SAN-J, a well-known name in the Asian condiment sector for its authentic Tamari soy sauce, has launched Premium Koji Granola, marking the brand's first venture into the snack category. This innovation aims to blend traditional Japanese fermentation techniques with contemporary consumer trends focused on wellness and gut health. The introduction of Premium Koji Granola reflects SAN-J's commitment to expanding its product offerings beyond soy sauce while maintaining its heritage rooted in Japanese culinary practices. According to Takashi Sato, president of SAN-J and an eighth-generation member of the founding family, the granola is designed to celebrate the brand's legacy while addressing the increasing consumer interest in health-conscious snacking. Crafted with rice koji, a fermented ingredient recognised for its digestive benefits, the granola is sweetened with rice koji syrup, which provides a naturally delicate sweetness akin to maple syrup. The production process involves fermenting steamed rice using Aspergillus oryzae (koji) cultures, allowing enzymes to convert the rice into glucose. This syrup then coats rolled oats before the mixture is baked with rice bran oil, resulting in a crisp texture enriched with umami flavour and devoid of refined sugars. As consumer preferences shift towards clean label products and gut health, SAN-J's new granola line is positioned to meet these demands. The product is gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free and vegan, offering a good source of fibre and promoting digestive wellness. The granola will be available in three flavours: Original: Mildly sweet and versatile. Matcha: Earthy and umami, incorporating ceremonial grade Uji matcha powder sourced from Kyoto. Cocoa: Rich and smooth, made with Dutch process cocoa powder. Retail distribution will include Amazon and select retailers, targeting health-conscious consumers seeking innovative snack options. SAN-J's move into the snack market aligns with broader trends in the food and beverage industry, where brands are increasingly focusing on functional ingredients and health-oriented products. With a legacy of over two centuries in producing authentic Japanese condiments, SAN-J is well-positioned to leverage its expertise in fermentation to capture a share of the growing market for health-focused snacks.

Quarter Proof, a pioneering player in the mid-strength spirits market, has successfully closed a $1.5 million funding round aimed at accelerating its global expansion efforts. Co-founded in 2021 by Rohan Radhakrishnan and Fabian Clark, the brand is positioned to meet the growing consumer demand for lower-alcohol alternatives while maintaining the flavour and experience associated with traditional spirits. The investment will primarily target growth in key markets including the UK, US and Germany, where Quarter Proof has already established a presence through partnerships with notable retailers and venues such as Whole Foods, Soho House Group and Total Wine & More. The brand’s offerings, which include a London Dry Spirit, Blanco Agave Spirit and a Three Grain Spirit, are all crafted at a moderate 15% ABV, catering to consumers seeking a balance between enjoyment and moderation. The funding round attracted participation from industry-focused angel investors and veterans in the consumer sector, reflecting confidence in Quarter Proof’s potential within the evolving alcoholic beverage landscape. The company plans to use the new capital to enhance distribution channels across North America, implement targeted marketing campaigns and expand its product portfolio through new product development. “This raise marks an important milestone for Quarter Proof and is true validation for the brand and speaks to the future potential of the Mid-Strength spirits category,” said Radhakrishnan. He continued: “We note that globally consumers are demanding more mindful ways to enjoy a drink. We’re proud to be leading that charge with products that deliver the full flavour and experience – at a fraction of the strength.” “We’ve always believed that moderation should be aspirational, not compromising,” added Clark. “This funding gives us the necessary capitalisation to continue to grow Quarter Proof globally, with the ambition to become the go-to brand for drinkers who want balance without having to abstain altogether.” This strategic focus comes at a time when the alcohol industry is witnessing a marked shift towards conscious consumption, driven by health-conscious consumers looking for alternatives that allow for social enjoyment without the drawbacks of traditional spirits. In addition to its current markets, Quarter Proof is finalising partnerships in Scandinavia, Europe, the Middle East, Australia and Asia, as part of its broader global growth strategy. This expansion is indicative of a larger trend within the beverage industry, where brands are increasingly adapting to the preferences of modern consumers who prioritise both social connection and health.

Ardagh Glass Packaging Europe, a subsidiary of Ardagh Group, has unveiled a new 300g lightweight glass wine bottle, marking a significant advancement in sustainable packaging solutions for wine. This innovative bottle is designed to meet the growing demand for environmentally friendly packaging while maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal expected from glass containers. As the wine sector grapples with increasing environmental regulations and consumer preferences for sustainability, the introduction of the 300g bottle addresses key challenges in packaging design. Weighing significantly less than traditional glass bottles, this 75cl container is engineered to perform efficiently on high-speed filling lines, ensuring that it can withstand the rigours of supply chain handling without compromising on quality or presentation. “This is more than a lightweight bottle, it’s a complete packaging solution,” said sales director Nick Witton. “We’ve developed a 300g bottle that also delivers the strength and premium look that brands and consumers demand.” The bottle’s lightweight design not only reduces material usage but also contributes to lower transportation costs and carbon emissions, aligning with the industry's sustainability targets. The bottle is available in various colours, including green and flint, catering to diverse branding needs within the wine market. This launch underscores AGP-Europe's commitment to innovation in sustainable packaging, providing wine producers with practical solutions to meet their environmental goals. With 37 production facilities across North America, Europe, and Africa, Ardagh Glass Packaging is positioned as a leading supplier of sustainable glass packaging, emphasising its role in promoting circular economy practices through infinitely recyclable materials.

Antares Vision Group will unveil EB-EYE, the next generation of empty bottle inspection system, at Drinktec (Hall A6, Booth 350). EB-EYE has been completely redesigned to deliver more effective quality control through the integration of proprietary technologies developed in-house. At the core of this innovation is AV-MultiView, an exclusive technology that uses a system of innovative cameras and illuminators to capture images from multiple angles and with optimised wavelengths. The result is a more complete and accurate vision, with resolutions up to four times higher and the ability to detect defects up to one-third smaller than the size of those detected by standard systems. The real breakthrough lies in the integration of artificial intelligence, which analyses the captured images to identify and classify each defect type with extreme precision. The system can detect imperfections that are significantly smaller – or even invisible – to traditional inspection technologies, with greater reliability in defect assessment. This capability enhances detection performance and enables root cause analysis, triggering targeted corrective actions or selective rework processes. The outcome is a significant reduction in waste and false rejects, providing immediate benefits to production efficiency and product quality. Modularity and area-specific control for each bottle section The new EB-EYE is a modular and scalable solution designed to adapt to various production needs through dedicated inspection modules: Base Module – enhanced accuracy in bottom area inspection Neck Finish Module – leverages AV-MultiView to detect even the most critical micro-defects Sidewall Module – high-resolution cameras and AI for precise sidewall control, identifying inclusions, bubbles and even the smallest dirt particles Thread Module – checks the complete integrity of the thread and is ideal for ROPP cap bottles. The EB-EYE is fully integrated with the Diamind ecosystem All data generated by the system is managed by Diamind Line, a component of the Diamind digital ecosystem. This platform enables data collection and advanced analysis, and the seamless integration of traceability modules, ensuring full data integrity across the entire supply chain. In this way, inspection becomes an integral part of the production process, evolving into a key enabler of data-driven quality with measurable benefits in terms of efficiency, compliance and real-time decision-making. We look forward to welcoming you at Drinktec to introduce and discuss the new EB-EYE.

Fox’s Burton’s Companies (FBC) UK has unveiled its own take on the ‘Dubai chocolate style’ food and beverage trend, under its Fox’s Chocolatey brand. Fox’s Chocolatey Dubai Style Indulgent Creams feature a chocolate-encased shortcake with a creamy centre and crispy real pistachio filling. Pistachio was the fifth most searched for food/drink in 2024 and has now become established as a global flavour trend, driven by the soaring social media popularity of the viral Dubai chocolate trend. FBC said it is the first major biscuit manufacturer to bring a biscuit of this kind to retailers. Charlotte Hunt, marketing controller at FBC, said: “We discussed these product concepts just a couple of months ago, and as a cross-functional team, we’ve worked at pace to bring an exciting offering that delivers against the best examples of Dubai chocolate, with the new SKU launching in July”. “Off the back of this launch, we have big ambitions and confidence in how we bring to life new and emerging flavour profiles in the future. Backed by a significant six-figure support package, with some very exciting things coming - so watch this space.” The product launched exclusively at Tesco stores from 16 July, priced at £2.35, with all other major retailers to follow in September.

Mars, Incorporated has officially inaugurated a new $240 million manufacturing facility for its Nature's Bakery brand in Salt Lake City, Utah. This state-of-the-art facility is poised to significantly enhance production capabilities, with the potential to manufacture over 1 billion snack bars annually and create more than 230 new jobs in the region. The 339,000-square-foot facility represents a strategic investment as Mars continues to expand its footprint in the US snack market. This latest development is part of a broader commitment by the company, which has invested $6 billion in US operations over the past five years and has pledged an additional $2 billion towards domestic manufacturing through 2026 . Located in Salt Lake City's Mountain West neighbourhood, the new site is designed to improve national distribution efficiency, reducing delivery distances to key retailers. The facility is also LEED Silver-certified, underscoring Mars' commitment to sustainability by aiming to lower trucking-related CO₂ emissions by approximately 5,700 tons annually. Steve Gardiner, CEO of Nature's Bakery, highlighted that the new facility will enable the brand to meet growing consumer demand for its products while enhancing production efficiency and quality. Since Mars acquired Nature's Bakery in March 2021, the brand has been on a trajectory to double its size, reflecting the increasing importance of the snacking category in the US market. Blas Maquivar, global president of the health and wellness division at Mars, noted that this investment aligns with the company's focus on innovation in the snacking sector, aiming to adapt to evolving consumer preferences. The new facility incorporates advanced automation technologies for ingredient delivery, mixing and cooling, which not only improve food safety and consistency but also elevate many manual roles to higher-skilled positions, fostering career development opportunities for employees. The opening of the Nature's Bakery facility is a significant boost for Utah's manufacturing sector, which plays a critical role in job creation and supply chain strengthening. Local officials, including Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall, have welcomed the investment, highlighting the company’s commitment to community engagement and support initiatives.

Mars has announced a substantial investment of $2 billion aimed at enhancing its manufacturing capabilities in the US by the end of 2026. This initiative underscores the company's ongoing commitment to local production, with 94% of its US products currently manufactured domestically. The new investment builds upon Mars' previous commitment of $6 billion over the past five years, aimed at bolstering its manufacturing footprint across the nation. Mars CFO Claus Aagaard noted the strategic importance of this investment: "This investment is about building a stronger, more resilient business in the US – one that can grow with our consumers, deliver for our partners and create lasting economic impact in the communities where we operate". He continued: "The US is our biggest and most important market, and a key engine of growth for the long term – not only through our legacy manufacturing footprint but also through the expansion of strategic acquisitions like Nature's Bakery, which is already scaling quickly". A significant portion of the new funding will support the opening of a $240 million facility for Nature's Bakery in Salt Lake City, Utah. This facility, which spans over 339,000 square feet, is expected to create more than 230 jobs and significantly increase production capacity, enabling the output of nearly 1 billion snack bars annually. Earlier this year, Mars inaugurated a $450 million Royal Canin dry pet food facility in Lewisburg, Ohio, which is now the largest dry pet food factory in the company's global portfolio. This facility is anticipated to create approximately 270 new jobs, further contributing to local economic growth. Mars, a privately-held family-owned business for over a century, operates in 49 US states and employs more than 70,000 associates across 38 factories, veterinary clinics and regional offices. The company has added over 9,000 associates in the US in the last five years alone, reflecting its commitment to workforce expansion alongside operational growth.

Supply chain disruption, tight deadlines and post-Brexit red tape are pushing food and beverage manufacturers to their limits. Ben Beattie, director at Forbeats, explains how partnering with an experienced toll processor can offer the flexible capacity, technical know-how and end-to-end support needed to meet demand, maintain quality and stay ahead in an unpredictable landscape. When partnering with a toll processor, safety is non-negotiable for the food and beverage industry. Manufacturers need complete confidence that contractors are compliant with up-to-the-minute regulations and standards, have the expertise and capacity to safely handle ingredients and materials and can deliver products that are safe and of the highest quality. An experienced toll processor will provide this assurance. ISO9001 accredited, they will be proficient at handling a broad range of materials across hazard classes and viscosities, and to high safety standards, while also having access to multi-discipline expertise from within their vast, trusted partner network. Moreover, they will have a thorough understanding of the spectrum of food handling regulations, which is essential in the evolving, post-Brexit landscape. Toll processors will also have the correct plant and equipment for high-quality processing and transport, and will provide sample analysis, batch traceability and paperwork. Together, these also deliver the ability to scale operations, providing manufacturers with the associated savings. Tackling operational challenges While the government seeks to reset the UK’s relationship with the EU, food and beverage manufacturers continue to be affected by the legacy of Brexit. Understaffed border controls and import and export regulations, including UK REACH, Export Health Certificates and Sanitary and Phytosanitary checks, have driven up costs, increased paperwork and led to delays. For manufacturers, these disruptions make it more challenging to meet order deadlines, especially when late deliveries create bottlenecks. These problems are exacerbated by extreme events, the Russia-Ukraine war and Red Sea shipping attacks, which have led to further shortages, delays and higher prices. The consequences are not just problematic for manufacturers but also have the real potential to leave end users with fewer choices, rising costs and consumers with empty supermarket shelves. With a highly skilled workforce and in-house expertise honed over decades, toll processors are an effective way for food and beverage manufacturers to address these challenges. Having the know-how, facilities and capacity to undertake the gamut of processing requirements, together with the agility to begin operations promptly and manage reoccurring projects, means they are ideally suited for dealing with impediments and tight deadlines. This includes the ability to produce custom formulations and conduct multi-ingredient formula blending, kibbling, powder blending and liquid blending. Furthermore, toll processors can operate autonomously, delivering high-quality, low-waste processing where safety, efficiency and stringent quality control are assured. Beyond processing, experts can undertake a wider range of vital services that enable manufacturers to tailor their solutions. Services can include custom packing options, the safe repacking of goods into prescribed container sizes, labelling, warehousing and logistics, import and export clearance, administration, paperwork and batch traceability. With the flexibility to offer these for both one-time as well as repeat projects, and at an international scale, an experienced toll processor, provides manufacturers with a true end-to-end solution that can go a significant way towards mitigating bottlenecks and achieving order deadlines, while remaining focused on important in-house matters, like sales, marketing also research and development. In addition, partnerships of this nature allow manufacturers to rationalise and streamline outsourcing. Rather than managing a string of different contractors, working with a single, dedicated supplier results in reduced costs, greater efficiencies and time savings. Network capacity and expertise Long-established toll processors have considerable experience in dealing with a wide range of challenges, acquiring the problem-solving acumen over many years to overcome issues facing many companies today. A cornerstone of this approach has been the forging of trusted, long-term relationships with third-party suppliers, including those with BRC accreditation. The approach means long-standing toll processors have been able to build extensive and frequently exclusive supply networks through which they can obtain ingredients and goods with ease from suppliers. With an up-to-date surplus goods database enabling procurement to happen swiftly, it is possible to overcome the problems caused by delays and shortages in a timely and cost-effective manner. Equally of value is that toll processors can also access a plethora of vital services, such as logistics and import/exports, from their network partners, providing significantly enhanced capacity and agility. With stock control, order forecasting and process and cost optimisation also key foci, an experienced toll processor can swiftly react to demand, formulate effective production schedules and deliver end-to-end solutions, even when facing disruption. In today’s volatile environment, a smooth supply chain is essential for food and beverage manufacturers. An experienced toll-processing partner is a proven and effective way to address delays, shortages and bottlenecks. Delivering agile, full-service, end-to-end solutions, toll processors enable manufacturers to mitigate disruption and fulfil orders comfortably within deadlines, while providing services that are safe, high-quality and cost-effective. Furthermore, partners of this stature will also provide their expertise as a consultancy service, assisting clients with the latest information, connections and regulatory support.

Pladis-owned pretzel brand Flipz has launched a new Apple Cider Donut flavour, set to hit retail shelves in mid-August. This limited-time offering aims to attract snack enthusiasts looking for fall-inspired flavours. Apple Cider Donut Flipz combines the brand's signature crunchy, salted pretzels with a coating that features the sweet and tart essence of apple cider, complemented by warming spices reminiscent of traditional fall desserts. This flavour profile is designed to evoke the nostalgic tastes associated with the autumn season, appealing to consumers seeking unique snacking experiences. The new product will be available in 6.5oz bags at major US retailers, including Family Dollar, Albertsons, Kroger and Ahold. The new flavour joins the limited-edition Flipz line-up, which has included varieties such as Strawberry Cheesecake, Snickerdoodle, Peppermint, Blueberry Donut, Fair Churros and Flipz State Fair Strawberry Shortcake.

In a move to streamline its European operations, FrieslandCampina has announced the sale of its Romanian subsidiary to Bonafarm Group, a player in the regional food and beverage sector. This transaction encompasses the well-known Napolact dairy brand and the associated production facilities located in Cluj-Napoca and Târgu Mureș. The decision to divest follows an extensive review of FrieslandCampina’s business activities in Romania, reflecting a broader strategy to concentrate on core markets and high-value growth segments. Despite holding a leading position in the Romanian dairy market, FrieslandCampina concluded that its Romanian operations lacked synergy with its European portfolio and did not optimally valorise the milk from its member dairy farmers. Dustin Woodward, president of FrieslandCampina Europe, highlighted the company's commitment to aligning its resources more effectively. “The decision to divest the operations was not taken lightly. This step enables us to better align the European portfolio with our strategy to maximise the value of FrieslandCampina member milk, allowing us to focus our resources more effectively." "At the same time, the intended transaction offers new growth opportunities for the Romanian business and the Napolact brand under the leadership of a partner with a stronger regional presence.” Bonafarm Group’s CEO, Attila Csányi, welcomed the acquisition, noting the company's commitment to enhancing production quality and expanding operational capacity. “We see a great opportunity to build the company and the Napolact brand together in the future,” Csányi remarked, indicating plans for investment in the production facilities and a focus on maintaining strong relationships with commercial and supplier partners. The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approval from Romanian competition authorities, is anticipated to be finalised by the end of December 2025. It includes FrieslandCampina's stake in the Romanian entity, which employs approximately 400 staff members at its two production sites. As FrieslandCampina pivots towards optimising its European operations, this sale marks a significant shift in its strategy, allowing the company to concentrate on markets where it can leverage its strengths and enhance the value of its member milk. Meanwhile, Bonafarm Group's acquisition positions it for further growth in the Romanian dairy sector, promising potential benefits for both companies in a rapidly evolving market landscape.

Herbal tea brand Celestial Seasonings has expanded its wellness tea portfolio with a new line designed to address a variety of health needs throughout the day. The new launch reflects a broader trend in the beverage industry towards functional products that cater to the holistic wellness-focused consumer. The new line, which includes blends such as She-Well Raspberry Leaf and Good Vibes Lemon Mint, aims to provide both flavour and function, supporting consumers from morning motivation to nighttime relaxation. This expansion builds upon the brand's established reputation, particularly its well-regarded Sleepytime offerings, which have been integral to many consumers' nightly routines. Lee Nelson, marketing director at Celestial Seasonings, noted that health-conscious consumers are increasingly integrating tea into their wellness rituals. This shift is evident in the growing demand for products that not only taste good but also offer health benefits. The new teas incorporate ingredients like adaptogens and herbal components, appealing to consumers seeking holistic approaches to health. She-Well Raspberry Leaf tea is targeted specifically at women, featuring a blend designed to support wellness during their monthly cycle. Meanwhile, Good Vibes Lemon Mint tea combines refreshing flavours with adaptogens aimed at enhancing mood. Other offerings include a Detox Blend Dandelion and the Everyday Wellness Variety Pack, which features a selection of functional blends for various health needs. This expansion comes at a time when the wellness beverage sector is experiencing robust growth, driven by consumer interest in health and wellbeing. Celestial Seasonings' approach aligns with market trends that emphasise natural ingredients and functional benefits, positioning the brand to capitalise on the increasing consumer preference for wellness-oriented products. The new line is currently available through various retail channels, including Walmart and online.

Ty Nant, a player in the premium bottled water sector, has acquired Strathmore Water from AG Barr, marking a significant strategic move for both brands. The deal underscores Ty Nant's aim to enhance its operational scale and geographic footprint while preserving the distinct heritage of Strathmore, an established name in the UK water market. Strathmore Water, with its origins in Forfar, Scotland, has built a strong reputation in hospitality, foodservice and leisure sectors over the decades. The acquisition ensures that Strathmore will continue to be bottled at its source in Scotland, safeguarding local jobs and maintaining its legacy. Raminder Sidhu, chairman and director of Ty Nant, highlighted the importance of the Strathmore brand and its dedicated team in Forfar. “This is a brand with a deep legacy and a loyal following, and we are honoured to be entrusted with its next chapter,” he said. “At the heart of Strathmore’s success is the incredible team in Forfar," Sidhu continued. "Their professionalism, passion and care are a true testament to the strength of the brand and the business. We’re proud to welcome them into the Ty Nant family and excited to invest further in their future.” The acquisition comes at a time when Ty Nant has experienced substantial growth, securing partnerships with leading hotels, retailers and cultural institutions globally. By integrating Strathmore into its portfolio, Ty Nant aims to enhance its market position while continuing to operate Strathmore as a distinctly Scottish brand. The company plans to invest in sustainability initiatives and strengthen customer partnerships, positioning the Forfar site as a key asset for future development. Ty Nant is known for its distinctive blue and crimson glass bottles and premium spring water sourced from Wales. The brand has rapidly ascended in the competitive drinks market, recently being recognised in the Sunday Times 100 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the UK. AG Barr, a UK-based beverage company known for brands scuh as Irn-Bru and Rubicon, has owned Strathmore Water since 2006. With the sale, AG Barr continues its focus on its core beverage portfolio while transferring the stewardship of Strathmore to Ty Nant, which aims to uphold the brand’s legacy. As the bottled water market evolves, Ty Nant’s acquisition of Strathmore reflects broader trends in the industry, including a growing emphasis on regional sourcing, sustainability and premium product offerings. The move positions Ty Nant to leverage Strathmore’s established market presence while contributing to the ongoing growth of the premium bottled water segment in the UK and beyond