Keurig Dr Pepper-owned brand 7Up is set to launch a ready-to-drink version of Shirley Temple, catering to the growing demand for nostalgic beverages among millennial and Gen Z consumers. The classic non-alcoholic drink is made from a combination of non-cola soda, grenadine syrup and maraschino cherry. Meanwhile, the new 7Up Shirley Temple combines 7Up's signature citrus flavour with vibrant notes of pomegranate and cherry. The beverage aims to evoke childhood memories while appealing to modern taste preferences. Andrew Springate, chief marketing officer at KDP, added: “Our team loves the challenge of developing and marketing a beverage that evokes a deep sense of nostalgia with a modern twist, and the 7Up Shirley Temple does just that. Consumers will be delighted by this sweet reminder of the magic of childhood with a contemporary burst of flavourful refreshment.” The 7Up Shirley Temple will be available at mass and grocery retailers nationwide in the US from 15 October until 31 December, while supplies last. It will be sold in two-litre bottles and 12 packs of 12-ounce cans, including a Zero Sugar version. #KeurigDrPepper #7Up

FoodBev Media is thrilled to announce the winners of this year's highly anticipated World Coffee Innovation Awards, a celebration of creativity and excellence within the coffee industry. This event, which highlights groundbreaking advancements, exceptional products, and sustainable practices, has become a hallmark of innovation in the global coffee community. The winners of this year's award were announced in London today at the Caffe Culture Show, the trade event that spotlights the UK speciality coffee and cafe bar market. As we celebrate the game changers who have elevated the coffee experience, FoodBev would like to congratulate all winners, finalists and commended companies. View the full photo gallery here Dan Bunt, marketing director of FoodBev Media, presented the awards ceremony at the Caffè Insights stage, at 4pm (BST) earlier today. Dan commented: "This year's display of innovation has transformed the way we think about the simple cup of coffee. Myself and the judges were impressed at the selection of innovative technology, use of ingredients, ethical initiatives and sustainability." Find the final positions of every shortlisted entry below: Automatic Coffee Machine WINNER -   Eversys  - Shotmaster S/ST FINALIST - Coffetek - Vitro FINALIST - OutIn Inc. - Nano Portable Espresso Machine FINALIST - Dualit - Espressivo Pro Coffee Machine FINALIST - Franke Coffee Systems UK - Mytico Barista Tool/Equipment WINNER - Coffetek - New Ascaso Grinder P74 Coffee Capsule/Pod WINNER - Dualit  - Home Compostable Coffee Pods FINALIST - Voyage Foods - Bean-Free Coffee FINALIST - Dualit - Aluminium Coffee Pods Cold Brew Product WINNER - Ezpresso - Rich Kenyan FINALIST - RISE Brewing Co. - Shelf-Stable RTD 3 Gallon Cold Brew BIB FINALIST - GoodBrew - GoodGut Caramel Cold Brew Latte Functional Coffee WINNER - GoodBrew - GoodGut™ Vanilla Latte FINALIST - Sr. Valley Hemp Foods - Roasted Hemp & Coffee Blend Low/no Caffeine Product WINNER - Origin Coffee - Atlas Decaf Coffee Manual Coffee Machine WINNER - Dalla Corte UK  - Icon FINALIST - Coffetek - Barista T 2024 Milk Alternative WINNER - Floatmilk - Orginal Oatmilk FINALIST - Floatmilk - Vanilla Oatmilk FINALIST - Floatmilk - Chocolate Oatmilk FINALIST - Floatmilk - Original Oatmilk +Adaptogens FINALIST - Arla JÖRÐ - Barista Oat Drink 1L Ready-to-drink Product WINNER - Lost Sheep Coffee  - Iced Latte FINALIST - GoodBrew - GoodGut™ Caramel Latte FINALIST - Lost Sheep Coffee - Iced Mocha Brewing Innovation WINNER - Dalla Corte UK  - Zero Barista FINALIST - Tous les Jours - Tiramisu Latte Packaging Innovation WINNER - Parkside Flexibles - Dark woods compostable coffee bag FINALIST - The Good Cup™ - All-in-one coffee cup FINALIST - SHARPAK - PET Recyclable Coffee Cup Lid Roasting Innovation sponsored by Gaggia WINNER - ROEST  - L100 Plus Sample Roaster FINALIST - Mr. Bean Coffee Ltd. - Shish FINALIST - Peet’s Coffee - Peet’s Bright Collection FINALIST - Bellwether Coffee - Bellwether Shop Roaster FINALIST - Voyage Foods - Bean-Free Coffee FINALIST - ACAPELLA - Café de Noël Technology Innovation WINNER - OutIn Inc.  - OutIn Nano Portable Espresso Machine FINALIST - Mr. Bean Coffee Ltd. - Shish AI-assisted tabletop coffee bean roasting systems for Horeca FINALIST - nunc. - nunc. FINALIST - Ingredient Batching Systems - Green Coffee Silo Storage & Auto Batching System FINALIST - Dualit - Milk Frother Max FINALIST - Franke Coffee Systems UK - Mytico COMMENDED   -   365 Retail Markets  - PicoCoffee COMMENDED   -   Dalla Corte UK  - Zero Barista Ethical Initiative WINNER - Raw Material - Plant-to-Port: Driving Ethical Transformation Through Inclusive Coffee Education New/start-up Business WINNER - Mr. Bean Coffee Ltd. - Shish HoReCa Craft Roaster Station FINALIST - Voyage Foods - Bean-Free Coffee Sustainability Initiative WINNER - ofi (Olam Food Ingredients)  - Coffee Kindergartens: Creating safe spaces for children during the coffee harvest FINALIST - Atomo Beanless Coffee - Atomo's Beanless Espresso FINALIST - Bella Barista - Bella Barista Brazil Santo - Regenerative Organic Coffee FINALIST - Raw Material - Off-Grid Renewable Coffee Hubs Event partner: Caffe Culture Show This year, FoodBev Awards has taken the World Coffee Innovation Awards to the next level and presented shortlisted companies on our dedicated World Coffee Innovation Awards feature area. This provided a physical platform to showcase, network and celebrate their innovations. Roasting Innovation Category Sponsor The myth of the 'caffè all’Italiana' was born from the ingenious idea of Achille Gaggia, an Italian barista who - in 1938 - filed the patent that signalled a revolution in the way that aromas are extracted from coffee. Achille began constructing his innovative professional coffee machines and installing them in bars and restaurants around the world, allowing customers the unique pleasure of experiencing perfect Italian espresso, complete with its unique ‘crema’ for the very first time. Today the Gaggia name is synonymous with excellence and state of the art technology, as represented by its range of traditional manual espresso machines and fully automatic machines for coffee professionals. About FoodBev Awards FoodBev Media awards schemes have been running for more than 20 years and are now recognised as the most credible and respected awards schemes to influence the international food and beverage industry. For more information about our selection of awards programmes, please visit foodbevawards.com  or email awards@foodbev.com

Oasis International has announced the launch of a new filtration product: Outdoor filter. The filters address rising concerns over contaminants such as forever chemicals, pharmaceuticals and lead in drinking water. Outdoor filter is designed for high-temperature environments. It reduces contaminants, including chlorine, lead, cysts and microplastics, and operates within temperatures from 2°C to 50°C. With a capacity of 17,980 liters, it can provide approximately 36,000 water bottle fills. Equipped with the 'Tilt 'N Tether' fast filter-change system, the new filter allows users to replace them in minutes, ensuring quicker access to improved drinking water. Steve Sabin, Oasis' director of engineering, said: "This filter is engineered specifically for outdoor use and designed to meet the unique challenges of elevated temperatures, providing consistent, clean water without compromising performance". #Oasis #water #filters

Sodexo has launched four new eat>NOW frictionless grocery stores at Endicott College, the University of Maine, Orono, Lindenwood University and Seattle Pacific University. Powered by Amazon Web Services, these stores provide students with a convenient, modern shopping experience. At Endicott College, the new store, called Gull & Go, is located in Venuti Hall and offers beverages, snacks, healthy options, Simply to Go meals, bakery items and dorm supplies. The University of Maine’s store is situated in a new campus building, featuring a range of beverages, snacks, healthy options, Simply to Go meals, breakfast items, bakery goods and dorm essentials. Lindenwood University's store, Lion’s Pride Market, housed in an existing space, offers a variety of dorm supplies, beverages, snacks and healthy food options. Seattle Pacific University will unveil its Falcon Express Market this month, providing drinks, snacks, nutritious food, baked goods and dorm essentials. Brett Ladd, CEO of Sodexo Campus and Government, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce eat>NOW frictionless stores to the vibrant university campuses we’re proud to partner with. By combining cutting-edge technology with everyday convenience, we’re elevating the campus experience and offering students a modern, seamless shopping solution. These stores are designed to address the evolving needs of students while fostering a more dynamic campus environment.” #Sodexo #US

BE WTR, a Swiss company focused on sustainable water solutions, has raised CHF 39 million (approx $45.5 million) in a Series C funding round. Convent Capital, a Dutch agri-food growth equity fund, led the round, with participation from PeakBridge’s Growth 2 Fund, Edmond de Rothschild Direct Investments, HHT and other private investors. This funding will help BE WTR's mission to offer eco-friendly, premium water solutions, ensuring access to high-quality drinking water while minimising single-use packaging and plastics. The company is actively involved in water purification, distribution and sustainability, aiming to redefine water consumption in residential, commercial and hospitality sectors. The capital will also support the company’s entry into the Chinese and North American markets, as well as investments in R&D and product development. BE WTR’s approach offers a sustainable alternative to traditional bottled water, providing filtered water in glass bottles at the point of consumption. BE WTR's CEO, Mike Hecker, said: “This funding round enables us to scale our circular bottling plants operations across Europe, Middle East, North America and Asia and expand our product offerings, driving further innovation in the water industry.” Dirk Hoorn, founding partner of Convent Capital, added: “We believe BE WTR is uniquely positioned to address some of the critical challenges around sustainability and water consumption. Their vision aligns with our goal of supporting businesses that create lasting value for society and the environment." #BEWTR #watersolutions

The UK’s vending and automated retail industry has always been a crucial part of the food and beverage sector, offering convenience, flexibility and innovation. Now, as we dive into the 2023 AVA Census results, it's evident that the industry is undergoing significant transformation. Product revenues are up 14%, and while challenges persist, the opportunities for business-to-business (B2B) collaboration are stronger than ever. For businesses operating in food and beverage – whether suppliers, manufacturers or hospitality providers – understanding these shifts is key to staying competitive. Vending is no longer just a solution for offices or leisure spaces; it is now a dynamic ecosystem offering premium products, healthier options and integrated digital services that can help businesses meet modern consumer demands. David Llewellyn, CEO of The Vending and Automated Retail Association (AVA), provides further insights into the on-going transformation within the industry.   Coffee-to-go: Premiumisation and growth   The coffee sector, especially the coffee-to-go category, is booming, generating £758 million in product revenue in 2023 alone. This isn’t just a trend for vending operators – it’s an opportunity for coffee suppliers, equipment manufacturers and brands to tap into the growing demand for high-quality, barista-style coffee in non-traditional settings. Over the past decade, bean-to-cup solutions have seen a 22% increase in market share, reflecting the evolving tastes of consumers who expect premium offerings, even in workplace and retail environments. With tabletop semi-automatic machines now outperforming free-standing machines, businesses that can offer flexible, compact coffee solutions stand to benefit from this shift. For food and beverage suppliers, there’s an opportunity to align with vending operators, providing premium coffee products that cater to both high street and workplace consumers.   Micro markets: A B2B game changer  Micro markets and smart fridges are rapidly expanding across the UK, with 480 micro markets and over 1,200 smart fridges now installed. These self-serve retail solutions are revolutionising the way businesses – whether in corporate offices, hotels or even residential spaces – offer food and beverage options. They allow operators to provide a range of fresh meals, snacks and drinks while minimising overheads. For caterers, retailers and food manufacturers, micro markets open the door to new B2B opportunities. With the hybrid working model here to stay, businesses are seeking to provide convenient, high-quality meal options to employees and guests without the need for full on-site kitchens. By partnering with vending operators, food suppliers can integrate their products into micro market offerings, expanding distribution channels and driving new revenue streams. Additionally, as premium self-serve coffee solutions grow, companies offering coffee-to-go set-ups can collaborate with office managers and caterers to create high-return, hassle-free alternatives to traditional barista-served setups.   The rise of cashless and data-driven vending   Digital transformation is reshaping the vending industry, with 85% of machines now offering cashless payment options, and 70% of machines equipped with telemetry or handheld devices for data collection. For B2B professionals, this presents significant advantages. Businesses that invest in vending solutions can benefit from real-time data insights – understanding consumer preferences, optimising stock levels and improving operational efficiency. For payment solution providers, cashless systems are now a must-have, and there’s growing potential to expand partnerships with vending operators. At the same time, data-driven insights are increasingly valuable for food and beverage brands, allowing them to better understand consumption patterns and adjust product offerings accordingly.   Healthier products: The new standard   As consumer preferences shift towards healthier eating, the vending industry has embraced this demand. In 2023, 81% of cold drinks, 78% of confectionery and 36% of savoury snacks in vending machines met Commissioning for Quality and Innovation standards for healthier options. This shift isn’t just a compliance measure – it’s a growth area for businesses that supply healthy snacks, drinks and fresh food. For manufacturers and distributors, there’s an increasing appetite for healthier products that can be integrated into vending solutions, particularly in corporate environments. By collaborating with vending operators, food and beverage companies can ensure their products are part of the growing portfolio of healthier options, which are now proven to drive the same, if not greater, revenue as traditional alternatives.   Navigating economic pressures   Inflation and rising operational costs continue to challenge the food and beverage sector, and vending is no exception. From product and fuel costs to labour shortages, businesses are feeling the pressure. However, by leveraging vending and automated retail solutions, companies can find ways to mitigate some of these challenges. For businesses in hospitality, retail or the workplace, vending solutions offer an efficient and cost-effective way to maintain food and drink services. With hybrid working reducing footfall in traditional settings, the ability to provide on-demand, self-serve options with minimal staff requirements is becoming more attractive.   Additionally, the AVA is working closely with legislators to navigate upcoming changes, such as Deposit Return Schemes and mandatory cup take-back programmes, ensuring that businesses remain compliant without compromising service delivery.   Strategic collaboration: The way forward   The vending and automated retail industry is evolving rapidly, and its growth presents abundant opportunities for B2B collaboration. Whether you’re a food supplier looking to expand into new channels, a technology provider offering cashless systems or a hospitality operator seeking efficient, scalable solutions, the industry is ripe for partnerships.   At the AVA, we’re committed to supporting our members and partners as they navigate this exciting landscape. The key to future success lies in innovation, adaptability and collaboration across sectors. By working together, we can meet the demands of a changing market and drive the industry – and your business – forward. #AVA

Lavazza is launching its latest coffee bean collection, Tales of Italy, featuring premium blends inspired by 'Italian coffee destinations'. The Tales of Italy blends reflect Lavazza's Italian heritage, drawing inspiration from Milan, Venice and Rome. This new collection combines nostalgic aromas with a lasting taste. The blends use the beans from around the world, including Washed Arabica from Central and South America, Natural Arabica from Brazil and Washed Robusta from India and Indonesia. The Tales of Italy collection features three distinct blends: Galleria This 100% Arabica blend showcases hints of honey and raisin. Inspired by Milan, it reflects the sweet sophistication of the city's cafés, utilising Ceraja Apassita sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms known for their rich aromatic notes. Canal Grande – A crafted blend that combines natural Arabica from Central America, washed Robusta from Asia and 10% fermented Robusta. This blend captures the essence of Venice's cafés, offering rich flavours of chocolate and almond. Trastevere – This full-bodied blend consists of washed and fermented Robusta from Asia and natural Arabica from Central America. With notes of dark chocolate and hazelnut, Trastevere aims to transport coffee lovers to the streets of Rome. #Lavazza

Tomra has introduced a new reverse vending machine (RVM) – called TOMRA R2 – designed to allow smaller stores to accept over 100 empty drink containers for recycling in one go. The launch includes two new features for deposit refunds: digital vouchers accessible via mobile browsers and expanded options for charitable donations. According to the company, the Tomra R2 RVM emerges from market testing as the next generation of multi-feed returns, building on the success of Tomra R1, which is suited for high-volume retailers. The R2's compact design enables its installation in a wider range of stores, having been tested in Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark and the Netherlands. Tomra R2 aims to "rethink recycling" and reimagine traditional reverse vending with a minimalist, wall-mounted design that enhances user accessibility and guidance. The machine optimises screen space to provide intuitive instructions, making the recycling process simpler for users. The R2 is compatible with existing Tomra backroom storage solutions (such as Tomra MultiPac 2, EasyPac 1 and 2, and RollPac), allowing retailers to upgrade their RVM without investing in new equipment. Service access and cleaning is positioned at the back, minimising disruption on the retail floor. Additionally, retailers can now feature up to nine charities or community organisations for consumers to donate their deposit refunds, up from the previous limit of four. Tomra has introduced Digital Vouchers for deposit refunds, eliminating the need for apps. Users can scan a QR code on the RVM screen to receive a voucher in their mobile browser, creating a touch-free experience. This feature allows recyclers to shop while their containers are processed and receive their Digital Voucher afterward. Jonas Døvik, product manager for multi-feed solutions at Tomra Collection, said: "Today’s launch makes you rethink recycling and the reverse vending user experience. It brings benefit for all reverse vending stakeholders – with Tomra R2’s convenience for both retailers and recyclers, Digital Vouchers for consumers and greater donation opportunities to contribute to the wider community." #Tomra #reversevending

Santos has introduced the Kawa coffee grinder, designed for small batch grinding suitable for cupping, competitions and demonstrations. Kawa can grind 7g of coffee in 1.5 seconds and works with various filtration methods, including Turkish and brew coffee, making it ideal for coffee shops, restaurants, mobile caterers and home use. Key features include micrometric adjustment for precise grind settings, a removable fork for different portafilters and a professional asynchronous motor. Manufactured in France, the new mobile coffee grinder allows easy cleaning and maintenance, providing high-press with silent operation. Aurélien Fouquet, president of Santos, said: “The launch of our new Kawa n°76 grinder completes our new coffee range and combines all the Santos Coffee expertise in a compact version. This mobile grinder dedicated to all coffee lovers is ideal for a variety of uses, including cupping, coffee events, competitions and street vending”. #Santos #coffee

Amid rising operational pressures and tightening profit margins, foodservice operators are increasingly turning to technology to streamline operations while maintaining a personal touch, according to data analytics firm GlobalData. Though technology improves operations and customer experience, operators must address challenges such as maintaining personal service, integrating data, adapting to customer behaviour, training staff and managing customer expectations. Parthasaradhi Reddy Bokkala, lead consumer analyst at GlobalData, explained that operators are adopting a range of technologies to boost sales and profits. "Some of the technologies being adopted by the operators include digital hospitality to improve the ordering experience through technology while retaining the warmth of in-person service," Bokkala noted. "Personalised ordering systems that recognise repeat customers, [for example], can enhance the customer experience." Artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a significant role in this transformation. Deepak Nautiyal, consumer and retail commercial director for Asia-Pacific (APAC) and the Middle East at GlobalData, highlighted how AI systems are being used to manage routine tasks like phone orders. "This allows staff to concentrate on in-store customer interactions, thereby enhancing the overall guest experience". He further explained that AI integration in voice ordering ensures prompt responses to customer calls, reducing wait times and capturing unmet demand without compromising service quality. This approach improves efficiency while maintaining personalised attention for in-store customers. However, as technology reshapes the industry, it also introduces new challenges. Bokkala pointed out that customer expectations are evolving alongside these technological changes. "Customers increasingly expect quick service and seamless experiences, which can pressure operators to prioritise speed over the quality of personal service". He added that this creates a "tension" in balancing operational demands with the need to ensure customers feel valued and attended to. Consumers in APAC have a positive attitude towards the use of technology in personalising their services. A recent GlobalData survey found that 24% of respondents found the idea of food or drink personalisation through 3D printing highly appealing, while an additional 28% find it somewhat appealing. Furthermore, 58% appreciate personalised recommendations based on their past purchases, with 20% considering this option very appealing. Bokkala added: “Operators often face the challenge of ensuring that technology enhances efficiency without compromising the personal touch that customers value. While AI can handle tasks such as taking orders and upselling, it can create a barrier between staff and customers if not implemented thoughtfully. For instance, while AI can answer calls and process orders quickly, operators must ensure that this does not diminish the warmth of in-store hospitality that customers expect.” Nautiyal concludes: “The challenge for operators is to ensure that they retain customer engagement and personal attention. Operators can successfully balance the integration of technology with personal customer service by leveraging AI for efficiency, embracing digital hospitality, utilising real-time data for informed decision-making, implementing customer-centric solutions, and maintaining transparency in workforce practices. This multifaceted approach not only enhances operational effectiveness but also enriches the customer experience.” #GlobalData #foodservice

AeroPress has introduced its new AeroPress Premium coffee press, a redesigned version of its classic model. The new model features high-end materials, including double-walled borosilicate glass, stainless steel and aluminium. It includes updated components such as a stainless steel filter cap, scoop and stirrer, designed for improved performance and aesthetics. The company has responded to consumer requests for a glass and metal version of its coffee maker with the launch of the AeroPress Premium. This model reflects current trends in the coffee industry, which emphasise space-saving designs, quick brewing methods, and improved kitchen setups. The launch also includes the AeroPress Stainless Steel Organizer, a modern stand made of stainless steel and silicone for storing the new machine and its accessories. David Cole, CMO of AeroPress, said: "AeroPress is an icon in the coffee world, and the AeroPress Premium is a tribute to our heritage while pushing forward with a new level of craftsmanship. This isn't just about adding glass and metal — it's about creating a premium brewing experience. From the handmade, double-wall glass to the precisely engineered stainless steel filter cap, every detail was designed for performance, durability and beauty." The AeroPress Premium retails for $149.95, and the AeroPress Stainless Steel Organizer is priced at $99.95. Both products are currently available via the brand's website, with additional retailers and international distribution planned for the coming months. #AeroPress #coffeepress

Starbucks is expanding its global coffee innovation network to support farmers and address the challenges of climate change. Building on its agronomy work at Hacienda Alsacia, which is Starbucks' 240-hectare coffee farm in Costa Rica, the company has added new farms in Guatemala and Costa Rica, with plans for further investments in Africa and Asia. These farms aim to boost productivity, increase farmer profitability and build climate resilience. According to the company, Starbucks purchases 3% of the world’s coffee, sourcing only Arabica beans. Climate change is impacting the availability of high-quality coffee and affecting farming communities' productivity, crop quality and livelihoods. Rising temperatures, drought and coffee leaf rust are threatening coffee supply, quality and flavour. At Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks is addressing climate change by developing profitable farming practices and disease-resistant coffee varieties, which it shares with farmers globally. So far, the company has distributed about 90 million climate-resistant coffee trees and over 53 million seedlings. The new coffee innovation farms will expand research to combat climate challenges in more regions. The new farms in Costa Rica and Guatemala will study hybrid coffee varieties under varying elevations and soil conditions to advance research on new genetic material. The Costa Rica farm, located next to Hacienda Alsacia, will also test mechanisation, drones and other technologies to address labour challenges in Latin America. In Guatemala’s Antigua Valley, the farm will replicate smallholder farming conditions to reflect the challenges many farmers face. Starbucks plans future farm investments in Africa and Asia, creating a coffee innovation network across the three main regions of the "Coffee Belt" – Latin America, Africa and Asia Pacific. This network will study diverse cultures, landscapes and growing methods that shape coffee flavor. In addition, research from Starbucks innovation farms will be expanded through its coffee innovation network, which includes ten Farmer Support Centers in coffee growing regions worldwide and 70 "model farms" in its supply chain. Agronomists work directly with farmers on research and best practices. The sustainability learning and innovation lab at Hacienda Alsacia will also open in December to continue this work. Michelle Burns, Starbucks' EVP of global coffee and sustainability, said: “Starbucks works with more than 450,000 farms that grow the highest quality Arabica coffee in the world. Our promise to those farmers and their communities is that we will always work to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all. Our solution is to develop on-farm interventions, share seeds, research and practices across the industry to help farmers mitigate the impacts of climate change.” Roberto Vega, Starbucks' VP of global coffee agronomy, R&D and sustainability, added: “Through these innovation farms, we will develop solutions that will not only improve coffee productivity and quality but also empower farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a changing world and challenging climate. This work is done on behalf of coffee farmers everywhere with findings that can be applied across other industries and crops that are also impacted by climate change.”  #Starbucks #sustainability