Luxembourg-based company Lagfin, which owns over 50% of the global drinks giant The Campari Group, has had over €1.2 billion worth of shares seized by Italian authorities amid allegations of tax evasion linked to a corporate restructuring. Italian financial police said shares were confiscated following a year-long investigation into how Lagfin absorbed its Italian operations. Prosecutors allege that Lagfin failed to pay taxes equivalent to the value of the seized shares during the merger process. In a statement, Lagfin said it had “always acted in the most scrupulous respect of any applicable laws and regulations, including Italian tax laws,” and vowed to “defend itself vigorously.” The investigation centres around €5.3bn in undeclared capital gains between 2018 and 2020, on which Lagfin allegedly failed to pay an “exit tax” – a levy applied when companies move their headquarters abroad. Authorities claim Lagfin transferred Italian assets to foreign ownership purely for tax purposes. The Campari Group, which also owns Italian aperitif brand Aperol, has stated that neither the group itself nor its subsidiaries are under investigation. Founded in 1860 by Gaspare Campari, the Campari Group is one of the world’s largest spirit producers, owning over 50 brands and distributing in more than 190 countries. The current seizure does not affect Lagfin’s control of the business.

Cob, a startup aiming to redefine the popcorn category, has debuted its first product line, a corn-free, gluten-free alternative made from sorghum, an ancient grain known for its sustainability and nutritional profile. The launch is supported by a seed round led by tennis player Novak Djokovic, with participation from investors such as Bullish, Daxos, Furthermore and Venrex. “Eating gluten-free shouldn't mean sacrificing taste, texture or nutrition,” said Djokovic. “Cob represents everything I value in wellness, thoughtful ingredients, amazing flavour and accessibility.” Founded by serial entrepreneur Jessica Davidoff, Cob was inspired by her family’s search for corn-free foods after discovering her son’s allergy to corn. Davidoff developed the concept after experimenting with popped sorghum, which she describes as tasting even better than traditional popcorn. Cob’s debut line-up includes four flavour varieties: Cacio e Pepe, Mediterranean Herb, Olive Oil & Pink Salt and Seriously Cheesy. Each Cob variety is designed to deliver all the flavour and crunch of popcorn while offering functional benefits and a cleaner label. Beyond its nutritional appeal, Cob’s use of sorghum offers significant environmental advantages. Sorghum requires minimal irrigation, supports soil biodiversity, and contributes to regenerative agriculture. The brand also emphasises non-GMO, filler-free and preservative-free formulations. “Our goal is to help consumers break their dependence on corn by creating insanely delicious, sorghum-based snacks made the way you’d make them in your own kitchen,” said Davidoff. “It’s simple, craveable food that’s good for you, good for your gut and good for the planet.”

Tetra Pak has today (4 November 2025) announced the launch of its new Automation and Digitalisation (A&D) portfolio, Tetra Pak Factory OS, at the Gulfood Manufacturing event in Dubai. The new portfolio, available globally, aims to support food and beverage producers with modular, open and scalable smart factory technologies, establishing a foundation for ‘AI-ready’ manufacturing sites. It follows a recent study showing that highly automated beverage factories can achieve 20% higher overall equipment effectiveness, 45% less product waste and 20% fewer packaging line stops compared to less automated facilities. However, Tetra Pak noted that many producers are held back from adopting automation technologies by limited digital expertise and difficulty finding holistic end-to-end solutions. Its new Factory OS portfolio has been designed to bridge the gap by combining advanced technologies with F&B expertise, aiming to help manufacturers tackle cost pressures, meet sustainability goals and prepare for AI-driven production. A new data integration platform is at the core of the portfolio, integrating open technologies and analytics with industry standards. It connects equipment and systems throughout the factory, transforming fragmented data into a unified, real-time view. This aims to equip F&B producers with the ability to deliver consistent product quality, enhanced efficiency, reduced utility usage and lower total cost of ownership. The Factory OS portfolio standardises data collection across all equipment, regardless of age or supplier, to ensure full compatibility and scalability. It enables producers to utilise a suite of digital applications for real-time monitoring of materials, quality, production and asset performance. Developed in collaboration with Accenture, the portfolio is supported by a technology ecosystem that includes Siemens, Rockwell Automation and Inductive Automation. Sean Sims, vice president of automation and solutions at Tetra Pak, commented: “Today, food and beverage producers are under enormous pressure. They must deliver more with fewer resources – less water, less energy, less waste – all while maintaining quality and reducing costs.” He added: “Our next-generation portfolio transforms complexity into clarity. By combining contextualised data – the foundation of effective AI adoption – with high-performing equipment automation, Tetra Pak Factory OS gives food and beverage producers the confidence to act decisively in an increasingly volatile market.”

Ajinomoto Foods North America-owned brand Tai Pei has introduced two new single-serve noodle trays to its frozen entrée portfolio: Shrimp Chow Mein and Vegetable Chow Mein. The new products aim to deliver takeout-style flavour and convenience in a microwave-ready format. The chow mein dishes feature sauce-infused noodles designed to replicate wok-fried texture and taste. The Shrimp Chow Mein variety combines shrimp, vegetables and savoury sauce, while the Vegetable Chow Mein includes a mix of ten vegetables – more than double the typical variety found in comparable products, according to the company. Amy Shoemaker, VP of category marketing at Ajinomoto Foods North America, said: "We know our consumers want more from frozen entrées – more flavour, more convenience and more of that craveable, takeout-style satisfaction. Our new Chow Mein offerings are built for exactly that: bold, savory flavor in a fast, single-serve format that delivers value without compromising on taste or satisfaction." The new products, available nationwide in the US for an SRP of $4.18, are made without artificial colours or flavours.

Taylor Farms has announced the acquisition of Natures Way Foods, a UK fresh prepared food manufacturer based in Chichester, England. Natures Way Foods employs around 1,300 people and supplies fresh, convenient food products to retail and foodservice customers across the UK. Following the acquisition, the company will continue to operate under its existing management, executive and employee teams. According to Taylor Farms, the two companies will collaborate to share best practices across quality, innovation, food safety and sustainability, while expanding their range of fresh and healthy products in line with evolving consumer trends. Bruce Taylor, chairman and CEO of Taylor Farms, said: "At Taylor Farms, our mission has always been to deliver fresh, healthy and delicious foods that enhance the well-being and quality of our consumers' lives – and that mission extends beyond North America. We're excited to partner with Natures Way Foods and expand our global footprint, continuing to provide nutritious, high-quality products around the world." Colin Smith, CEO of Natures Way Foods, added: "This is an exciting time for us all at Natures Way Foods. To be joining forces with the globally respected producer Taylor Fresh Foods is testament to our team's exceptional work. Our commitment to delivering exceptional fresh food products for our valued customers remains at the centre of everything we do... Being part of the Taylor Fresh Foods family will enable us to further invest, innovate and share best practice to continue to deliver for our customers." Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Top image: © Natures Way Foods

European food manufacturer Cerealto, a producer of biscuits, cereals and snack bars, has announced a majority investment in US-based co-manufacturer Fresca Foods. The partnership marks a significant expansion into North America for Cerealto, establishing its first large-scale US manufacturing presence. Following the deal, North America is expected to contribute around 20% of Cerealto’s total revenue. Cerealto CEO Bosco Fonts said: "Partnering with Fresca Foods’ leadership team gives us a strong foothold in the world’s largest snacking market, shifting our business from predominantly European to truly international". Founded and headquartered in Colorado, Fresca Foods is a well-established co-manufacturer producing for US and international brands across snack bars, granola, breakfast cereals, crackers and cookies. Under the new partnership, Fresca’s leadership team remains in place and retains a significant shareholding, continuing to manage day-to-day operations. Fresca CEO Brandon Viar said: “Together with Cerealto, we have the platform, expertise and shared ambition to accelerate growth as the leading co-manufacturing and private label snacking partner. We are truly excited for this next chapter and the opportunities it will unlock for our team members, customers and community.” With continued demand for better-for-you and convenient snacking, the deal will allow both companies to expand their portfolios globally.

Pladis Americas is adding a festive twist to its Flipz portfolio through a partnership with the Elf on the Shelf and Lumistella Company. The collaboration introduces Flipz Elf on the Shelf Sugar Cookie Covered Pretzels, a limited edition flavour to capture the spirit of the festive season. Featuring Flipz signature crunchy pretzels, the new variety has a sugar cookie-flavoured white fudge coating and colourful sprinkles. Shivani Arora, marketing director at Pladis Americas, said: “Flipz Sugar Cookie is our latest holiday limited-edition treat, created to capture the magic and joy of the season. By teaming up with the Elf on the Shelf, we’re bringing consumers a snack that is a little sweet and a little salty – just like the elves.” Available for a limited time in 6.5oz bags, Flipz Elf on the Shelf Sugar Cookie Covered Pretzels are available across the US.

At Fi Europe 2025 (stand 71C34), Loryma presents 'Good 4 U' to support manufacturers in the creation of nutritious products without compromising on process efficiency or sensory quality. The company’s functional portfolio targets product categories such as baked goods, pasta, snacks, cereals and alternative or hybrid protein concepts. Good 4 U also refers to consumer desire for more wholesome nutrition, with reduced sugar, salt and fat, more plant-based protein and fibre, and shorter ingredient lists.   Here, protein is a vital component. Loryma’s highly concentrated wheat proteins, available in hydrolyzed, extruded or powdered forms, contain up to 82% protein in dry matter and are easily incorporated into dough systems, coatings, bars, cereals and meat analogues, thanks to their neutral taste and reliable textural support. The company is expanding its plant-based toolbox with the addition of EU-produced pumpkin seed extrudates with approximately 35% protein, and extruded fava bean crisps with a protein count of around 50%. Both provide crunch and character for inclusions and toppings. At the stand, visitors can sample crisp pumpkin balls in three flavours, including a sweet option coated with sunflower-based vegan chocolate from Choviva. For fibre enrichment, Lory Starch Elara – with around 90% fibre – can replace flour or semolina in baking and pasta products without process changes. The result is an efficient way to increase fibre content and optimise the nutritional profile while maintaining familiar taste and texture. A 'global trend, regional solutions' approach to hybrid product development is key. In Europe and North America, sustainability and improved nutritional profiles are central, while in parts of Asia and Africa, local flavour and dietary traditions carry more weight. Textured wheat protein enables precise control of bite, juiciness and cost to align with such regional preferences. An example of this, and available to sample, is crispy hybrid nuggets that combine 66% chicken with 30% extruded wheat protein. Lory Crumb Non-Fry provides colour, crunch and adhesion in oven or air fryer applications. This eliminates the need for deep frying, thus minimising oil use and cleaning. For eye-catching differentiation, naturally coloured crumb variants in pink, yellow, orange and green can be used for breadings, toppings and snacks.   Overall, Loryma’s Good 4 U matches consumer expectations with manufacturing realities by offering modular functionality, consistent performance and a clear pathway from concept to scale.

Beverage strategy consultancy firm Enliven has appointed Kelly Dolan as its new director of strategic partnerships, strengthening the firm’s client service and business development capabilities as it continues its international expansion. Kelly Dolan Dolan joins with more than 20 years of experience in the food and beverage sector, including senior roles at PepsiCo and Tropicana. In her new role, Dolan will focus on enhancing client partnerships and ensuring Enliven’s customers gain long-term strategic value from their beverage agreements. Tim Harms, CEO of Enliven, said: “Kelly’s deep knowledge of food and beverage go-to-market strategies and her track record of leading national accounts make her an exceptional addition to our team.” Dolan added: “Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about building strong client relationships and delivering solutions that last well beyond the initial handshake. I’m thrilled to join Enliven at such an exciting time of growth.” “She understands how to build enduring partnerships that deliver measurable value, exactly what Enliven is known for,” Harms said. Dolan’s appointment follows a period of expansion for Enliven, which recently extended operations into Europe, the Middle East and Australia.

For the first time in five years, the Coca-Cola Company is adding a new limited-edition flavour to its seasonal lineup: Coca-Cola Holiday Creamy Vanilla. The festive innovation delivers a twist on the iconic beverage, blending the brand’s familiar flavour with rich, creamy vanilla notes that capture the spirit of the festive season. The new variety will also be offered in a Zero Sugar option, extending the flavour's appeal to consumers looking for indulgence and balance. “Coca-Cola Holiday Creamy Vanilla celebrates the joy and nostalgia of the season while giving fans a refreshing new way to enjoy the brand they love,” said a company spokesperson. Described as a “delicious taste of Coca-Cola infused with smooth, creamy vanilla,” the new beverage is designed to evoke the comforting flavours of winter gatherings and festive treats. It marks the first limited-time holiday flavour from the brand since 2020. Coca-Cola Holiday Creamy Vanilla launches today (3 November) across the US and Canada in a range of formats including, 12 oz cans in a 12 pack, 20 oz bottles and 2 litre bottles. The new flavour will be available at most national retailers and online for a limited time through the holiday season.

Sidel has introduced Nitro Square, a new high-performance square bottle design for still water using liquid nitrogen dosing. According to Xavier Monnier, Sidel’s packaging innovation polymer expert, the nitrogen-dosed water market has so far been dominated by cylindrical bottles, as this shape naturally accommodates the internal pressure of the contents. “Nitro Square allows manufacturers to elevate their brands with a unique square design that stands out on the shelf, secures its shape and performance across the supply chain and is valid for rPET," he said. The new design balances rigid structural sections with flexible, pressure-absorbing surfaces to maintain the square shape while ensuring resistance and stability. It also incorporates Sidel’s StarLITE-R Nitro base, designed to enhance impact resistance and improve bottle stability. Sidel said the design is easy to customise for different brand positions – from premium to mainstream – and is available in both single- and multi-serve formats. The bottle is compatible with Sidel’s existing production systems, including Universal, Series 2 and EvoBLOW machines, allowing production speeds of up to 2,600 bottles per hour per mould.

Global packaging company Alpla Group has strengthened its presence in south-east Europe through the acquisition of the closure production operations of Serbian manufacturer Energoplast. The move expands Alpla’s capacity and product offering in compression and injection moulding, reinforcing its role as a comprehensive system provider to the beverage and consumer goods industries across the Balkan region. The transaction, completed on 1 November, includes the takeover of Energoplast’s personnel, production lines and existing customer relationships, ensuring continuity of operations and supply. Miroslav Micković, general manager of Alpla Serbia, “Energoplast’s high-quality portfolio is the perfect addition to our business in the Serbian market and will be further enhanced by our technological expertise in the future”. Located in northern Belgrade, Energoplast’s 2000-square-metre facility produces polyethylene (PE) closures for beverage applications using both compression moulding and injection moulding technologies. The site supplies major beverage producers in Serbia and neighbouring markets. “This will enable us to secure supplies for our customers and provide them with immediate added value and strategic advantages in the long term,” Micković added. With the acquisition, Alpla now operates four plants in Serbia, two in Croatia and one in Slovenia, including several in-house facilities located directly within customer filling plants. The expansion consolidates Alpla’s position as one of the largest plastic packaging manufacturers in south-east Europe, producing bottles, closures and containers for food, home care, cosmetics and industrial applications. “This strategic move strengthens our presence in south-east Europe, promotes regional value creation and enables us to meet growing demand in a targeted manner,” said Rainer Widmar, managing director, Central and Eastern Europe at Alpla. “Local and international customers alike will benefit from shorter delivery routes and high-quality closure solutions.” The acquisition aligns with Alpla’s strategy to offer integrated, end-to-end packaging systems, combining design, manufacturing, and recycling capabilities under one umbrella. By enhancing its compression and injection moulding operations, the company aims to improve supply security, innovation speed and sustainability performance across its beverage packaging portfolio. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.