The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry

Haribo has begun gummi production at its first North American manufacturing facility, located in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. The new state-of-the-art factory was created to meet the growing demand for the brand by American consumers – Haribo produces over 25 varieties of gummi treats for the US and more than 1,200 types globally. The 500,000-square-foot factory currently produces Haribo’s classic Goldbears, with plans to expand production in the future. The new site – which employs more than 200 members of staff – marks Haribo’s 16th factory and is set to support the company's production of over 160 million Goldbears every day. This is the first phase of the multi-phase project, which includes the production facility, an administrative building and a warehouse. Future phases are in development and will incorporate new technologies, larger capacity and will employ “hundreds of new associates”. Hakan Zor, chief production officer, Haribo of America, said: “I started my career with Haribo more than 20 years ago, and I'm so proud to be part of the team that made the dream of a US factory come true. Our Associates worked tirelessly to ensure every step was taken with care, with the best quality equipment, technology and ingredients on the market." At the same time, Haribo has announced the launch of its Goldbears in a new flavour, Wild Berry. The latest innovation is inspired by consumers' love of fruity flavours, with bursts of blueberry, wild cherry, strawberry, raspberry and wildberry. Rick LaBerge, chief commercial officer at Haribo of America, added: "Haribo fans tell us they love our texture and flavour combinations, and Wild Berry Goldbears are a nod to that for a perfect summer treat. Right now, as we're starting production in the US, we're focused on classic Goldbears, and we're excited to produce more of our gummi varieties including innovative new treats like Wild Berry Goldbears in the future." This week, Haribo also announced the

launch of its limited-edition 'Awesome Axolotl' range of jelly and foam gummies in flavours strawberry, blackcurrant, pineapple, apple and raspberry. In March the confectionery giant released a trio of new innovations in time for the Easter period.