‘Soy waste’ inspires sustainable food launch

The latest innovation insight from Gama Compass MANCHESTER – 14th May 2025: As the issue of sustainable resource use becomes ever more firmly embedded in the consciousness of companies, policymakers and the public, so the question of food waste – at every stage of the supply chain – looms ever larger for brands and retailers. This […]
Spain: Whitehole to acquire Embutidos Rios

Investment fund Whitehole has acquired Spanish black pudding maker Embutidos Rios with the aim of boosting its presence in the food sector. Founded in 1930, Embutidos Rios has a workforce of 85 and an annual turnover of more than €10 million ($11 million). Commenting on the deal, José Luis L Ríos, Embutidos Rios executive director said: “This collaboration provides […]
USA: Dr. Schar to expand New Jersey facility

Dr. Schar, a specialist in gluten free baked goods, has announced that the company is expanding its existing facility in Swedesboro (NJ). In a press release, the company said it was investing $28 million in the facility in order to improve product consistency, efficiency and overall baking, as well as higher quality office space. Commenting […]
Belgium: Lidl to invest €122 million in new logistics centre

German retail chain Lidl has announced it is investing €122 million ($136 million) in a new logistic facility in Herentals, Belgium. At 43,000 sq m, the distribution centre is described as Lidl’s largest in Belgium to date, and from 2027 will supply supermarkets in the Antwerp area. In line with sustainability objectives, offices at the facility will be warmed […]
China: Iceland Foods to open first Asia store

Iceland Foods, the specialist UK frozen food retailer, has announced plans to open its first store in China in partnership with BTG We Link. BTG We Link is a retail concept company that brings Western cuisine to the Chinese retail market. The partnership will allow customers in China to purchase Iceland Foods products via e-commerce […]
Italy: Valeo Foods Group acquires Freddi Dolciaria

Leading European sweets and snacks producer Valeo Foods has announced the acquisition of Freddi Dolciaria, an Italian producer of sweet bakery products. Founded in 1949 and based in Castiglione delle Stiviere, Freddi Dolciaria produces pre-packaged sponge cakes and Swiss rolls and generates nearly €20 million ($22.2 million) in annual turnover. Commenting on the move, Valeo Foods […]
Belgium: Royal A-Ware to close Olympia plant in Pajottegem

Belgian dairy firm Olympia, a subsidiary of Royal A-Ware since 2022, has announced the closure of its dairy processing plant in Pajottegem. In a press release, Royal A-Ware’s said the plant’s installations and infrastructure require upgrades to meet current and future efficiency requirements, which the firm does not consider economically justifiable at the moment. “There has been […]
Australia: Bega to close Strathmerton operations

Bega, the Australian dairy firm, has announced plans to consolidate its Strathmerton cheese processing and packaging operations into its existing site at its Ridge Street facility in Bega. As a result of the changes, Bega expects A$30 million ($19.4 million) in annual savings from consolidation. It will also invest A$50 million ($32.4 million) in the Ridge […]
Brazil: JBS to invest in four Seara units in Santa Catarina

JBS, the global meat company, has announced plans to invest R$216 million ($37.6 million) in four units in the Brazilian state of Santa Catarina for its Seara business. Founded in 1956, Seara specialises in the manufacturing and sale of chicken, pork, processed foods and plant-based meat substitutes. This investment is intended for the upgrade and […]
Russia: Magnit takes controlling stake in Azbuka Vkusa

Magnit, a leading Russian retailer, has announced the acquisition of a controlling stake in Azbuka Vkusa, a premium grocery chain, through its subsidiary AO Tander. Azbuka Vkusa operates 171 stores across multiple formats, primarily in Moscow and Saint Petersburg, alongside an online delivery service and catering business. The acquisition also includes five production facilities, three […]