Results from the Portman Group's sixth annual survey, conducted in partnership with YouGov, reveal a significant rise in the preference for low- and no-alcohol alternatives among UK consumers, particularly young adults. The survey, which took place between 16-17 November 2023, sampled 2,197 adults and provides further insights into evolving drinking habits. Key findings indicate a substantial increase in 18-24 year olds identifying as occasional or regular drinkers of alcohol alternatives, reaching 44% compared to 31% in 2022. Interestingly, 39% of individuals in this age group reported not consuming alcohol at all, making them the most sober demographic. The study underscores the impact of low- and no-alcohol products on promoting moderation among UK drinkers. Approximately 23% of respondents noted a decrease in alcohol consumption due to these alternatives, up from 21% in 2022. Furthermore, 35% now consider themselves occasional or regular drinkers of such products, a notable uptick from 29% in the previous year. Matt Lambert, CEO of the Portman Group, said: “It is welcome to see a further rise in the popularity of low and no alcohol alternatives as well as further evidence of how they are an important tool to help UK drinkers, particularly younger adults, to drink responsibly". He added: “The availability of alcohol alternatives has never been more abundant and we eagerly await the outcome of the recent UK Government consultation on low alcohol descriptors, which we hope will further facilitate the growth of the UK low and no alcohol market”. The survey also shed light on the reasons behind choosing alcohol alternatives. For the sixth consecutive year, the most common motivations were to avoid excessive drinking at social events and to facilitate responsible driving, aligning with low-risk alcohol consumption guidelines. Matthew Orme, director at Wenlock Spring, says the market will continue to grow in 2024 as consumers seek more varied drink options to fit in with their healthier lifestyles. “I think the market will continue to grow as the general population are always looking at healthier lifestyles and the reduction of alcohol will form part of that feel-good factor. I think Covid-19 possibly played a part in this as it also put a pause on what was the normal way of life before the lockdowns. During 2020/21 everything we normally did stopped. This gave a chance for a major shift in our lifestyles in the way we do business and our own social lives." He continued: “The taste of low- and no-alcohol drinks has also greatly improved over the last couple of years and it has become harder to taste the difference. What it means is retailers can’t afford to ignore this trend and while it probably still represents less than one per cent of total beer sales in the UK today, that per cent will change as the appetite for more low- and no-alcohol drinks gains more traction and becomes more mainstream. This will create some exciting challenges for businesses due to the increased demand with some brands seeing over a 200 per cent increase year-on-year. New technology in this market will also help keep up with demand and improve the taste.” The Portman Group, which serves as the alcohol industry regulator and social responsibility body, has been actively involved in promoting responsible alcohol marketing practices through its Code of Practice. The organisation, funded by 19 member and associate member companies, emphasises self-regulation and aims to ensure the promotion of alcohol in a socially responsible manner.

Ackley Brands has announced the acquisition of Columbia Winery and Hogue Cellars from E&J Gallo. The sale includes all assets from both wineries, including the brands, intellectual property, inventory, equipment and facilities. According to the company, Ackley intends to keep all staff members from both Columbia and Hogue. In addition, Ackley aims to expand the brands and reopen Columbia's wine club, which closed in late 2023. With the acquisition, Ackley Brands is said to instantly become a 'major player' in Washington, with Columbia and Hogue together producing 130,000 cases annually. “Both these brands are icon, heritage brands,” said Brandon Ackley, founder and president of Ackley Brands. “We’re interested in running good culture companies and investing for the long-term.” Terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.

Constellation Brands has agreed to purchase US winery Sea Smoke to bolster the company's focus on high-end wines and portfolio growth strategy. Based in Santa Barbara, California, Constellation says that the vineyard is "one of the most highly rated and acclaimed pinot noir houses in the world". With the acquisition, Sea Smoke becomes part of Constellation’s Fine Wine & Craft Spirits portfolio, which encompasses wine and spirits brands such as Schrader Cellars, Lingua Franca, Booker Vineyard, To Kalon Vineyard Company, Mount Veeder Winery, Robert Mondavi Winery, The Prisoner Wine Company, High West Distillery and Casa Noble Tequila, among others. Sam Glaetzer, EVP and president of Constellation's wine and spirits division, said: “As we continue to pursue growth aligned with consumer-led premiumisation trends through our higher-end brands of the wine and spirits business, we are excited to add Sea Smoke to our fine wine portfolio". "Not only does Sea Smoke offer a uniquely acclaimed estate vineyard in the Santa Rita Hills AVA, but its highly acclaimed wines also align with our target consumer preferences as they continue to shift to the higher end. We look forward to working with the Sea Smoke team to grow this exceptional winery while upholding its impeccable tradition of quality and customer experience.” Victor Gallegos, vice president, general manager and director of winemaking for Sea Smoke, added: “We are extremely excited to collaborate with Constellation Brands as we begin writing a new chapter in the Sea Smoke story. They have the right team with the right resources and the expertise to help us grow and thrive in a highly competitive market." "It was clear early on that both Constellation Brands and Sea Smoke share an unwavering commitment to excellence, sustainability and strategic growth – qualities that will enable us to continue our mission to make some of the world’s great estate-grown wines.” Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

UK plant-based nutrition brand Bol has added a new blueberry flavour to its Power Shake range, a line of nutritionally complete, high-protein meal shakes. While blueberry is already a popular flavour in the yogurt category, Bol claims to be the UK’s first brand to introduce it to the protein drink and nutritionally complete meal category. The new blueberry shake joins Bol’s current line-up of chocolate, salted caramel and vanilla Power Shakes. It is made with real blueberry juice, combined with oats and vanilla to deliver an indulgent, blueberry muffin-inspired taste. Like the existing shakes in the range, it provides 25g of protein, 5g of fibre, naturally low sugar and 26 vitamins and minerals per bottle. The shake is designed to offer the complete nutritional profile needed from a meal, tapping into the on-the-go breakfast trend as busy consumers seek convenient products. The shake has a Nutri-score of A and focuses on a whole food-based recipe, featuring natural plant ingredients like almonds and dates. It is free from gums, emulsifiers and sweeteners, responding to shifting consumer preferences for recognisable ingredients amid growing concern around ultra-processed foods. Demand for high-protein and high-fibre offerings is also on the rise, with Vyper’s April 2025 research showing that over 42% of British consumers want to increase their intake of these nutrients. Additionally, the nutritionally complete meal category is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.53% from 2025-2033. Elle Picton, brand manager at Bol, said: “For today’s shoppers, dependable nutrition is non-negotiable – but taste is where you win. This Blueberry recipe brings the best of both: unbeatable nutrition, nothing-to-hide ingredients, and a fruity and deliciously indulgent ‘freshly baked’ taste.” The Blueberry Power Shake is now available online and via Amazon, followed by Tesco stores on 16 June.

Avery Dennison has made a significant advancement in sustainable packaging with the introduction of the industry's first radio-frequency identification (RFID) label recognised by the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR) for its compatibility with the PET recycling stream. This innovative label is designed to enhance the recyclability of PET products, which are widely used in various consumer goods, including bottles and food containers. The new RFID label uses Avery Dennison's proprietary CleanFlake adhesive technology, allowing it to separate cleanly from PET during the mechanical recycling process. This feature is crucial in reducing contamination, a common issue that hampers the efficiency of recycling operations. As a result, brands implementing this technology can ensure their PET packaging is more compatible with recycling processes, addressing the growing demand for sustainable packaging solutions. With 96% of the top 50 brands in the consumer packaged goods sector committing to recyclability and waste management targets, Avery Dennison's development aligns with industry efforts to mitigate plastic waste. The compatibility of these labels with the recycling stream is expected to improve material recovery rates, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency of PET recycling. Pascale Wautelet, vice president of global R&D and sustainability at Avery Dennison, said: "RFID technology is essential for effective and sustainable management of supply chains, supporting brands with greater inventory visibility and product traceability". The APR's recognition of this label is viewed as a pivotal step in advancing circular packaging and promoting sustainable material use. Steve Alexander, president and CEO of APR, noted that increasing the recyclability of packaging is critical for brands aiming to meet sustainability targets and contribute to a circular economy. "Innovation and technology play an essential role in driving these efforts, enabling smarter packaging solutions that align with both environmental goals and evolving industry standards," he remarked. Avery Dennison plans to make this APR-recognised RFID technology available later this year, aiming to assist brands in achieving their recyclability objectives. The company is also collaborating with independent certifiers to expand PET recycling certification across global markets.

Diageo has launched Fusion Allterra, a sustainability-focused iteration of its global open innovation programme aimed at fostering collaboration with growth-stage start-ups and innovators in the beverage sector. This new initiative seeks to accelerate the development of sustainable solutions that address key challenges in consumer experiences, specifically in the realms of gifting and socialising. Set to commence in September 2025, Fusion Allterra will select up to 15 participants to join an eleven-week programme designed to leverage Diageo's industry expertise and consumer insights. The chosen companies will already have market-ready solutions and sufficient venture funding or alternative financial backing to support their participation. The programme is structured in two phases: the first will focus on refining broader concepts, while the second will involve developing pilot plans for the most promising ideas. The initiative will culminate in a ‘Demo Day’ in December 2025, where Diageo will evaluate the concepts for potential progression into pilot phases. Dave Lütkenhaus, a representative from Diageo, highlighted the successful outcomes of previous Fusion programmes: “With Fusion Allterra, we will work with innovators in growth-stage sustainability-led technologies, giving them access to our in-house sustainability and innovation experts, and for the successful participants, the opportunity to scale their concepts.” The launch of Fusion Allterra aligns with the increasing emphasis on sustainability within the food and beverage industry, as companies seek to reduce their environmental impact and meet changing consumer expectations. By collaborating with start-ups, Diageo aims to enhance its portfolio of sustainable offerings and contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry. As the deadline for applications approaches on August 10 2025, Diageo is poised to identify innovative partners who can help shape the future of sustainable consumer experiences in the beverage sector.

The Ferrero Group has officially announced its acquisition of WK Kellogg Co, a move aimed at expanding its portfolio and enhancing its presence in the North American market. Under the terms of the agreement, Ferrero will acquire WK Kellogg Co for $23.00 per share in cash, representing a total enterprise value of approximately $3.1 billion. This acquisition includes the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of WK Kellogg’s well-known breakfast cereals across the United States, Canada and the Caribbean. The deal, which has been unanimously approved by WK Kellogg's Board of Directors, is poised to strengthen Ferrero’s footprint in the breakfast segment, allowing the company to serve consumers at various times throughout the day with its expanded range of beloved brands. Shareholders of WK Kellogg Co are set to receive a 40% premium over the company's 30-day volume-weighted average trading price. Giovanni Ferrero, executive chairman of the Ferrero Group, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, "This is more than just an acquisition; it represents the coming together of two companies, each with a proud legacy and generations of loyal consumers." He noted Ferrero’s commitment to integrating WK Kellogg’s iconic brands, which include Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops and Special K, into its existing portfolio that features products like Nutella, Kinder, and Tic Tac. WK Kellogg Co, which has operated for nearly 120 years, has been focused on improving its operational efficiency and profitability since becoming an independent public company in 2023. Gary Pilnick, chairman and CEO of WK Kellogg, highlighted the benefits of joining Ferrero, stating, "Joining Ferrero will provide WK Kellogg Co with greater resources and more flexibility to grow our iconic brands in this competitive market." The acquisition aligns with Ferrero's strategic growth plan, which has seen the company expand its North American operations significantly over recent years. Currently, Ferrero employs over 14,000 people across 22 plants and eleven offices in the region, and the addition of WK Kellogg Co’s workforce will further bolster these figures. Lapo Civiletti, CEO of the Ferrero Group, noted that this acquisition marks an important step in expanding Ferrero’s presence across more consumption occasions. He reaffirmed the company's commitment to delivering value to consumers in North America. The transaction is subject to approval by WK Kellogg Co shareholders, regulatory approvals, and other customary closing conditions, with an expected completion in the second half of 2025. Notably, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Trust and the Gund Family have already committed to vote shares representing 21.7% of WK Kellogg Co’s common stock in favour of the transaction. As part of the announcement, WK Kellogg Co also provided preliminary financial results for the second quarter of 2025, projecting net sales between $610 million and $615 million, with adjusted EBITDA expected to range from $43 million to $48 million.

Müller Yogurt & Desserts has unveiled a new limited-edition flavour of Müller Rice, developed in collaboration with England international footballer Declan Rice. This product, featuring a Raspberry and White Chocolate combination, marks the first limited-edition release for the brand in five years and underscores the ongoing partnership that has contributed to an 11% increase in volume sales for Müller Rice since its inception. The new SKU leverages Müller’s original creamy rice pudding recipe and is designed to cater to the growing demand for convenient snack options. With a focus on health, the product is HFSS-compliant, making it suitable for consumers seeking healthier alternatives. Positioned as an on-the-go snack or a post-meal treat, the new flavour aims to attract a younger demographic. Initially available exclusively at Asda, Raspberry and White Chocolate Müller Rice will roll out to additional retailers in September. Talar El Asswad, marketing director at Müller Yogurt & Desserts, said: “Since we joined forces with Declan in 2022, we’ve been planning this new flavour collaboration. The positive feedback on our partnership has encouraged us to take this vital step to entice a younger audience to the Müller Rice brand through innovative flavours.” Müller UK & Ireland, part of the Unternehmensgruppe Theo Müller, employs over 33,000 people across Europe and boasts a diverse range of branded and private label dairy products. The company is recognised as one of the top ten FMCG brands in Great Britain and continues to expand its market presence through strategic partnerships and innovative product offerings.

Unilever has appointed Jochanan Senf as the new CEO of Ben & Jerry's, effective immediately, marking a pivotal moment in the brand's ongoing legal confrontation with its independent board. This leadership change intensifies existing tensions surrounding the ice cream maker's governance and operational autonomy. Senf, a seasoned executive with a long tenure at Unilever, previously held the position of managing director for Ben & Jerry's Europe. In this role, he successfully expanded the brand's market presence across Europe, focusing on aligning operations with Unilever's broader corporate strategies while maintaining Ben & Jerry's commitment to social responsibility and sustainability. His extensive experience in the food and beverage industry equips him with a deep understanding of market trends and consumer preferences, which will be crucial as he steps into this new role. His appointment comes in the wake of the controversial dismissal of former CEO Dave Stever , who had been with the company since its inception in 1988. The independent board of Ben & Jerry's has publicly stated that Stever's removal was executed without their consent, which they argue breaches an agreement aimed at safeguarding the brand's independence and commitment to social activism. Founded in 1978 by Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield, Ben & Jerry's has built its reputation on a foundation of social responsibility and ethical business practices. This ethos remained intact after its acquisition by Unilever in 2000, but the recent developments have raised concerns about the brand's ability to maintain its unique identity under corporate oversight. While Unilever maintains operational control, the independent board retains authority over decisions related to the brand's social mission and marketing strategies. This structure has been tested as Unilever plans to spin off its ice cream division, which includes Ben & Jerry's, Magnum and Breyers, later this year. Industry experts are closely monitoring how Senf's leadership will navigate these complexities, particularly as consumer expectations for ethical practices continue to evolve within the food and beverage sector. The outcome of this dispute could have significant implications not only for Ben & Jerry's but also for other brands under the Unilever umbrella that aspire to balance corporate governance with a commitment to social responsibility.

According to reports from major media outlets, including Bloomberg and Financial Times , Kraft Heinz Company is actively considering a significant restructuring that would involve spinning off a substantial portion of its grocery business, which includes several iconic Kraft products. Sources familiar with the company's situation indicate that this new entity could be valued at as much as $20 billion. However, the exact structure of the deal remains uncertain, and there is no guarantee that it will be finalised. The potential spin-off comes as Kraft Heinz seeks to address persistent challenges in its grocery segment, which has struggled to keep pace with evolving consumer preferences. The company has been under pressure from shareholders to enhance value, particularly as economic conditions prompt consumers to seek more affordable options and healthier alternatives. This exploration follows a similar move by WK Kellogg, which recently agreed to a $3.1 billion acquisition by Ferrero , indicating a trend of consolidation in the food sector. Reports suggest that the spin-off would allow Kraft Heinz to retain its core brands, such as Heinz ketchup, Grey Poupon mustard and a range of sauces, while divesting traditional grocery items like boxed dinners and processed cheese. Such a separation could potentially position the remaining business for faster growth, capitalising on the increasing consumer demand for condiments and sauces over processed meal solutions. As of now, Kraft Heinz's market capitalisation stands at approximately $31.33 billion, and the company's shares closed up 2.5% following the news of the potential spin-off. Kraft Heinz was formed in 2015 through the merger of Kraft Foods and HJ Heinz, backed by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway and Brazilian private equity firm 3G Capital. Despite initial optimism surrounding the merger, Kraft Heinz has faced significant hurdles, including inflationary pressures that have negatively impacted demand for its products. The company has also lowered its annual forecasts and reported disappointing results in recent quarters, citing muted consumer spending. In addition to these challenges, Kraft Heinz announced last month that it would cease launching new products containing artificial colours in the US . This decision aligns with broader industry trends toward cleaner labels and transparency in food ingredients, reflecting growing consumer health consciousness.

Ferrara Candy Company, a player in the US sugar confectionery market, has initiated exclusive discussions to acquire CPK Group, a French manufacturer and distributor of candies and chocolates. The potential acquisition, which involves CPK being sold by the global investment group Eurazeo, is expected to enhance Ferrara's portfolio of over 30 brands and strengthen its position in the European confectionery sector. This strategic move comes as Ferrara seeks to expand its footprint in Europe, leveraging CPK's established market presence and product offerings. CPK, formed in 2017 through the acquisition of 14 brands from Mondelez and subsequent consolidation with Lamy Lutti, boasts a diverse range of well-known candy and chocolate brands, including Carambar, Lutti, Krema and Terry's. The group is particularly recognised for its strong market segments in candy and milk chocolate, making it an attractive addition to Ferrara's existing operations. The acquisition is anticipated to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending customary regulatory approvals and consultations with employee representative bodies. Upon completion, CPK's workforce of over 900 employees will join Ferrara, with operations continuing from its manufacturing sites in France, including Bondues, Saint-Genest, Strasbourg and Vichy. Marco Capurso, CEO of Ferrara Candy Company, expressed optimism about the acquisition, highlighting CPK's portfolio as a valuable asset that resonates with European consumers. This acquisition aligns with Ferrara's long-term growth strategy and its commitment to delivering a wide array of confectionery products to a broader audience. Ferrara Candy Company, headquartered in Chicago, has been a significant player in the sugar confectionery market for over 115 years. The company has established a strong presence in more than 40 countries, with a diverse range of iconic brands such as Nerds, Jelly Belly and SweeTarts. The proposed acquisition of CPK is seen as a strategic effort to capitalise on the growing demand for confectionery products in Europe and to enhance Ferrara's innovation capabilities within the sector.

Pernod Ricard UK is expanding its portfolio with the launch of Beefeater 0.0%, marking the iconic gin brand's first foray into the non-alcoholic spirits category. This move aligns with the growing consumer demand for alcohol-free alternatives and reflects a broader trend within the alcohol industry towards moderation and wellness. Beefeater 0.0% draws inspiration from the original Beefeater London Dry Gin, maintaining its signature citric and juniper-forward profile while eliminating alcohol. The new expression is crafted by infusing the essence of Beefeater’s classic recipe into a non-alcoholic base, using exclusively natural flavours to create a balanced and refreshing drinking experience. This development aims to cater to consumers who wish to partake in social occasions without the effects of alcohol. Market insights indicate a significant shift in consumer behaviour, with approximately 60% of UK adults engaging in 'zebra striping – the practice of alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages during social events. Beefeater 0.0% is positioned to complement this trend, offering a versatile option for cocktail enthusiasts. The brand promotes a range of non-alcoholic cocktails, including the Beefeater 0.0 and Tonic, as well as innovative alternatives like the “N0.0groni,” “Tom C0.0llins,” and “L0.0NDON Mule.” Ian Peart, commercial director for Pernod Ricard UK, said: “We are proud to be bringing the no-alcohol category elevated options, removing the need to compromise or miss out on the convivial occasion. We see moderation as something that we have always done, and it leans into the existing premiumisation trend as consumers become more aware and choiceful about what and when they drink.” The launch of Beefeater 0.0% follows a successful introduction in Spain, Beefeater's largest market, where it has been available since January 2024. Notably, 75% of shoppers in Spain engaging with Beefeater 0.0% are new to the brand, coming from categories such as beer and soft drinks. This indicates a potential for growth in the gin category, appealing to consumers seeking versatility and healthier lifestyle choices. Beefeater 0.0% is set to hit the UK market across the on-trade sector in September 2025, further reinforcing Pernod Ricard’s commitment to innovation within the spirits industry. As the non-alcoholic segment continues to gain traction, brands like Beefeater are poised to redefine social drinking norms and expand their consumer base.