Interview: 365 Retail Markets showcases the future of unattended retail

In these interviews at Venditalia 2026, Refreshment explores 365 Retail Markets’ latest unattended retail innovations, including age-verification technology, PicoCoffee Plus, PicoFreezer Vision, Stockwell 2.0 and VisionLink, and more.

Turning restaurant AI into measurable business value

Despite growing investment in artificial intelligence (AI) across the hospitality sector, many restaurant operators have yet to see measurable returns. Deven Desai, head of AI products at iTradeNetwork, explores how connected data and unified workflows can help AI protect margins and deliver greater operational value.

iSqueeze partners with Smoodi to introduce automated smoothie stations in UK

Fresh juice machine provider iSqueeze has partnered with US beverage technology company Smoodi to bring automated self-service smoothie stations to UK retailers.

Intersnack to take Utz Brands private in $2.9bn deal

German snack manufacturer Intersnack Group has agreed to acquire US salty snacks producer Utz Brands in a transaction valuing the business at approximately $2.9 billion.

Nestlé and Platinum Equity announce launch of $5.6bn joint venture, Peranel

Nestlé and Platinum Equity have announced the launch of Peranel, a 50/50 joint venture for Nestlé’s waters and premium beverages business.

Nestlé to cease production at Hungary confectionery plant

Nestlé will cease production at its Diósgyőr, Hungary, confectionery plant in December 2026, citing declining demand for seasonal chocolate products.

Cafento acquires Irish speciality coffee roaster McCabe’s Coffee

Spanish coffee group Cafento has acquired McCabe’s Coffee, an Irish speciality roaster based in County Wicklow, as part of its international growth strategy.

Coffee Mate launches limited-edition mixed fruit creamer

Nestlé-owned Coffee Mate has launched a limited-edition mixed fruit-flavoured creamer in the US.