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Nº 67 APRIL - JUNE 2026 £ 25 / € 30

Unilever to sell food business to McCormick UK-based rm signals intent to focus on personal care brands

Refresco to acquire SunOpta in $1.1 billion deal Soft drinks giant strengthens position in dairy-free, broth, snacks

Tradeshow Insight Cosmoprof 2026 The UK Food & Drink Shows 2026 The Vaper Expo UK 2026 London Wine Fair 2026 Vapexpo Spain 2026

Insight by Gama Compass

Est. 2013—ISSN 2055—205 X

Wholefoods in vogue in 'low-processed' era INDUSTRY INSIGHT

INDUSTRY INSIGHT

LOOK AHEAD

Milana Boskovic Al Ain Farms Group

Sakshi Mittal Foodhak

Sabine Loos InterTabac 2026

Jeff Lenard NACS Show 2026

Editorial

CEO & Executive Editor Cesar Pereira With preparations in full swing and the countdown officially underway, the excitement across the team is palpable as we announce the finalists for the Gama Innovation Awards 2026. Hailing from over 30 countries, the 120 shortlisted products serve as a fascinating mirror to the broader macroeconomic and cultural forces shaping global FMCG, including a rise in medical-style branding, an 'Instagram-friendly' visual revolution, and an evermore creative fusing of international cuisines. See the full line up starting on page 21. In this issue’s Insight By Gama Compass, meanwhile, we examine how growing scepticism toward ultra-processed foods (UPFs) is fundamentally altering consumer priorities. Our latest data reveals how claims centered on purity, simplicity, 'cleanliness' and 'wildness' are leading a new cohort of growth-oriented marketing narratives tailored specifically for the minimally processed era across global food and beverage launches. Turn to page 14 for the full lowdown. Elsewhere in this edition, we review a dynamic spring on the international circuit, gathering the latest insights and trend forecasts from Cosmoprof, the UK Food & Drink Shows, The Vaper Expo UK, London Wine Fair and Vapexpo Spain. Finally, we turn our gaze to the autumn calendar with an exclusive look ahead to InterTabac and the NACS Show, featuring in-depth interviews with event organizers on what attendees and exhibitors can expect from these key industry gatherings. As we gear up for another unforgettable gathering in Manchester this October, I hope the news and analysis within these pages offers valuable inspiration for your business strategies. Cesar Pereira CEO, Gama

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Dec 2013

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Feb 2014

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IN THIS EDITION

Summary

Unilever to sell food business to McCormick

Tradeshow Insight: Cosmoprof 2026

Industry Insight: Milana Boskovic

14 Insight by Gama Compass: Wholefoods in vogue in 'low-processed' era

Tradeshow Insight: The UK Food & Drink Shows

Gama Innovation Conference & Awards 2026

Tradeshow Insight: The Vaper Expo UK 2026

Tradeshow Insight: London Wine Fair 2026

Industry Insight: Sakshi Mittal

Tradeshow Insight: Vapexo Spain 2026

Look Ahead: InterTabac 2026

45 Look Ahead: NACS Show 2026 UPCOMING EVENTS

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Published in Manchester, United Kingdom

UNILEVER TO SELL FOOD BUSINESS TO MCCORMICK UK: MOOTED DEAL SIGNALS UNILEVER'S INTENTION TO FOCUS ON PERSONAL CARE Unilever, the UK-based consumer goods giant, has confirmed it is in preliminary discussions with the US spice and seasonings manufacturer McCormick regarding a potential sale of its global food business. The division includes global brands such as Knorr and Hellmann’s. The move follows a strategic review by Unilever’s CEO, Fernando Fernández, aimed at streamlining operations to focus on the company’s high-growth beauty, wellbeing, and personal care segments. While specific financial terms have not been disclosed, McCormick has a market value of approximately $14.8 billion. In a statement addressing the speculation, Unilever said: “Unilever notes recent media speculation regarding a potential transaction involving its Foods business. […] Unilever confirms that it has received an inbound offer for its Foods business and is in discussions with McCormick & Company, Inc. There can be no certainty that any transaction will be agreed”.

USA: NESTLE SELLS MAJORITY STAKE IN BLUE BOTTLE COFFEE

Nestle, the Swiss food and beverage giant, has agreed to sell its majority stake in Blue Bottle Coffee to the private equity ﬁrm Centurium Capital. Based in California, Blue Bottle Coffee is a high-end specialty coffee roaster and retailer that

McCormick has expanded its food portfolio through the acquisition of assets such as Cholula and the food division of Reckitt. This potential deal follows Unilever’s previous decisions to divest non-core assets, including its tea, spreads and ice cream divisions. Later conﬁrming the proposed deal, the two companies said that upon closing of the transaction, Unilever shareholders are expected to own 55.1%, McCormick shareholders will own 35.0% and Unilever is expected to own 9.9% of the fully diluted combinedcompany outstanding equity.

By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Unilever / The Guardian / Food Dive / Just Food / Food Ingredients First / McCormick Image source: Unilever / McCormick (montage)

Nestle ﬁrst acquired in 2017. According to Inside Retail Asia, the purchaser, Centurium Capital, is also the controlling shareholder of the Chinese coffee chain Luckin Coffee. The deal is expected to support Centurium’s expansion into the premium coffee segment across in-ternational markets. At the time the company acquired Blue Bottle Coffee, Nestle CEO March Schneider said the deal “underline[d] Nestlé’s focus on investing in high-growth categories and acting on consu-mer trends”. In its Q1 2026 sales report, Nestle noted it remains focused on “optimising its portfolio”, to prioritise its core coffee brands, such as Nespresso and Nescafe.

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By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Nestle / Food Dive / FoodNavigator / Inside Retail Asia Image source: Nestle

JAPAN: SUNTORY TO ACQUIRE DAIICHI SANKYO HEALTHCARE

Suntory Holdings, the Japanese beverage and food giant, has agreed to acquire the consumer health unit Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare (DSHC) from the global pharmaceutical ﬁrm Daiichi Sankyo in a deal valued at ¥246.5 billion ($1.55 billion).

Suntory, which has previously expanded its global footprint through the acquisition of major consumer beverage brand, stated the move is designed to establish a “unique and comprehensive self-care business”. The acquisition will be completed in stages, with Suntory taking an initial 30% stake on the 1st June 2026, increasing to 70% in 2027, and achieving 100% ownership by the 1st June 2029. DSHC is a leading company in Japan’s over-the-counter pharmaceutical market, with a portfolio of brands including cold remedy Lulu, pain reliever Loxonin and skin care range Minon. According to sources, the healthcare unit also entered the sports nutrition category in 2024 via the acquisition of DNS. “By welcoming DAIICHI SANKYO HEALTHCARE into the Suntory Group, the Group expects to expand its business across the self-care and self-medication domains”, the company claimed in a statement. Daiichi Sankyo noted the divestment would allow it to focus resources on its innovative pharmaceutical business, particularly its oncology portfolio. By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source: Suntory Holdings / Daiichi Sankyo / Fierce Pharma / Food & Drink International Image source: Suntory / Daiichi Sankyo (montage)

SOUTH AFRICA: COCA-COLA TO INVEST $1 BILLION BY 2030

Coca-Cola, the US-based soft drinks giant, has announced that its Coca-Cola system intends to invest $1 billion in South Africa by 2030. The system, comprising regional division Coca-Cola Africa and local bottling partner Coca-Cola Beverages South Africa (CCBSA), will focus the capital on expanding manufacturing and distribution capacity.

to begin later this year, with commercial production on the new lines targeted for 2028. The expansion is also set to create around 150 new jobs.

According to the company, the investment follows a period of signiﬁcant economic contribution, with the system reportedly adding 51.2 billion ZAR ($2.8 billion) to South Africa’s gross domestic product in 2024. The system further claimed to support 8,000 direct employees and more than 100,000 jobs across the broader value chain.

The Coopersville site, which has been operational since 2012, currently employs more than 400 people and is one of Michigan’s largest dairy processing operations. The expansion is supported by statelevel incentives, including an Alternative State Essential Services Assessment abatement valued at approximately $3.9 million.

Luisa Ortega, president of Coca-Cola Africa, commented: “This investment is a testament to our belief in the potential of South Africa’s economy and our commitment to its future”.

By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Coca-Cola / FoodBev / Just Drinks / State of Michigan

By: Innovation Editor – Middle East & Africa Source: FoodBev / Bizcommunity / Manufacturing Digital Image source: Coca-Cola

USA: CHOBANI TO INVEST $567 MILLION IN MICHIGAN COFFEE PLANT

USA: COCA-COLA TO INVEST $650 MILLION IN MICHIGAN DAIRY PLANT

Coca-Cola, the US-based food and beverage giant, has announced plans to invest $650 million in the expansion of its Fairlife production facility in Coopersville (MI). The project involves adding approximately 22,760 sq m of production space and two high-speed production lines to meet “sustained consumer demand” for the brand’s ultraﬁltered milk and protein shakes, according to the company. Construction is expected

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This latest move follows a $650 million investment in a new Fairlife production site in Webster (NY), which was scheduled to become operational by the end of 2025.

Chobani, the US food and beverage manufacturer, is to invest $567 million in the expansion of its La Colombe coffee production facility in Norton Shores (MI).

According to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the project involves adding more than 200,000 sq ft (approximately 18,580 sq m) of production space to the existing site. The expansion is expected to create 337 new jobs in the region while retaining 312 existing positions.

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REFRESCO TO ACQUIRE SUNOPTA IN $1.1 BILLION DEAL USA: SOFT DRINKS GIANT BOLSTERS POSITION IN DAIRY-FREE, BROTHS, SNACKS Refresco, the Netherlands-based beverage solutions giant, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire SunOpta, the North American plant-based food and drink specialist, in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $1.1 billion. Under the terms of the agreement, Refresco will pay $6.50 per share for the Eden Prairie (MN) headquartered firm, which represents a significant premium over its recent trading price. SunOpta provides supply chain solutions and innovation for major brands, retailers, and foodservice providers, with a portfolio spanning plant-based beverages, broths and better-for-you snacks.

signiﬁcantly broadens our position in the fastgrowing plant-based beverages category”. SunOpta CEO Brian Kocher added: “This strategic combination validates our vision of transforming SunOpta into a premier solutions partner in the highgrowth better-for-you food and beverage space. This partnership with Refresco provides the resources and scale to unlock SunOpta’s full potential”. The move follows Refresco’s 2025 acquisition of Norwegian beverage manufacturer Telemark Kildevann. The SunOpta deal, which has been unanimously approved by the boards of both companies, is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.

Commenting on the acquisition, Refresco CEO Steve Presley said: “SunOpta represents an exceptional strategic addition to our portfolio and is consistent with our proven growth strategy to expand our capabilities into adjacent beverage categories. The acquisition of SunOpta is highly complementary and

The move follows Chobani’s acquisition of La Colombe for $900 million in late 2023, a deal aimed at diversifying the company’s portfolio beyond its core Greek yoghurt business into the fast-growing ready-todrink (RTD) coffee segment. Commenting on the investment, Chobani founder and CEO Hamdi Ulukaya said: “La Colombe has been making ready-to-drink lattes in Norton Shores for more than a decade, and from day one this community has welcomed us with open arms. […]". "This is just the beginning of a beautiful journey together in West Michigan, and we’re committed to being part of it for many years to come”, he concluded.

By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Refresco (via GlobeNewswire) / SunOpta / Star Tribune / Food Business Newse Image source: Refresco / SunOpta (montage)

The company noted that the phased expansion will include additional production lines, enabling it to meet surging demand for RTD lattes and create capacity for future product innovations. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Chobani / Food Dive / Michigan Economic Development Corporation / FoodBev Image source: Chobani

Danone, the French multinational food giant, has entered into a deﬁnitive agreement to acquire Huel, the UK-based plant-based nutrition leader, in a deal valued at approximately €1 billion ($1.15 billion). The acquisition is a cornerstone of the “Renew Danone” strategy, which focuses on scaling high-growth, health-centric assets in the “Complete Nutrition” category.

UK: DANONE TO ACQUIRE FUNCTIONAL NUTRITION BRAND HUEL IN €1 BILLION DEAL

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Founded in 2015 by Julian Hearn and James Collier, Huel specializes in “nutritionally complete” meal solutions. Its product portfolio, which includes powders, ready-to-drink shakes and Hot & Savoury meals, has seen exceptional growth. For fiscal 2025, Huel’s revenues are estimated to exceed £250 million ($332 million), a significant jump from the £214 million ($284 million) reported the previous year. The transaction marks a major exit for early backers, including Morgan Stanley (via its 1GT climate private equity strategy) and high-profile investors such as Steven Bartlett, Idris Elba and Jonathan Ross. Notably, the deal unites two B-Corp certified organizations, aligning with Danone’s 2025 achievement of global B-Corp status. Commenting on the acquisition, Danone CEO Antoine de Saint-Affrique stated: “What they have achieved in the fastgrowing Complete Nutrition space fully resonates with Danone’s mission of delivering health through food”. James McMaster, CEO of Huel, added: “With Danone, we will

now have the infrastructure, distribution and R&D capability to go further, into new markets and to more people, as demand for convenient, complete nutrition continues to grow”. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Danone / New Food / Just Food / The Guardian / Morgan Stanley / Huel / Economic Times Image source: Danone

UK: TILRAY BRANDS ACQUIRES BREWDOG IN £33 MILLION DEAL

Tilray Brands, the US-based lifestyle and consumer packaged goods ﬁrm, has ﬁnalised the acquisition of Scottish craft brewer BrewDog’s global brand

and UK production assets in a deal valued at £33 million ($40 million). The transaction includes BrewDog’s worldwide intellectual property, its UK brewing operations, and a portfolio of 11 profitable brewpubs across the UK and Ireland. On 9th March 2026, Tilray also confirmed the completion of a separate ac‐ quisition for BrewDog’s Australian business, which includes a brewery in Brisbane and several bar locations. Irwin D. Simon, chairman and chief executive officer of Tilray Brands, stated: “BrewDog is one of the most iconic, mission-driven craft beer brands in the UK. As we begin a new chapter for this great brand, our priority is to refocus BrewDog on the craft beer excellence that made it beloved in the first place and strategically invest to return the operations to profitable growth.” The deal follows a period of financial difficulty for BrewDog, which reported losses of more than £35 million ($43 million) in 2025. Tilray, meanwhile, has recently expanded its beverage footprint through other signi-

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

IN BRIEF Violet Foods, a US tomato products manufacturer, has acquired the organic brand Muir Glen from General Mills for an undisclosed sum. The transaction adds a national organic footprint to Violet's portfolio, boosting its position in the $5 billion US canned tomato and sauces market. Source: Violet Foods / Food Dive / Just Food Rich Products, a US-based family-owned food company, has acquired Great Kitchens Food Company from Brynwood Partners. The deal expands Rich’s portfolio with North America's largest private label take-and-bake pizza ma-

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nufacturer. Source: Rich Products / Just Food / Milling Middle East & Africa / Frozen Foods Biz Adam Foods, the Spanish food group, has bought Biscoland, the biscuit division of the Moroccan conglomerate Holmarcom Group. The transaction includes a factory in Bouskoura, south of Casablanca. Source: Milling Middle East & Africa / Europa Press / Trend Type Marzetti has agreed to acquire Bachan’s, a maker of Japanese barbecue sauce, for $400 million in cash. Bachan’s is known for its coldﬁlled sauces based on a multi-generational family recipe. Source: Marzetti (via BusinessWire) / Just Food / FoodBev

TRADESHOW INSIGHT

COSMOPROF 2026 Bologna, Italy

Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna 2026, the 57th edition of the international cosmetics trade fair, took place from 26th to 29th March 2026 at the BolognaFiere exhibition centre in Bologna, Italy. The event recorded over 255,000 professional attendees from 155 countries, and featured more than 3,000 exhibitors from 68 nations, representing over 10,000 brands. A total of 32 country pavilions were present, which included new national representations from Saudi Arabia, Belgium, Portugal and Hungary. A major scheduling update for the 2026 edition saw the event organised outside the Ramadan period to facilitate greater engagement and attendance from stakeholders across the Middle East and North Africa region.

The event highlighted several overriding macro-trends and innovations impacting the global beauty and personal care market, which reached a valuation of over €587 billion in

2025. A key theme was “poly‐ sensoriality”, where product formulations and packaging aimed to stimulate multiple physical senses through transformative textures, tactile formats and memory formulas. This direction reﬂects consumer demand for tangible, sensory experiences within an increasingly digital landscape.

Technology-driven solutions also expanded across the show floor, notably within the beauty tech segment via advanced artificial intelligence-powered diagnostic systems, multifunctional skincare tools, and targeted appliances focusing on scalp and hair health. Furthermore, the industry demonstrated an overarching integration of wellness, longevity and preventative science. This shift encompasses biotechnology and formulations operating at a molecular level, alongside elevated market interest in nutricosmetics and ethical, certified or sustainable products. Operationally, the fair implemented updates to enhance spatial readability and physical

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layout navigation for attendees. The exhibition also maintained its segmented structure divided into distinct channels. Cosmopack, dedicated to the international cosmetic supply chain, hosted more than 600 companies from 37 countries, including national supply chain pavilions for South Korea, India and Poland. Close by, the Fragrance & Ingredients Zone served as a hub for raw material suppliers and formulation research. Elsewhere, Cosmo Perfumery & Cosmetics formed the com‐ mercial core for ﬁnished retail brands, hosting over 1,300 companies from 56 countries. Fragrances held a prominent position, with the main commercial arena complemented by an artistic showcase for the premium perfumery sector. The 58th edition of Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna is scheduled to be held from 18th to 21st March 2027.

Image source: Cosmoprof

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT MILANA BOSKOVIC Gama spoke to Milana Boskovic, Chief Marketing and R&D Ofﬁcer, Al Ain Farms Group

How is the formation of Al Ain Farms Group helping you leverage scale to redeﬁne your identity as a ‘National Food Champion’? The formation of Al Ain Farms Group is really about creating the scale and capabilities needed to strengthen the UAE’s food system. By bringing together ﬁve established local food brands, we are moving from being known primarily as a dairy and poultry company to becoming a broader, integrated food system.

" The combination of local integration production and vertical integration makes our model particularly powerful "

What makes our model particularly powerful is the combination of local production and vertical integration. We have greater control across the value chain, from farming and feed through processing, lo‐ gistics and distribution. Scale also gives us the opportunity to invest more conﬁdently in R&D, technology and

new categories – from functional nutrition and camel milk to poultry and other locally produced foods. For us, being a National Food Champion is not simply about being bigger. It is about using the scale to make local food production more resilient, innovative and competitive, while contributing to the UAE’s longterm food security ambitions. How do you translate your research partnerships and UAE Food Security goals into tangible beneﬁts for the daily grocery shopper? For us, food security is not an abstract national objective. It has to be visible in the everyday shopping basket. Our approach is built around local production, vertical integration and partnerships. We are working with universities, technology companies and strategic partners to improve everything from agricultural productivity and climate resilience to animal nutrition, food pro‐ cessing and logistics. Recent collaborations with Khalifa University, Al Dahra and ne’ma are examples of how we are connecting science, local supply chains and national food-security priorities. We also have to make sure those investments ultimately create value for consumers.

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Our farm-to-shelf model allows us to deliver products to more than 23,000 retail points within 24 hours of production, which is a very tangible advantage in terms of freshness and reliability.

" Food security is not only about availability – it is also about quality, affordability and consumer conﬁdence "

And food security is not only about availability. It is also about quality, affordability and consumer conﬁdence. Initiatives such as the Premium Food Mark for locally produced poultry are important because they help consumers identify quality-assured local products at the shelf. So when we talk about food security, our measure of success is ultimately very simple: can we give families reliable access to fresh, nutritious, locally produced food, every day?

ﬁcant acquisitions, including eight beer brands from AB InBev in 2023. The acquired UK and Irish operations are expected to generate approximately $200 million in annual net revenue and between $6 million and $8 million in adjusted EBITDA for ﬁscal 2027. Tilray’s total global beverage platform is projected to reach $500 million in annual revenue following the integration. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Tilray Brands (via GlobeNewswire) / The Caterer / Drinks International / Beervana Image source: Tilray Brands

BRAZIL: NESTLE OPENS R$2.5 BILLION PET FOOD FACTORY

Nestle Purina, the pet care division of the Swiss food and drink giant, has inaugurated its largest-ever investment in Brazil with the opening of a new wet pet food factory in Vargeao, Santa Catarina.

The BRL 2.5 billion ($470 million) facility is designed to significantly expand the company’s production of wet food for cats and dogs, nearly doubling its local capacity in the category. Equipped with nextgeneration production lines, the site incorporates advanced technologies including artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions for real-time monitoring and digital traceability. It is also the first Purina factory in Latin America to operate on 100% renewable thermal and e-

lectrical energy, utilizing a biomass-powered boiler. Marcelo Melchior, CEO of Nestle Brazil, stated: “The new Vargeão plant strengthens our global strategy to expand premium wet pet food, offering a variety of textures and sensory experiences that elevate great nutrition for dogs and cats. This investment reﬂects our commitment to innovation, the well-being of pets, and Brazil as one of the most strategic markets”. The facility, which has created 140 permanent jobs, will serve as a strategic export hub for South America, with initial shipments already directed to Chile. Brazil currently represents the world’s second-largest pet food market, with an estimated population of 110 million pets. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Nestle / Nutrition Insight / PetfoodIndustry / Click Oil and Gas Image source: Nestle

bility initiatives. Brazil is a critical market for the ﬁrm, currently hosting its largest manufacturing plant globally in Jundia, which produces 2 billion litres of beverages annually. The expansion is expected to create new jobs and strengthen the local supply chain across all regions of the country. This move follows a separate recent investment of R$ 1.5 billion ($290 million) in a high-technology plant in Uberlandia. By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source: SuperVarejo

USA: COCA-COLA PARTNERS WITH SAZERAC FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE EXPANSION

BRAZIL: COCA-COLA TO INVEST R$30 BILLION BY 2030

Coca-Cola Brasil, the Brazilian subsidiary of the global beverage giant, has announced an investment plan totalling R$ 30 billion ($5.8 billion) in the country by 2030. This new capital injection represents a signiﬁcant increase over the R$11 billion ($2.1 billion) the ﬁrm committed to the Brazilian market for the 2024-2025 period. According to the company, the funds will be used to expand its industrial footprint, including the construction of new factories and distribution centres. The investment also aims to modernise existing production lines and bolster sustaina-

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Coca-Cola, the US-based multinational beverage giant, has entered into a strategic partnership with family-owned spirits company Sazerac to drive growth in the rapidly expanding alcoholic ready-to-drink (RTD) segment. Under the agreement, Red Tree Beverages (the company’s subsidiary for alcoholic ventures) is transitioning the production and distribution of several key brands to Sazerac. The portfolio includes the existing Fresca Mixed and Minute Maid Spiked lines, which were previ‐ ously managed in collaboration with Constellation Brands. The partnership will also sup-

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port the upcoming launch of Fresca Hard, a zero-sugar ﬂavoured malt beverage containing 99 calories, which is expected to debut early next year. Commenting on the move, Dan White, chief of new revenue streams at Coca-Cola, said: “The alcohol RTD category is one of the fastest-growing segments in beverage alcohol today – and Red Tree Beverages continues to be at the forefront with innovative, high-quality brands”. Lourdes Grill, president of Red Tree Beverages, added that the collaboration would “continue to bring innovation to the forefront” for the next generation of consumers. The move marks a further step in Coca-Cola’s diversiﬁcation into the alcohol sector, following the acquisition of the Finlandia vodka brand for $220 million by its Swiss-based bottler, Coca-Cola HBC, in 2023. By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source: FoodBev / The Spirits Business / Citybuzz Image source: Coca-Cola / Sazerac (montage)

tegories. HUL, which is the Indian subsidiary of the British multinational Unilever, currently operates 28 manufacturing facilities across India. The new capital expenditure will be utilised to set up new manufacturing lines and upgrade existing infrastructure to meet growing consumer demand. Commenting on the expansion, HUL CEO and managing director Rohit Jawa said: “This investment is a testament to our commitment to the Indian market and our conﬁdence in its long-term growth potential. We continue to invest in our supply chain to ensure we are well-positioned to serve our consumers with high-quality products”. This latest move follows HUL’s previous investment in its “Palm Oil Coalition”, aimed at improving sustainability in its supply chain. The company’s portfolio includes popular brands such as Dove, Lifebuoy, Surf Excel, and Horlicks. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source / image source: Hindustan Unilever

INDIA: HINDUSTAN UNILEVER TO INVEST 20 BILLION INR IN MANUFACTURING EXPANSION

FRANCE: CARREFOUR TO SELL ROMANIAN SUBSIDIARY TO PAVAL HOLDING

Hindustan Unilever (HUL), the Indian FMCG giant, has announced plans to invest 20 billion INR ($239 million) over the next two years to enhance its manufacturing capabilities. ' The investment is primarily aimed at expanding production capacity for the company’s home care and personal care ca-

Carrefour, the French multinational retail group, has entered into exclusive negotiations with Paval Holding for the sale of its entire Romanian operations based on an enterprise value of €823 million ($976 million). The transaction, which is anticipated to complete in the second half of 2026, involves a multiformat network of 478 stores. This includes 55 hypermarkets, 191 supermarkets, 202 convenience stores and 30 discount outlets. Carrefour Romania reported gross sales of approxi-

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mately €3.2 billion ($3.8 billion) in 2024, representing around 3.5% of the group’s total turnover.

Paval Holding is the investment vehicle of the Paval family, the owners of Romania’s leading DIY retail chain, Dedeman. The divestment is part of a strategic portfolio review initiated by Carrefour in early 2025, as the company seeks to refocus capital on its three core markets of France, Spain and Brazil. “The sale of Carrefour Romania conﬁrms the good progress of the portfolio review initiated in 2025”, said Alexandre Bompard, chairman and CEO of Carrefour. “Following the major transactions completed over the past twelve months – notably the buyout of minority interests in Carrefour Brazil and the sale of Carrefour Italy – the Group is pursuing its transformation and refocusing on its three core countries”. The agreement remains subject to customary regulatory approvals. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Carrefour / Financial Food / Retail Insight Network Image source: Carrefour

FRANCE: PERNOD RICARD AND BROWN-FORMAN CONFIRM MERGER TALKS

Pernod Ricard, the French spirits producer, and US-based Brown-Forman have conﬁrmed they are in preliminary discussions regarding a potential “merger of equals”.

with Brown-Forman’s position as the world’s largest producer of American whiskey. Neither company has commented on the potential valuation of a combined entity – estimated by analysts at around $30 billion – and BrownForman stated it “does not intend to comment further” until a definitive agreement is reached. The talks are currently at an early stage. Pernod Ricard, the world’s second-largest spirits maker, said it “confirms that it is in discussions regarding a potential business combination with Brown-Forman”. However, the group cautioned that “there can be no assurance that any agreement will be reached”. Brown-Forman, the owner of brands including Jack Daniel’s and Woodford Reserve, released a parallel statement confirming the exploratory talks. The potential deal would combine Pernod Ricard’s global distribution network and brands such as Absolut and Chivas Regal

By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Pernod Ricard / BrownForman / The Spirits Business / The Drinks Business Image source: Pernod Ricard / Brown-Forman (montage)

INDIA: ELITECON INTERNATIONAL TO INVEST 700 CRORE INR IN FMCG EXPANSION

Elitecon International, the Indian fast-moving consumer goods

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(FMCG) company, has announced plans to invest 700 crore INR ($84 million) over the next five years to scale its operations. The capital expenditure is a core pillar of the firm’s “Vision 2030” strategy, which aims to increase annual revenue from its current 150 crore INR ($18 million) to 20,000 crore INR ($2.4 billion) by the 2029-30 financial year. The investment will facilitate the expansion of the company beyond its current confectionery and snacks portfolio into staple categories such as pulses, spices, and dried fruits. According to the company, the funds will also support the launch of a premium tea and coffee range, alongside significant upgrades to manufacturing infrastructure and supply chain logistics. By: Innovation Editor – Asia Pacific Source: ANI News / Innovacia / Business Standard / The Print

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INSIGHT BY GAMA COMPASS

WHOLEFOODS IN VOGUE IN 'LOW-PROCESSED' ERA

Consumers are increasingly prioritising products that champion whole, unadulterated ingredients, as simplicity and formulation integrity become central drivers in purchasing decisions. According to the latest data from Gama Compass, the strategic emphasis on ‘whole ingredients’ now heads up a wider cohort of growth-oriented marketing claims tailored to the minimally-processed era. As public scepticism towards ultra-processed foods (UPFs) intensiﬁes, claims that act as a counterpoint, especially those centred on purity, simplicity, ‘cleanliness’, and ‘wildness’, are ﬁnding sustained favour across global food and non-alcoholic drink launches.

Leading this overall shift is the rise of ‘whole’ formulations, typically anchored by whole grains, unrefined fruits, nuts, and minimally treated plant ingredients. Per Gama Compass analysis, products carrying “whole” claims in‐ creased from 3.0% of total launches in 2014/15 to 5.5% in 2024–26 YTD. This upward trajectory illustrates that modern consumers, no longer satisfied merely with the removal of undesirable additives, increasingly demand that in‐ gredients retain their native cellular and nutritional matrix. This heightened scrutiny on ingredient integrity is not occurring in isolation, but rather reflects a broader consumer preference for foods that remain uncompromised and “as nature intended”. Over the past decade, a suite of three complementary claim sets has followed a remarkably aligned upward path. Claims touting “clean / simple” formulations – frequently defined by concise, recognisable ingredient decks – rose from 0.4% in 2014/15 to 1.9% in 2024–26 YTD. Simultaneously, claims highlighting “raw” or “wild” attributes surged nearly fivefold from 0.4% to 1.9%, while explicit referen-

ces to “pure” formulations expanded from 1.6% to 2.4%. These claims are not evenly distributed across the FMCG landscape, however, demonstrating that speciﬁc positioning terms resonate differently depending on category expectations. For instance, “pure” claims associate most heavily with fruit-derived categories rather than dairy, grains, or bakery items: fruit and vegetable drinks and juices led at 6.5% of launches between 2014 and 2026 YTD, followed by preserves and spreads at 4.4%, where purity functions as reassurance that natural fruits have not been unnecessarily diluted with synthetic concentrates. By contrast, “raw / wild” claims are more prevalent in meat, ﬁsh, and poultry at 2.1%, and functional drinks at 2.4%. In proteins, “wild” signals traditional, non-intensive harvesting or rearing methods over industrialised farming, whilst in functional beverages, wild or cold-processed raw ingredients carry an aura of untamed potency, often perceived as biologically superior to synthesised vitamin blends. While “whole” remains a staple in bakery due to whole grains,

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its notable presence in snacks, featuring on 2.4% of launches, reflects a category undergoing a complete repositioning. The snacking sector serves as a premier case study in wholesale category transformation. Once associated primarily with high processing, refined starches and artificial flavouring, snacking brands have aggressively embraced transparent nutrition. Snacks index exceptionally high for these new credentials, with 3.4% of recent launches featuring “clean / simple” claims and 4.2% highlighting “whole” ingredients. This positioning provides consumers with a clear “permission to snack”, reframing impulse consumption from a dietary vice into a source of legitimate, whole-food nourishment. More granular cross-claim analysis reveals the psychological mechanisms behind these terms. Products positioned as “clean / simple” co-occur with “authentic” claims in 12.7% of instances, demonstrating that consumers instinctively equate long, chemical-heavy ingredient declarations with industrial compromise, viewing short decks as inherently more trustworthy. For example, Coo-per Street’s It's Just a Cookie! line

Select product claims in food & non-alcoholic drink launches, 2014- 2026 YTD6D whole

pure

clean / simple

raw / wild

directly leverages this dynamic, actively declaring: “In a world over-run with overcomplicated cookies, 'It's Just a Cookie' shines with its simplicity and authenticity… the Ultimate Indulgence you can feel good about”. Similarly, modern interpretations of wholeness are evolving from broad marketing rhetoric into visible product design. Presteez Pressed Snack Bars embrace this tactic by letting consumers physically see every ingredient, including whole olives and carrots, directly using visible textures as proof points for clean-label narratives. Presteez is also among the 21.0% of products touting “whole” ingredients that also carry a “high in ﬁbre” claim, which is signiﬁcantly higher than for products claiming “pure” or “clean”. This reinforces that wholeness remains intrinsically linked to whole

grains, peels and pulp that preserve natural dietary fibres. Another prime example is Welch’s Yogofruits Fruit Bites, which explicitly claims that it “blends whole fruit goodness with probiotics and a creamy yoghurt coating to help support a healthy digestive system”, linking natural fibre content from “whole” ingredients directly to functional wellness, in particular gut health – a standout concern for today’s consumer. Finally, the relationship with “raw / wild” positioning with non-animal dietary preferences is particularly stark, with nearly 30% of all “raw / wild” products also marketed as vegan. Foodin’s Chocolate Spread from Finland exemplifies this approach, declaring that its raw chocolate spread “is powered by sustainable, organic ingredients like hazelnuts, coconut milk powder, and cacao

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powder” as part of a wholly vegan formulation. The “raw / wild” terminology appeals equally across plant-based and animal-based categories by substituting hyper-engineered processing with raw, unheated integrity. To capitalise on these shifts, brands must recognise that terms like “whole”, “clean”, and “raw” represent a distinct evolution beyond generic “natural” or “no additives” positioning. While boilerplate cleanlabel claims can sometimes merely communicate the passive removal of unwanted chemicals, concepts of wholeness and simplicity actively celebrate the physical integrity and cellular architecture of the food itself. For manufacturers, commercial advantage will no longer come from simply omitting unwanted additives or leaning on generic ‘natural’ qualities, but from leaving recognisable ingredients intact – allowing visible seeds, intact fruits, unreﬁned grains and other ‘wholefood’ ingredients to serve as their own proof of minimal processing . Source: Gama Compass

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TRADESHOW INSIGHT

THE UK FOOD & DRINK SHOWS 2026 Birmingham, UK

The latest edition of The UK Food & Drink Shows took place at the NEC Birmingham from the 13th to 15th April 2026, comprising four distinct exhibitions: the Food & Drink Expo, Farm Shop & Deli Show, National Convenience Show and the Forecourt Show. This expansive gathering of more than 1,200 exhibitors and an anticipated 25,000 visitors featured a refreshed visual identity, utilizing a contemporary typeface and background textures designed to reﬂect the current direction of the industry.

Gama with Nohra Currie, Founder, Foliclub

A primary theme of the event, as viewed from the show ﬂoor, was the evolution of liquid functionality, with the beverage category moving toward metabolic support and botanical enhancement. This shift was characterized by a wave of products that bridge the gap between refreshment and wellness, such as prickly pear cactus water and functional lagers

formulated with cordyceps and lion’s mane extracts.

Gama with Rupinder Kaur, Founder, Rupa’s

The trend toward digestive health was further represented by gut-friendly sodas high in fibre and low in calories, alongside tonic waters enhanced with collagen and highprotein sparkling fruit drinks. Additionally, customisation appeared as a burgeoning subtheme, with brands offering limited editions that allow consumers to influence flavour varieties through collective feedback. This focus on functional health extended into the food aisles, where a clear movement toward alternative base ingredients and sophisticated plantbased formats was evident. Innovations being showcased demonstrated the extent to which producers are increasingly moving away from traditional fillers in favour of nutrient-dense components, such as macadamia milk and oat blends or spreads formulated with shea butter, date powder

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and coconut oil. This ingredient-led approach was seen in speciﬁc applications including miso & garlic paste, roasted oat crisps and veganfriendly ‘chicken butter’ paste. Even within indulgent categories, there was a drive toward reﬁnement through products like date-sweetened vegan chocolate and infused chilli salts. Strategic insight sessions examined the shifting habits of younger demographics, particularly how Gen Z and millennials are reshaping consumption through value-led choices and an increased demand for authenticity. Industry leaders discussed the challenges facing independent specialist retailers and the ways in which businesses can adapt and thrive in a landscape that demands both resilience and reinvention.

Gama with John Winnard MBE, Uncle Joe’s

The 2027 edition of The UK Food & Drink Shows is set for 12th to 14th April. Image source: Gama

USA: FERRERO INVESTS $75 MILLION TO MAKE NUTELLA PEANUT IN ILLINOIS

Ferrero North America, the US division of the Italian confectionery giant, has ofﬁcially started manufacturing its new Nutella Peanut spread at its facility in Franklin Park (IL). The launch represents the ﬁrst time a Nutella-branded product has been manufactured in the United States. According to the company, the new spread is a blend of hazelnuts and peanuts, utilizing hazelnuts from Oregon and peanuts sourced from Georgia and other south-eastern states. The product is currently being rolled out to retailers across the country, including Walmart and Target. The project involved a $75 million investment to add the new production line to the Franklin Park plant, which has been

home to the production of Butterﬁnger and Baby Ruth since the 1960s. This regional growth follows the opening of a separate $75 million chocolate processing facility in Bloomington in 2024. Michael Lindsey, president and chief business ofﬁcer of Ferrero North America, commented: “Nutella Peanut and this new facility showcase Ferrero’s dedicated and talented teams, commitment to growth in North America, and the company’s ability to thoughtfully and effectively evolve brands that have been loved for generations”. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Ferrero (via PR Newswire) Image source: Ferrero

GERMANY: MARS TO CLOSE PET FOOD PRODUCTION FACILITY

Mars, the USA-based multina‐ tional food and pet care ma-

nufacturer, is proposing to close its pet food production facility in Minden, Germany, as part of a strategic review of its operations.

The proposal affects approximately 110 employees at the Minden site, which manufactures dry pet food brands including Pedigree, Crave, and Perfect Fit for more than 20 countries. Production is expected to end by late 2026, with volumes transferred to other European Union facilities. This restructuring follows previous announcements regarding Mars’s broader €1 billion ($1.18 billion) investment in modernising its European footprint. The investment program includes facility upgrades in France, Poland, and Spain. Simultaneously, the company conﬁrmed it will permanently shut its pet nutrition facility in Henderson, USA, by mid-June 2026. This decision, affecting 150 staff, follows a fatal explosion in February after which

MANUFACTURE & DISTRIBUTION Oman Investment Authority. Source: JBS / ESM / The AgriBiz

IN BRIEF Campbell’s Soup has announced plans to close its snacks manufacturing facility in Hyannis (MA), and consolidate production of its Cape Cod and Kettle Brand crisps in Beloit (WI), Charlotte (NC), and Hanover (PA). Operational since 1985, the Hyannis plant currently produces approximately 4% of the Cape Cod brand’s total volume. Source: Just Food JBS, the meat processing giant, is investing $150 million to establish a major multi-protein production platform in Oman. The investment is being realised through a joint venture with the

InnovAsian, part of frozen food giant Nichirei Foods, is to construct a $105 million state-of-theart manufacturing facility in Jonesboro (AR). The new 175,000 sq ft plant is expected to create circa 200 new jobs. Source: InnovAsian (via GlobeNewswire) / Arkansas Economic Development Commission / Seafood Media Dabur, the Indian consumer goods giant, has announced plans for a factory in Tamil Nadu with an investment of 400 crore INR ($48 million). Goods set to be produced there include toothpaste, air fresheners and juices. Source: SightsIn Plus

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the plant was deemed beyond safe repair. A spokesperson for Mars Pet Nutrition stated the move is “part of regular reviews of our business operations and structure to meet the needs of our customers and consumers”. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Just Food / International Pet Food / Yahoo Finance / Feed Business MEA Image source: Mars

USA: LAIRD SUPERFOOD ACQUIRES TERRASOUL SUPERFOODS

pital Management. This investment was previously committed under an agreement approved in connection with the company’s recent Navitas Organics transaction. Laird Superfood CEO Jason Vieth described the transaction as “a signiﬁcant step forward in our mission to build the premier platform in superfoods and functional nutrition”. He noted that Terrasoul’s established online marketplace presence, proprietary supply chain infrastructure and high-quality product portfolio are “strongly aligned with our long-term strategic priorities” and will “meaningfully accelerate our ability to serve consumers across channels at scale”. The deal follows Laird Superfood’s January deal to acquire organic superfood brand Navitas. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source / image source: Laird Superfood

Laird Superfood, the US-based plant-based superfood producer, has completed the acquisition of Terrasoul Superfoods. The transaction was agreed for $48 million in cash, with an additional earnout of up to $5 million payable if certain performance-based milestones are achieved. Terrasoul Superfoods is described as a vertically integrated branded foods platform offering a portfolio of products that includes nuts, seeds, dried fruits, powders, baking ingredients and functional beverage mix-ins. For the ﬁscal year ended 31st December 2025, the brand generated unaudited net sales of approximately $65.8 million. The acquisition was funded through a concurrent private placement of $60 million of Series A Convertible Preferred Stock to afﬁliates of Nexus Ca-

USA: FERRARA INVESTS IN NEW MANUFACTURING FACILITY

Ferrara, the US sugar confectioner, has announced plans to establish a $675 million manufacturing and corporate facility in Orangeburg County, South Carolina.

The investment is projected to create 1,000 jobs over the next ten years, according to the company. The new 750,000 sq ft site will include an administrative ofﬁce, a warehouse for raw and packaging materials and processing and packaging operations. The ﬁrst produc-

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tion lines are scheduled to become operational in the ﬁrst quarter of 2029. Ferrara – which boasts a portfolio of over 40 brands including Nerds, SweeTarts and Trolli – said the new operation would support high consumer demand and strengthen its position within the sugar confections market. The investment follows the company’s recently completed acquisition of Jelly Belly. Commenting on the investment, Ferrara CEO Marco Capurso said: “Our new Orangeburg facility represents a major step forward in transforming Ferrara’s manufacturing scale and capability, positioning the company for longterm global leadership”. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source / image source: Ferrara

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MEXICO: CONAGRA BRANDS INVESTS M$550 MILLION IN PLANT UPGRADE

Conagra Brands, the US-headquartered food manufacturer, has announced an investment of M$550 million ($31.9 million) to expand and modernise its production facility in Irapuato, Guanajuato. The project is designed to strengthen the company’s operational capacity and long-term growth strategy within the country. The investment will focus on extending production lines and upgrading packaging technology to raise output and im‐ prove manufacturing efﬁciency. The Irapuato site is a strate-

gic hub for the business, ac‐ counting for 94% of Conagra’s total sales volume in Mexico and producing key brands including ACT II, Del Monte and Hunt’s. Alberto Cavia, director general of Conagra Brands Mexico, stated that the expansion “reﬂects our long-term commitment to sustainable growth, innovation and the development of the food sector in Mexico”. The facility beneﬁts from proximity to local raw materials such as corn, potatoes and carrots, and has treated over 3.1 million cubic metres of wastewater since 2015. Conagra Brands, which recently expanded its manufacturing footprint in the USA with a $220 million investment in Arkansas, currently maintains a workforce of over 800 em‐ ployees across its Mexican operations. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Just Food / Food Business News / Yahoo Finance / Mexico Business News Image source: Conagra Brands

DENMARK: CARLSBERG EXPANDS STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH PEPSICO

Carlsberg, the Danish brewery group, has announced a new agreement with PepsiCo, the US-based food and beverage giant, to become its exclusive bottler across the Nordic and Baltic regions.

Beginning on 1st January 2029, Carlsberg will assume responsibility for the production, sale and distribution of the PepsiCo portfolio in Denmark, Finland, Latvia, Estonia and Lithuania. This development extends a strategic collaboration that has spanned more than 25 years in Sweden and Norway. Consequently, Carlsberg’s

NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES

IN BRIEF Danone, the French food giant, has expanded its Alpro plant-based portfolio with the launch of Meal to Go, a new range of meal replacement drinks. The new line, which has initially rolled out in Belgium and Germany, marks the brand’s first foray into the complete nutrition category. Source: Just Food / Green Queen / Gondola PepsiCo, the food and drinks multinational, has unveiled a Flavor Swap range in the US, featuring a mashup of flavours across its Cheetos, Doritos and Ruffles brands. The initiative is a "culinary experiment" intended to engage younger consumers. Source: Milling Middle East & Africa / Food & Beverage Business / Parade

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Nestle, the Swiss food and beverage giant, has unveiled a new line of “science-backed” nutritional drinks branded Nestle Vital, marking a strategic entry into the “healthy longevity” segment. Targeting consumers in midlife and beyond, the range is designed to support energy, focus, sleep and physical recovery. Source: Nestle / FoodBev Bel Brands USA, the Chicago-based subsidiary of the French dairy giant Bel Group, has announced the launch of Babybel Pro, a new functional snack cheese range. Available as Babybel Pro Protein and Babybel Pro Probiotics, the new product line is being rolled out across the USA, marking the brand’s ﬁrst venture into the functional dairy space. Source: Bel

TRADESHOW INSIGHT

THE VAPER EXPO UK 2026 Birmingham, UK

The 11th edition of The Vaper Expo UK took place from the 8th to the 10th of May 2026 in Birmingham, serving as a signiﬁcant gathering for the nicotine and tobacco alternatives industry. The event featured hundreds of exhibiting companies, reﬂecting a substantial international presence. The three-day programme was divided into distinct segments, with the opening day dedicated exclusively to business-tobusiness interactions, followed by two days that were open to the general public.

many of the innovations showcased at the 2026 edition revealed western countries such as the UK, USA and Canada are a signiﬁcant wellspring of the most creative product development.

Geek Bar at The Vaper Expo UK 2026

Gama and Yash Malpani, Business Director, Malpani Group

While the majority of the exhibition space was occupied by vaping devices, the event displayed a broadening scope within the sector. Exhibitors presented a variety of alternative formats, including nicotine pouches, heated tobacco products and nicotine salts, but with more novel delivery systems such as strips, lozenges and gums ever more apparent. Although China remains the primary manufacturing hub for the industry,

Hardware trends at the exhibition highlighted a move towards increased customisation and consumer choice. Devices are now being offered in a wider range of flavours than in previous years, and there is a visible shift towards refillable pod systems that allow users to select their own e-liquids rather than being restricted to proprietary pods. Personalisation was another key theme, with several exhibitors offering on-site engraving services or releasing limited “souvenir editions” of their products. Geek Bar was exhibiting and again showcasing the Spark, launching soon in the UK, designed as a more elegant vaping solution. Other manufacturers continued to place an emphasis on significantly higher puff counts – some as high as 25,000 – often accompanied by new liquid

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ranges in strengths.

varying

nicotine

The oral nicotine segment also demonstrated significant diversification and a lean towards the wellness or nootropics market. A growing trend was identified in the form of nootropics pouches, which are positioned as a healthier alternative to traditional nicotine products. Other oral innovations included flavour-infused toothpicks available in both nicotine and nicotine-free variants, as well as nicotine strips made from a non-dissolvable fabric-like material. Sweets, lozenges and gums containing nicotine were also present, illustrating the industry’s ongoing expansion into cofectionery-style delivery formats. The Vaper Expo UK is expected to return in May 2027.

Gama and Lipstrip

Image source: Gama

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current bottling agreements with Coca-Cola in Denmark and Finland will be terminated upon their expiry on 31st December 2028. The expansion follows Carlsberg’s 2024 acquisition of Britvic, the UK-based soft drinks manufacturer, which is the primary partner for PepsiCo in the UK and Ireland. Once the new agreement takes effect, Carlsberg will hold bottling appointments for PepsiCo in 10 markets across Europe and Asia. Carlsberg Group CEO Jacob Aarup-Andersen commented: “We’re very pleased that we’ll become the sole PepsiCo bottler in the Nordics and the Baltics. This is an exciting move, solidifying our longstanding strategic partnership with PepsiCo”. Silviu Popovici, CEO of PepsiCo Europe, added that the collaboration would provide “new growth opportunities for both parties”. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Carlsberg Image source: Carlsberg / Pepsico (montage)

UK: WARBURTONS INVESTS £100 MILLION IN EXPANSION

Warburtons, the UK-based family bakery business, is investing more than £100 million ($124 million) to expand its manufacturing and distribution capacity as it marks its 150th anniversary. The centrepiece of the investment is the acquisition of a former Rathbones bakery site

in Wakeﬁeld from Myton Food Group for an undisclosed sum. The facility, which will become the company’s 13th bakery, is expected to create more than 40 jobs in manufacturing, warehousing and distribution when it becomes operational in September. Further capital is being directed toward doubling the size of the company’s glutenfree facility in Newburn. The group is also constructing a new distribution centre in Biggleswade to support its network, which currently delivers more than 2 million products to 18,500 stores daily. Additionally, a new pancake line is being installed in Bolton, alongside two new crumpet lines at its bakery in Burnley. Warburtons, which recently in‐ troduced a range of new bread and brioche products, currently holds a 20% share of the bakery market. Chairman Jonathan Warburton commented: “Our family business takes a long-term approach, investing in our infrastructure to ensure we not only meet consumer needs today but are also set up to do so for the future”.

The agreement will see the ice cream business that Grupo Herdez has operated under an exclusive license from Nestle since 2015 integrated into the strategic partnership. The partnership will be supported by a capital contribution from Froneri, which the company claims will strengthen the ﬁnancial structure of the business and secure its growth plan. Grupo Herdez will transfer full operational control to Froneri to implement its specialised business model. The business features a portfolio of brands, including Helados Nestle, Mega, PelaPop and Carlos V. Brand licensing in Mexico will align with Froneri’s global framework with Nestle.

By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: FDI Forum / Food Manufacture / Grocery Gazette / FoodBev Media / C-Talk / Retail Times Image source: Warburtons

Froneri CEO Ibrahim Najaﬁ commented: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Grupo Herdez to unlock the signiﬁcant potential of their ice cream business in Mexico. The business operates under a portfolio of much-loved brands which we plan to invest in to further develop the business”.

MEXICO: FRONERI ANNOUNCES STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH GRUPO HERDEZ

The partnership follows Grupo Herdez’s 2015 deal to acquire the ice-cream business of Nestle Mexico.

Froneri, the global ice cream manufacturer, has announced an agreement to form a strategic partnership with Grupo Herdez, the Mexican food company, regarding its ice cream business in Mexico.

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The transaction is subject to authorisation by the Federal Economic Competition Commission (COFECE) and other customary closing conditions. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Froneri Image source: Froneri / Grupo Herdez (montage)

Retail Roundup UK

ALDI TO INVEST £370 MILLION IN STORE EXPANSION Aldi, the German discount supermarket chain, has announced a capital investment of £370 million ($504 million) to open 40 new stores across the UK in 2026. The expansion plan, which forms part of a broader £1.6 billion ($2.2 billion) two-year investment strategy, aims to address 'geographic gaps' in the retailer’s estate. Conﬁrmed locations for the new stores include Southam in Warwickshire, Hastings in East Sussex, and Amersham in Buckinghamshire. The company stated that the move brings it closer to its long-term target of operating 1,500 stores in the UK, up from its current portfolio of approximately 1,060. The announcement follows a period of rapid growth for the retailer, which recently reported sales of £1.65 billion ($2.25 billion) for December 2025. Source: Aldi / Grocery Trader / Retail Rewired Image source: Aldi

GERMANY

MIGROS TO EXIT MARKET, DIVEST TEGUT TO EDEKA Migros, the Swiss retail cooperative, has announced it is withdrawing from the German market to focus on its domestic operations. As part of the strategic realignment, the company has signed an agreement with Edeka, the German retail group, for the takeover of a substantial part of the Tegut Group. The transaction includes a signiﬁcant portion of the store portfolio, the Michelsrombach logistics centre, the Herzberger bakery and Smart Retail Solutions, which operates automated Teo locations. According to the company, while cost-saving measures reduced Tegut’s operational losses by more than half last year, its relatively small size and speciﬁc positioning made it unsustainable in the long term. Source / image source: Migros

NIGERIA

CARREFOUR TO ENTER MARKET AS PART OF CONTINUED AFRICA PUSH Carrefour, the French food retailer, is expanding its footprint in Africa with new franchise agreements to enter Nigeria, in addition to Guinea. The retailer has partnered with Imperial Corporation Guinee to convert seven stores to the Carrefour brand in Guinea, with the ﬁrst supermarket having opened in the capital Conakry on the 15th April. In Nigeria, The deals also include plans to open 20 additional retail locations across the two countries by 2028. The expansion is part of the Carrefour 2030 strategic plan, through which the group aims to operate in 22 African countries by the end of the decade. Source: Ecoﬁn Agency / RetailDetail EU Image source: Carrefour

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TRADESHOW INSIGHT

LONDON WINE FAIR 2026 London, UK

The 45th edition of the London Wine Fair took place under the new ownership of Vindustrious, marking a new chapter for the event. The trade show registered significant growth: in total, the event hosted 445 exhibitors, representing a near 10% rise in participation and a 13% increase in floor space, while visitor numbers topped the 10,000 threshold for the first time in six years. International presence was a key feature of the exhibition, drawing exhibitors from 35 countries and visitors from 61, while the ontrade continued to be the most represented sector of visitors, making up 35% of the total audience.

Gama and Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Founder, Seven Summers

A major structural alteration to the 2026 event was the introduction of the inaugural Host Nation initiative, which spotlighted the UK and championed British producers. This initiative prompted a substantial expansion in the domestic sector, leading organisers to double the dedicated space for English wine. Con-

sequently, more than 150 UK producers participated, representing a ten-fold increase compared to 2025.

Gama with Nicoline Meulman, Co-Founder, Soolong

The event featured a prominent host nation pavilion alongside dedicated spaces for other countries, including France, Greece, Serbia and Japan. Notable expansions were observed from Japan, China and Portugal, whilst Eastern and Southeastern European producers from regions such as Ukraine, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Kosovo, Romania and Georgia also received increased attention. In terms of product innovation and consumer trends, lowand no-alcohol products established a larger presence at the show, with more than 15 alcohol-free brands featured. A prominent trend within this segment was the infusion of non-alcoholic drinks with premium teas, such as green, jasmine, Earl Grey and rooibos tea. Another trend involved low-alcohol sparkling wines

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blended with fresh botanicals, such as white wine with elderﬂower and green tea, and rose wine with pomegranate and rosemary. Conversely, some producers moved against the low-alcohol trend by offering highly intense wines, including ranges in alternative formats reaching 16% alcohol by volume (abv) strength. Packaging and design emerged as a primary focus for innovation, driven by a preference among many companies to experiment with presentation rather than altering wine quality or following lowalcohol trends. Notable design trends included collaborations with artists on packaging aesthetics and the presentation of wine in spirits-style bottles. The next edition of the London Wine Fair will take place from 17th to 19th May 2027.

Gama with Inès Deroche and Tom Simpson, Co-Founders, Delancia

Image source: Gama

DENMARK: DANISH CROWN TO CLOSE AALBORG MEATBALL FACILITY

facilities, such as the sausage factory in nearby Svenstrup. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Euro Meat News / Just Food Image source:XDanish Crown

GERMANY: NESTLE TO RETURN ANKERKRAUT TO FOUNDERS Danish Crown, the Danish meat cooperative, has announced plans to phase out production at its factory in Aalborg with a view to closing the site in 2028. The company intends to move production from the current facility, which employs 140 workers, to other factories within Denmark. The favoured option for the relocation is the factory at Vejle, southern Jutland, where a new production facility for ready-to-eat meatballs is set to be established. The decision stems from limited development opportunities at the Aalborg plant, which has been in operation for nearly 60 years and is situated in a densely populated residential area. Danish Crown plans to put the land up for commercial sale following the site’s closure. Commenting on the news, Karolina Henriksen, executive vice president of Danish Crown Foods, said: “We are facing a major investment in a new production facility for our ready-to-eat meatballs, and in this connection we had to decide where the production should be located in the future. So far, it has been in Aalborg city centre, but overall it makes the most sense to move the production out of the city, where there is the necessary space and the development opportunities we need”. The company expects to offer most affected employees positions at other Danish Crown

Nestle, the Swiss-based food and beverage giant, has reached an agreement to transfer its shares in Ankerkraut, the German spice manufacturer, back to the company’s original founders.

The transaction sees the brand return to the control of the founding team, including Stefan and Anne Lemcke. Nestle is divesting its entire majority stake as part of a broader strategic transformation to sharpen its brand focus and portfolio. The financial terms and the specific valuation of the deal have not been disclosed. Commenting on the divestment, Nestle Germany chief executive officer Alexander von Maillot stated: “The cooperation has always been constructive, trusting and characterised by common goals. In this sense, we support the founders’ desire for greater entrepreneurial independence”.

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Anne and Stefan Lemcke described the brand as their “life’s work” and expressed eagerness to develop the company independently again. Nestle originally acquired a majority stake in the Hamburgbased business in April 2022. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source / image source: Nestle

USA: MARK ANTHONY GROUP TO ACQUIRE THE FINNISH LONG DRINK

Mark Anthony Group, the Canadian-founded international drinks company, has reached an agreement to acquire The Finnish Long Drink for an undisclosed sum. The Finnish Long Drink, a ready-to-drink (RTD) brand headquartered in the USA, reported sales of approximately 1.8 million nine-litre cases last year. Founded in 2018, the company produces spirit-based sparkling cocktails inspired by a traditional Finnish beverage created for the 1952 Helsinki Summer Olympics. Its product portfolio features a range of varieties including Traditional, Zero, Cranberry, Strong and Peach. Mark Anthony Group, which already acts as the brand’s exclusive distributor in Canada, plans to use its distribution network to accelerate growth

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across North America. The ac‐ quisition marks a signiﬁcant move into spirit-based RTDs for the group, following its previous divestment of several malt-based brands to Labatt Breweries in 2015. Phil Rosse, CEO of Mark Anthony Group, commented: “Long Drink has already established strong momentum and a clear point of difference in the RTD space, and we see a meaningful opportunity to build on that success by expanding its reach and bringing it to more consumers”. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Mark Anthony Group (via PR Newswire) / The Spirits Business / VinePair Image source: Mark Anthony / The Finnish Long Drink (montage)

UK: ALDI LAUNCHES ‘SUPERMARKET-FIRST’ FREEZER-READY CONFECTIONERY RANGE

res a chocolate shell with a creamy, ice cream-inspired centre and is available in Chilla Vanilla, Double Chilly Choc and Straw-brrrr-y varieties.

This development follows J.Macedo’s previous expansion of its milling capacity in the region, which supports the Horizonte site’s operations.

In addition to the bites, the retailer has introduced 160g Choceur Chocolate Bars in Movie Night and Cookie Dough varieties, retailing at an RRP of £1.79 ($2.43).

Irineu Pedrollo, CEO of J.Macedo, commented: “The project adopts the best environmental management practices, applied from construction to operation. With a focus on energy efﬁciency and the rational use of water, the unit consolidates itself as a form of clean industry, with a goal of zero waste destined for landﬁll”.

The move follows Aldi’s expansion of its own-label protein range in January. Aldi claims the launch provides consumers with a “versatile snack format” that requires no spoons. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source / image source: Aldi

BRAZIL: J.MACEDO INAUGURATES NEW INDUSTRIAL COMPLEX IN HORIZONTE

J.Macedo, the Brazilian food manufacturer, has ofﬁcially opened its new industrial complex in Horizonte, Ceara. The project represents a total investment of R$ 300$ million ($60 million), according to the company.

By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source / image source: J.Macedo

BRAZIL: AMBEV EXPANDS PREMIUM BEER PRODUCTION

Aldi, the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket chain, has launched a range of hybrid chocolate treats under its Choceur private label.

The new Choceur Freeze Me Bites, priced at £2.29 ($3.11) for a 140g pack, are promoted as a ‘supermarket-ﬁrst’ innovation. The bites can be consumed as standard chocolate or frozen for four hours to create a ‘chocice’ style snack. According to the retailer, the product featu-

According to the company, the facility is described as the most modern pasta industry in the Americas, designed to enhance efﬁciency and product quality while supporting regional economic growth.

The new facility is intended to streamline production and distribution across the North and Northeast regions of Brazil. Named the Roberto Proenca de Macedo Industrial Park, the complex includes specialised units for the production of pasta and cake mixes, with a reported capacity of 100,000 tonnes of pasta per year.

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Ambev, the Brazilian brewing company, is investing R$300 million ($60 million) to expand its production of premium beer in the state of Maranhao. The investment is speciﬁcally directed towards increasing capacity for the Spaten brand at its Cervejaria Equatorial facility in Sao Luis.

According to a report by Supervarejo, the expansion transforms the plant into a strategic hub designed to supply the north-eastern region of Brazil, including the states of Piaui and

Ceara. The facility currently operates ﬁve bottling lines with a capacity of 150,000 bottles and 130,000 cans per hour.

NETHERLANDS: HEINEKEN SELLS DR CONGO OPERATIONS

Valdecir Duarte, Ambev’s vicepresident of supply, stated that the investment reinforces the ﬁrm’s commitment to the state and its strategy of expanding in the high-growth premium segment. Ambev, which is a subsidiary of the global brewing giant AB InBev, has received more than R$1.2 billion ($240 million) in total investment at the Sao Luís unit since its opening. The company operates a diverse porfolio of brands across Latin America including Brahma, Skol and Antarctica. By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source: Government of the State of Maranhao / Supervarejo / Embala Nordeste / CPG Click Oil and Gas Image source: Ambev

Heineken, the Dutch brewing company, has announced the sale of its shareholding in Brasseries, Limonaderies et Malteries SA (Bralima), its operating company in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The stake has been acquired by ELNA Holdings Ltd, a Mauritius-based investment ﬁrm, which will assume full responsibility for Bralima’s operations, including production, distribution and its approximately 731 employees. Bralima, which was breweries located in Kinshasa,

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Kisangani and Lubumbashi. Financial details for the current transaction were not disclosed. While the divestment ends Heineken’s direct ownership, the company will retain ownership of its global and regional brands. It has established long-term trademark licensing agreements to ensure the continued local pro‐ duction and marketing of brands such as Heineken, Primus, Turbo King, Legend and Mutzig. The move follows the transfer of the company’s Bukavu brewery in November following regional conﬂict. Guillaume Duverdier, president, Africa Middle East Region for Heineken, stated: “This step allows the business to continue under a locally anchored model, while ensuring that our brands remain available to consumers across the country. It also reﬂects our move towards a more asset-light approach in selected markets”.

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INDUSTRY INSIGHT SAKSHI MITTAL Gama spoke to Sakshi Mittal, Founder & CEO, Foodhak

Foodhak combines health-tech and personalized nutrition. How is the modern consumer's understanding of ‘healthy eating’ changing, and how does your artificial intelligence driven model respond to that? The modern consumer is rapidly moving past generic health buzzwords like 'low fat' or 'sugar-free' and seeking deep, science-backed transparency. They increasingly view food not just as fuel, but as preventative medicine. Our AI technology scans millions of clinical and nutritional research papers to actively map the specific links between clean ingredients, reduced inflammation, and longevity. By translating complex data science into delicious, readyto-eat meals, we act as a 'nutritionist in your 'pocket', giving consumers personalized control over their health outcomes without sacrificing convenience. Navigating a premium wellness offering in the present economic climate is a challenge across FMCG. How do you shift the consumer perspective from viewing personalized nutrition as a premium luxury to an essential investment? It comes down to redefining value from reactive to proactive. Modern healthcare is fundamentally reactive, treating chronic illnesses after they develop. We shift the narrative by demonstrating the immediate, tangible benefits of preven-

tative eating: sustained energy, clearer focus and better longterm vitality. When consumers realize that investing in clean, anti-inﬂammatory food directly impacts their daily productivity and quality of life, it stops being viewed as a premium luxury and becomes an essential, proactive investment in their well-being.

" Consumers increasingly view food not just as fuel, but as preventative medicine " As a founder who has successfully disrupted the premium wellness space, what is the single most important piece of advice you would give to aspiring entrepreneurs looking to scale an independent, mission-driven food brand today? Stay completely unshakeable about your core mission, but remain entirely agile about how you deliver it. When you are building a purpose-led brand, you will constantly face pressures to compromise on ingredient quality or cut corners to lower production costs. You

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have to resist that, because your authenticity is your ultimate brand equity. However, you must listen closely to your community and pivot your formats or technology to fit their actual daily routines. A great product only succeeds if it integrates seamlessly into the modern consumer's busy lifestyle. Looking ahead to the remainder of 2026, what do you believe will be the biggest technological disruption shaping the future of the functional food industry? The absolute defining shift will be hyper-individualisation driven by bio-data. We are moving toward a future where meal plans will be dynamically tailored to a person's specific biomarker or genetic profile in real time. The generic, onesize-fits-all model of food production is becoming obsolete. The brands that win will be those that can successfully bridge the gap between hard clinical data and daily lifestyle convenience, turning actionable health insights into enjoyable, everyday eating habits.

By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Heineken / CNBC Africa / Stock Titan Image source: Heineken

USA: UNILEVER TO ACQUIRE GRUNS

in the Greens Supplement category, what sets Gruns apart is its focused portfolio of science-backed products that people genuinely enjoy, trust, and consistently use. This combination of efﬁcacy and experience is powerful, and together we see a signiﬁcant opportunity to scale the brand within our Wellbeing business”. The terms of the transaction, which is expected to close later in 2026, were not disclosed, although Gruns was reportedly valued at $500 million during a funding round in 2025. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Unilever / Nutraceutical Business Review Image source: Unilever / Gruns (montage)

Unilever, the UK-based consumer goods giant, has signed an agreement to acquire Gruns, a USA-based producer of whole-food gummy supplements.

UK: LIDL TO OPEN MORE THAN 50 NEW STORES

The acquisition of Gruns, a vitamins, minerals and supplements (VMS) company founded in 2023, marks a further expansion of Unilever’s Wellbeing business. According to the company, Gruns is a leading player in the USA greens supplement category, marketing a daily nutrient gummy that contains 60 ingredients, including 30 organic fruits and vegetables. Since its launch, the brand has reportedly reached a $300 million annualised revenue rate and ships approximately 10 million gummies per day, according to a report in Nutraceutical Business Review.

Lidl, the discount supermarket chain, has announced plans to open more than 50 new stores across Great Britain over the next 12 months. The expansion is part of a £600 million ($750 million) investment in British infrastructure aimed at strengthening the company’s store network and unlocking regional growth.

The move follows several previous acquisitions by Unilever in the functional nutrition space, including SmartyPants Vitamins and Olly Nutrition. Jostein Solheim, CEO of Unilever Wellbeing, commented: “As a leader and true innovator

The move is expected to create approximately 2,000 new jobs. Key upcoming sites include Abbots Langley near Watford, Warrington in Cheshire and Thornbury in Gloucestershire, all of which are scheduled to

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open this summer. To support the growing estate, the company is also developing its logistics infrastructure, including a new warehouse in Leeds and an extension of its Belvedere distribution site in London, an‐ nounced last year as part of a broader £435 million ($589 million) warehousing investment. Lidl CEO Ryan McDonnell commented: “Our expansion translates directly into […] jobs and gives British suppliers the certainty they need to invest in the future”. The announcement follows a busy start to the year for the retailer, which opened 19 stores in just eight weeks. That activity was part of a £43 million ($53.75 million) modernisation programme involving more than 70 existing sites. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source / image source: Lidl

USA: PHILIP MORRIS INTERNATIONAL TO CLOSE ALABAMA CIGAR FACILITY

Philip Morris International (PMI), the global tobacco and nicotine manufacturer, has announced plans to close its cigar production plant in Dothan (AL). The move is expected to result in the loss of 54 jobs, according to reports in Nicotine Insider. Operations at the facility are slated to cease by mid-2026, marking the end of the company’s manufacturing presence in the region. In a statement reported by Yellowhammer News, a spokesperson for PMI expressed gratitude to the local workforce, sta-

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ting: “We are incredibly grateful for the dedication and teamwork the Dothan employees have shown over the years”. The company indicated that the closure follows a strategic review of its global supply chain as it continues to pivot its business model toward smoke-free alternatives. The Dothan site has primarily focused on the manufacture of combustible cigar products. This consolidation follows a similar pattern to PMI’s previous closure of its Bergen op Zoom facility in the Netherlands, which the company attributed to dwindling demand for traditional smoking products. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Tobacco Journal International / Yellowhammer News / Wiregrass Daily News / Nicotine Insider Image source: Philip Morris International

USA: FRANCISCO FOODS TO ACQUIRE RIZO-LOPEZ ASSETS

production facility in Modesto (CA), alongside its portfolio of brands, which includes Tío Francisco, Rizo Bros and Don Francisco. Rizo-Lopez Foods, a producer of Mexican-style dairy products, entered bankruptcy proceedings following a signiﬁcant product recall in early 2024. Commenting on the partnership, Damien Caton, CEO of Valley Milk, said: “This partnership is a natural extension of Valley Milk’s commitment to the Central Valley community and the dairy industry. We are proud to work alongside the Rizo family to bring quality Hispanic-style dairy products back to consumers who have long valued this brand”. According to the companies, the deal aims to revitalise the brands and ensure the continued operation of the Modesto site. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Valley Milk (via Business Wire) Image source: Valley Milk

SAUDI ARABIA: BINDAWOOD HOLDING TO ACQUIRE 51% STAKE IN VAZA FOOD

Valley Milk, a California-based dairy ingredient producer, has partnered with the Rizo family to establish Francisco Foods LLC, a joint venture that will acquire the assets of Rizo-Lopez Foods out of bankruptcy.

BinDawood Holding, the Saudi Arabian retail group, has signed a binding agreement to acquire a 51% majority stake in Vaza Food Company for 217.5 million SAR ($58 million). The transaction is being executed through Future Retail for Information Technology Co, a wholly-owned subsidiary of BinDawood Holding, according to a disclosure on the Saudi Exchange (Tadawul).

The newly formed entity is set to take control of Rizo-Lopez’s

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Vaza Food Company is a specialised business engaged in the import, export and wholesale and retail distribution of food products. The acquisition is intended to diversify BinDawood’s product portfolio and strengthen its fresh food offering within the Kingdom. Commenting on the deal, Ahmad AR BinDawood, CEO of BinDawood Holding, said: “This acquisition is a major step in our strategy to vertically integrate our supply chain and enhance our fresh food offering to customers”. Completion of the transaction remains subject to regulatory approval from the General Authority for Competition. By: Innovation Editor – Middle East & Africa Source: BinDawood Holding / Milling MEA / Argaam / Zawya Image source: BinDawood Holding

INDIA: EMAMI TO ACQUIRE AXIOM AYURVEDA FOR $24 MILLION

Emami, the Indian personal care and healthcare group, is to

acquire the remaining 73.5% stake in Axiom Ayurveda in a deal valued at up to 2 billion INR ($24.1 million). Axiom Ayurveda, the Indian health and wellness company, is the manufacturer of the AloFrut brand, which specialises in aloe vera-based fruit juices. According to reports in the Economic Times, the acquisition includes Axiom’s manufacturing facility in Ambala, Haryana. The company recorded a turnover of 1.29 billion INR ($15.5 million) during the 2022-23 ﬁnancial year. The move marks Emami’s entry into the beverage industry as it seeks to diversify its portfolio. This follows Emami’s previous strategic expansion in the wellness market, such as its acquisition of the Dermicool brand in 2022.

formal entry into the fast-growing & huge beverage segment”. The deal is expected to be completed within three months, according to Exchange4Media. By: Innovation Editor – Asia Paciﬁc Source: Economic Times / Exchange 4 Idea Image source: Emami

USA: TYSON FOODS TO CLOSE GEORGIA FACILITY

Tyson Foods, the USA-based food giant, has announced plans to shut down its prepared foods plant in Rome (GA).

Commenting on the transaction, Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Emami, said: “With the completion of the acquisition, we bring Axiom fully into the Emami fold, marking our

The facility, which is operated under Tyson’s subsidiary Hill‐ shire Brands, is scheduled to cease operations on the 31st May. According to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining No‐ tiﬁcation (WARN) notice, the closure will result in the layoff of 168 employees. The plant currently manufactures Nature Valley granola bars for General Mills on a contract basis. Tyson added that the facility has “operated under a unique single-customer model”, but claimed that recent changes and a loss of contracts had made continued operations no longer viable. The facility was originally opened in 1972 and was included in Tyson’s $8.5 billion acquisition of Hillshire Brands in 2014. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Just Food / Food Dive / CBS News Atlanta / Arkansas Business Image source: Tyson Foods

MERGERS & ACQUISITIONS

IN BRIEF AG Barr, the Scottish soft drinks maker, has acquired Fentimans and Frobishers, in separate deals worth a combined £51 million ($70 million). The deals are part of the ﬁrm's strategy to capitalize on the growing 'adult soft drinks' markets. Source: AG Barr / The Caterer / The Spirits Business / Grocery Gazette

Marico, the Indian consumer goods giant, is to acquire a 60% stake in Cosmix Wellness, a digital-ﬁrst functional wellness brand. The deal, valued at 226 crore INR ($25 million), implies an equity valuation of approximately 375 crore INR ($41.5 million) for the Bengaluru-based ﬁrm. Source: Financial Express / Just Food / Entrepreneur India / Indian Retailer

Hain Celestial, the US organic and natural products company, has agreed to sell its North American snacks business to Canadian manufacturer Snackruptors for $115 million. The transaction includes the divestment of major brands such as Garden Veggie Snacks, Terra and Garden of Eatin’. Source: Hain Celestial / Food Dive

Agrolimen, the Spanish food and pet care group, has announced the acquisition of Ollie, a New York-based fresh, human-grade dog food brand. Ollie operates a direct-to-consumer subscription model to deliver veterinary-backed nutrition, including fresh food, treats and supplements, tailored to individual pets. Source: Just Food / Ollie

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USA: CONSTELLATION BRANDS TO FULLY ACQUIRE HOP WTR

Image source: Constellation Brands

USA: BANSK GROUP TO ACQUIRE SO GOOD SO YOU

Constellation Brands, the USA beverage alcohol producer, has announced an agreement to acquire the remaining interest in the non-alcoholic brand HOP WTR. The deal, for an undisclosed sum, is expected to close this April. HOP WTR produces calorie-free sparkling water infused with hops, adaptogens and nootropics. The brand has been part of the Constellation Brands ventures portfolio since an initial investment in 2021. The acquisition follows a 22% growth in dollar sales within the beeradjacent non-alcoholic segment during 2025. Jim Sabia, president of the Beer Division at Constellation Brands, said: “With the non-alcoholic segment becoming one of the fastest growing areas of total beverage alcohol, HOP WTR is a natural addition to our noand low-alcohol portfolio”. The brand joins a portfolio that includes Corona Non-Alcoholic, Kim Crawford Illuminate and the recently launched Modelo Chelada Limon y Sal Non-Alcoholic. Following the completion of the transaction, HOP WTR founder and CEO Jordan Bass will join the Constellation Brands team. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Constellation Brands / FoodBev / Global Drinks Intel

Bansk Group, the USA consumer-focused private investment ﬁrm, has announced a deﬁnitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in So Good So You, a manufacturer of functional wellness shots and beverages.

ary 2024. Financial terms of the current transaction were not disclosed. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Bansk Group (via PR Newswire) Image source: Banks Group

USA: MARS TO EXPAND CHICAGO HEADQUARTERS

Mars, the US-based snacking and confectionery giant, has announced a $100 million in‐ vestment to expand its global headquarters in Chicago, creating 602 new jobs.

Based in Minneapolis, So Good So You is described as a pioneer in the wellness shots category, offering a portfolio of organic, cold-pressed products designed for immunity, energy and mood. The company, which is a certified B Corp, produces its range in a zero-waste facility. According to Bansk Group, So Good So You has grown its sales more than fivefold over the last four years and is currently the leading wellness shot brand in USA retail channels. Commenting on the deal, Brian O’Connor, Senior Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Bansk Group, said: “So Good So You is a category-leading brand with a powerful combination of functional efficacy, great taste, and an authentic, purpose-driven mission”. The move follows Bansk Group’s acquisition of a majority stake in No Man’s Land Foods, a USA meat snacks brand, in Febru-

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The project involves opening two new office hubs to house the company’s North America region and global functions. Mars will establish a regional office in the Fulton Market district and a new global home for its Accelerator Division in the former Kellanova headquarters in River North. According to the company, the new sites will provide capacity for more than 1,000 associates, adding to its existing workforce of 4,000 employees in the Chicago area. The expansion follows the $36 billion acquisition of Kellanova by Mars that completed in December 2025, which added brands such as Pringles and Pop-Tarts to its portfolio. It also builds on a previous $42 million investment in a research and development facility on its Goose Island campus. Andrew Clarke, global president of Mars Snacking, commented: “Chicago has long been a hub for our business, and now it is our official home for our North

TRADESHOW INSIGHT

VAPEXPO SPAIN 2026 Madrid, Spain

The seventh edition of Vapexpo Spain, a prominent trade exhibition dedicated to electronic cigarettes and nextgeneration nicotine products, took place on the 20th and 21st June 2026 in Madrid, Spain. Reﬂecting the broader industry shift towards altenative nicotine delivery systems, the event incorporated “NXG” (New Generation) into its ofﬁcial framing to explicitly cover both vaping and new-generation alternatives.

Gama and Cynthia Guo, Senior Sales Manager, Geek Bar

A signiﬁcant strategic change introduced for this edition was the strict professionalisation of the format. Moving away from mixed-access models, the 2026 exhibition exclusively welcomed trade professionals, providing a dedicated business-to-business environment designed to facilitate corporate networking and direct commercial interactions between manufacturers and market buyers. The geographic distribution of the event was highly international, with par‐ ticipating businesses arriving from countries as diverse as

ers, while one company introduced a device engineered to optimise preparation and downtime, requiring only one minute for the ﬁlter to become fully soaked and featuring a rapidcharging capability that fully charges the battery in ten minutes. Nicotobacco Factory at Vapexpo Spain 2026

China, the UK, Spain, Italy, Canada, Estonia and Poland. The core product focus among the 50 exhibiting companies was electronic cigarettes and e-liquids, with a more limited representation for nicotine pouches. A notable concept observed amongst e-liquid manu‐ facturers was flavour concentrates designed to be blended with propylene glycol, glycerine and / or nicotine shots for custom e-liquids, an economy format apparently permitted for sale under the existing legal framework in Spain even if restricted elsewhere. . Meanwhile, hardware trends leaned significantly towards reusability and regulatory compliance, with a high prevalence of refillable vapes displayed across the stands. One such example was a hardware setup combining a 2ml prefilled pod alongside a 10ml empty, refillable pod system within the device. Elsewhere, next-generation solutions for traditional formats included an attachment device designed to be placed directly onto hookahs for shisha smok-

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Safety mechanisms also saw refinement, with brands implementing a security power-on sequence requiring the user to press the activation button multiple times to turn the device on. In terms of flavour profiles, one company noted it had adapted its product line in line with local tastes, in particular Spanish consumers’ strong preference for sweet and creamy profiles. Dates for the next edition of the exhibition in 2027 are yet to be announced.

Gama and Voex

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America region and our Accelerator Division — ﬁrmly establishing our legacy and our future together”. According to sources, the state of Illinois is providing approximately $42.8 million in tax incentives through the EDGE programme to support the investment. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Illinois.gov / Food Dive / CoStar / Confectionery Production Image source: Mars

BRAZIL: NESTLE INVESTS IN INFANT FORMULA INGREDIENT PRODUCTION

farmers to ensure a supply of raw materials. Fabio Spinelli, director of agriculture at Nestle Brasil, stated: “This investment reinforces our commiment to the region and the development of the dairy chain in Rio Grande do Sul”. The expansion aligns with Nestle’s $1 billion strategy to enhance its industrial footprint and product portfolio within the Brazilian market, announced last year. By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source: Nestle / Agrofy News / Dairy Business MEA / SuperVarejo Image source: Nestle

SPAIN: BRIDOR ACQUIRES PANAMAR

Bridor, the French bakery specialist and a subsidiary of the Le Duff Group, has announced the acquisition of Panamar, the Spanish frozen bakery producer.

Nestle, the Swiss food and drink group, is to resume operations at its Palmeira das Missoes facility in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, following an investment of R$60 million ($10.7 million). The plant is intended to become a production centre for whey, a key ingredient in the company’s infant formula products. According to the company, the updated facility will have a daily processing capacity of one million litres of milk and whey. The move follows a period of suspended activity at the site and is intended to strengthen the Nestle local supply chain for its infant nutrition business. The project will involve partnerships with regional dairy

The deal is reported to be the largest acquisition ever for the Le Duff Group. According to company sources, the transaction allows Bridor to take control of a major player in the Spanish market. Panamar operates six production sites across Spain and employs more than 2,200 people. Its brand portfolio includes names such as Panamar, Cobepan and Pacfren.

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The move marks further European expansion for Bridor, which also acquired the Netherlands-based bakery Pandriks in 2024. Bridor stated that the integration of Panamar would strengthen its position in the “premium bakery and viennese pastry” sector on a global scale. Commenting on the move, Bridor CEO Philippe Morin said: “The acquisition of the Panamar Bakery Group, a company renowned for its tradition and innovation, is perfectly in line with Bridor’s strategy. It will enable us to strengthen our leadership in the Spanish market”. The transaction remains subject to approval by the relevant competition authorities. By: Innovation Editor – Europe Source: Bridor (via PR Newswire) / FoodBev / Food Ingredients First / Just Food Image source: Bridor

CANADA: MARS EXPANDS BEN’S ORIGINAL INTO INSTANT NOODLES

Mars, the US-based food and snacking giant, has announced its entry into the instant noodle category in Canada with the launch of Ben’s Original Street Food Noodles. The new range is inspired by global street food flavours and is designed to be ready in 90 seconds. According to the company, the products are suitable for vegetarians and contain no artificial colours, flavours or pre-

servatives. The initial rollout includes ﬁve distinct varieties: Chinese Stir Fry, Korean Style BBQ, Spicy Indonesian, Thai Stir Fry and Japanese Teriyaki. Commenting on the launch, Derin Bello, general manager at Mars Food & Nutrition Canada, said: “With the success of our Ben’s Original™ Street Food ready meals, expanding into noodles was a natural next step, bringing exciting international ﬂavors to Canadians in a format that’s ready in just 90 seconds”.

JULY – SEPTEMBER

Upcoming Events

The products are currently being launched across major grocery retailers in Canada and online via Amazon. The launch comes as the readymeal segment in Canada is expected to grow 46% between

2024 and 2030, reaching a value of $7.18 billion. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Mars / Milling MEA / CareersInFood.com Image source: Mars

CANADA: MCCAIN TO CLOSE NEW ZEALAND VEGETABLE PLANT

McCain, the Canadian-based frozen food specialist, has conﬁrmed it will close its vegetable processing facility in Hastings, New Zealand. Operations at the site are scheduled to wind down by January 2027,

following the conclusion of the current processing and packing season.

According to an ofﬁcial company statement, the decision follows a strategic review of its Hastings operations and reﬂects a broader shift in how the company will supply its vegetable portfolio across the Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) region. McCain indicated it will transition to sourcing products through trusted supply partners within its broader network.

HKTDC FOOD EXPO PRO 2026 WHAT? Serving as a crucial trading gateway into mainland China and the wider APAC region, HKTDC Food Expo PRO connects cross-border buyers and retail trade delegations with leading-edge international FMCG suppliers, manufacturers and technology providers. WHERE? Hong Kong, China WHEN? 13th to 15th August 2026

AMERICAS FOOD & BEVERAGE SHOW 2026 WHAT? A premier international sourcing platform bridging North, Central, and South American retail markets. This high-volume trade event hosts over 900 exhibitors and thousands of visitors at the Miami Beach Convention Center. WHERE? Miami (FL), USA WHEN? 14th to 16th September 2026

THE LONDON FOOD & DRINK FESTIVAL 2026 WHAT? This newly launched blockbuster festival format transforms ExCeL London into a mega-hub for the retail and hospitality sectors. Uniting four of the UK’s leading trade shows under a single roof, it brings together over 600 exhibitors and 15,000 retail buyers. WHERE? London, UK WHEN? 16th to 17th September 2026

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GAMA SPOKE TO SABINE LOOS, MANAGING DIRECT OF WESTFALLENHALLEN UNTERNEHMENSGRUPPE INTERTABAC 2026 WHERE? Dortmund, Germany WHEN? 15th to 17th September 2026

What are your primary goals and expectations for the 2026 edition of InterTabac? Last year, we were delighted to welcome a record number of more than 800 international exhibitors for the second time in a row. Naturally, we aim to build on those figures in the future. It is these companies that make InterTabac the diverse market platform that it is. Our goal is to reflect the industry in all its diversity while providing a comprehensive forum for information, exchange, and networking. This year, the new three-part structure of InterTabac, InterSupply, and NUBIZ will also be implemented consistently for the first time. This restructuring is designed to offer visitors even greater orientation and efficiency during their visit. We are very excited to see how it will be received. What prompted the shift to a Tuesday-Thursday schedule, and how will it benefit exhibitors and visitors? It is the result of surveys among exhibitors and visitors and of the coordination between Messe Dortmund, the trade fair advisory board, partner associations as well as representatives from the exhibitor ranks. The new sequence of days is not only intended to make it easier for the retail sector to participate. In addition, the trade show will offer better travelling conditions for exhibitors and visitors alike by being held on three working days. For me, there are many

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factors involved in the successful development of a trade show. And a very important one is to consider the needs of our exhibitors and visitors.

" Our goal is to reﬂect the industry in all its diversity while providing a forum for information and networking "

How are you evolving the visitor journey to ensure a seamless experience between the different “theme worlds”? Providing clear orientation for our visitors is a priority. That’s why we invest a great deal of planning and thought into signage and visitor guidance. From the entrance onwards, clear signs and a consistent color scheme – representing InterTabac for the classic tobacco segment, NUBIZ for the NGP-segment and InterSupply for the production chain – guide visitors through the halls. In addition, we provide a variety of resources to support them: the printed visitor guide, the trade show app, our website and social media channels, as well as on-site overview maps. We also continuously develop new tools, such as LED display posters, to make information even more visible.

GAMA SPOKE TO JEFF LENARD, VICE PRESIDENT OF NACS MEDIA & STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS NACS SHOW 2026 WHERE? Las Vegas (AZ), USA WHEN? 6th to 9th October 2026

What are your primary goals and expectations for the NACS Show 2026 in Las Vegas? Our goal every year is largely the same: we want to show attendees the future. This means developing dynamic Education Sessions and a robust exhibit hall that not only looks at what is happening today, but how it will affect consumers and convenience retailing over the coming years. Las Vegas is always a fun destination for attendees, but it’s equally important for us to deliver a quantifiable return on investment to attendees that can help them stay ahead of the curve and meet evolving consumer definitions of convenience. Convenience stores are increasingly becoming ‘food destinations’. How is this evolution being reflected on the show floor this year? We have seen a rapid increase in foodservice sales in our industry. Foodservice sales in 2024 were 28% of in-store sales, more than double the 12% only 20 years earlier. Our industry has embraced foodservice but competing channels have noticed and are trying to capture back market share. The expo showcases foodservice solutions, but as importantly it also highlights merchandising concepts that allow attendees to enhance the customer experience. And, of course, you can find other new products that can make stores stand out from traditional quick-service restaurants and their limited menus. How does the Cool New Products Preview Room help visitors find ‘the next big thing’?

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The Cool New Products Preview Room allows retailers to quickly access in a small footprint some of the big trends that are seen in the larger expo. It is a perfect way to quickly explore ideas and establish a game plan for what you want to see in the larger hall. And we provide a customised map and other information to help you conveniently explore the expo. How should international attendees navigate such a massive innovation showcase?

" We have seen a rapid increase in foodservice sales in our industry "

Former NACS President and CEO Henry Armour’s favourite quote is by futurist William Gibson: “The future is already here – it’s just not evenly distributed”. Great ideas are not limited by borders. The NACS Show brings together incredibly insightful retailers from more than 70 countries. The NACS Show presents an opportunity to in four days see how the retailers are redeﬁning convenience and the customer experience without having to get 70-plus stamps in your passport.

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A company spokesperson stated: “After carefully considering a range of options, we determined that transitioning to a different supply model is the most responsible path forward and best supports the longterm vision of our organisation”. The move aligns with McCain’s strategy to strengthen its core potato portfolio and follows a similar regional restructuring by Heinz Wattie’s, which recently announced plans to dis‐ continue frozen vegetable production in New Zealand. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: FoodBev / NZ Herald Image source: McCain

ARGENTINA: DANONE AND ARCOR FORM DAIRY JOINT VENTURE

company, following an initial investment in 2015. The new venture will integrate Danone’s local dairy operations with Mastellone Hermanos and their shared logistics unit, Logistica La Serenisima. Operating 11 production facilities, the business will produce a range of goods including milk, cheese, yoghurt and dulce de leche. Danone CEO Antoine de SaintAffrique said the alliance would “create a powerful growth platform with more opportunities for innovation, operational efﬁciency and greater reach”. Arcor President Alfredo Pagani noted that the project strengthens the ﬁrm’s “value proposition in the consumer food products market”. Financial details of the transaction were not disclosed. The deal remains subject to regulatory approval. By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source: Danone / Just Food / Infobae / FoodBev Image source: Danone / Arcor (montage)

BRAZIL: FERRERO ACQUIRES BOLD SNACKS

Danone, the French food and beverage ﬁrm, and Arcor, the Argentina-based food company, have announced a strategic alliance to create a 50:50 joint venture focused on the Argentinian dairy market.

Ferrero Group, the global con‐ fectionery ﬁrm, has announced an agreement to acquire Bold Snacks, a Brazilian producer of protein-rich snacks.

The agreement involves the acquisition of the remaining 51% stake in Mastellone Hermanos, the owner of the La Serenisima brand, from the Mastellone family and the Dallpoint fund. The partners previously held a combined 49% share in the

Based in Divinopolis, Minas Gerais, Bold Snacks was founded

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in 2018 and specialises in the ‘better-for-you’ segment with a portfolio that includes protein bars and whey protein powders. The company currently employs approximately 300 people. While Ferrero has operated in Brazil since 1994, the move marks the group’s first direct foray into the healthy snacks segment in South America. The deal follows the 2023 acquisition of Brazilian sweets manufacturer Dori Alimentos by Ferrero’s affiliate, Ferrara. According to Ferrero, the latest acquisition is part of a longterm strategy to strengthen its presence in the Brazilian market and expand into new product categories. Gabriel Ferreira, founder and CEO of Bold Snacks, said: “Becoming part of Ferrero is an amazing opportunity for our business and our people. Being recognised by a global food leader […] provides a unique opportunity to accelerate our growth and help bring Bold Snacks to more consumers than ever before”. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. By: Innovation Editor – Latin America Source: Ferrero / Just Food / Food Ingredients First Image source: Ferrero / Bold Snacks

INDIA: NESTLE TO EXPAND MUNCH PRODUCTION IN GUJARAT

Nestle India, the Indian subsidiary of the Swiss food and drink giant, has announced an investment of 225 crore INR ($26.9 million) to add a new production line for its Munch chocolate brand at its Sanand factory in Gujarat. The expansion is expected to add approximately 8,300 tonnes of annual production capacity and is slated for completion during the 2025-26 financial year. According to a regulatory filing, the project will be funded through internal accruals and forms part of the company’s capital expenditure strategy to meet future demand in the confectionery sector. The new high-speed line will feature automated technology and energy-efficient machinery to support increased output. The investment comes as Nestle India reported a 45.1% yearon-year increase in net profit to 998 crore INR ($119.5 million) for the December quarter of 2025. During the same period, sales rose 18.5% to 5,643.5 crore INR ($675.8 million). The capacity boost follows Nestlé India’s announcement that it had laid the foundation stone for a new factory in Odisha last year. Confectionery remains the company’s fastest-growing segment, supported by robust volume growth and the rapid acceleration of e-commerce channels. By: Innovation Editor – Asia Pacific Source: Storyboard18 / LiveMint / FNB News / Nestle India Image source: Nestle

USA: LITTLE SPOON ENTERS INFANT FORMULA MARKET

Little Spoon, the US direct-toconsumer baby and children’s brand, has announced its entry into the $6 billion infant formula market.

CEO & Executive Editor Cesar Pereira Editorial Director Tom Warden Production Editor Vicente Boix

With the launch, the New Yorkbased company claims is the first and only brand to offer a complete suite of nutritional solutions for children from birth to age six. While modelled after premium European recipes and dual-certified to EU and USDA organic standards, the new formula is manufactured in the USA. According to the company, the product is a non-GMO, grassfed whole milk-based formula using milk sourced from New Zealand that utilises lactose as the primary carbohydrate. The recipe specifically excludes corn syrup, cane sugar, palm oil, soy, and maltodextrin, features a 60:40 whey-to-casein ratio and has received the Clean Label Project Purity Award. Priced at approximately $1.48 per ounce for subscribers ($21.00 per 400g tin), the product is available exclusively through the company’s website. This launch completes Little Spoon’s “end-to-end feeding platform,” joining its “Puffs” snacks, “Bitea-bles” finger foods, and “Baby-blends” purees to support parents through every early developmental stage. Ben Lewis, Co-Founder and CEO of Little Spoon, commented: “From the very beginning, parents have told us they need clarity and confidence in how they feed their babies. We chose to go above and beyond regulatory requirements by publicly disclosing our testing thresholds and sharing batch-level results. Parents shouldn’t have to take safety claims at face value”. By: Innovation Editor – North America Source: Little Spoon (via PR Newswire) / Just Food / Modern Retail Image source: Little Spoon

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