SharkNinja has introduced the Ninja Luxe Café, a three-in-one espresso, drip coffee and cold brew maker designed to replicate barista-quality brews at home. Equipped with Barista Assist Technology, the machine guides users through the coffee-making process with features like customised grind size recommendations, weight-based dosing, and precise control over brewing temperature and pressure. The Ninja Luxe Café's Dual Froth System combines steaming and whisking for hands-free frothing, producing perfectly textured hot or cold microfoam with both dairy and plant-based milk. Users can select from four preset froth styles: steamed milk, thin froth, thick froth and cold foam. Neil Shah, chief commercial officer at SharkNinja, said: “Our new Ninja Luxe Café is an easy-to-use three-in-one espresso, drip coffee and cold brew maker that solves consumers’ biggest pain points with espresso machines". "The tailored grind-size recommendations, built-in scale and hands-free frothing system remove complicated processes to eliminate sour, bitter brews and manual frothing hassles for café-quality drinks at home. At SharkNinja, we believe that consumers deserve exceptional performance and versatility at an accessible price point, and we’re excited to bring that to coffee lovers with the launch of the Ninja Luxe Café.” The machine offers versatile brewing options, including double and quad shots, classic, rich or over-ice drip coffee and cold brew, with sizes ranging from six to 18 ounces. Its cold-pressed espresso feature brews at a lower temperature and pressure for a smoother, more flavourful result. The Ninja Luxe Café is currently available via the brand's website for $499.99. It will soon be offered at other major retailers, including Amazon, Crate & Barrel, Kohl’s and Target. #SharkNinja #coffeemachine #US

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has announced plans to close its K-Cup production site in Windsor, Virginia, US, by the end of the fourth quarter of 2024. This decision coincides with the company's increased production at its Spartanburg, South Carolina, facility, which aims to rebalance production geographically and improve operational efficiency. According to media outlets, the closure of the facility will affect 379 workers. In a statement, the company expressed gratitude for the dedication and hard work of its Windsor team and the support from the local community. KDP said: "We are thankful for the contributions and commitment of our Windsor team and the local community, and we will support our employees through this transition, including severance packages and career planning assistance." Additionally, the company has assured that team members will have the opportunity to apply for positions at other locations where they are qualified, with a commitment to prioritsing the review of their resumes and qualifications. The beverage giant added: "Team members may apply for any jobs for which they are qualified at other sites. The company will make the review of their resumes and qualifications a priority." Top image: © Luigi Lavazza #KeurigDrPepper #US

Pentair and Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) have partnered to provide high-quality drinking water and cut down on single-use plastic bottles for the millions of travellers at MSP each year. MSP, managed by the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), is the 19th busiest airport in North America by passenger traffic. Pentair has become the first partner in MSP’s new strategic initiative designed to improve passenger services and drive innovation. As the Official Water Sponsor, Pentair will deploy the HydroStations, which provide free, chilled, and filtered water, along with interactive educational features about water-related issues and the environmental benefits of using reusable water bottles. The HydroStations utilise Everpure filtration technology from Pentair Water Solutions, offering employees and travellers a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic bottles. Adrian Chiu, EVP and president of Pentair Water Solutions, said: Our Everpure filtration technology is a leader in the foodservice industry, and we are excited to bring our filtration expertise to MSP in support of their efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable practices by providing travellers with free, filtered water at the HydroStations.” Currently, MSP’s 80 water bottle refill stations help decrease the use of approximately 600 pounds of plastic bottles daily. The new HydroStations will enhance this impact by using IoT technology to track and display real-time data on the reduction of single-use plastics, including savings in plastic use and carbon emissions. Brian Ryks, CEO of the MAC, commented: “Our goal is to make it easy for passengers and our airport community to choose reusable options over single-use options. We’re excited about this strategic partnership because it shines a brighter spotlight on ways to reduce waste and support sustainable practices that go well beyond the airport.” Jorge Richardson, Hope Hydration CEO and Founder, added: “Our mission is to encourage people to refill, not landfill; we are excited to showcase the Hope HydroStation at MSP, one of the world's leading sustainable airports, powered by Pentair's advanced Everpure filtration technology. This is a major step for us together towards building a more sustainable future everywhere. As frequent travellers, we understand the need for great hydration solutions in airports, and we are thrilled to help travellers make a positive environmental impact.” #Pentair #MSPairport #HydroStations #waterstations #US

The Coca-Cola Company has announced the retirement of three veteran board members: Barry Diller, Alexis Herman and Marc Bolland, effective 1 August 2024. Collectively, these three directors have contributed nearly five decades of service to the beverage giant's governance. James Quincey, chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola, commented: “I thank Barry, Alexis and Marc for their years of service and the important contributions they made in their distinct ways. They will be missed, and I wish them all the best.” Diller, who joined the board in 2002, has chaired the finance committee since 2013. He is known for his leadership roles in major media and technology companies, including IAC Inc. and Expedia Group. Herman, a director since 2007, has been a prominent figure in risk management and diversity initiatives. As chair and CEO of New Ventures, she has also served as US Secretary of Labor, where she focused on workforce development and labour policies. Her previous role as chair of Coca-Cola’s Human Resources Task Force was pivotal in reshaping the company's HR practices post-litigation. Bolland, who has been with the board since 2015, brings a wealth of experience from the retail and beverage industries. His leadership roles at Blackstone Group, Marks & Spencer and Heineken NV have equipped him with valuable insights into operational efficiencies and market strategies that align with Coca-Cola's global ambitions. In light of these retirements, Quincey emphasised the company's commitment to board refreshment, ensuring that future nominees enhance the board's collective expertise. “Our board is comprised of a highly capable group of leaders who are well-equipped to oversee our business and represent the interests of our shareowners,” he noted. Barry Diller Tenure:  Joined Coca-Cola's board in 2002. Positions:  Chairman of the finance committee since 2013. Current roles: Chairman and senior executive of IAC, a media and internet company. Chairman and senior executive of Expedia Group, an online travel platform. Previous experience: Served as special advisor to TripAdvisor (2013-2017) and its chairman during its spin-off from Expedia (2011-2012). Held a director position at MGM Resorts International. Impact:  Diller's expertise in media and technology has significantly influenced Coca-Cola's financial strategies and digital initiatives. Alexis Herman Tenure:  Joined Coca-Cola's board in 2007. Current role: Chair and CEO of New Ventures, a risk management consulting firm. Director at MGM Resorts International. Previous experience: US Secretary of Labor (1997-2001), focusing on workforce and labour policies. Chair of the business advisory board for Sodexo, which specialises in food and facilities management. Served as chair of Coca-Cola’s Human Resources Task Force (2001-2006), enhancing HR practices post-legal challenges. Director at Cummins and Entergy Corp. Impact:   Herman's focus on diversity and human resources has helped shape Coca-Cola’s corporate culture and workforce policies. Marc Bolland Tenure: Joined Coca-Cola's board in 2015. Current roles: Senior advisor to Blackstone Group International Partners (formerly chairman of Blackstone Europe). Director at Exor NV, an investment company. Previous experience: CEO of Marks & Spencer Group, a UK retailer. CEO of WM Morrison Supermarkets, a supermarket chain in the UK. COO of Heineken NV, where he contributed to global operational strategies. Director of International Consolidated Airlines Group. Impact:  Bolland's extensive experience in retail and beverage sectors has provided valuable insights into market trends and operational efficiencies for Coca-Cola. #TheCocaColaCompany #Coc aCola #beverage   #appointments

Blue Bottle Coffee has launched the NOLA Craft Instant Coffee Blend, providing a convenient way for consumers to enjoy their New Orleans-Style Iced Coffee, also known as NOLA. The NOLA Craft Instant Coffee Blend offers the signature taste of Blue Bottle’s New Orleans-Style Iced Coffee, which combines coffee and chicory flavours. The coffee is transformed into aromatic granules that dissolve instantly, which according to the company, delivers "the classic NOLA taste with ease". Benjamin Brewer, senior director of global innovation and coffee quality at Blue Bottle, said: "In celebration of longtime guest favourite, NOLA, we're proud to introduce NOLA Craft Instant Coffee Blend as a way for more people to enjoy this coveted drink". "After countless tastings, we perfected NOLA Instant, ensuring it encapsulates the signature flavour that fans of the drink have come to cherish. With this new addition, alongside our diverse range of NOLA creations and Summer of NOLA festivities, we invite everyone to indulge in the distinct taste of NOLA wherever they may be." NOLA Craft Instant Coffee Blend is available in several options: a package of five pre-portioned single-serve sachets for $10, a three-pack set of 15 sachets for $26, and a one-box set with Blue Bottle's Subminimal NanoFoamer for $47. These can be purchased online, in Blue Bottle cafes or through Blue Bottle's TikTok Shop. #BlueBottleCoffee

Independent beverage solution provider Refresco has entered into an agreement to acquire Frías Nutrición from Alantra Private Equity and the founding family. Frías, which manufactures plant-based drinks, has a production facility in Burgos, Spain, and employs around 250 people. Frías produces private label plant-based drinks, including almond, rice, hazelnut and soy beverages. Hans Roelofs, Refresco’s CEO, commented: “As part of our proven ‘Buy & Build’ strategy, we are looking to expand our capabilities in existing and adjacent beverage categories. The acquisition of Frías significantly strengthens our position in the fast-growing plant-based drinks category. It complements our existing footprint in Spain with a production facility solely dedicated to plant-based products.” Roelofs explained that the acquisition will enable Refresco to further expand its service offering to branded customers and retailers across Europe, accelerating its product innovation capabilities in the plant-based drinks category and underscoring the firm’s ability to capture opportunities in the market. Bruno Delgado-Luque, partner at Alantra Private Equity, added: “Since we acquired Frías in 2019, the company has been on a remarkable growth trajectory, confirming its leadership position in the Iberian Peninsula, and expanding its international business. Together with the Frías family, we launched a major investment plan that resulted in the creation of one of the most modern and efficient plant-based drinks factories in Europe. We are confident that Frías has a bright future ahead and will continue its successful growth with the support of Refresco.” The news follows Refresco’s acquisition of US beverage manufacturer VBC Bottling Company in April this year. Refresco expected the deal to bolster its footprint and capabilities in North America, strengthening its ability to provide beverage solutions to branded customers. Financial terms of the deal – which is subject to regulatory approval – were not disclosed. #Refresco #Frías #Spain #beverages

Food tech scale-up Deliverect has launched Pulse, a marketing intelligence platform designed to enhance the visibility and return on investment (ROI) for restaurants. The platform integrates with delivery services such as Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Just Eat, providing restaurants with critical insights into operations and competitive intelligence to increase order volume and optimise marketing efforts. Despite the UK's status as the third-largest online food delivery market, restaurants often struggle with effective marketing budget allocation across multiple channels, said Deliverect. The lack of clear insights into store performance, competitive benchmarks, market dynamics and genuine ROI results in ineffective marketing and misallocated spending. Pulse is said to aim to address these challenges by centralising critical data, thereby enhancing visibility and performance in the competitive delivery landscape. Deliverect's partners and customers include Burger King, Pizza Express, Popeyes and Pret A Manger. The company has processed over 600 million orders globally and increased sales by 96%. Pulse provides insights that help restaurants understand public perception, competitor strategies and make real-time decisions to improve market position and customer appeal. Pulse offers a comprehensive overview by consolidating performance data from multiple channels, delivering real-time alerts, and tracking trends to support informed decision-making. It features store insights through the Marketplace Optimization score, which aggregates competitor data into a unified performance score, pinpointing areas for strategic marketing improvement. Additionally, Pulse provides competitive intelligence by offering insights into competitors' marketing tactics, which helps in refining strategies and enhancing ROI. The platform serves as an all-in-one marketing management solution, allowing users to handle targeted campaigns across various channels from a single interface while offering valuable insights into ROI and return on ad spend. Deliverect's CEO and co-founder, Zhong Xu, said: “Marketing across multiple third-party apps has traditionally been a manual, repetitive process, without any real way of knowing what is and isn’t working. While restaurants depend on delivery apps for crucial revenue streams, understanding where to put that spend – or getting an informed look at returns in aggregate – is nearly impossible." "Pulse brings individual store performance and competitive insights together so that customers can optimize their marketing strategies and improve visibility in search results and food categories while managing spend effectively. We’re proud to be empowering this transparency so that the entire ecosystem can be more successful.”

Krispy Kreme has sold a majority ownership stake in Insomnia Cookies to Verlinvest and Mistral Equity Partners. The deal values Insomnia Cookies at $350 million, doubling its value since Krispy Kreme's acquisition in 2018. Krispy Kreme received $127.4 million from the sale and expects an additional $45 million in the coming weeks. The funds will be used to bolster its doughnut business and reduce debt. Krispy Kreme will retain a 34% minority stake in Insomnia Cookies. Krispy Kreme's president and CEO, Josh Charlesworth, stated that the sale allows the company to focus on its core strategy of producing, selling and distributing fresh doughnuts daily while also improving its financial health. He added: "Following a thorough review, we are confident that Verlinvest and Mistral are the right partners to share in the success of Insomnia Cookies given their food industry experience and long-standing track record of value creation”. Insomnia Cookies' founder Seth Berkowitz, who will continue as CEO, commented: “Building off of a very successful five-year partnership with Krispy Kreme, we’re thrilled to welcome Verlinvest and Mistral to this new chapter of our journey". Verlinvest's MD, Clément Pointillart, stated: “We are enthusiastic about our investment in Insomnia Cookies, an incredible brand so close to our core DNA and at a pivotal point in its growth trajectory. We’re eager to support Seth and help unlock the full potential of the business both in the US and internationally.” Top image: © Insomnia Cookies #KrispyKreme #InsomniaCookies #US

UK coffee chain Pret A Manger has announced significant changes to its 'Club Pret' coffee subscription service, which was launched nearly four years ago during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. The subscription, which played a crucial role in reconnecting with loyal customers and attracting new ones, will undergo a transformation starting in September. Clare Clough, managing director of Pret A Manger, highlighted the success of the scheme, noting that it brought in tens of thousands of new customers and facilitated the sale of over a quarter of a billion coffees. Clough stated: "It was an innovative way to reconnect with our loyal customers and introduce Pret to tens of thousands of new ones, bringing customers back into our shops with an offer that almost seemed ‘too good to be true’". The revamped 'Club Pret' will offer subscribers 50% off up to five barista-made drinks per day for a reduced monthly fee of £10, with a special rate of £5 available for both existing and new subscribers until 31 March 2025. This new model will replace the current subscription benefits, which will end in September. Additionally, the 20% discount on food will be discontinued, and the company will eliminate dual pricing across its food products. According to the company, the changes reflect Pret A Manger’s commitment to providing better value for its customers. Clough added: "With 'Club Pret' subscription, our coffees, teas, coolers and iced drinks will continue to be the best offer on the high street, and at a much more accessible price than the £360 a year people have to pay for the current scheme." Customer backlash Despite its initial success – resulting in 57.9 million drink redemptions globally in 2022 – Pret's decision to overhaul the scheme has sparked considerable backlash from its customer base. Many are expressing dissatisfaction on social media, arguing that the new offer diminishes the value they previously enjoyed. The subscription, which once offered unlimited drinks and a 20% discount on food, will now focus on giving subscribers 50% off up to five drinks a day for a lower monthly fee. This change has led to a lot of frustration among existing customers, many of whom are voicing their disappointment online. One customer said : "The move you are making will have a devastating impact on your sales". Another added that it was "a horrendous decision to end the subscription" and that it was "very short-sighted" of Clare Clough to take away "a big revenue stream, thinking people will still buy from Pret now". "I don’t need you @Pret. I’ll make my own breakfast and coffee since you’re messing with the subscription," a third customer commented. However, Pret upheld its decision, replying to one customer with: "We're sorry to hear that you're unhappy with the recent announcement. For £10 a month, we believe that the change in the subscription is still great value for money." Additionally, these shifts not only impact Pret’s loyal customer base but also signal potential changes across the broader office coffee sector. The way Pret's revised subscription is perceived could set new trends and pressures for other coffee providers as they navigate their own subscription models. What are some alternative coffee subscription schemes? For those seeking alternatives to the 'Club Pret' coffee subscription, several options are available: Starbucks Starbucks offers a popular rewards programme called Starbucks Rewards, which provides several benefits for its members. Members earn stars for every purchase made at Starbucks, whether in-store or through the mobile app. The number of stars accumulated depends on the amount spent, with additional stars available through special promotions or bonus offers. Accumulated stars can be redeemed for various rewards, such as free drinks, food items and merchandise. Members have the flexibility to choose from options like a free drink of any size or a free bakery item. The programme also provides personalised offers and discounts based on members' purchase history and preferences, which can include exclusive deals and early access to new products. Additionally, members receive a free birthday reward, redeemable for a complimentary drink on their birthday. Costa Coffee Costa customers collect one “bean” for each drink purchased through the free Costa app. To participate, customers need to download the app, sign up for the Costa Club, and then scan their barcode to collect beans. Each time a customer uses a reusable cup in-store, they'll get an extra bean. Leon Leon’s Roast Rewards programme allows customers to earn rewards with each purchase. Since its introduction last month, the scheme offers a £25 monthly subscription that provides five barista-made drinks per day and a 20% discount on Leon's breakfast and all-day food menu (excluding meal deals). Caffè Nero At Caffè Nero, customers get a free coffee after every tenth purchase. They can use a loyalty card available in-store or through the free app. #PretAManger #coffeechain #subscription

As winter approaches, International Delight has released its new Hot Chocolate Marshmallow creamer, featuring flavours of melted milk chocolate, vanilla and marshmallows. The creamer, themed around the classic holiday film 'Home Alone,' features packaging with scenes from the movie to enhance the festive experience. Alongside the new product, the brand is also offering returning favourites: Frosted Sugar Cookie Creamer and Peppermint Mocha varieties. These offerings are also in collaboration with 20th Century Studios and feature 'Home Alone' imagery on their packaging. Jennifer Michuda, director of creamers at Danone North America, the parent company of International Delight, said: "International Delight seasonal flavours are synonymous with relishing the taste of the holidays at home. Teaming up with 20th Century Studios to introduce our Home Alone-inspired creamers and iced coffee adds new flavour to this classic holiday tradition." The hot chocolate marshmallow-flavoured creamer, along with International Delight's Home Alone-themed creamers and iced coffee, is available at major retailers nationwide. These products will be on shelves from now through the December holiday season for a limited time. #DanoneNorthAmerica   #InternationalDelight

Nestlé Professional has teamed up with McDonald's to introduce two new McFlurry flavours, coinciding with the fast-food chain's 50th birthday celebrations in the UK. Milkybar Raspberry Ripple and Munchies Cookie Dough McFlurries will be featured on a limited-edition menu, aimed at enhancing the dessert offerings for consumers. Milkybar Raspberry Ripple McFlurry combines soft dairy ice cream with mini Milkybar chocolate drops, complemented by a raspberry sauce that balances sweetness and tartness. This flavour is designed to appeal to consumers seeking nostalgic and indulgent dessert options. Munchies Cookie Dough McFlurry incorporates chocolate-coated Munchies biscuit pieces mixed into the dairy ice cream, topped with a caramel cookie dough sauce. This new offering aims to provide a satisfying dessert experience that resonates with familiar flavours. Dave Lynn, QSR lead at Nestlé Professional UK and Ireland, said: "We are excited to partner with McDonald's and introduce these two new McFlurry flavours. These products are designed to evoke nostalgia while enhancing the overall dessert experience for consumers." Ben Sherburn, head of marketing (food & beverage) at McDonald's UK and Ireland, added: "Our latest partnership with Nestlé presents an opportunity to build on the iconic status of the McFlurry as part of our 50th Birthday Menu". The new flavours will be available in both regular and mini sizes. #McDonald's #McFlurry #desserts #fastfood #UK

Aqua Italia, part of Anima Confindustria, has announced the establishment of a new group dedicated to the water coolers industry: Watercoolers Italia. Watercoolers Italia is an association that unites major Italian companies engaged in bottling and distributing water, as well as manufacturers of point-of-use products and equipment essential to the sector's supply chain. Watercoolers Italia, through Aqua Italia, will aim to enhance the economic and social roles of associated companies by promoting collaboration with public bodies and institutions. It will also protect the general and collective interests of the sector, and facilitate and harmonise the activities of companies within the industry. Aqua Italia's president, Fabrizio Leoni, said: “We are proud to have strengthened and expanded our membership base for 2024 and the coming years, certain that the new companies in the water coolers group will contribute to strengthening and making more effective the work and activities carried out by the association. This new group will not only welcome bottle and water cooler manufacturers, but also distributors as aggregate members.” #AquaItalia #WatercoolersItalia #AnimaConfindustria