Coca-Cola has revealed a sweeping overhaul of its operational leadership, including the creation of a new chief digital officer role, as the soft drinks giant moves to accelerate technology adoption and sharpen execution across fast-growing emerging markets. The changes, which take effect on March 31, coincide with the planned transition of chief operating officer Henrique Braun into the chief executive role , succeeding James Quincey, who will remain executive chairman. At the centre of the restructuring is the appointment of Sedef Salingan Sahin as Coca-Cola’s first chief digital officer, a newly created enterprise role intended to unify digital, data and operational excellence across the business. Sahin, currently president of the company’s Eurasia and Middle East operating unit, will report directly to Braun. The creation of the appointment underscores Coca-Cola’s growing emphasis on digitalisation as it faces slowing growth in mature markets, rising input costs and increasingly fragmented consumer demand, while competing with both global rivals and agile local beverage brands. “Understanding consumers even more deeply” and moving faster across markets is critical to future growth, Braun said in a statement, adding that the new structure is designed to enable quicker decision-making and smarter execution. Sahin will assume responsibility for digital strategy currently overseen by chief financial officer John Murphy, consolidating oversight of digital, data and related capabilities under a single executive for the first time. Over the coming months, she will assess how digital teams are organised across the group, with a mandate to simplify processes and improve speed and precision. For Coca-Cola’s bottlers, ingredient suppliers and technology partners, the shift signals tighter integration between marketing, commercial execution and data-driven decision-making – an area where the company has increasingly leaned on AI-enabled demand forecasting, personalised marketing and automated route-to-market systems. The leadership changes also reflect Coca-Cola’s strategic focus on emerging and developing markets, where volume growth is expected to outpace that of North America and Western Europe. Two new market groupings will be created under Braun’s leadership. Sanket Ray, president of the India and Southwest Asia operating unit, will take oversight of large emerging markets including India, Greater China, Japan and South Korea. Claudia Lorenzo, currently chief of staff to Quincey, will lead a second grouping spanning Eurasia, the Middle East, ASEAN, the South Pacific and Africa. Coca-Cola said the new structure is designed to better manage volatility across diverse markets facing inflationary pressures, regulatory change and shifting consumption patterns. Separately, chief marketing officer Manolo Arroyo will expand his remit to include customer and commercial leadership, reflecting closer alignment between brand strategy and in-market execution. Murphy will remain president and CFO, overseeing finance, global strategy and corporate development. The changes come as Coca-Cola continues to invest in digital tools to support its broader beverage portfolio, which now spans soft drinks, waters, sports drinks, coffee, tea, juices and plant-based beverages. The company has increasingly highlighted digitalisation as a lever to improve innovation speed, supply chain resilience and retail execution across its global bottling system.

Caffè Nero has appointed Lysa Hardy as UK chief executive officer, effective immediately. Lysa Hardy Hardy will oversee the Caffè Nero UK business and report to founder and group CEO Gerry Ford, who retains his group-wide role. She will work alongside existing UK managing director Glyn House, who remains in post, with both jointly overseeing the UK operation. Hardy joins the business with more than 20 years’ experience in UK retail leadership roles. Most recently, she served as CEO of Hotel Chocolat, and has previously held senior positions at T-Mobile, Joules and Holland & Barrett. Her earlier career includes roles as chief marketing officer, chief commercial officer and chief customer officer, alongside several non-executive directorships. Hardy’s appointment follows the departure of Will Stratton-Morris, who stepped down as Caffè Nero UK CEO in mid-2025 . It also follows a record first half for the group. Caffè Nero reported group sales of £338 million, supported by 5% like-for-like growth. UK first-half sales reached £185.4 million, up 7% year on year, with like-for-like sales growth of 5%. Ford commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Lysa to Caffè Nero. Her experience and track record makes her a great complement to Glyn and allows us to take the UK Caffè Nero business forward in the next phase. We have considerable brand momentum in the coffee space globally and in the UK, where we continue to gain market share and have delivered record first half results.” Hardy added: “I’m delighted to be joining the Caffè Nero UK business; it’s an exciting brand which has consistently outperformed the market. This is the leading coffee brand in the premium space and Caffè Nero is well placed to have numerous opportunities and strong growth in the years ahead. I thrilled to be working for Gerry and to be part of that journey.”

Keurig Dr Pepper’s $18 billion all-cash bid for JDE Peet’s marks a pivotal moment for the global coffee industry, accelerating consolidation at a time of record bean prices, supply disruption and intensifying pressure on margins across the food and beverage sector. The US soft drinks and coffee group formally launched its takeover offer today (Thursday 15 January), proposing €31.85 per share for the Netherlands-based owner of brands including Jacobs, Douwe Egberts, Peet’s and L’OR. JDE Peet’s board has unanimously backed the deal, with shareholders representing 69% of the company already committed. If completed in the second quarter, the acquisition would create one of the world’s largest pure-play coffee businesses, rivalling Nestlé’s dominant position in packaged coffee and sharpening competition across retail, foodservice and out-of-home channels. For manufacturers and suppliers, the transaction underscores how scale is becoming a strategic necessity in the coffee market, as climate-driven supply shocks and geopolitical volatility push raw material costs higher. Arabica and robusta prices have surged to record levels following droughts in Brazil and Vietnam, while recent US trade tariffs have added further uncertainty to global supply chains. Keurig Dr Pepper first announced plans for the buyout in August , alongside proposals to split the combined group into two separately listed companies: one focused on coffee and tea, the other on beverages including Dr Pepper sodas. Executives have said the move would allow each business to pursue more targeted growth strategies and capital allocation. Industry analysts say the separation could reshape competitive dynamics across both categories. A standalone global coffee business would command significant purchasing power over green beans, packaging and processing inputs, potentially widening the gap between multinational players and smaller roasters. To fund the deal, Keurig raised $7 billion from private equity investors last year, easing concerns about leverage. The companies said they have already secured regulatory approvals, reducing execution risk for what would be one of Europe’s largest consumer goods transactions in recent years. Shares in JDE Peet’s were little changed in early trading today, hovering close to the offer price. For the wider food and beverage industry, the deal highlights how commodity volatility is reshaping corporate strategy. As climate risk becomes embedded in pricing and procurement, companies with diversified sourcing, strong balance sheets and global scale are increasingly positioned to dictate terms. The proposed acquisition also raises questions for retailers and branded competitors, as a more concentrated coffee market could influence pricing negotiations, promotional strategies and innovation timelines in an already pressured category.

Krispy Kreme has launched a limited-edition matcha range across the UK and Ireland in partnership with Perfect Ted, introducing a filled doughnut and two matcha lattes under its 'Grab Your Greens' campaign. The range includes the Strawberry Matcha Doughnut, an Original Glazed doughnut filled with strawberry-flavoured Kreme and coated in matcha with dried strawberry pieces. It also marks what the brands describe as a first for Krispy Kreme: Original Glazed Matcha Latte and Iced Matcha Latte, made with oat milk, Perfect Ted’s ceremonial-grade matcha and flavour notes inspired by the Original Glazed doughnut. The 'Grab Your Greens' range is available in Krispy Kreme shops across the UK and Ireland from 30 December until 6 February. The Strawberry Matcha Doughnut is also stocked exclusively in selected Tesco stores in mainland UK for a limited period.

Andy Bagnall. The British Soft Drinks Association (BSDA) has appointed Andy Bagnall as its new director general, replacing Gavin Partington, who is retiring after 13 years in the role. Bagnall took up the position on 12 January and will lead the trade body representing a broad cross-section of the UK soft drinks industry, including major manufacturers and brand owners such as Carlsberg Britvic, Coca-Cola Great Britain and Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I. He joins the BSDA with a background spanning politics, professional services and trade associations. A former political adviser, Bagnall has held senior leadership roles at the Confederation of British Industry and KPMG, as well as within the rail sector, most recently serving as chief executive of Rail Partners. Commenting on his appointment, Bagnall said he was joining the association at a pivotal moment for the sector. “The association plays a vital role in representing its members, and I look forward to working closely with them to ensure their voices are heard and their interests effectively championed,“ he added. “With sales of more than £22 billion a year and over 17,000 people working directly in the industry, soft drinks is a sector which packs a punch, and it’s crucial that our members’ contribution is both recognised and supported.” He identified the delivery of a fit-for-purpose deposit return scheme (DRS) by October 2027 as a key priority for the association, describing it as a critical step towards greater circularity. BSDA president William Watkins, founder and owner of Radnor Hills, said Bagnall’s strategic and policy experience would strengthen the association as members face increasing regulatory and cost pressures. “We are thrilled to have Andy on board,” Watkins said. “The BSDA represents an interesting and varied mix of companies, from global brand names through to family-run small businesses, many of whom are feeling the pinch from rising input costs alongside an endless conveyor belt of policy measures.” Watkins added that Bagnall’s leadership would play a key role in driving the association’s work and enhancing support for members. Outgoing leader Partington joined the BSDA as director general in October 2012. During his tenure, he oversaw the association’s response to major regulatory developments, including the introduction of the Soft Drinks Industry Levy and proposals for deposit return schemes across the UK. Reflecting on his time in the role, Partington said: “It’s been a privilege to lead the association over the last 13 years and work alongside such a committed board, team and membership. I’m proud of what we have achieved together and am confident that the BSDA is well placed for the future.” Watkins commented: “During his tenure, Gavin steered our association through the choppy waters of the Soft Drinks Industry Levy, as well as the abortive attempt by Scotland to set up its own DRS, along with many other challenges. He has built the BSDA into an efficient and effective trade body and leaves behind a legacy from which members will continue to benefit.”

Coca-Cola has halted its plans to sell Costa Coffee, the UK-based coffee chain it acquired for $5.1 billion in 2018. This decision follows a protracted auction process that failed to yield satisfactory offers from prospective buyers, according to a report by the Financial Times . The news of the potential sales was first announced back in August 2025 , which came as the beverage giant reassessed its portfolio in response to evolving consumer preferences and economic pressures. Coca-Cola's decision to terminate discussions with potential bidders, which included private equity firms such as TDR Capital  and Bain Capital , marks a pivotal moment in the company's strategy to enhance its footprint in the competitive global coffee market. The beverage giant had initiated the sale process in response to shifting market dynamics and increasing competition from major players like Starbucks and Nestlé. Despite initial interest from several private equity firms, including Apollo Global Management and KKR, the final bids were reported to be below Coca-Cola's expectations, prompting the company to cease negotiations in December. While the company has not ruled out the possibility of reviving the sale in the medium term, the current pause highlights the challenges in the food and beverage acquisition landscape. Coca-Cola's acquisition of Costa Coffee was aimed at bolstering its presence in the coffee segment, which has seen rapid growth and diversification. However, the decision to withdraw from the sale process raises questions about the company's future strategy for Costa amidst evolving consumer preferences and market conditions. Press Esc to exit editor.

Nespresso has launched a new limited-edition decaffeinated coffee for its Vertuo system, expanding its flavoured decaf range as demand for caffeine-free options continues to grow in the UK. The French Lavender & Vanilla Decaffeinato pod blends decaffeinated arabica beans with vanilla and lavender flavour notes. It follows the release of Sweet Vanilla Decaffeinato last year and is designed for consumption throughout the day, including evenings. The coffee is made using 100% Arabica beans sourced from Brazil and Colombia. According to Nespresso, the blend uses its bespoke decaffeinated base and a split-roast technique, with Latin American beans roasted medium-dark to enhance sweetness, while other components are roasted for longer to develop texture. Flavour is added after roasting. The launch comes amid rising interest in decaffeinated coffee. Data cited by the company shows that 44.7% of UK consumers now drink decaf at home, with decaf drinkers more likely to consume multiple cups per day than those choosing caffeinated coffee. Nespresso said younger consumers, particularly Gen Z, are driving growth, favouring flavoured, caffeine-free options for evening and at-home routines. Anna Lundstrom, CEO Nespresso UK & ROI, said: “January is a time when many people reset their routines. With French Lavender & Vanilla Decaffeinato, we wanted to create a coffee that fits naturally into moments of wellbeing and mindfulness, whilst offering the comfort and premium taste that Nespresso is known for, just without the caffeine." "Decaffeinated coffee is playing an increasingly important role in modern coffee culture, and this launch reflects our commitment to ensuring that choosing decaf never means compromising on flavour or quality.” The French Lavender & Vanilla Decaffeinato is available for a limited time in Vertuo pods.

ChariTea has expanded its UK retail presence with a nationwide listing in Waitrose, as the Lemonaid & ChariTea Foundation reports it has raised £11 million for social projects. The Fairtrade iced tea brand is now available in 141 larger Waitrose stores and online, with its Black, Red and Mate variants retailing at £1.95 per 330ml glass bottle. The rollout comes alongside confirmation that the foundation currently supports 25 projects across seven countries. Since January 2010, the Lemonaid & ChariTea Foundation has received 5p from every bottle sold across the Lemonaid and ChariTea ranges. The £11 million raised to date is used to back initiatives focused on sustainable livelihoods in regions where ingredients are sourced, spanning parts of Africa, Asia and Latin America. The Waitrose launch includes: ChariTea Mate   – a naturally caffeinated yerba mate iced tea, lightly sweetened with agave ChariTea Red  – a caffeine-free rooibos iced tea with passion fruit ChariTea Black  – Sri Lankan black tea with lemon, lightly sweetened with agave Managing director Julian Warowioff said the £11m milestone demonstrates the impact of linking soft drinks sales directly to social funding, adding that expansion with Waitrose will help scale both distribution and project support. The brand positions its range as brewed-from-leaf iced teas made with organic ingredients and without refined sugars or flavourings, as it targets growth in the premium iced tea segment alongside wider retail availability.

Horizon Organic has launched a new line of refrigerated coffee creamers made with four USDA certified-organic ingredients: milk, cream, cane sugar and natural flavours. The Horizon Organic Real Dairy Creamers range includes three flavours: Homestyle Vanilla, Chantilly Sweet Cream and Golden Caramel. The company said the products are the only nationally available branded creamers to combine bold flavours with real organic dairy and a four-ingredient formulation. Coffee creamers are the fastest-growing segment within refrigerated dairy, posting a compound annual growth rate of 8.8% over the past four years. At the same time, more coffee is being prepared at home, rising from 63% of cups in 2024 to 71% in 2025, according to the US National Coffee Association. Horizon Organic said the new range targets consumers seeking coffeehouse-style flavour with simpler ingredient lists, an area it says has been underserved in the category. Horizon Organic's chief marketing officer, Andrew Springate, said: “Horizon Organic believes that small choices can make a big difference for people and the planet, and it’s this belief that precipitated the launch of Horizon Organic Real Dairy Creamers. Consumers can now elevate their daily coffee experiences with the rich, comforting flavours of these new creamers, and all while feeling good about the ingredients they’re putting in their cup.” The creamers are available at major retailers across the US.

Sanpellegrino has expanded its Ciao flavoured sparkling water range with the launch of Ciao Limoncello, marking the first line extension for the brand. The new variant is inspired by Italy’s citrus tradition and combines lemon flavour with real fruit juice, natural flavours and a pinch of Sicilian salt. It contains five calories per can and zero alcohol, positioning it within the low-calorie, non-alcoholic refreshment segment. Ciao Limoncello is available on Amazon this month and is scheduled to roll out in retailers nationwide from February.

Sweet Robo has launched ChocoPrint, its first 3D chocolate printing system, extending its automated retail platform into on-demand, personalised confectionery. ChocoPrint enables the live printing of chocolate shapes, designs and custom logos, allowing vending machines to produce made-to-order products rather than pre-packaged items. The system is designed to integrate with Sweet Robo’s existing robotic vending infrastructure, giving operators and brand partners a way to add personalisation without increasing staffing or operational complexity. The company says the technology supports "higher-fidelity branding" than previous approaches, with logos and bespoke designs printed directly in chocolate. This capability is being rolled out across Sweet Robo’s wider machine portfolio, enabling more consistent personalisation across different automated formats. Sweet Robo currently operates more than 1,300 robotic machines across 25 countries, primarily in entertainment venues, retail destinations and other high-traffic locations. The addition of ChocoPrint reflects a broader shift in the company’s strategy, positioning automated vending as an experiential, interactive format rather than a purely transactional one. With ChocoPrint, Sweet Robo is targeting operators and brands seeking to combine automation with customisation, using robotics to deliver personalised products at scale. Beyond confectionery, Sweet Robo has been expanding its scope within automated foodservice. In 2025, the company partnered with RoboBurger, adding freshly prepared hot food to its portfolio as part of a wider push to scale robotics-led food and beverage concepts.

Canadian sports nutrition company Cizzle Brands has acquired 100% of Flow Water from RI Flow Sub in a transaction valued at approximately CAD 83.75 million (approx. $60.63 million), subject to customary post-closing adjustments. Flow’s branded consumer packaged goods assets, including its intellectual property, were carved out prior to closing and will continue to operate independently under existing ownership. Under Cizzle, the acquired business will focus exclusively on beverage co-manufacturing at its Aurora, Ontario facility, which will be renamed Cizzle Brands Manufacturing and operate as the CWENCH Hydration Factory. On a pro forma basis, the manufacturing business is expected to generate CAD $21.5 million in revenue in H2 2026, rising to CAD $46.5 million in fiscal 2027. Consolidated pro forma revenue for Cizzle is projected at CAD $41 million in 2026 and $75 million in 2027, with operating synergies expected to improve margins. The facility adds established Tetra Pak production capacity, a format in limited supply across North America, supporting sustainable, shelf-stable beverages. The acquisition strengthens Cizzle’s vertical integration, particularly for CWENCH Hydration, while enabling third-party co-manufacturing. “With Tetra Pak capacity in North America being quite scarce, this acquisition allows us to immediately become an industry leader in sustainable and eco-friendly packaging in the Tetra format,” said John Celenza, founder and CEO of Cizzle Brands. The acquisition was funded through a combination of debt and equity, including a senior secured credit facility from Orion Infrastructure Capital, a vendor take-back loan, and two non-brokered private placements. Orion Infrastructure Capital provided a CAD $40 million senior secured facility, with an additional CAD $10 million available, while the vendor extended a CAD $22.25 million secured promissory note. Equity financing included CAD $4.725 million in units and CAD $7.5 million in convertible notes. Notably, Cliff Rucker, owner of RI Flow Sub, participated as a lead investor in the equity financing, signalling continued confidence in the manufacturing platform under Cizzle’s ownership. Cizzle Brands operates a growing portfolio of performance-focused food and beverage brands, including CWENCH Hydration, Spoken Nutrition, and HappiEats. The newly acquired manufacturing business is expected to support future product innovation and scale across these brands while offering co-manufacturing services to external customers. The acquisition was completed through Cizzle Brands Acquisition, a wholly owned indirect subsidiary.