Belgian foodtech start-up Koppie has raised pre-seed funding to develop a new coffee alternative made from fermented and roasted pulses. The investment round was led by Nucleus Capital, with support from Mudcake, Rockstart and several angel investors. The funding will be used to bring Koppie’s product – a single-ingredient 'Koppie bean' made from locally sourced pulses like chickpeas – to commercial scale by early 2026. The company is in talks with European roasters and retailers to market the product as an ingredient for hybrid blends and lower-caffeine alternatives. Koppie uses a fermentation and roasting process to create a brewable bean that mimics the taste and ritual of traditional coffee. According to the company, the Koppie bean has received positive feedback from consumer panels and professional tasters, scoring 70/100 from Q-graders. It is allergen-free and expected to contain little to no acrylamide or mycotoxins. The product is compatible with existing roasting and brewing equipment, making it suitable for integration into current coffee supply chains. Koppie claims it offers environmental benefits including a 70% reduction in CO2 emissions, 60% less land use, and 90% less water use compared to conventional coffee. Daan Raemdonck, founder of Koppie, said: “We’re not here to replace or badmouth coffee. We’re here to future-proof it. With yields under pressure, and prices rising, we believe novel and hybrid solutions will be essential for coffee companies looking to navigate volatile supply chains.” Coffee production is increasingly affected by climate change, with studies predicting a 60% drop in suitable growing regions by 2050. The industry is also a major contributor to deforestation and fertiliser use. The European Forest Institute estimates that coffee accounts for up to 6% of Europe’s deforestation footprint. Coffee prices have quadrupled since 2020, with more volatility expected. Koppie is developing hybrid blends in collaboration with roasting partners. The company sees its product as a way to expand the category with new formats that are lower in caffeine, more sustainable, and aligned with evolving regulations such as the EU’s upcoming deforestation rules.

Refreshment brings you monthly updates on the latest news and insights from our member associations in the vending, coffee and water sectors. Featuring insights from industry leaders, this round-up highlights key developments, events and initiatives shaping the future of these industries, providing essential information on emerging trends and regulatory changes. Vending and coffee updates The vending, automated retail and coffee sectors are rapidly evolving, with new initiatives, industry events and regulatory developments shaping its future. Here’s what’s happening in this sector this month: European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA) EVA addresses AI and data compliance at Paris Vending Show The European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA) took part in the Vending Show in Paris from 25-27 June, where it held a series of meetings and presentations, and showcased its latest services at booth 6G, next to the French Vending Association (NAVSA). On Thursday 26 June, EVA's director general Erwin Wetzel delivered a speech in the 'Vending Square' titled “Smart Vending and the New EU Rules: Turning Compliance into Opportunity”. The session examined the impact of new EU regulations on artificial intelligence and data handling, focusing on how vending operators and manufacturers can manage risks, unlock the value of machine-generated data, and turn compliance into a business advantage. The topic was previously discussed at an EVA Technical and Electronic Payment Committee meeting in Brussels, where members identified growing legislative challenges as the industry continues to digitise. Beverage Standards Association (BSA) BSA members connect at Sanremo London networking event Sanremo Coffee Machines in Kensington, London, recently played host to a networking event organised by BSA, offering members a valuable space to connect, learn and share ideas. The event brought together like-minded professionals and BSA members in an informal yet purposeful setting, with discussions focused on collaboration, knowledge exchange and future initiatives. “Sanremo in London was an excellent space for our members to network and learn, bringing together like-minded individuals and BSA members eager to connect and share ideas,” a BSA spokesperson said. “Connecting with BSA members is vital to the BSA, and our networking events are a great opportunity to foster relationships, exchange ideas, and collaborate on future initiatives.” National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) US convenience services industry generates $40bn and supports over 165,000 jobs The US convenience services industry – including vending, unattended retail, office coffee and pantry services – generates $40.04 billion in annual economic impact and supports 165,300 jobs nationwide, according to a new report from the Foundation of the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA). Conducted by John Dunham & Associates, the study offers a detailed economic analysis of the sector, breaking down output, employment, labor income and tax contributions across all 50 states. Carla Balakgie, president and CEO of NAMA, said: “This report confirms what NAMA members already know and understand: convenience services is an industry that empowers local economies, meets consumer needs and creates meaningful jobs in every state. That impact goes beyond economic numbers. It’s reflected in every nourishing, refreshing, accessible, and convenient experience delivered to consumers each day.” Water updates The water sector continues to evolve with innovative technologies, sustainability initiatives and industry events driving progress. From watercoolers to hydration solutions, here’s what’s happening in this space: Water Dispenser & Hydration Association (WHA) WHA pushes for greater hydration awareness and standards across the UK The Water Dispenser & Hydration Association is continuing its efforts to promote safe, sustainable and high-quality hydration in homes, workplaces and public spaces across the UK. WHA's recent Trade Show & Conference 2025 recently gathered industry professionals, experts and members to discuss key developments in the hydration sector. A post-event website is now available at its website, offering summaries from keynote speakers, member innovations and insights into the industry’s future. The WHA is also expanding its membership across the hydration supply chain, welcoming manufacturers, suppliers, installation specialists and service providers who align with the association’s values of quality, trust and high standards. Looking ahead, WHA’s Annual General Meeting will take place on 25 September, providing a platform to review progress and outline priorities for the coming year. More information and updates can be found on WHA’s LinkedIn page. Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) NMWE hosts annual meetings in Málaga to shape sector priorities From 17 to 19 June 2025, Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) held its annual meetings in Málaga, Spain, in collaboration with Spanish member association Asociación de Aguas Minerales de España (ANEABE). The event brought together representatives from over 15 countries, making it the sector’s key forum for setting priorities and coordinating action across Europe. The agenda focused on critical topics for the natural mineral and spring water industry, including: Water resilience: Translating policy into practice with input from policymakers, scientists and environmental experts. Packaging circularity: Sharing experiences in implementing effective deposit return systems. Biodiversity and local development: Highlighting the sector’s role in environmental protection and regional socio-economic contributions. AI in public affairs: Examining how artificial intelligence is reshaping advocacy and communication strategies. Strengthening advocacy in Europe: Reinforcing sector unity and alignment at the EU level. Speakers included representatives from EU institutions, NGOs, research bodies and industry leaders. NMWE's secretary general, Patricia Fosselard, noted: “Every annual meeting is unique, but they all have one thing in common: we leave feeling richer in terms of knowledge, connections and shared purpose.” The meetings also marked a return to in-person networking, offering participants the chance to reconnect beyond virtual platforms. NMWE hosts EU Green Week Event on deposit return systems On 2 June, Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) held a partner event during EU Green Week titled “Deposit Return Systems: Delivering on Circularity Post-PPWR,” in collaboration with the Permanent Representation of Lithuania to the EU. The event focused on the role of deposit return systems (DRS) in meeting the goals of the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation. Lithuania’s successful DRS, launched in 2016, served as a key case study. Within two years of implementation, the country became one of Europe’s top performers in collecting PET and aluminium beverage containers. EU policymakers, national authorities, industry leaders and civil society representatives gathered to discuss DRS as a tool for improving material efficiency and reducing packaging waste. Jurga Kasputienė, deputy permanent representative of Lithuania to the EU, said: “Lithuania’s deposit return system has been a success story since 2016. Each Member State has its own specificities, but sharing practical experience helps everyone develop more effective systems”. NMWE's president, Alessandro Pasquale, emphasised the transformational role of DRS in building a sustainable circular economy. “We can cut our emissions by 80%, eliminate littering, and preserve significant new resources for the future,” he said. “The best way to achieve efficient circularity is through the implementation of well-designed deposit return systems.” Clarissa Morawski, CEO of Reloop, noted that countries with DRS achieve over 90% collection rates and significantly reduce per capita packaging waste. She highlighted DRS as central to closed-loop recycling. Greta Česnaitytė from Lithuania’s ministry of environment emphasised the value of engaging consumers and providing clear communication to drive participation and improve return rates. Wolfgang Trunk of the European Commission (DG Environment) stressed that while Member States can be exempted from establishing DRS if they achieve 80% separate collection by 2026, the commission expects most will adopt DRS to meet PPWR targets. He also advocated integrating reuse into DRS design. Industry consultant Raymond Gianotten advised that successful DRS require clear legislative frameworks, national coverage, industry-led operations and at least 24 months for implementation. He warned against government-run systems, recommending not-for-profit structures coordinated under umbrella organisations. NMWE's secretary general, Patricia Fosselard, closed the session by encouraging collaboration and knowledge sharing. ““DRS are widely acknowledged as one of the most effective tools to boost resource efficiency and achieve high-quality recycling. The question now is how to make them work in every national context. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but there is a growing pool of best practices to draw on. So far, Europe has only seen success stories.” International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) IBWA appoints Jeremy Pollack as VP of government relations The International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) has named Jeremy Pollack as its new vice president of government relations. Recently recognised on The Hill’s 2024 list of Top Lobbyists, Pollack brings significant experience in advocacy and public policy. Pollack previously served as director of government affairs at the Water Quality Association (WQA), where he led government relations efforts at local, state, federal and international levels. His work included overseeing advocacy campaigns, managing Political Action Committee activities and coordinating major events such as the Water Resources Congressional Summit. He has also worked on initiatives relevant to IBWA members, including advocating for the inclusion of a water icon on the MyPlate nutrition guidance chart. In 2024, he was appointed by the US Secretary of Commerce to represent the water sector on the Environmental Technologies Trade Advisory Committee through 2026. IBWA's president and CEO, Joe Doss, said: “Jeremy’s deep understanding of the regulatory landscape, successful track record with legislative fly-ins and experience working with companies that are members of both IBWA and WQA gives him unique insight into our industry’s needs. We’re confident that Jeremy will strengthen our government relations efforts and effectively represent our members’ interests at all levels of government.”

Popcorn Shed, a UK-based gourmet popcorn manufacturer, has released a new limited-edition flavour: Matcha Latte Popcorn. This innovative product aims to blend traditional snack appeal with the growing consumer interest in matcha and specialty flavours. Matcha Latte Popcorn combines the rich, buttery profile of caramel popcorn with the earthy notes of matcha green tea. Each kernel is coated to achieve a balance between sweetness and bitterness, providing a unique snacking experience that reflects the essence of the Japanese tea ceremony. According to Popcorn Shed, the new flavour is designed to cater to consumers seeking indulgent yet mindful snacking options. The company notes that this product is not just a treat but an opportunity for consumers to enjoy a moment of relaxation amidst their busy lives. The Matcha Latte flavour will be available for a limited time. Popcorn Shed, founded in 2016 by cousins Sam and Laura, has rapidly expanded its portfolio to include over 30 flavours of gourmet popcorn. The company began in a family kitchen and has since grown to achieve nationwide distribution through retailers such as Debenhams, Harrods and Ocado. Additionally, Popcorn Shed has collaborated with corporate clients including Warner Bros, Google and Facebook, further establishing its presence in the gourmet snack market. Popcorn Shed’s Matcha Latte Popcorn is available for purchase through its website, Amazon and select speciality retailers.

Uganda has overtaken Ethiopia to become Africa’s leading coffee exporter, following record-breaking export figures in May 2025. The country shipped 47,606.7 tonnes of coffee last month, equivalent to 793,445 60kg bags, representing a 43.6% increase compared to May 2024. The exports were valued at nearly $244 million, pushing Uganda’s coffee earnings past $2 billion over the past 12 months. From June 2024 to May 2025, Uganda exported a total of 7.43 million bags of coffee, up from 6.08 million in the previous period. Italy was the leading importer, accounting for 39% of total exports. Europe received 67% of Uganda’s coffee, followed by African countries at 18% and Asia at 13%. The recent surge in exports is attributed to government-led quality improvements, farmer training and better access to agricultural inputs. The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) has played a key role in positioning Uganda’s coffee as a premium product in global markets. These initiatives support the country’s long-term Coffee Roadmap, which aims to produce 20 million bags annually and earn $1.5 billion per year by 2030. Uganda participated in the World of Coffee trade show in Geneva, Switzerland, which took place from 26 to 28 June at Palexpo SA. The event featured workshops, international competitions and networking opportunities for coffee professionals. Uganda’s presence included a national pavilion, daily tasting sessions and participation in expert panels. Speaking about Uganda’s participation in the EXPO, the Minister of State for Agriculture in MAAIF, Bwino Fred Kyakulaga, said: “Uganda reaffirms its ambitious commitment to transform its export trajectory – from $50 billion to $500 billion – through strategic value addition. Coffee will be one of the primary drivers to achieve this export target." "As highlighted in the May coffee report, Italy remains our primary consumer, while Switzerland stands as the epicenter of global coffee trade. Our delegation’s objectives are fully aligned with our national goals, and we are resolute in optimizing every engagement to ensure Uganda reaps enduring benefits on the world stage.”

Tobu Railway Co and Kanaya Hotel Co have introduced a token-operated sake dispenser at The Kanaya Terrace café inside Tobu Nikko Station. The service offers passengers the chance to sample local sake from Tochigi Prefecture while waiting for trains. Available until 31 August 2025, the dispenser accepts tokens sold in sets of three for ¥1,200 (approx. $8.30). Each token dispenses a cup of sake from a choice of regional brews. The café operates daily from 9:30 to 12:00 and 13:00 to 16:30, with seasonal adjustments possible. This initiative aims to boost local sake’s visibility, enrich the station experience for travelers and promote community revitalisation along the Tobu rail line.

Refresco has announced that CEO Hans Roelofs will retire on 1 August, 2025, after 18 years leading the global beverage solutions company. Roelofs joined Refresco in 2007 and oversaw major expansion. The company now operates 75 manufacturing sites in 13 countries and employs over 14,000 people. During his tenure, Refresco grew from a regional player to a global leader in beverage solutions. Refresco's supervisory board has launched a succession process and expects to announce a new CEO in due course. Roelofs will remain in his role until his retirement to ensure a smooth leadership transition. James Cunningham, chairman of Refresco's supervisory board, stated: "I would like to thank Hans for his tremendous career at Refresco and the role he played in driving the company’s success for nearly two decades". "Hans’s passion for and commitment to Refresco is admirable, and he was instrumental to the company’s ascent to a global leadership position. We are grateful for his leadership in positioning Refresco for continued success in the years to come as we continue to expand the company’s footprint and execute on our proven strategy to grow alongside our strong and diversified customer base.” Roelofs commented: “It has been a true privilege and honoUr to lead Refresco since 2007. Together with our passionate and highly professional team, we have grown the business from a small regional player into the global leader in beverage solutions that we are today". "With its blue-chip customer base, Refresco is now stronger and more resilient than ever, and I am proud of what we have achieved. This is the right time for me to step back, confident that the company will continue to grow and thrive on its unique entrepreneurial spirit and the agility of its people.” Frédéric Stévenin, Refresco's supervisory board member, added: “I would like to thank Hans for his outstanding, dedicated service to Refresco and its stakeholders since he joined the company in 2007. Under his leadership, Refresco went through a period of unprecedented growth and transformation. We look forward to celebrating Hans’s many amazing accomplishments as his formal retirement date nears.”

Nestlé is expanding its KitKat Chunky line in the UK with the introduction of two new limited-edition flavours designed to appeal to evolving consumer tastes in the food and beverage sector. KitKat Chunky Funky and KitKat Chunky Duo Salted Caramel are set to hit shelves this week, reflecting a strategic move to enhance brand engagement and drive sales in a competitive market. KitKat Chunky Funky features a unique combination of a crispy cocoa wafer enveloped in a marbled milk chocolate and white coating, presenting a visually striking option for consumers. Rida Ahmed, assistant brand manager for KitKat, noted the innovation behind the new product, stating that the development team in York has focused on creating a fresh look while maintaining the beloved texture and flavour profile that has defined the KitKat brand. In addition to the Funky variant, KitKat Chunky Duo Salted Caramel introduces a rich salted caramel filling atop the classic crispy wafer, all encased in smooth chocolate. This launch aligns with a broader trend in the confectionery market where indulgence and unique flavour combinations are increasingly sought after by consumers. Both products are part of Nestlé’s commitment to sustainability, using cocoa sourced from its income accelerator programme. This initiative aims to improve the livelihoods of cocoa farming families, enhance environmental practices and promote education for children in cocoa-producing regions. In a related development, Nestlé’s Blue Riband brand has also unveiled a new offering: Blue Riband Vanilla. This product features a smooth vanilla filling with light wafer and is positioned as a lower-calorie option at 83 calories per bar, catering to the growing demand for healthier snack alternatives.

Epta has unveiled Unit, the first refrigerated display case under its Larp brand designed entirely according to circular economy principles. The launch marks a shift in the commercial refrigeration industry away from traditional linear production models toward systems that prioritise durability, repairability and reuse. The Unit counter is built using a modular design strategy that simplifies disassembly and repair. Components, including the compressor, can be accessed and replaced using a cassette and handle system, with fewer parts overall to streamline maintenance. A single structural element doubles as both the lid and base, designed to be fully interchangeable. The materials used in Unit have been selected for sustainability and recyclability. Natural cork replaces synthetic foam as insulation, and recycled plastics ensure long-term durability. The refrigeration system uses isobutane R600a, a natural refrigerant with low environmental impact. Francesco Mastrapasqua, Epta's institutional affairs manager, said: “For decades, manufacturers of refrigerated display units have focused on enhancing the appeal of retailers’ offerings and, as a result, customer experience; nowadays, however, the industry is facing a radical shift in paradigm. Epta has chosen to take early action by adopting an industrial vision inspired by circular economy, one that already translates future European circularity requirements into real, tangible solutions”. The company’s approach is guided by three principles: “Use Better,” with smart energy and performance monitoring; “Use Longer,” through materials and design that extend lifespan; and “Use Again,” by enabling the regeneration and reuse of components. Norman Sarabelli, Larp's product marketing manager, explained: “Unit, industrialised for the first time, embodies the ‘from cradle to grave’ approach, where modularity, material recyclability and energy efficiency come together under the banner of the 4Rs: Reuse, Repair, Recondition, Recycle. Each feature has been meticulously crafted to ensure that the solution evolves over time, remains adaptable and continues to deliver value throughout its entire life cycle - essentially without limitation”.

Pladis is expanding its Flipz range with a new limited-edition flavour: Strawberry Cheesecake-coated pretzels. Part of its growing ‘swavoury’ portfolio, the latest launch pairs Flipz’s signature crunchy, salted pretzels with a sweet strawberry cheesecake-flavoured coating, tapping into growing demand for indulgent snacks that blend sweet and savoury notes. Char Wilkinson, brand manager at Pladis UK&I, said: “This launch builds on the success of our other limited edition Flipz trending flavours, where consumers are currently enjoying nostalgic flavours such as strawberry cheesecakes”. Flipz, currently worth £17.3 million in the UK and growing at over 27% in total retail, first launched in the market in 2018 after gaining popularity in the US. Since then, the brand has rolled out a series of trend-led variants including Peanut Butter, Cinnamon Bun and Salted Caramel. Wilkinson added: “Popular with snacking customers seeking inspiration, Flipz performs particularly well in impulse, recording double-digit value and volume growth.” Flipz Strawberry Cheesecake will be available in a 90g sharing pouch and an 80g price-marked pack. The flavour is available in Nisa and will expand to further convenience, retail and wholesale channels from July.

Boost has secured €16 million in Series B funding to support its international expansion and product development in the unattended retail sector. The round was led by growth equity firm Direttissima Growth Partners, with participation from Capmont Technology and Kineo Capital, alongside existing investors. Founded in 2020 in London, Boost has grown into a leading provider of unattended retail technology, operating thousands of locations across three continents. The company employs 150 people across six countries, including the UK and Switzerland. The funding will be used to enter new markets, expand the company’s product portfolio, and further develop its technology. Boost’s offerings include smart vending systems, connected coolers and self-checkout kiosks powered by its cloud-based platform, Vendlive. Boost's clients include Coca-Cola, Hilton and Siemens, who use the company’s integrated hardware and software solutions to manage retail operations outside traditional store models. Boost's founder and CEO, Pascal Uffer, said: “Our rapid growth leading up to this moment shows the timing is right. The market is ready, our technology is proven, and we’re ready to accelerate our international expansion together with our partners.” Torsten Kreindl, managing and founding partner at Capmont Technology, commented: "Europe’s vending industry is fragmented and largely dependent on legacy technology, making it ripe for disruption. Boost’s seamlessly integrated hardware-software stack, allows the exceptional team to take vending to the next level." Christine Müller, partner at Kineo Finance, added: "As one of the first institutional backers of Boost through our venture leasing facility, we’re proud to deepen our support as they scale their leadership in unattended retail technology."

Self-service commerce technology provider Cantaloupe has agreed to be acquired by 365 Retail Markets in an all-cash deal worth approximately $848 million. The acquisition will see Cantaloupe become a privately held company and marks a major consolidation in the unattended retail technology sector. 365 Retail Markets, a portfolio company of private equity firm Providence Equity Partners, focuses on self-checkout solutions for enterprise foodservice operators. Cantaloupe brings expertise in payment processing and software services. The two companies said the merger will create a comprehensive platform spanning payments, telemetry, software, kiosks and data analytics, aiming to serve a wider range of customers across retail, hospitality, convenience services, and sports and entertainment sectors. The combined business will operate across North America, Latin America and Europe. Cantaloupe shareholders will receive $11.20 per share in cash – a 34% premium over the company’s closing price on 30 May 2025, prior to speculation of the deal. Ravi Venkatesan, CEO of Cantaloupe, said: “We look forward to joining with 365 to provide our customers a comprehensive suite of best-in-class solutions spanning payments, telemetry, vertical specific software, kiosk-based marketplaces and smart retail innovation. Our combination will bolster our joint ability to invest in R&D and expand our portfolios, while allowing us to help retailers across the globe to innovate and scale with confidence.” Joe Hessling, founder and CEO of 365, commented: “This is an incredibly exciting moment for the 365 team. We are very proud of the progress we have made in recent years, and together with Cantaloupe’s complementary offerings and team expertise, we’ll be able to deliver a broader, more innovative suite of solutions to our customers around the world". !We have the utmost respect for the Cantaloupe team and look forward to working with them, while continuing our successful partnership with Providence, to accelerate our combined growth, expand our global reach and shape the future of unattended retail.” Scott Marimow, MD at Providence, added: “We believe this combination presents the opportunity to enhance value and create a more diversified business that can better serve FSOs, non-FSO customers and end users. The combination will help accelerate product innovation and provide a number of attractive cross-selling opportunities across the value chain. We are proud to continue our work with the 365 and Cantaloupe teams as they redefine their sector and better support the growing needs of their thousands of highly-valued customers.” The transaction has been unanimously approved by Cantaloupe’s board and is expected to close in the second half of 2025, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval. It is not subject to a financing condition, and 365 has secured full funding. Top image: © Cantaloupe

Bulletproof has launched a new functional coffee blend, Enlightener, as part of its wider June rebrand aimed at supporting mind-body performance. Enlightener marks the first release in Bulletproof’s new Enhanced line – a white-label series designed to deliver targeted wellness benefits. The coffee is available in both ground and pod formats to suit different brewing preferences. The medium-dark roast is made with toxin-tested 100% Arabica beans and features a blend of functional ingredients including l-theanine for calm alertness, panax ginseng for cognitive support and ginkgo biloba to aid memory and concentration. The launch reflects Bulletproof’s updated brand mission to deliver clean, great-tasting coffee that supports daily performance. Enlightener is currently available in ground format at Sprouts, and in both ground and pod formats on Amazon and Bulletproof’s website. The suggested retail price is $16.99 for a 10oz ground pack.