Truvant, a global provider of packaging and display solutions, has opened a new facility in Indiana, US. The 244,000-square-foot facility in Indianapolis increases Truvant’s operational footprint to 15 facilities globally and brings more than 250 jobs to the area. The new facility will support Truvant customers from industries including food with secondary and promotional packaging services. Truvant – a portfolio company of US private equity investment firm The Halifax Group – says that Indianapolis provides a central location from which it can service 75% of the North American market in less than 24 hours. The new complex features capabilities for kitting, fulfilment, assembly, bundling, shrink wrapping, liquid blending, pouching, blister packaging, e-commerce fulfilment and more. The facility will support customers with manual, automated and semi-automated processes, allowing for a wide range of scalable contract packaging, contract manufacturing and supply chain solutions. The site is located within a half mile of the Indianapolis airport and is immediately adjacent to FedEx's second largest hub in the world, according to Truvant. “The strategic location of the Indianapolis site will enable us to expand our reach to create a stronger manufacturing network across the US," said Truvant CEO, Scott Lamb. “We are now better equipped than ever to help current and future customers get their products to both retailers and consumers directly in the most efficient way.” He continued: “We are excited to provide an opportunity for people in the community to work in the dynamic and growing co-manufacturing and co-packaging sector.”

Glass bottle manufacturer and bottler Encirc has unveiled its 2025 decarbonisation plan that uses hydrogen-powered furnaces, leading to the creation of 200 jobs in Cheshire. In order to meet its commitment, Encirc plans to use hydrogen in its furnaces to create billions of ultra-low carbon glass bottles. To ensure the availability of hydrogen, the Cheshire-based manufacturer plans to expand its Elton facility and create at least 200 jobs – to join more than 1,00 current employees at the site. The company will use the hydrogen supply from the proposed HyNet North West project in its furnaces to the lead the decarbonisation of glass packaging. HyNet North West is a hydrogen and carbon capture and storage project that aims to unlock a low carbon economy and put the region at the forefront of the UK’s drive to net zero. According to Encirc, the project has the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 10 million tonnes every year by 2030. The news comes after Enrcirc – alongside Glass Future – successfully used a biofuel-powered furnace and 100% recycled glass to reduce the carbon footprint of its bottles by up to 90%. Encric successfully trialled its low carbon glass bottles with Carlsberg, Molson Coors and Diageo. After touring the Elton factory and learning more about how Encirc could take advantage of a new supply of hydrogen, Anne-Marie Trevelyan – the UK’s Minister of State for Business, Energy and Clean Growth – said: “I’m delighted Encirc has announced its ambition to create the first ultra-low carbon glass by 2025 as part of the HyNet North West project. “It is a sign our plan for jobs is working and will create not only over 200 jobs on the ground in Chester but a skills base fit for the future. Working together with government and ahead of COP26 in Glasgow, I’m delighted to see British industries are building back greener, meaning firms can play their part in creating jobs and meeting our ambitious climate commitments.” Adrian Curry, Encirc managing director, added: “It is vital that glass packaging decarbonises to meet our zero-emission future. Glass already has so many incredible environmental and health benefits over other materials, but the carbon intensity of our furnaces is a key challenge we need to address. We are delighted to be leading the charge, creating the world’s most sustainable glass bottles."

Refresco has entered into an agreement to acquire Hansa-Heemann, a German mineral water and carbonated soft drinks (CSD) company. The deal forms part of Refresco’s buy-and-build strategy and further enhances its position in terms of product and brand portfolio and geographical coverage. Headquartered in Rellingen, Hansa-Heemann is an independent beverage manufacturer that specialises in the production and bottling of mineral water and CSDs. The independent bottler has five production sites across Germany and serves three different market segments: private label, own brands and contract manufacturing for A-brands. Hansa-Heemann reportedly has annual revenues of approximately €300 million and employs over 800 people. With the acquisition, Refresco will expand its offering in water and CSDs with brands such as Fūrst Bismarck, Hella and St. Michaelis. Upon completion, Refresco will enhance its presence in Germany, thus improving its transport efficiencies and reducing CO2 emissions.   "We are very much looking forward to welcoming Hansa-Heemann to Refresco. Our companies are a great fit and Hansa-Heemann's expertise and capabilities will allow us to further improve our operational excellence," said Hans Roelofs, CEO of Refresco Group.  “In addition, this acquisition will further diversify our business and product offering, which will benefit our customers. Refresco Germany and Hansa-Heemann are highly complementary and through this acquisition, we will be able to offer nationwide coverage to German retailers.” Hansa-Heemann chairman, Wolff Lange, added: “It is a promising opportunity for our family business to join Refresco as it will enable the Hansa-Heemann team to apply their knowledge and expertise with more impact, at a much bigger scale. Our combined capabilities will accelerate our ambitions and further enhance our offering to customers.” The transaction was made for an undisclosed sum and is subject to regulatory approval. In 2019, Refresco acquired Arizona Production & Packaging (AZPACK), a US-based packaging manufacturer.

BlueTriton Brands, formerly known as Nestlé Waters North America, has announced the appointment of Jorge Mesquita as its new CEO. The former Nestlé Waters US and Canada operations adopted the name BlueTriton Brands earlier this year, after Nestlé completed its sale of the business. Newly appointed CEO Mesquita joins the company as it "embarks on growth and innovation initiatives as an independent business". “Over the course of his long career in the consumer products industry, Jorge has developed an outstanding reputation as a strategic thinker and inspirational leader with a focus on operational excellence and a passion for re-energising businesses and brands,” said Tony Lee, managing partner of One Rock Capital Partners, which earlier this year acquired BlueTriton in partnership with Metropoulos & Co. “We are thrilled to have the benefit of his experience and expertise as BlueTriton moves into its next exciting chapter.”  Before joining BlueTriton, Mesquita served as executive vice president and worldwide chairman of Johnson & Johnson’s consumer division, where he revamped the marketing and commercial strategies for brands such as Johnson’s Baby and Neutrogena. Prior to that, Mesquita spent nearly 30 years at The Procter & Gamble Company, where he led three separate divisions during his tenure. These included responsibility for overseeing the company’s largest business unit as P&G’s group president, global fabric care. “A transformational leader with an impressive track record of driving game-changing innovation, building brands and delivering top- and bottom-line results, Jorge is the ideal executive to lead BlueTriton as we seek to expand our market leadership, advance our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, and realise the potential of our unrivalled portfolio of water brands,” said Dean Metropoulos, chairman and former interim CEO of BlueTriton. Mesquita added: “The water category is primed for growth and innovation as more consumers seek healthy hydration alternatives to sugary drinks. With an exceptional portfolio of beloved brands, BlueTriton is well-positioned to capitalise on this tremendous market opportunity.”

Canadian brand St. Lawrence Gold has released two new honey flavours into Waitrose stores across the UK. The two varieties include Blueberry Blossom Honey – described as having a subtle fruity kick – and Prairie Wildflower, which the brand says is a full-bodied honey with a distinctive taste that is perfect for cooking, particularly in Middle Eastern recipes. St. Lawrence Gold develops honeys from Winnipeg and claims it is the only company to bring pure Canadian honey to UK retailers. According to the brand, the grassland prairie in the Manitoba province provides a haven for bees with little human interference and undisturbed soils. In addition, the company has unveiled a new look for its range of maple syrups and honeys in the UK. St. Lawrence Gold’s two new honeys will go on sale in Waitrose stores nationwide from 12 July for £5.99 per 330g jar; as well as a few independent health stores.

Suntory Group has committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity by 2022, as part of a JPY 100 billion (approximately $912 million) investment. The global beverage company aims to power its 63 directly-owned manufacturing sites and R&D facilities in Japan, the Americas and Europe with 100% renewable electricity by next year. The investment forms part of Suntory’s efforts to meet its goal of halving greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 2030, as it looks to shift to low-carbon alternatives. The multinational beverage firm unveiled its aim to achieve net zero emissions across its entire value chain by 2050 last year. In order to meet its targets, Suntory plans to introduce internal carbon pricing to its group companies this year. As a result of these projects, Suntory estimates a reduction of around 1 million tons of GHG emissions in its direct operations when compared to a business-as-usual projection for 2030. “As a company with a mission ‘to create harmony with people and nature,’ we are committed to doing everything possible to decarbonise our business,” said Tak Niinami, CEO of Suntory Holdings. “We will further accelerate our work by taking immediate actions in places where we can shift to 100% renewable electricity, which is a critical step in achieving our climate goals.” As of 2020, Suntory says approximately 30% of electricity used by its sites in Japan, the Americas and Europe comes from renewable sources. Almost all electricity in the company’s European business is sourced from renewable sources. Meanwhile, Suntory Beverage and Food Europe – which owns brands including Ribena and Lucozade – has already achieved 100% renewable electricity. Earlier this year, Suntory’s Kita-Alps Shinano-no-Mori Water Plant in Nagano began operating as its first carbon neutral plant in Japan. The company’s Beam Suntory division is also opening a new bourbon distillery in Kentucky later this year, which will mark Suntory’s first distillery powered by renewable electricity.

Bacardi has introduced a new limited-edition flavoured rum, Bacardí Tropical, which will be available until the autumn. Bacardí Tropical features white rum infused with ‘all-natural’ pineapple, coconut and guava fruit flavours. The new offering is free from artificial sweeteners and gluten, and contains only 100 calories per ounce and a half of liquid. “At Bacardí, we know that flavoured rum is the fastest growing segment in the category. To give people a delicious new flavoured rum option and get them excited about what is sure to be an unforgettable summer, we created Bacardí Tropical,” said Maria Galis, marketing director, Bacardí for North America. “It brings the natural fruit flavours of the Caribbean to classic rum cocktails like the piña colada, mojito or the tropical sunset, which is our take on the hurricane. It is also just as versatile and delicious when mixed with juices or soda for an easy, vacation-worthy sip." With an SRP of $12.99 per 750ml bottle, Bacardí Tropical is available via Drizly and at select liquor stores, bars and restaurants across the US. Bacardi recently expanded its range of Bacardí Real Rum Canned Cocktails with three new tropical flavours and its first variety pack.

Denmark-based beverage company Royal Unibrew has expanded into the energy drinks category with the acquisition of MC Energy, the owner of the Crazy Tiger brand. Royal Unibrew will acquire the French energy drinks company from three entrepreneurs at an enterprise value of around DKK 610 million (approximately €82 million). The company initially announced that it had entered exclusive negotiations to acquire MC Energy on 1 July. According to Royal Unibrew, Crazy Tiger holds around 10% volume share in the fast-growing energy drinks market, and it expects the brand to continue growing at a double-digit growth rate in the coming years. The acquisition will see Royal Unibrew add a new category to its French business which is currently based on its Lorina lemonade brand, as it plans to grow its existing capabilities in the country. The Danish firm also sees strong growth opportunities for the category across other markets. Lars Jensen, CEO of Royal Unibrew, said: “We are very pleased that we have secured the ownership of Crazy Tiger in France as we see significant growth opportunities in the energy drink category across geographies. “The acquisition of an energy drink company with a solid market position in France supports our strategy and is the next step in developing our French business into a multi-niche business model.” Under its ownership, Royal Unibrew intends to invest in Crazy Tiger, with plans to further product innovation, create a more premium brand and attract new consumers and occasions. Last week, Royal Unibrew also entered into an agreement to acquire Solera Beverage Group – an importer and distributor of beverages across Norway, Sweden and Finland – for an enterprise value of DKK 770 million (approximately €103 million). The deal will see Royal Unibrew gain access to international imported wine, beer and soft drinks, in addition to a strong Nordic platform.

German natural dietary fibre specialist Taiyo has joined forces with Asiros to develop and market two new high-in-fibre fruit powder ranges under the BerryShield brand. The new premium blends combine the benefits of Taiyo’s water-soluble prebiotic Sunfiber with the natural effects of individual fruits in different quality grades. BerryShield Premium Conventional and BerryShield Organic can be used for multiple applications in the nutraceuticals sector and the food and beverage industry for customers in the EMEA region. “We are very excited about our cooperation with Taiyo and the creation of innovative prebiotic juice powders made with Sunfiber,” said Carsten Aalundm, COO and commercial director of Asiros Nordic. The first products in the lines will be launched this summer and will come from the berry varieties tartcherry, elderberry and lingonberry. BerryShield Premium Conventional and BerryShield Organic powders can be consumed pure or processed in applications. Taiyo’s 100% natural, ISO-certified dietary fibre Sunfiber is non-viscous and derived from partially hydrolysed guar gum – which is clinically proven to be compatible with a low FODMAP diet, and effective in lowering the glycemic index and supporting digestion. With their new range, the companies aim to meet demand for food and beverage formulations that offer health and wellness benefits, while containing natural ingredients. “Taiyo and Asiros are pursuing similar goals by bringing products to market that are technologically convincing, and can offer added health value. In the collaboration, we combine our comprehensive know-how in natural plant-based premium ingredients,” said Stefan Siebrecht, managing director of Taiyo. Denmark-based Asiros is a producer of organic products from natural raw fruits and plant-based ingredients.

US non-alcoholic brewer, Athletic Brewing Company , has closed a $50 million funding round to expand its brewing capacity in response to growing consumer demand. The Series C round was led by existing Athletic investors and board members Alliance Consumer Growth and TRB Advisors, with other investors including athletes, entrepreneurs and celebrities, such as Blake Mycoskie, Lance Armstrong, Justin Tuck and JJ Watt. The new funds will support a ‘major’ investment in a larger east coast brewery less than a year after the opening of Athletic’s 150,000-barrel facility in San Diego. The new site will boost the non-alcoholic brewer’s production capacity to keep pace with consumer demand in the US, while the company is also set to launch in a number of overseas markets. In addition, the capital will support the expansion of Athletic’s team, while the company also plans to expand partnerships “to connect with its consumer community”. Launched in 2018, Athletic offers a range of non-alcoholic beers, created to cater for active adults who want to enjoy high-quality beer, across a variety of styles and flavours, without the alcohol or impact on personal goals.   In 2020, the company claims to have grown almost 500% year-over-year for the second year running. Athletic’s new hoppy sparkling water brand DayPack also launched last year. “We’re humbled that both investors who have been with us from the beginning and a host of new partners have faith in our ability to continue operating and expanding as a brewery whose commitment to our customers has never wavered,” said Athletic founder and CEO, Bill Shufelt. “This investment will allow Athletic to keep doing what we do best, brewing great beer for our customers, and giving back to the communities we care about.” Alyssa Ferenz, chief financial officer at Alliance Consumer Growth, added: “Athletic is one of those game-changing brands that doesn’t come along very often and has the ability to massively change the landscape of non-alcoholic beer as we know it. “We’re thrilled to build on our partnership with the Athletic team so that they can continue to serve a huge unmet need and grow their positive impact on their communities and the environment.”

Dawn Foods has strengthened its position in Portugal with the acquisition of bakery products distributor Icopa for an undisclosed sum.  Under the terms of the deal, Dawn Foods will gain access to Icopa’s three distribution centres, including one located directly next to its ingredient manufacturing plant in Palmela. Icopa offers a portfolio of bakery products such as bread mixes, packaging, utensils and decorating supplies. The transaction will see Dawn Foods expand its overall distribution capabilities in Europe, ensuring bakeries have access to all the products and solutions needed to grow their business. The deal marks the company’s second acquisition in recent months, following the purchase of Poland-based Jabex, a supplier of ingredients and other solutions for the confectionery, bakery and ice cream markets. "Dawn is committed to providing the best experience for our customers, and the addition of Icopa's distribution capabilities, team members and partnerships enables us to better serve and meet the needs of bakery customers in this region," said Carrie Jones-Barber, CEO of Dawn Foods. Lluís Borrell, Mediterranean cluster director of Dawn Foods, added: "Dawn and Icopa have enjoyed a successful partnership for many years, and we are excited to combine our high-quality products and Icopa's distribution capabilities to provide total solutions our customers will enjoy.”

Nestlé has announced plans to invest $100 million into the expansion of its frozen foods facility in Cherokee County, South Carolina. First opened in 1980, the Gaffney factory manufactures frozen food entrees for the company’s Stouffer’sandLean Cuisine brands. The proposed plan includes the addition of a new production line, as well as the expansion of an existing production line. The project will create approximately 160 new jobs and will ensure that Nestlé can continue to meet growing consumer demand for its frozen food brands.   “The frozen food category has been growing for the last few years, and the pandemic has only increased that trend. As people spent more time at home, they rediscovered the convenience, value and great taste of frozen foods,” said Nicole Caldwell, Nestlé USA Gaffney factory manager. The investment comes six months after Nestlé announced a $100 million expansion of its frozen foods plant in Jonesboro, Arkansas, in particular for the production of its Hot Pockets brand sandwiches. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Nestlé also launched its new Life Cuisine brandin the US, which offers a line of frozen meals with carb conscious, high protein, meatless and gluten free options. South Carolina’s Commissioner of Agriculture, Hugh Weathers, said: “Agribusiness is South Carolina’s largest industry, and companies like Nestlé USA are helping it grow to even greater heights. We welcome this expansion and the jobs and supply chain opportunities it will create.”