Rohlik Group, a European food retail technology and online grocery company, has secured $170 million in growth capital. The investment was led by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and supported by existing investors such as Sofina, Index Ventures, Quadrille and TCF Capital, along with funding from the European Investment Bank (EIB) under its Scale-Up Initiative. The funding will be used to drive Rohlik’s expansion plans across the DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) and CEE (Central and Eastern Europe) regions. The company aims to establish a presence in over 10 additional cities by 2030. According to the company, the planned expansion into more than 10 additional DACH and CEE cities will "significantly boost" Rohlik’s customer base and align with the company’s long-term vision of becoming the leading online grocery delivery service not just in CEE but across Europe. Founded to meet the increasing demand for high-quality online grocery services, Rohlik said it has achieved rapid growth in the DACH and CEE regions. Monthly deliveries now exceed one million, and in 2023 alone, it served over 800,000 customers. The company’s strategy centres on local assortments, competitive pricing and efficient delivery powered by proprietary technology. Rohlik operates fully automated fulfillment centres using AI, machine learning (ML) and robotics to ensure high productivity and service quality, boasting 97% on-time deliveries and 15-minute delivery windows. Tomáš Čupr, founder and CEO of Rohlik Group, said:“There is huge demand across Europe for online groceries delivered quickly and reliably without any compromise on quality. We don’t see that as a short-term phenomenon, but as a long-term opportunity around which to build a market-leading proposition." "At Rohlik, we have built the technology to deliver on that promise in a sustainable and profitable way, leveraging AI, ML and robotics technology with our obsession with customer service to drive maximum efficiency and high productivity. This funding will allow us to accelerate our growth, opening facilities in more than 10 new cities, and setthe standard in online grocery delivery across Europe.” Tamas Nagy, director and co-head of Equity Investments at EBRD, commented: “We first partnered with Rohlik three years ago and have been continuously impressed by the management team’s execution and investment into proprietary technology, automation and increasing use of artificial intelligence across its operations. We are very proud to support Rohlik’s growth and expansion plans in the years to come.” Kyriacos Kakouris, vice president at EIB, added: "This financing marks the first operation under the EIB Scale-up Initiative, designed to support more mature growth companies like Rohlik. It underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and digitalisation across Europe, particularly in sectors crucial to the competitiveness of our economy.” #RohlikGroup #Europe

Micromart has introduced an autonomous micro market technology aimed at transforming convenience retail. The new system offers a fully automated, 24/7 shopping experience, eliminating checkout lines and enhancing security to minimise theft. In response to the growing demand for micro markets, Micromart has developed secured, unattended markets that employ AI-powered order processing for fast and secure transactions. Retailers have the flexibility to customise their space with various Micromart units, including the pantry, fridge, freezer and heating tower for hot food capabilities. The technology features AI-driven order processing and secure payment systems to ensure seamless shopping and prevent theft. It also uses dynamic pricing through electronic price tags and digital video content. Additionally, the Micromart Platform allows operators to manage their business remotely, reducing operational costs and streamlining inventory management. Yang Yu, CEO of Micromart, said: "We are excited to introduce Micromart. After selling over a quarter million items via our KitchenMate food service division in Toronto, we're thrilled to white-label this proven technology for vending, micro market and foodservice operators across the US and Canada." "Our autonomous micro markets help operators reduce labour costs, minimise theft and optimise revenue, making them an ideal solution for today's economic environment." Top image: © Micromart #Micromart #US

Costa Coffee is introducing its new spring menu, highlighting the return of its KitKat Costa Coffee is introducing its new spring menu, highlighting the return of its KitKat drinks with a new addition and a variety of savoury and sweet treats. The coffee giant is bringing back its KitKat drinks range, including the new KitKat Frappé, a creamy blended chocolate frappé, topped with light whip and KitKat pieces. The range also features the KitKat Mocha and KitKat Hot Chocolate, also topped with light whip and KitKat pieces. Costa’s latest release also includes the Cinnamon Bun syrup for customising coffee. Other customisation options include toppings, light whip – which is suitable for vegans – syrups and sauces. The spring menu also brings new savoury options such as the Halloumi and Chargrilled Veg Toastie, Chicken N’Duja Toastie, Roast Chicken and Bacon Sandwich and Melon Pot. For those craving something sweet, Costa offers a range of new treats. These include the Blooming Lovely chocolate Cake, with rich chocolate frosting and white chocolate flowers; Carrot and Walnut cake, filled and topped with cream cheese butter icing and walnut nibs; Chocolate Muffin made with Kitkat Bunny, filled with KitKat-flavoured paste and topped with frosting and a KitKat Bunny Mini. Mini Egg Cookie, made with egg-shaped solid milk chocolate in a coloured candy shell; and Chocolate Cornflake Nest, featuring chocolate-covered cornflakes in a nest-shaped cake, with candy-covered chocolate eggs. Naomi Matthews, food commercial director in the UK & Ireland at Costa Coffee, said: “…we’re excited to welcome back the return of the KitKat drinks range with an indulgent newcomer, as well as tasty new and returning favourites across our sweet and savoury ranges – spring has never tasted this good.”

Nestlé has announced the launch of two new flavoured soluble coffees under its Nescafé Gold Blend brand: Rich caramel and smooth vanilla. This marks the first time that Nescafé Gold Blend combines high-quality soluble coffee with natural flavours that intensify upon the addition of milk. The new flavours are designed to complement the classic Nescafé Gold Blend taste, offering a balanced cup of coffee with a touch of sweetness without any added sugar. The coffees are designed to be enjoyed with milk, dairy alternative or creamer to enhance the flavours "while keeping the smooth signature Nescafé Gold Blend taste that people love," said the company. Both variants are sugar-free, contain no added sugar and are classified as non-HFSS. Ingrid Hayes, marketing director for Nescafé Gold Blend, said: "We are thrilled to introduce the new Nescafé Gold Blend flavours, rich caramel and smooth vanilla, to coffee lovers across the UK". “Nescafé is dedicated to meeting the evolving preferences of consumers and we are delighted to showcase this commitment by providing even more ways for coffee drinkers to enjoy the exceptional taste of Nescafé in the comfort of their homes." “Our new innovative additions to Nescafé Gold Blend bring a touch of sweetness without the need for added sugar, providing a truly flavourful coffee experience to satisfy even the most discerning palates.” The soluble coffees will be available in 95g jars starting this month at Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons stores across the UK. #Nescafé #Nestlé #UK

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has released its 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report, highlighting significant strides the beverage giant has made toward its ambitious environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. The report details KDP's progress across four key focus areas: Environment, Supply Chain, Health & Wellbeing, and People & Communities. The company's efforts have been guided by its newly elevated "Drink Well. Do Good" purpose, which is now the core of its strategic framework. Monique Oxender, chief corporate affairs officer, said: "Keurig Dr Pepper's corporate responsibility commitments and progress are deeply intertwined with policy progression and partnerships". She continued: "It is at this intersection where necessary technologies and behaviours can flourish, paving the way for enduring, impactful solutions". Some of the key highlights from KDP's 2023 report include: Emissions reduction The company reported a 21% decline in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, and a 12% reduction in select Scope 3 categories, compared to 2018. Initiatives driving this progress include increased renewable electricity procurement and the deployment of 18 electric vehicles in Canada. Circular economy advancements KDP achieved a 15% reduction in virgin plastic use across its packaging portfolio compared to 2019, incorporating 27% post-consumer recycled content. This was aided by the conversion of Bai and Core Hydration+ products to 100% recycled plastic bottles. Sustainable supply chains The company made headway on its goal to support regenerative agriculture and conservation practices on 250,000 acres by 2030, reaching over 43,000 acres in 2023. KDP also reported 100% responsible sourcing of its coffee and cocoa. Positive hydration products KDP's investments in innovation, renovation and partnerships resulted in 59% of its product portfolio providing 'positive hydration' in 2023, up from 57% the prior year. The company continued to expand the distribution of better-for-you offerings. The report was prepared in reference to global sustainability reporting frameworks, including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Index, the Sustainable Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Standards and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Additional disclosures, such as KDP's CDP Climate and Water submissions, are available on the company's website.

Italian coffee producer Lavazza has made a binding offer to acquire online coffee company, MaxiCoffee, according to Reuters. Based in France, MaxiCoffee sells coffee and tea products. In addition to its online platform, the company operates through about 60 retail outlets. The acquisition will see Lavazza strengthen its position in France and e-commerce. Lavazza’s CEO, Antonio Baravalle, said: “The acquisition of MaxiCoffee will enable us to consolidate our positioning in France, which has always been a key market for the Group, and to strengthen our e-commerce footprint by increasing our presence in the B2C/consumer market. The operation fits perfectly into our international development strategy and, in particular, allows us to extend our already excellent and extensive sales and distribution partner network with a solid and leading company in its reference market, which shares the same values with Lavazza: product quality, a long-term vision and a strong focus on its employees and stakeholders.” He continued: “Our strategy is to support the further development of MaxiCoffee, which will maintain its profile as a multi-brand e-commerce platform and remain independent. Our entry will not change its successful business model in any way. On the contrary, it will foster its growth through the execution of our international development plans”. MaxiCoffee founder Christophe Brancato will reinvest in the company’s capital with a minority stake. No financial details were disclosed. #France #LavAzza #MaxiCoffee

Kitchen appliance brand Cyetus has launched a new espresso machine: Cyetus Cubic – All in One Espresso Machine. Cyetus Cubic Espresso is described as a “versatile, semi-automatic machine” that grinds and extracts coffee, as well as steams milk. The machine provides an LCD display, in which users can choose from a wide range of options, including different shot sizes, duration of grinds and water temperatures. A total of 15 grind settings are available, enabling consumers to select extra fine or coarse grinds. In addition, Cyetus Cubic Espresso features a Hall Pulse Flowmeter that “enables a consistent brew by precisely controlling the water temperature during brewing, while a single-hole steam rod creates a smooth blanket of steamed milk foam, providing a delicate finish to one’s latte,” said the brand. Ralph Chen, vice president and head of brand at Cyetus, said: “Making your preferred cup of coffee should be easy and fuss-free. The LCD display on the Cyetus Cubic Espresso will further simplify the brewing experience, and we believe this will only benefit coffee lovers who appreciate consistent brews from the comfort of their homes.” The Cyetus Cubic Espresso is now available for purchase via the brand’s website and on Amazon for $699. #coffeemachine #Cyetus #US

PepsiCo has announced a new global packaging goal intended to increase beverage servings delivered through reusable models from 10% to 20% by 2030. This latest ambition is part of the company’s business transformation strategy, ‘PepsiCo Positive’. A focus on reuse will also be key to PepsiCo reaching its goals of reducing virgin plastic per serving by 50% by 2030 and becoming net zero by 2040. PepsiCo says it will pursue four approaches to achieve its new packaging goal, including expanding its SodaStream business, building out its refillable plastic (PET) and glass bottle offerings in partnership with PepsiCo bottlers, growing its fountain drinks business with reusable cups and accelerating growth in powders and concentrates. Katharina Stenholm, chief sustainability officer at PepsiCo Europe, said: “Fundamentally transforming the traditional beverage consumption model will require making reusable and refillable options accessible and convenient, at scale, for European consumers – and that’s what we aim to do”. A drive towards reuse is also at the centre of the European Commission’s recently announced proposals for new EU-wide rules to tackle packaging waste. For example, under the plans cafés and restaurants offering takeaway drinks and meals would have to serve a certain percentage of their products in reusable or refillable packaging. Stenholm added: “This is complementing our continuous efforts on scaling recycling. Europe is leading the way in accelerating investment in disruptive technology and innovation to work towards our new packaging goals. Through collaboration with our partners and European institutions, we are committed to creating a viable circular economy for beverage packaging in Europe.” PepsiCo says it will continue working with multiple partners to develop new infrastructure to support reuse and refill models. #PepsiCo #PepsiCoPositive

Coffee machine manufacturer Animo has expanded its OptiBean range with the introduction of OptiBean X. The machine produces freshly ground coffee and brews two cups at a time. OptiBean X features a new X-press brewer, a high-quality grind and brew, and adjustable tamping pressure, as well as dispensing bigger cups. Animo said: “Freshly ground coffee beans deserve to be treated with respect, and that’s all in the extraction: the combination of the amount of coffee, grinding degree, contact pressure, and temperature”. “OptiBean’s new X-press precision brewer perfectly aligns these conditions to match any taste.” #Animo #coffeemachine

Iced tea franchise HTeaO has announced that Dallas-based private equity firms Crux Capital and Trive Capital have acquired a minority stake in its business. The partnership will enable HTeaO to expand into new markets by leveraging Crux and Trive’s collective resources, as well as enabling the company to employ technology to improve the quality of service and enhance customer experience. HTeaO’s CEO, Justin Howe, said: “As we enter our next phase, we are thrilled to partner with Crux and Trive and leverage their significant financial resources and operational expertise. The support and resources of these two firms should enhance our focus on unit-level economics and developing a franchise system at scale.” Financial terms were not disclosed. #CruxCapital #HTeaO #TriveCapital #US

BellRing Brands-owned Premier Nutrition Company has launched a new line of nighttime products under its Premier Protein brand. The brand’s new Good Night range is formulated with a nighttime protein blend, including a milk peptide with relaxing properties. The drinks contain 10g of protein and essential vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and zinc, which the brand says “can have a calming effect on your body”. Premier Protein Good Night is available in RTD Nutrition Shakes and Hot Cocoa Mix formats. In addition to 10g of protein, each shake contains 2g of sugar and 12 vitamins and minerals. The shakes are available in cocoa, caramel and vanilla flavours and can be consumed hot or cold. The Hot Cocoa Mix is formulated with a milk peptide and contains 10g of protein and 11 vitamins and minerals. Designed to support a healthy sleep regimen and prepare for a better day ahead, the new range is available for purchase in Walmart stores. #BellRingBrands #PremierProtein #sleep #US

Coca-Cola-owned beverage brand, Simply, has expanded its portfolio with its first mixer offering, a dual-proposition cocktail/mocktail product line. The line of fruity, natural-flavoured juice beverages is available in Strawberry Guava Mojito, Lime Margarita and Peach Sour varieties. Coca-Cola North America’s creative director, nutrition, Alex Ames, said: “With Simply Mixology, we wanted to find a way to simplify and elevate the at-home drinking experience with great-tasting, natural solutions that are not only amazing mixers, but also stand on their own as ready-to-drink mocktails”. The new range launches into select US retailers on 23 January. #CocaCola #SimplyBeverages #US