From payments to convenience to experience, today’s consumers expect more. In this episode, Adam Stockwell, vice president of sales (UK) for 365 Retail Markets, explains how the PicoCooler Vision  is bridging the gap between traditional vending and modern retail expectations. Adam Stockwell Unlike legacy vending machines or RFID-based smart coolers, PicoCooler Vision offers a frictionless, intuitive shopping experience driven by computer vision. Customers simply tap to unlock, browse freely and pay automatically for what they take. No scanning, no tags, no waiting. The impact? At Loughborough University, students embraced the format for everything from snacks to full weekly shops, proving just how natural and trusted the experience feels. Meanwhile, operators are benefitting from higher engagement, larger basket sizes, and around-the-clock sales while managing products, pricing, and promotions remotely through the cloud. With built-in security, the PicoCooler Vision has controlled access, real-time product tracking and complete transaction traceability. From student halls to hotel receptions, the PicoCooler Vision provides peace of mind in even the most dynamic environments. But beyond the tech, PicoCooler Vision is a platform designed to evolve. Whether it’s supporting ambient and freezer products, launching age verification or loyalty programmes, or scaling across large sites, 365 Retail Markets is building for what’s next. This episode is a deep dive into how 365 Retail Markets is redefining unattended retail and creating smarter, more human experiences that feel less mechanical and more like the future of food.

Philz Coffee has signed an agreement to be acquired by private equity firm Freeman Spogli. Terms of the transaction were not officially disclosed. However, sources say the acquisition is valued at approximately $145 million. The San Francisco-based coffee chain, founded in 2003 by Phil Jaber and his son Jacob, has grown from a single café in the Mission District to various locations across California and Chicago. It also operates wholesale and online sales channels, all supported by a local roasting facility in Oakland, California. Philz will continue to be led by CEO Mahesh Sadarangani, who joined the company in 2021, along with the existing leadership team. The company said its management and staff will remain in place following the acquisition. Sadarangani said: "This is an exciting new chapter for Philz as we expand and continue our mission to deliver a high-quality, personalised coffee experience to our loyal customers. Freeman Spogli's deep experience in the consumer and restaurant sectors, along with their collaborative approach, makes them an ideal partner as we look to expand our footprint and continuously improve our offerings. We're proud of the strong foundation we've built and look forward to accelerating our growth together." Freeman Spogli, which has invested in brands such as Popeyes Chicken, El Pollo Loco and Floor & Decor, said Philz Coffee has strong potential for expansion in the specialty coffee market. "Philz is a beloved brand with a passionate customer base, distinctive, handcrafted coffee offerings and significant room for expansion," said Brad Brutocao, partner at Freeman Spogli. "We are committed to preserving and building upon Philz' rich heritage and will continue delivering the unique, authentic coffee experience that makes the brand so special. We believe the company is well-positioned for meaningful growth in the attractive and growing specialty coffee category, especially with Mahesh and the talented Philz team to help drive this new chapter of success." Jacob Jaber added: "From day one, Philz has been known for its distinct approach to coffee and the community it has cultivated around the brand. It was personally important to us to find a partner that fully appreciates and is firmly committed to our mission." "With continued leadership from Mahesh and the customer-focused approach of Freeman Spogli, Philz is well positioned to continue scaling while staying true to what makes it special." The transaction is expected to close on 6 August 2025. Top image: © Philz Coffee

Mott’s, a brand under Keurig Dr Pepper, has introduced its first-ever line of Fruit Smoothie pouches, targeting the growing demand for convenient and nutritious snack options. The launch includes two flavours: Strawberry Banana, a non-dairy option made with oat milk, and Vanilla Peach, which contains dairy milk. These shelf-stable pouches are designed to cater to families seeking quick, easy snacks that fit into busy lifestyles, aligning with current consumer trends toward on-the-go eating. Krysten Howey, director of brand marketing at Keurig Dr Pepper, said: “The pouch category is rapidly expanding beyond applesauce thanks to growing demand for convenience, nutrition and novelty. Our new Mott’s Fruit Smoothie pouches are designed to meet the moment." She added: "With 83% of consumers already making smoothies at home and families now snacking more than twice a day on average, we see a clear opportunity to deliver a new, delicious, on-the-go snack option from the trusted Mott’s brand – made to fit effortlessly into everyday routines”. The new product is now available nationwide at major retailers such as Target and Walmart.

Brita and the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) have eliminated 481,000 single-use plastic bottles from UK tennis events over the past two years, as part of a wider push to promote refill-first solutions across the hospitality industry. The partnership, which sees Brita serve as the official sustainable water partner to the LTA, has introduced filtered water stations and reusable bottles at major British WTA and ATP events including Queen’s Club, Birmingham, Nottingham and Eastbourne. According to Brita, the model offers a scalable approach for hospitality businesses seeking to reduce waste, cut costs and improve sustainability without compromising the guest experience. David Hall, managing director of Brita UK, said: “This isn’t just a sustainability win – it’s proof that with the right infrastructure and messaging, you can drive real behaviour change. Hospitality has enormous influence, and even small changes – when made consistently and visibly – can create a ripple effect that shifts industry norms and accelerates the move away from single-use culture.” Practical steps for hospitality operators Brita and the LTA’s initiative highlights how hospitality businesses could adapt similar strategies to reduce plastic waste and encourage reuse. 1. Improve access and visibility At LTA events, refill stations were prominently placed and integrated into digital wayfinding tools, helping attendees locate hydration points easily. For hospitality settings such as hotels and venues, clearly signposted refill infrastructure could make sustainable choices more accessible to guests. 2. Engage with guests before arrival Attendees were encouraged to bring reusable bottles at the ticketing stage and received reminders via email and mobile apps. This approach, Brita suggests, can be replicated by hospitality businesses to shape guest habits in advance and reduce reliance on single-use plastics. 3. Focus on long-term integration The LTA and Brita worked together on a strategy that included staff training and operational changes. The partnership underlines the importance of long-term planning and collaboration when implementing sustainability initiatives across both guest-facing and behind-the-scenes operations.

Sadaf Foods has unveiled its first-ever electric Mediterranean Coffee Maker, designed to modernise a centuries-old brewing tradition while preserving its authentic taste. Founded in 1982, Sadaf is a Los Angeles-based company that imports, manufactures and distributes Mediterranean, kosher and speciality foods. The machine uses rapid brewing to prepare up to four cups of Turkish, Greek, Armenian or other Mediterranean-style coffee in minutes. It features one-touch operation, automatic foam control and a built-in overflow sensor. Unlike standard electric coffee makers, it boils ground coffee without the need for filters or disposable pods. Users add finely ground coffee, water and sugar if desired. No stovetop or sand is required. Sadaf's director of e-commerce, Daniella Soofer, said: "Although Sadaf is renowned for our best-selling teas, we absolutely love a great cup of Mediterranean coffee and are so excited about this launch. Plus coffee pairs so well with Sadaf's selection of Middle Eastern and Mediterranean sweets." The Mediterranean Coffee Maker, which is available in red or black colours, retails for $69 via the company's websites and at select retailers.

Jestic Foodservice Solutions has partnered with Bear Robotics to bring the company’s advanced Servi+ service robot to the UK, offering live demonstrations at its development kitchen in Paddock Wood, Kent. The partnership comes as the hospitality industry continues to grapple with rising labour costs and staffing shortages. The Servi+ robot, developed by California-based Bear Robotics, is designed to ease those pressures by supporting service operations in restaurants and other foodservice environments. Founded in 2017, Bear Robotics brings together over 15 years of expertise in software, robotics and hospitality. Its Servi+ model features a 16-dish capacity, multi-table delivery and all-floor navigation capable of handling ramps and transporting liquids. The robot also includes responsive LED lighting, a customisable messaging display for guest interaction, and accommodates up to four extra-large trays with adjustable configurations. Michael Eyre, product director at Jestic Foodservice Solutions comments: “It’s a pleasure to showcase the Servi+ at our demonstration Kitchen in Paddock Wood. With the ongoing issue of labour costs effecting the industry, we’re proud to be championing a product that provides an innovative solution." "With these service robots, not only are they increasing operational efficiency, but they also increase staff satisfaction, reducing burdens like heavy lifting and burnout.”

Westrock Coffee Company is opening a new 525,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Conway, Arkansas, as part of its strategy to scale production and meet rising demand for single-serve coffee products. The facility, located on William J Clark Drive and referred to as the 'Clark' site, will initially focus on producing single-serve coffee, with room for future expansion into other formats. Of the total space, 130,000 square feet will be dedicated to manufacturing, while the rest will support 'fulfillment and distribution'. The move comes as the global market for coffee pods is projected to grow from $35.3 billion in 2024 to $71.2 billion by 2034. Westrock said it aims to meet this demand with technology capable of producing millions of single-serve cups daily. Will Ford, COO at Westrock Coffee, said: "The single-serve category is evolving rapidly, and we are scaling our operations to meet our customers' needs. This expansive new facility significantly enhances our capabilities in the US market, and we are excited about the opportunities it will create for our existing and potential customers, employees, and the local community here in central Arkansas." In 2024, Westrock opened a $315 million manufacturing facility in Conway dedicated to producing ready-to-drink coffee products. Once fully operational, Westrock's Conway facilities are expected to employ 900 people across manufacturing, quality assurance and logistics roles.

Gatorade is making waves in the hydration market with the launch of its latest product, Gatorade Hydration Booster Relax, designed specifically to support athletes and active consumers beyond traditional sports scenarios. This innovative drink mix aims to provide a functional solution for relaxation and recovery, tapping into the growing demand for products that cater to wellness and daily hydration needs. Gatorade Hydration Booster Relax features a unique formulation that combines electrolytes with functional ingredients such as L-Theanine and magnesium. These components are well-regarded for their ability to promote relaxation and help mitigate stress, making this drink mix an ideal choice for consumers looking to unwind after physical activity or a long day. Available in a refreshing Raspberry Lemon flavour, the product is crafted without artificial flavours, sweeteners or added colours, aligning with the increasing consumer preference for clean label products. Gatorade's commitment to science-driven innovation is evident in the development of the Hydration Booster, which is supported by research from the Gatorade Sports Science Institute. This backing not only enhances the product's credibility but also positions it as a serious contender in the functional beverage category. By focusing on hydration that goes beyond performance, Gatorade is addressing a broader spectrum of consumer needs, particularly among those who prioritise both physical activity and mental wellbeing.

Ty Nant, a player in the premium bottled water sector, has acquired Strathmore Water from AG Barr, marking a significant strategic move for both brands. The deal underscores Ty Nant's aim to enhance its operational scale and geographic footprint while preserving the distinct heritage of Strathmore, an established name in the UK water market. Strathmore Water, with its origins in Forfar, Scotland, has built a strong reputation in hospitality, foodservice and leisure sectors over the decades. The acquisition ensures that Strathmore will continue to be bottled at its source in Scotland, safeguarding local jobs and maintaining its legacy. Raminder Sidhu, chairman and director of Ty Nant, highlighted the importance of the Strathmore brand and its dedicated team in Forfar. “This is a brand with a deep legacy and a loyal following, and we are honoured to be entrusted with its next chapter,” he said. “At the heart of Strathmore’s success is the incredible team in Forfar," Sidhu continued. "Their professionalism, passion and care are a true testament to the strength of the brand and the business. We’re proud to welcome them into the Ty Nant family and excited to invest further in their future.” The acquisition comes at a time when Ty Nant has experienced substantial growth, securing partnerships with leading hotels, retailers and cultural institutions globally. By integrating Strathmore into its portfolio, Ty Nant aims to enhance its market position while continuing to operate Strathmore as a distinctly Scottish brand. The company plans to invest in sustainability initiatives and strengthen customer partnerships, positioning the Forfar site as a key asset for future development. Ty Nant is known for its distinctive blue and crimson glass bottles and premium spring water sourced from Wales. The brand has rapidly ascended in the competitive drinks market, recently being recognised in the Sunday Times 100 list of the fastest-growing private companies in the UK. AG Barr, a UK-based beverage company known for brands scuh as Irn-Bru and Rubicon, has owned Strathmore Water since 2006. With the sale, AG Barr continues its focus on its core beverage portfolio while transferring the stewardship of Strathmore to Ty Nant, which aims to uphold the brand’s legacy. As the bottled water market evolves, Ty Nant’s acquisition of Strathmore reflects broader trends in the industry, including a growing emphasis on regional sourcing, sustainability and premium product offerings. The move positions Ty Nant to leverage Strathmore’s established market presence while contributing to the ongoing growth of the premium bottled water segment in the UK and beyond

Farmer Brothers Coffee has begun evaluating strategic alternatives aimed at maximising shareholder value. The US-based coffee and tea distributor said its board has formed a strategy committee made up of independent directors to evaluate a broad range of potential strategic alternatives and make recommendations to the full board. The move comes after several years of underperformance and follows the 2023 sale of its direct ship business, which aimed to streamline operations. Despite some operational improvements, the company continues to face financial challenges. Farmer Brothers's chairman of the board, David Pace, said: “Since the 2023 sale of our direct ship business, we have been focused on improving our financial and operational structure and are pleased with the progress we have made. We believe now is the right time to explore additional options that could allow us to more effectively maximise shareholder value." No timeline has been set for the review, and the company said there is no guarantee it will result in a transaction.

Premium chocolate brand, Fatso, has introduced a new flavour – called Drunk’n Monkey – as part of its ongoing effort to redefine the dark chocolate market. The product, which retails at £7.25 for a 150g bar, features crisped banana chips infused with rum and sprinkled with sea salt, all enveloped in Fatso's signature dark Colombian chocolate. Launched in September 2022, Fatso has positioned itself as a disruptor in the chocolate industry, challenging the notion that dark chocolate must be serious and reserved. The brand aims to appeal to consumers who seek both indulgence and fun in their chocolate choices. Co-Founder Ella McKay said: “There’s no monkeying around with this flavour! We’ve carefully combined a tropical trio of ingredients and covered it in our delicious single-origin dark chunky chocolate”. The introduction of Drunk’n Monkey aligns with Fatso's strategy to offer unique confectionery flavour combinations that appeal to adventurous consumers. The brand sources its cacao from Luker Chocolate in Colombia, ensuring high quality and ethical production practices. This commitment to single-origin, Fino de Aroma certified cacao reflects growing consumer demand for transparency and sustainability in food sourcing. Drunk’n Monkey is available for purchase online, with plans for wider distribution through independent retailers and wholesalers in the coming months. This phased rollout is designed to maximise visibility and accessibility for both retail partners and consumers. Fatso's distribution strategy includes partnerships with over 300 independent and premium retailers across the UK, such as Liberty and Harvey Nichols, as well as various food service outlets. The brand's focus on independent retailers highlights a growing trend in the food and beverage sector, where consumers increasingly seek out unique, high-quality products that stand out from mass-produced alternatives. The chocolate industry has also seen a rise in ethical consumerism, with many buyers prioritizing brands that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices. Fatso’s collaboration with Luker Chocolate, which emphasises fair treatment of farmers and environmental stewardship, positions the brand favourably in this evolving market landscape.

HRC, the trade event for hospitality and foodservice professionals, has unveiled a significant new direction for its 2026 edition, promising a completely transformed experience when it returns to ExCeL London from 30 March to 1 April.   Based on detailed feedback from exhibitors, partners and visitors, and shaped by independent industry research, HRC is undergoing a thoughtful and ambitious transformation. The show will relocate to ExCeL London’s South Hall, joining The Pub Show and the new hospitality tech event, Hospitality Tech360. This move reflects a broader shift in focus, with a redesigned layout and new features aimed at fostering genuine connection, showcasing innovation and supporting the business needs of the fast-moving hospitality industry.   “This is so much more than a refresh,” commente Jo Farish, event manager for HRC. “We’ve taken a deep dive into what the industry really wants from its dedicated trade show. The result is a bold reinvention of HRC; one that celebrates creativity, drives innovation, and creates opportunities to connect in ways that feel natural and impactful. The energy building for 2026 is electric, and I can’t wait to welcome everyone to this new era.” What’s new for 2026? New for HRC 2026 are dedicated show sections including Bar, Pastry, Street Food and Pizza & Pasta, which will showcase immersive, trend-led experiences and a diverse range of suppliers ready to elevate hospitality offerings. The introduction of Pastry HQ, which expands on the popular Chef HQ feature, curated by Chef Publishing, and the Future of Drinks Stage alongside the ever-popular Vision Stage will add further depth to HRC’s already powerful content programme, combining high-energy panels with practical insight and live demos.    Another new addition, the Chef’s Table, will offer a curated space where top chefs cook live using products from the show, creating an engaging, real-time showcase of innovation and quality. Designed with senior buyers and multi-site operators in mind, it’s a setting that encourages meaningful dialogue, product discovery, and valuable brand exposure, all in an environment that feels more like a conversation than a pitch.    New digital tools and event features will elevate networking across the three days. A new matchmaking app, a Meet the Buyer programme and a buzzing calendar of social and networking events mean more face time, better leads, and meaningful conversations.    Scott Duncan, managing director of exhibiting brand Unox, commented: “The Unox team are greatly looking forward to taking part in HRC 2026. HRC is a key event in the UK’s hospitality and catering calendar, bringing together senior leaders from across the industry to exchange ideas and discover new professional kitchen solutions. We can’t wait to showcase the latest developments from Unox at the show and connect with chefs and operators from across the sector.”    Stuart Jeffrey, marketing director at Unilever Food Solutions UK&I-ANZ, highlighted: “HRC 2025 was the perfect platform to launch our Future Menus Volume 3 report on the Vision Stage. It allowed us to connect with forward-thinking hospitality leaders and share insights shaping the future of food. The added brand exposure and access to HRC’s audience also extended our reach beyond the event. We were proud to partner with HRC in driving innovation and helping operators stay ahead of evolving diner expectations.”    Tom Holloway, head chef, The Pig Hotel in Harlyn Bay, added: “HRC is exceptional, an amazing celebration of hospitality, food and drink, showcasing creativity and passion in our industry”.   With a revitalised atmosphere, re-energised format and an engaged audience hungry for what’s next, HRC 2026 promises to be the UK’s most exciting hospitality trade event revival.    Find out more about everything happening as part of HRC 2026, and enquire into exhibiting or speaking at the show here .