Five Star Breaktime Solutions has acquired refreshment services operator AM Coffee Services, expanding its coffee service operations in Shreveport, Louisiana, and supporting regional growth. Founded in 1981 by Mary Moore, AM Coffee developed into a local refreshment provider serving workplaces across the Shreveport area. Her son, Price Moore, assumed leadership following her retirement nearly 20 years ago and has managed the company since. The acquisition adds nearly 90 coffee and refreshment service locations, which will be integrated into Five Star’s existing Shreveport operations. The company said the transition is intended to maintain uninterrupted service and customer support. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The Welsh Government has laid the Deposit Return Scheme (DRS) for Drinks Containers (Wales) Regulations 2026, marking a significant step toward introducing a nationwide system for returning drinks containers for recycling and reuse. The scheme aims to build on Wales’ strong recycling performance by reducing litter, cutting waste and supporting the transition to a circular economy. It forms part of the government’s commitments under Beyond Recycling and Net Zero Wales. Ministers said the scheme has been designed to meet Wales’ needs while maintaining interoperability with systems planned across the UK. Unlike the approach previously taken by the UK Government, the Welsh scheme will include glass bottles. This difference in scope required an exclusion from the UK Internal Market Act, which has now been agreed by the UK Government and devolved administrations. From launch, the Welsh DRS will cover single-use PET plastic bottles, aluminium and steel cans and glass bottles. The scheme also establishes a pathway toward reuse systems, supported by industry pilots, with the aim of aligning with international best practice. To support an aligned UK-wide launch in October 2027, the Welsh Government accelerated development of the regulations. Elements consulted on previously – including future reuse targets – will be introduced through subsequent regulations. Discussions on further exclusions under the UK Internal Market Act are already underway. To support implementation across the UK, Wales has proposed creating an interoperability taskforce with the UK, Scottish and Northern Irish governments, working alongside industry-led Deposit Management Organisations. The government said it will continue working with local authorities, industry and stakeholders to ensure effective delivery. The regulations, which will now be considered by the Senedd, establish the framework for the scheme, enable the appointment of a Deposit Management Organisation and define its purpose and scope. From 1 October 2027, the scheme will apply to drinks containers ranging from 150ml to 3-litres. Although glass bottles will be included from the outset, they will be exempt from labelling requirements and carry a zero-pence deposit during a four-year transition period, allowing industry time to adapt while reuse systems are phased in. The scheme will also allow consumers to donate deposit refunds to charity, providing additional social and community benefits. Subject to Senedd approval, the regulations will enable Wales to launch the DRS on 1 October 2027, reinforcing its position as a leader in circular economy policy and waste reduction.

Topo Chico has launched Topo Chico Sabores Passion Fruit, a new sparkling water featuring real fruit juice and added minerals for taste. The product delivers a fruit-forward passion fruit profile with a crisp, carbonated finish. The beverage is packaged in a slim aluminium can and is intended to be consumed chilled, either on its own, on-the-go or with meals. Each 12oz can contains 10 calories, with no added sugars or artificial ingredients. Topo Chico Sabores Passion Fruit will be available in US markets from 16 February at national retailers including Kroger, Walmart and Target. Suggested retail pricing is $1.99 per single can and $8.99 per eight-pack, depending on retailer.

Refresco, the global independent beverage solutions provider, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire SunOpta in an all-cash transaction valued at $6.50 per share. Under the terms of the agreement, SunOpta will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Refresco following the close of the transaction, which is expected in the second quarter of 2026, subject to customary regulatory, court and shareholder approvals. SunOpta’s shares will be delisted from Nasdaq and the Toronto Stock Exchange upon completion. Refresco CEO Steve Presley said: “SunOpta represents an exceptional strategic addition to our portfolio. The acquisition is highly complementary and significantly broadens our position in the fast-growing plant-based beverages category." "It enhances our North American capabilities and supports a more balanced global footprint, while expanding our offerings to both retail and branded customers.” The deal also brings SunOpta’s out-of-home customer base and capabilities into Refresco’s platform, strengthening its reach across retail, foodservice and branded channels. For SunOpta, the transaction marks the next phase in a multi-year transformation into a focused supply-chain and innovation partner in the better-for-you food and beverage space. SunOpta CEO Brian Kocher added: “This strategic combination validates our vision of transforming SunOpta into a premier solutions partner in the high-growth better-for-you food and beverage space". "This partnership with Refresco provides the resources and scale to unlock SunOpta’s full potential and accelerate the next chapter of our growth journey.” SunOpta has built strong platforms in plant-based beverages, broths and better-for-you snacks, serving major brands, retailers and foodservice operators across North America, with a focus on sustainability, food safety and quality. The transaction has been unanimously approved by both boards of directors and will be implemented through a court-approved plan of arrangement under Canadian law. SunOpta has announced it will suspend quarterly earnings calls and discontinue quarterly and annual financial guidance in light of the pending transaction. The acquisition further consolidates the beverage co-manufacturing and solutions space, particularly in plant-based beverages, one of the fastest-growing segments in the industry. By combining Refresco’s global scale and manufacturing footprint with SunOpta’s specialised capabilities in plant-based and better-for-you products, the deal positions the combined business to serve growing demand from retailers, branded manufacturers and foodservice operators seeking scalable, sustainable beverage solutions. If approved, the transaction will create one of the most comprehensive independent beverage solutions platforms in North America, Europe and Australia, with a strengthened portfolio spanning carbonated drinks, juices, RTD teas, waters, energy drinks, sports drinks and plant-based beverages.

Lactaid has officially expanded beyond milk and ice cream with the launch of new Lactaid Creamers, further extending its lactose-free dairy portfolio. The new line brings Lactaid’s signature lactose-free dairy positioning to the morning coffee routine, delivering the taste and texture of real dairy creamers, made with 100% real milk and cream, just without the lactose. The creamers are formulated with only five simple ingredients, are free from artificial flavours and gums and are designed to offer rich, indulgent flavour without compromising clean-label expectations. The new Lactaid Creamers debut in three flavours: French Vanilla, Caramel and Sweet Cream. The launch reflects Lactaid’s broader strategy to expand its presence across everyday consumption occasions, from traditional dairy staples like milk and ice cream to coffee customisation. According to the brand, the expansion aligns with growing consumer demand for functional dairy products that accommodate lactose intolerance without sacrificing taste or quality. Retail distribution for the creamers begins this month, with products merchandised in the dairy aisle alongside Lactaid’s full line-up of lactose-free dairy offerings.

Yerba Madre, a US-based yerba mate brand, is rolling out a range of new flavours and formats in 2026, including sparkling, ready-to-drink and convenience-exclusive options. Early-year launches include a 'Sparkling, Reimagined' line, which is a refreshed sparkling yerba mate line formulated with 115mg of naturally occurring caffeine, available at Sprouts and select Albertsons stores, and 'Lower Sugar Enlighten Mint', an updated version of one of the brand’s top-selling SKUs. Additional flavours set for release through spring 2026 are: Strawberry Kiwi, a c-store exclusive at Extra Mile and Jacksons; Cherry Sublime, a c-store exclusive at 7-Eleven; and Mango Fuego, a limited-run seasonal flavour, available March through May. Yerba Madre is introducing what the company describes as 'the world's first' Shade-Grown Yerba Mate seal, to be rolled out this year on its air-dried loose leaf. The seal is designed to recognise Indigenous and family farmers growing yerba mate under forest canopies and within restored agroforestry systems, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to regenerative agriculture and ingredient integrity. The brand’s products are stocked nationwide in over 45,000 natural, conventional, mass, club and convenience retailers across the US and Canada.

Coca-Cola has confirmed it will retain full ownership of Costa Coffee, following months of speculation over a potential divestment of the UK-based café chain. The company had previously explored a possible sale of Costa , which it acquired in 2018 for around $5 billion. Reports last year suggested Coca-Cola was weighing strategic options for the business amid a broader shift towards healthier innovation, with talks later facing uncertainty as discussions with TDR Capital stalled . However, the company's chief financial officer, John Murphy, told Bloomberg on Tuesday that it will keep Costa within its portfolio. “We have decided to continue to have Costa 100% owned inside our portfolio,” Murphy said in the interview. “There are no immediate plans to do anything with Costa other than to get it performing even better.” Murphy said Costa continues to perform well in core markets including the UK, Ireland and parts of Western Europe, but acknowledged that the business in China has underperformed expectations. Describing China as "more challenging than we expected," Murphy said the market remains under review. When asked whether Costa could exit China, he said no decision had been taken. “It’s one aspect of the portfolio that we continue to review,” he said. “We will be looking closely at the China business throughout 2026.” Murphy also addressed Costa’s "express concept" – its self-serve touchscreen coffee kiosks. While the format has seen success in the UK and Ireland, scaling the model internationally has proven more complex. Although the concept is "consumer-friendly," Murphy said supply chain and logistics expansion had been "more difficult than we thought". The confirmation comes amid wider developments at Coca-Cola, including the recent appointment of current EVP and COO Henrique Braun as the company’s next CEO .

Air Up, a hydration brand known for its scent-based water flavouring system, has expanded its flavour range with the launch of Dragonfruit-Lychee pods. The new flavour combines dragonfruit and lychee aromas and is designed to make plain water taste flavoured using scent alone, without sugar, sweeteners or additives. The pods are available in packs of three for £6.99, with each pod designed to flavour up to 25 litres of water. The launch follows research commissioned by Air Up, which found that 11% of UK adults say they feel constantly dehydrated, while 21% report that water is their least favourite drink. The company also cited NHS guidance recommending that most adults aim to drink six to eight glasses of water per day. According to the research, hydration challenges are more pronounced among younger adults, with more than one in five under the age of 35 saying they struggle to stay hydrated. Air Up said it now offers more than 25 flavours across its range, spanning wellness-inspired, soft-drink-style and limited-edition options, as it continues to expand its product portfolio. The Dragonfruit-Lychee pods launch alongside the Air Up Click bottle, a new reusable bottle design with a recommended retail price of £34.99. The bottle is available in Cosmic Purple, Midnight Black and Ocean Teal. Both the Dragonfruit-Lychee pods and the Click bottle are available via the Air Up website. Top image: © Air Up

Five Star Breaktime Solutions has completed the acquisition of the vending and coffee operations of Krodel Vending, headquartered in Jasper, Indiana. The move expands Five Star’s footprint in Southern Indiana and supports its regional growth. Krodel Vending, founded in 1910 by Carl Krodel as a candy wholesaler, has been run by successive generations of the Krodel family. Dan Smith, great-grandson of Carl Krodel, owned the company prior to the sale. The family began vending operations in 1958, with Dan taking over in 1994. The acquisition includes four vending routes serving more than 90 accounts and over 300 machines, two micromarkets and 13 coffee accounts. Krodel’s wholesale operations were not part of the transaction and will continue independently. Five Star will manage the acquired routes through its branches in Owensboro, Evansville, Jeffersonville and Columbus, Indiana, integrating them into its existing Southern Indiana operations to maintain service continuity.

Lola’s, a London-founded bakery brand known for handmade cakes and cupcakes, will open its first Northern UK location later this month at Trafford Centre in Manchester. The new kiosk, located in the centre’s Main Dome, marks a key step in the company’s national expansion strategy and its first move outside the capital. Lola’s currently operates 28 stores across London, alongside 20 refrigerated collection lockers in train stations, shopping centres and high-street locations. The Manchester opening signals the beginning of a broader UK rollout, with a focus on physical retail supported by click-and-collect services. Trafford Centre was selected due to its high footfall, demographic profile and positioning alongside premium retailers, including Selfridges. The location will also serve as a test site for refining Lola’s kiosk model ahead of further expansion. Lola’s MD, Asher Budwig, commented: "Manchester is the perfect place for our first Northern store. Trafford Centre's shopper demographic aligns perfectly with our target customer, and its premium positioning and strong footfall make it an ideal fit for our proven kiosk model." "This opening marks an exciting milestone in our national growth journey. With ambitious plans to expand both our store estate and locker network over the next three years, we’re confident Lola’s can become a truly national brand while continuing to deliver the quality and experience our customers expect." Bruce Gardner, head of commercial partnerships at Pradera Lateral, asset manager of Trafford Centre, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Lola’s to Trafford Centre for its first Northern opening. Our visitors are always looking for exceptional, high‑quality food experiences, and Lola’s handcrafted cakes and cupcakes are a perfect fit." "Its arrival strengthens our growing line‑up of premium and much‑loved brands within the centre. We’re confident the new offering will be a hugely popular addition for guests seeking both everyday treats and special gifting moments.”

Coca-Cola will discontinue its frozen product portfolio, including the Minute Maid frozen line, across the US and Canada as it responds to changing consumer preferences, according to Reuters . A company spokesperson told Reuters : "We are discontinuing our frozen  products and exiting the frozen can category in response to shifting consumer preferences". Minute Maid has a long history in the US beverage market, having originated in 1945 as Florida Foods Corporation. The business was established after securing a US Army contract to supply powdered orange juice during World War II, though the war ended before the product was shipped. The move comes as Coca-Cola, which recently promoted current EVP and COO Henrique Braun as CEO from 31 March 2026 , increasingly prioritises zero-sugar beverages and higher-value offerings such as its Fairlife milk brand, amid ongoing pressure from a volatile consumer environment. The spokesperson added that while the juice category is experiencing strong growth overall, Coca-Cola is focusing on formats and products that better align with consumer expectations. "Frozen products will be discontinued in Q1 2026, with in-store inventory available while supplies last," they told Reuters . Top image: © The Coca‑Cola Company

Starbucks is launching two limited-edition ready-to-drink (RTD) chilled coffee products in the UK in early 2026 under its ready-to-drink partnership with Arla Foods, as the brand looks to sustain growth in a competitive RTD market driven by flavour innovation and premium positioning. The two products – a Caramel Brownie-flavoured Frappuccino and a pistachio-inspired Chilled Classic – will roll out across major UK grocers, including Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Iceland, with a recommended selling price of £2.20. The launch underscores Starbucks’ strategy, executed through Arla Foods, of using limited-edition SKUs to generate incremental sales and maintain shelf visibility in the chilled coffee aisle, where volume growth has moderated but value growth has remained more resilient. The pistachio-flavoured Chilled Classic marks the first time the flavour has appeared in the Starbucks RTD portfolio produced by Arla Foods, following strong seasonal demand for pistachio beverages in Starbucks’ coffeehouses. The move reflects a broader trend of translating successful foodservice flavours into retail formats to reduce innovation risk. The Caramel Brownie Frappuccino, released under the 'Sip of Joy' branding, refreshes an established flavour with new packaging rather than a reformulation, a tactic increasingly used by manufacturers to extend product lifecycles while managing development and production costs. Arla Foods, which produces and distributes Starbucks RTD beverages across Europe, has positioned chilled coffee as a core growth pillar within its branded dairy portfolio, as it looks to capture value from premium, convenience-led consumption occasions. The launches come as RTD coffee manufacturers compete for space in grocery chillers amid rising input costs, cautious consumer spending and tighter retailer scrutiny of rate of sale. Limited editions have become a key lever for driving trial and supporting promotional calendars without permanently expanding core ranges.