazil: Marfrig acquires 24% from BRF
Brazilian beef producer Marfrig Global Foods has acquired 24.23 percent of chicken and pork producer BRF in the stock exchange, becoming the company’s top shareholder. According to sources, despite becoming the largest shareholder in BRF, Marfrig plans to be a passive investor only, and the move was made with the aim of diversifying its investments “in a segment which complements the sector where it …
Shahid Khan, CEO,
Al Islami Foods
Gama spoke to Shahid Khan, Chief Executive Officer, Al Islami Foods. What key trends do you expect to shape food innovation as a whole in 2021 and beyond? “The trend tilting toward healthy eating is getting stronger. Within that, from an innovation perspective, we feel plant-based items will take the lead in 2021 and beyond, as 28% of people say they have been eating …
Germany: Thai Union acquires remaining shares of Rugen Fisch
International seafood leader Thai Union Group PCL has announced the acquisition of the remaining 49 percent shares of the German shelf-stable seafood leader company Rugen Fisch AG. According to Thai Union’s statement, the company first acquired a majority of 51 percent of shares in Rugen Fisch in 2016 and has now purchased the remaining 49 percent. Thiraphong Chansiri, president and CEO of Thai Union …
Indonesia: Nestle Indonesia starts to build a new dairy facility in Java
Nestle Indonesia, a subsidiary of multinational food and drinks giant Nestle, has started the construction of a US$ 200million facility in Central Java. The 20 hectares of land facility will produce Bear Brand liquid milk and ready-to-drink beverages Milo and Nescafe to meet the consumer demand for dairy products in the region creating about 200 new jobs. Ganesan Ampalavanar, president director of PT Nestle …