Bio&Me unveils gut-friendly flapjack bars for on-the-go nutrition

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March 9, 2024

Gut health food brand Bio&Me has launched a new lineup of on-the-go gut-friendly flapjack bars.

Bio&Me’s lineup includes three flavors: Toffee Apple, Superberry, and Cocoa Hazelnut. These bars are offered in both single 38g bars and multipack formats. Developed to support gut health, they are packed with fiber, gluten-free, and free from added sugar or harmful additives.

The brand underscores the significance of diverse and nutritious food for both individuals and their gut biome. These bars are crafted from a blend of 100% plant-based ingredients, including wholegrain oats, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and calcium-rich seaweed.

Continue Exploring: Vegan and keto diets elicit innate and adaptive immune responses, altering gut microbiome: NIH Study

Jon Walsh, Bio&Me co-founder and CEO, said, “Now more than ever, consumers are looking at what’s actually in the food they’re eating and for us, as a science-backed brand, it was important for these bars to be the absolute best. As well as being requested by consumers, we actually had several retailers ask for Bio&Me bars too.”

Last year, the brand introduced new single-serve prebiotic yogurts boasting “billions” of live and active cultures, a quantity approximately four times greater than that found in any other yogurt available in the UK.

Bio&Me’s flapjack bars will be available to purchase in UK retailers from April.

Continue Exploring: VC firm Iris Ventures fuels £5.5 Million investment in gut-health beverage brand Biomel

Heineken takes a refreshing turn with Strongbow Zest Cider debut!

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March 9, 2024

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Heineken UK’s brand, Strongbow, has expanded its flavor portfolio with the introduction of Strongbow Zest.

Strongbow Zest combines apple cider with hints of lime, lemon, and orange. It joins Strongbow’s fruity lineup, which includes Dark Fruit, Cloudy Apple, and Tropical variants. The company asserts that the zesty blend of citrus fruits complements the traditional apple flavor and aims to attract more consumers to the cider category.

The fresh flavor boasts an ABV of 4% and is free from artificial flavors, sweeteners, or colors, making it suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Continue Exploring: Heineken expands premium portfolio with investment in Ellie Goulding’s Served

Rachel Holms, the cider brand director at Heineken UK, expressed enthusiasm for introducing Strongbow Zest to the market just in time for the summer season. She highlighted the previous success of Strongbow Tropical’s launch last year, underscoring the ongoing demand for new flavors in the category.

Strongbow Zest is currently accessible in chosen retailers, offered in both multipacks and single formats, with a broader distribution scheduled for April.

Marks & Spencer reverts to single CEO as Co-Chief Executive steps down

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March 9, 2024

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British retailer Marks & Spencer announced that co-chief executive Katie Bickerstaffe will be stepping down from her position, leaving Stuart Machin as the sole executive in charge of the company.

In an unusual move, M&S transitioned to a dual CEO model in early 2022 as the retailer faced difficulties. Since then, it has made notable strides, with its share price soaring 50 percent in the past year fueled by strong sales.

Machin has always been referred to as CEO, while Bickerstaffe’s title was co-CEO.

“I’m very grateful to Katie for her support in seeing M&S through this important period in the reshaping of the business,” Machin said in a statement. “We now have a much stronger business.”

Continue Exploring: Marks & Spencer’s food retail arm continues strong sales streak, challenges leading grocers in UK

Bickerstaffe leaves in July “to pursue her board career”, the company said.

“I will leave with great memories and a strong sense of achievement,” she added in the statement.

After the announcement, M&S shares experienced a 0.5 percent increase, reaching 242 pence on London’s premier FTSE 100 index.

“Marks & Spencer has a history of revolving doors with its senior management team, but the difference now is that the business seems to have found its groove and the turnaround story is gaining traction,” noted AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould.

“It doesn’t appear to be a case of someone senior leaving because the strategy isn’t working. Machin is the architect behind the retailer’s recent success and the fact he remains in the top job will be of comfort to shareholders and the market.”

Continue Exploring: Fashion giant Marks & Spencer strengthens Indian presence with first store in Siliguri

Prada sales surge 17% in 2023, driven by Asian markets and Miu Miu brand

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March 9, 2024

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Italian luxury group Prada reported a 17% rise in its 2023 net revenues at constant exchange rates, driven by growth in Asia and the outstanding performance of its Miu Miu brand. It expects to outperform the market this year.

Last year, the group’s net revenues amounted to 4.7 billion euros ($5.1 billion), aligning closely with analysts’ forecasts. The “very positive” fourth quarter also exhibited a 17% increase in sales.

During a conference call with analysts, Prada’s Chief Executive Andrea Guerra remarked that the first two months of 2024 exhibited a trend similar to that observed in the fourth quarter.

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Throughout 2023, sales in the Asia Pacific region surged by 24%, while Europe experienced a 14% growth rate, albeit slowing down in the latter half of the year. Conversely, sales in the Americas remained stagnant.

Last year, Prada witnessed a 26% increase in its adjusted operating profit, reaching 1.06 billion euros.

“As with 2023, while quarterly growth trajectory may not be linear through the year, we retain our firm ambition of delivering solid, sustainable, above-market growth,” CEO Andrea Guerra said in the statement.

The conglomerate, which holds the eponymous brand along with Miu Miu, Church’s, and Car Shoe, suggested a dividend of 0.137 euros per share.

Continue Exploring: Fashion retailers slash discounts amidst subdued demand and low inventory

Sugar Foods acquires Concord Foods, expanding product portfolio and operations

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March 9, 2024

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Sugar Foods, renowned for its range of crunchy toppings, croutons, beverage ingredients, and pizza toppings, has completed the acquisition of Concord Foods from private equity firm Arbor Investments. The specific terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed.

Concord Foods produces a variety of products including beverage syrups and toppings, confectionery fillings, ice cream bases and variegates, caramels, stabilized fruit products, chocolate items, and dry blend mixes.

With this acquisition, Sugar Foods will integrate Concord’s 255,000-square-foot facility located in Brockton, Massachusetts, into its operations. Brands such as Concord Fresh Success, Simply Concord, Italia Garden, Oringer, and RedEMade from Concord Foods will now become part of Sugar Foods.

“Today marks a pivotal moment in Sugar Foods’ growth journey,” said Andrea Brule, president of Sugar Foods. “Concord and Sugar Foods share a long and successful history of customer-led innovation and service, and, with our complementary capabilities, I am confident that, together, we will maximize customer value and unlock new growth opportunities. This transaction combines the best of both organizations, and I look forward to welcoming the talented Brockton team to our Sugar Foods family.”

Continue Exploring: US-based Next Level Burger acquires Veggie Grill

In 2015, Arbor Investments acquired Concord Foods, a family-owned business, from its second-generation family owner and CEO, Peter Neville.

Following the acquisition, Arbor Investments stated that Neville continued his involvement with the company by assuming the role of chairman of Concord’s board of directors.

“We’re very proud of the growth and operational transformation that we catalyzed at Concord,” said George Russell, principal at Arbor Investments. “Our goal was to take the strong foundation built by the Neville family and strengthen it with a world-class team, leading R&D and production capabilities, and innovative ingredient offerings. The business is a natural extension for Sugar Foods and we’re excited to see Concord’s next chapter of growth under their ownership.”

Kraft Heinz and NotCo team up to introduce innovative plant-based hot dog alternative

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March 9, 2024

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Oscar Mayer, a brand under Kraft Heinz Co., has introduced its first plant-based offerings with the launch of NotHotDogs and NotSausages.

The product was developed in collaboration with TheNotCompany, Inc. through The Kraft Heinz Not Co. joint venture, addressing the market demand for alternative hot dog and dinner sausage options while tackling the taste and texture concerns often associated with plant-based foods. Oscar Mayer is unveiling both NotHotDogs and NotSausages, available in Bratwurst and Italian varieties, at the Natural Products Expo West convention this month. A nationwide retail release is scheduled for later in 2024.

Continue Exploring: Costa Coffee and BOSH! team up to introduce delectable plant-based delights across the UK

“Our goal is to create mouthwatering, plant-based foods that are delicious and accessible for everyone — from the devoted vegan to the plant-based curious,” said Lucho Lopez-May, chief executive officer of The Kraft Heinz Not Co. “We know people are hungry for plant-based meat options from brands they know and trust. In launching the joint venture’s first product in the plant-based meat category, we saw an opportunity to satisfy these consumer cravings, leveraging NotCo’s revolutionary AI technology and the power, equity and legacy of the Oscar Mayer brand.”

NotHotDogs and NotSausages are the latest additions to The Kraft Heinz Not Co.’s lineup, which already includes plant-based macaroni and cheese, mayonnaise, and cheese slices.

Zomato launches in-hall food delivery service at PVR Cinemas in Gurgaon, enhancing movie-goers’ experience

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March 9, 2024

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Now, movie buffs in Gurgaon can relish a seamless cinematic journey thanks to the debut of in-hall food delivery services by the online aggregator platform Zomato at PVR Cinemas. This initiative is geared towards elevating convenience and smoothing out the movie-watching adventure for patrons.

Sahibjeet Singh Sawhney, Marketing Head at Zomato, took to LinkedIn to announce the initiative, stating, “Skip the queue – at PVRs, now order from your seat on Zomato.” This innovative service allows movie buffs to order their favorite snacks and beverages directly to their seats, eliminating the need to stand in long queues during intermissions or before the movie begins.

Continue Exploring: Zomato introduces kurtas as uniform option for women delivery partners

The delivery service will extend across various halls in Gurgaon, offering moviegoers a diverse array of food choices to savor during their preferred films. Leveraging Zomato’s vast network of partner eateries and efficient delivery system, patrons can anticipate swift and reliable service, ensuring they remain fully immersed in the on-screen excitement without interruption.

The partnership between Zomato and PVR Cinemas represents a notable advancement in transforming the movie-watching experience, granting patrons the ease of food ordering without interrupting their cinematic immersion. It mirrors the increasing tendency to merge technology and convenience amenities into traditional entertainment spaces, thereby amplifying customer contentment.

Continue Exploring: Zomato reports third consecutive profitable quarter with INR 138 Cr PAT in Q3 FY24

Food regulatory body implements strict measures to improve in-flight meal quality

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March 9, 2024

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In light of increasing grievances regarding the poor quality of in-flight meals, measures are being implemented to address the issue decisively. Consequently, the food regulatory body has issued a thorough advisory to airlines, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing food quality and ensuring clear labeling of all food items supplied to passengers.

Airlines are required to include information about their flight kitchen and in-flight catering in their licensing agreements, specifying a headquarters address. Furthermore, if airlines are procuring food from external vendors but marketing it under their own brand, they must inform the regulatory authority.

The food regulatory body stresses the importance of including crucial details on pre-packaged food items, such as the caterer’s name, FSSAI license number, packaging date and time, as well as expiration information.

Numerous complaints have surfaced in recent times regarding the poor quality of food and beverages served during flights. One notable incident involved the discovery of maggots in sandwiches served on an IndiGo flight, which garnered widespread attention after a passenger shared a video of the ordeal on social media. Following this incident, the FSSAI issued a ‘show cause notice’ to IndiGo for serving what was deemed ‘unsafe food’ to the passenger.

Continue Exploring: IndiGo faces backlash after cockroaches spotted in food area during flight; passenger’s video sparks hygiene concerns

To avert such incidents and maintain food safety standards for passengers, the FSSAI is meticulously overseeing the entire in-flight food supply chain. In response to noted irregularities, the food regulator has implemented a rigorous approach, providing explicit guidelines to airlines to guarantee the delivery of safe and top-notch food during flights.

Zomato introduces kurtas as uniform option for women delivery partners

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March 9, 2024

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Zomato announced that its female delivery partners now have the option to wear kurtas instead of the standard Zomato t-shirts as part of their uniforms.

This decision comes in response to feedback from numerous female employees who expressed discomfort with the Western-style Zomato t-shirts.

In a post on LinkedIn, Zomato shared a video and wrote “Starting today, Zomato women delivery partners can choose to wear a kurta.”

The video showcased several Zomato delivery women donning the new kurtas provided by the company, engaging in what seemed to be a celebratory photoshoot. It documented their expressions of appreciation and endorsement for the company’s considerate gesture.

Continue Exploring: Zomato reports third consecutive profitable quarter with INR 138 Cr PAT in Q3 FY24

“Many female delivery partners expressed discomfort with the western-style Zomato t-shirts. So, we gave them a choice,” Zomato specified.

After wearing the kurta, one of the ‘happy’ women said, “Pocket bhi hain (It has pockets too).”

The video has amassed thousands of likes and positive reactions from social media users, with many expressing appreciation for the company’s “considerate” gesture.

“I have started loving this brand more and more, not just because of their service, but because of their thoughts and culture,” a user said. “Thanks, Zomato, for creating opportunities for people and saving thousands of lives,” another person said.

“Such a great initiative to encourage a nurturing and caring workspace for all,” a comment read.

Aldi to expand discount grocery chain across US as high food prices squeeze American budgets

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March 9, 2024

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Aldi aims to expand its network of discount grocery stores by adding 800 new locations across the United States over the next five years. This expansion strategy is geared towards tapping into the market of budget-conscious Americans who are increasingly feeling the financial strain when shopping for groceries.

Inflation has led many consumers to adjust their shopping behaviors. Disgruntled by prices that remain, on average, about 19% higher than before the pandemic, consumers are seeking new approaches to economize. In grocery stores, they are transitioning from name brands to store-brand items, turning to discount retailers, or simply purchasing fewer items like snacks or gourmet foods.

The growing consumer resistance against what critics denounce as price-gouging is particularly evident in the food sector, as well as in consumer goods such as paper towels and napkins.

Continue Exploring: No rush to expand categories, grocery remains primary focus: BigBasket CEO Hari Menon

Pricing has also attracted the attention of the federal government, with the Federal Trade Commission filing a lawsuit last month to prevent a proposed merger between grocery titans Kroger and Albertsons. The FTC argues that the $24.6 billion deal would diminish competition and result in increased prices for millions of Americans. Kroger and Albertsons, both among the largest grocers in the nation, reached an agreement to merge in October 2022.

According to government data, while U.S. prices for food consumed at home usually increase by 2.5% annually, they surged by 11.4% in 2022 and another 5% in 2023.

On Thursday, Aldi announced its strategy, which involves both new store openings and store conversions. The company aims to introduce nearly 330 stores across the Northeast and Midwest regions by the conclusion of 2028. Additionally, Aldi plans to expand its presence in southern California and Phoenix while venturing into new cities, such as Las Vegas.

Following its acquisition of Southeastern Grocers, Aldi revealed plans to convert a substantial portion of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket locations to its format over the next few years.

“Our growth is fueled by our customers, and they are asking for more ALDI stores in their neighborhoods nationwide,” Aldi CEO Jason Hart said in a statement.

The company, based in Batavia, Ill., just west of Chicago, will invest more than $9 billion into its national expansion.

Continue Exploring: Flipkart expands grocery operations with fourth fulfillment center in West Bengal

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