FoodBev Awards is thrilled to unveil the winners of the UK Soft Drinks Awards 2025! These awards shine a spotlight on the very best of the UK's dynamic soft drinks industry, celebrating the taste that continues to drive the sector forward. A huge congratulations to all the winning companies and products that have demonstrated exceptional standards in a highly competitive market. UK Soft Drinks Conference 2025 The results were announced at the UK Soft Drinks Conference, held in association with the British Soft Drinks Association. For more than two decades, this conference has served as a key gathering for senior industry figures, including producers, suppliers, retailers, innovators, opinion leaders and advisers. Delivering a thorough overview of current issues and future opportunities alongside networking opportunities, the UK Soft Drinks Conference continues to be the hub for comprehensive evaluation of the UK drinks sector. The judging panel faced the challenging task of evaluating a remarkable array of entries, reflecting the vibrant health and ingenuity present within the UK soft drinks landscape. We extend our sincere thanks to the Gareth Jones, Claire Nuttall, Lauren Tredgett, Rafaela Sousa and Matthew Blake, for their time, expertise and careful consideration. Congratulations to all the winners, finalists and commended companies! UK Soft Drinks Awards 2025 results Best carbonated drink WINNER Hip Pop  - Hip Pop Berries & Cherries Soda FINALIST Aqua Carpatica  - Aqua Carpatica Flavours FINALIST Carlsberg Britvic  - Pepsi Treats Strawberries N Cream FINALIST Fentimans  - Ginger Beer FINALIST Fentimans  - Rose Lemonade FINALIST MF Food and Beverage - Xoxo Sparkling Lychee Soda FINALIST OHMG Brands Limited  - OHMG Sparkling Magnesium Water COMMENDED Beliv/Refresco  - Old Jamaica Ginger Beer COMMENDED Syps - Syps COMMENDED Wow Cacao  - Wow Cacao - Sparkling Best dilutable product WINNER Belvoir Farm  - Elderflower Cordial FINALIST Get More Vits  - Get More Vits Kids Multivitamin Squash FINALIST SHS Drinks (bottlegreen)  - bottlegreen Elderflower Cordial Best fruit/juice drink WINNER Tiger Tiger Foods - PULP+ 100% Real Mango Juice With pulp FINALIST Capri-Sun UK - Capri-Sun Zero Monster Alarm 4x200ml Kids' Juice Drink FINALIST Mogu Mogu - Mogu Mogu Zero Sugar Best functional drink WINNER TRIP Drinks - Trip CBD - Raspberry & Orange Blossom FINALIST Functional Soda Co t/a Living Things  - Living Things Watermelon & Lime Soda FINALIST G Spot  - G Spot Drinks FINALIST Goodrays  - Goodrays CBD Drink FINALIST Hip Pop  - Apple & Elderflower Kombucha FINALIST MF Food And Beverage Limited - Xoxo Sparkling Lychee Soda FINALIST Punchy  - Mexican Lime Hydration FINALIST Vit Hit - Vit Hit Lean & Green FINALIST Water Junkie  - Water Junkie CBD COMMENDED Muush - miniMuush - Blueberry and Raspberry Best low/no alcohol drink WINNER Lucky Saint - Lucky Saint Alcohol-Free Lemon Lager 0.5% FINALIST Daymer Bay Drinks - Daymer Bay Mojito Mocktail FINALIST Daymer Bay Drinks  - Daymer Bay Strawberry Daiquiri Mocktail FINALIST Lucky Saint - Lucky Saint Superior Unfiltered Lager 0.5% COMMENDED TeaJoy  - TeaJoy Bubble Tea COMMENDED Wow Cacao - Wow Cacao - Sparkling Best low/no sugar drink WINNER Dash Brands - Dash Sparkling Raspberry 500ml FINALIST Aqua Carpatica - Aqua Carpatica Sparkling Flavours FINALIST Fever-Tree  - Fever-Tree Mexican Lime Soda FINALIST Jamu Wild Water - Sparkling range FINALIST Lucky Saint - Lucky Saint Alcohol Free Lemon Lager 0.5% FINALIST Marlish Waters - Marlish Sparkling British Raspberry Spring Water FINALIST Nestlé Waters - Sanpellegrino Zero FINALIST Vit Hit - Vit Hit Lean & green COMMENDED Radnor Hills Mineral Water Company - Radnor Splash COMMENDED Syps - Syps Best natural/organic drink WINNER The Root Co  - Original Ginger Beer FINALIST Aqua Carpatica  - Aqua Carpatica Flavours FINALIST Equinox Kombucha  - Equinox Kombucha Sicilian Lemon 275ml FINALIST The Root Co  - Fiery Ginger Kick COMMENDED Wow Cacao - Wow Cacao - Still Best plant-based drink WINNER Equinox Kombucha  - Equinox Kombucha Fiery Ginger 250ml FINALIST Aqua Carpatica  - Aqua Carpatica Flavours FINALIST OHMG Brands - OHMG Sparkling Magnesium Water Best premium drink WINNER Fentimans  - Rose Lemonade FINALIST Fentimans  - Ginger Beer FINALIST TeaJoy - TeaJoy Bubble Tea COMMENDED Wow Cacao  - Wow Cacao - Sparkling Best sports/energy drink WINNER Virtue Drinks - Virtue Clean Energy FINALIST Carabao Drinks  - Carabao Sport Isotonic Drink Raspberry FINALIST Vitakick  - Vitakick - Cherry FINALIST Vitakick - Vitakick - Tropical COMMENDED Carabao Drinks  - Carabao Energy Drink Mixed Berry Best wellness drink WINNER Trip Drinks - Trip Mindful Blend - Wild Strawberry FINALIST Equinox Kombucha  - Equinox Kombucha Pink Grapefruit & Guava 275ml FINALIST Euno  - Euno Nootropic Soda - Apple & Açai FINALIST Hip Pop - Passionfruit & Guava CBD Kombucha FINALIST Jamu Wild Water  - Sparkling range FINALIST OHMG Brands - OHMG Sparkling Magnesium Water FINALIST The Root Co  - Fiery Ginger Kick COMMENDED G Spot  - G Spot COMMENDED The Root Co - Original Ginger Beer COMMENDED Wow Cacao - Wow Cacao - Still Best in can WINNER MF Food And Beverage - Xoxo Sparkling Lychee Soda FINALIST Aqua Carpatica  - Aqua Carpatica 330ml Aluminium Cans FINALIST Dash Brands - Dash Sparkling Raspberry 500ml FINALIST OHMG Brands - OHMG Sparkling Magnesium Water FINALIST TeaJoy - TeaJoy Bubble Tea FINALIST The Root Co  - Fiery Ginger Kick COMMENDED Crown Packaging Services EMEA - Furocity COMMENDED Beliv/ Refresco  - Old Jamaica Ginger Beer Best packaging/label design WINNER Functional Soda Co t/a Living Things  - Living Things Peach & Blood Orange Soda FINALIST Carlsberg Britvic - Pepsi Treats Strawberries N Cream FINALIST Hip Pop  - Tropical Peach Soda FINALIST Beliv/ Refresco  - Old Jamaica Ginger Beer FINALIST WaterJunkie  - WaterJunkie CBD COMMENDED Capri-Sun UK - Capri-Sun Zero Apple and Blackcurrant Single-Serve 200ml Kids' Juice Drink (Monomaterial) COMMENDED Capri-Sun UK - Capri-Sun Zero Orange Single-Serve 200ml Kids' Juice Drink (Monomaterial) Congratulations to all the successful products, businesses and brands! 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 .

Brita Professional has launched the iQ Meter, a new digital tool designed to help coffee, vending and hospitality operators monitor and manage water filters in real time. The iQ Meter connects to Brita's Purity C and Purity filtration systems, allowing businesses to track filter usage, reduce energy costs and extend equipment lifespan by preventing scale build-up. According to Brita, just 1mm of scale can increase energy consumption by 7%, making precise filter management key to reducing operating costs. The device uses 4G connectivity and plug-and-play installation to provide remote access and simplified management across multiple sites. It integrates with the Brita iQ Portal – a cloud-based platform offering real-time data on filter performance and usage trends. Brita says the iQ Meter enables businesses to replace filters only when necessary, cutting unnecessary service visits and equipment downtime. It also supports wider efforts to lower energy use; recent research from the company found that 61% of hospitality businesses are already using smart technologies to reduce equipment energy usage, and 49% are using IoT tools for energy monitoring. Samantha Scoles, sales director at Brita Professional, said: “We recognise the challenges businesses are up against – from rising costs to tight margins and the constant pressure to streamline operations. The Brita iQ Meter helps businesses tackle these issues by providing digital monitoring that simplifies filter management, boosts efficiency, and ultimately cuts costs.”

The Brazil Specialty Coffee Association (BSCA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) to adopt the Coffee Value Assessment (CVA) as the official protocol for evaluating Brazilian speciality coffees. Brazil becomes the second country to integrate the CVA into its national quality framework, following Colombia. The CVA, developed by SCA, evaluates coffee based on a broader set of criteria beyond flavour, including physical, affective, descriptive and extrinsic attributes. Vinicius Estrela, executive director of the BSCA, said: “This MoU reflects our commitment to strengthening Brazil’s leadership in speciality coffee through innovation, education and global connection. By adopting the Coffee Value Assessment as our official protocol and working closely with the SCA to expand training and education, we’re creating new opportunities for producers and helping shape a more inclusive and transparent future for coffee.” The agreement also outlines a plan to expand access to SCA education and certification programmes in Brazil. BSCA will lead the rollout of training for coffee professionals across the country, in areas such as cupping, roasting and quality management. SCA will provide technical support to implement the CVA, including training BSCA’s cuppers and technical teams, assisting in data collection and supporting national events. Yannis Apostolopoulos, CEO of the SCA, added: “Brazil’s endorsement of the Coffee Value Assessment is a powerful signal to the global coffee community. Together with BSCA, we are laying the foundation for a more transparent, inclusive and informed coffee industry. This is how we make coffee better – for producers, for buyers and for coffee lovers around the world.” The partnership formalises an ongoing relationship between the two organisations and aligns Brazil’s coffee evaluation practices with an emerging international standard.

Brazil is forecast to produce 55.7 million 60-kilo bags of coffee in the 2025 harvest, representing a 2.7% increase compared to last season’s harvest, according to the National Supply Company (Conab). If the estimated volume is confirmed, this will mark the largest ever harvest recorded in a negative biennial year, surpassing the 2023 harvest by 1.1%. Conilon coffee drives growth The main contributor to this growth is conilon (robusta) coffee, which is expected to see a 28.3% rise in average productivity, reaching 50.4 sacks per hectare. As a result, conilon production is projected to reach a record 18.7 million bags. This outcome is attributed to favourable weather conditions during critical phases of the crops, supporting positive flowering and a high quantity of fruits per rosette. In Espírito Santo, Brazil’s largest conilon-producing state, coffee production is forecast at 13.1 million bags. The increase is largely due to well-timed rainfall in the north of the state, which accounts for nearly 70% of the country’s conilon-growing area. Bahia is also expected to see a strong recovery, with a 28.2% rise in conilon production to 2.5 million bags. As a result, Bahia will regain its position as the second-largest producer of conilon, overtaking Rondônia, where production is expected to reach 2.28 million bags. Decline in arabica production While conilon coffee sees growth, arabica coffee, which is more affected by Brazil’s biennial production cycle, is expected to fall by 6.6%, with a forecast of around 37 million bags. In Minas Gerais, the largest arabica-producing state, the harvest is projected to be 25.65 million bags. According to Conab, the reduction in arabica production is mainly due to the negative effects of the biennial cycle, as well as the long dry spell that affected crops between April and September 2024, weakening the plants and reducing their productivity. São Paulo is also expected to see a decline in arabica productivity due to the physiological effects of the biennial cycle, compounded by adverse weather conditions. However, the state’s total planted area is expected to grow by 5.3%, reaching 196,000 hectares. This growth will help offset the loss in productivity, leading to a 1.3% increase in production, estimated at 5.5 million bags. Export volumes decline, revenues increase Brazil’s coffee exports in the first quarter of 2025 dipped slightly, with 11.7 million bags shipped – down 1% compared to the same period in 2024. This reduction is attributed to limited domestic stocks in early 2025 following a tighter production cycle and strong exports in 2024. Despite the dip in volume, the value of exports rose significantly. Brazil’s coffee exports were valued at $4.1 billion in Q1, a 68.9% increase compared to the previous year, driven by high global coffee prices and strong demand. While global production is expected to rise, international coffee prices are likely to remain under pressure due to low global stocks. This will likely continue to support higher prices in the international market throughout the year.

Apex Order Pickup Solutions has launched its new modular and scalable OrderHQ Array Series, designed to streamline off-premises order handoff in any restaurant layout. The Array Series offers flexible configurations without the need for costly remodeling, helping quick-service restaurants, fast-casual chains and foodservice operators enhance efficiency and eliminate order pickup bottlenecks. It features modular compartments that can be arranged horizontally or stacked vertically, depending on the available space and order volume. This adaptability allows operators to optimise their operations without significant infrastructure changes. The lockers can be placed on countertops, mounted on walls or installed in a free-standing grid, seamlessly integrating with existing restaurant setups. Key features include larger compartments for larger orders, proprietary Order InSight technology for monitoring order loading and pickup and easy expandability to meet growing demand. The system ensures secure order retrieval via a unique access code, reducing staff involvement and preventing errors, theft and mix-ups. With the ability to retrieve orders in ten seconds or less, the system is said to meet customer demand for speed and convenience. The modular design enables restaurants to start small and expand as needed. Subscription-based pricing plans allow operators to implement the Array Series without the need for upfront capital investment. The ApexIQ platform integrates with existing mobile ordering systems, offering real-time metrics on order fulfillment and labor efficiency, optimising operations and improving profitability. Kent Savage, founder and executive chairman of Apex Order Pickup Solutions, said: “Automating the pickup process with smart locker solutions can improve profitability by freeing up at least one associate per hour per day, provide higher average unit volume potential by streamlining operations and improve both front-of-house operations and customer service". "The flexible design of our new OrderHQ Array Series opens the door for more restaurants to take advantage of these benefits whether it's a standalone install or built seamlessly into an existing space.”

Inventory inaccuracies are costing European supermarkets in efficiency and customer trust. Michel Spruijt, president of Brain Corp International, discusses how technologies like AI-powered robots, IoT tracking and machine learning are helping retailers improve inventory accuracy, streamline operations and stay competitive in a challenging market. In the competitive landscape of European supermarkets, inventory visibility has emerged as one of the critical factors that can differentiate successful retailers from struggling ones. Recent studies paint a concerning picture: approximately 60% of SKUs across seven major European retailers suffer from inventory inaccuracies, creating a cascade of operational challenges that ultimately hurt the bottom line. These inaccuracies don’t merely cause administrative headaches – they are practical difficulties that European supermarkets are being obliged to overcome: Nearly 40% of retailers have been forced to cancel at least one in ten orders due to poor inventory visibility, a statistic that highlights the severity of the issue. When shoppers encounter empty shelves where their desired products should be, or when online orders are canceled due to stock discrepancies, customer trust can erode quickly. The root causes Understanding why inventory records become inaccurate is essential to addressing the problem. Several factors contribute to these discrepancies. First, theft and shipment errors constitute a significant portion of inventory inaccuracies. Products that disappear due to theft but remain in digital inventory records create phantom stock – items that appear available in systems but don't physically exist on shelves. Phantom stock is also caused by discrepancies between scanned products and stock actually taken from shelves. Human error also presents an inevitable challenge. Mistakes at point-of-sale terminals, during returns processing, or when transferring stock between locations, can all contribute to inventory discrepancies. Even with stringent protocols in place, manual processes leave room for errors. Technology limitations can also play a role. Despite advancements in inventory management systems, retailers are blighted by outdated data from POS and ERP systems, legacy system integration issues, and siloed inventory views. Manual processes are still in use throughout the supply chain – from paper manifests to Excel-based inventory tracking – increasing vulnerability to errors, shortages or excess stock. Technology solutions transforming inventory management European supermarkets are turning to technology to quickly address inventory issues and gain better visibility. Real-time inventory tracking systems utilising IoT such as smart shelves, provide continuous updates on product locations and quantities, reducing discrepancies between physical and digital inventories. Moreover, this type of integration enables retailers to monitor stock levels across their entire network in real-time, facilitating more efficient distribution and reducing stockouts. AI and machine learning-powered solutions, such as Streamline which uses algorithms to detect data patterns and generate forecasts while minimising stockouts and overstocks, are being deployed to enhance forecasting accuracy and automating inventory management. Inventory scanning robots like those powered by our own AI operating system, BrainOS, are designed to autonomously gather inventory data in-store and put detailed inventory intelligence at managers’ fingertips in real time, allowing them to optimise store operations and allocate resources more strategically. Broader success for retail operations Modern inventory visibility has implications far beyond accurate stock counts. Operations can see significant efficiency gains when staff can locate products quickly and accurately. Work hours previously spent searching for misplaced items or conducting emergency stock checks can be redirected to more valuable customer-facing services. In addition, supply chains become more resilient as retailers gain clearer insights into their inventory situation. With accurate data, supermarkets can respond more nimbly to supply disruptions, potentially shifting stock between locations or adjusting orders before shortages impact customers. Enhanced inventory visibility also translates directly to more informed decision-making at all levels. With accurate, real-time inventory data, executives can fine-tune investment strategies across product categories and locations. Department managers can make evidence-based decisions about merchandising priorities, promotions and product placement when armed with reliable inventory information. Store managers benefit from clearer visibility into stock performance metrics, enabling them to identify and address issues before they escalate into major problems affecting customer experience. This data-driven approach to management transforms inventory from a mere operational concern into a strategic asset. The path forward As European supermarkets navigate the complex challenges of modern retail, inventory visibility will continue to serve as a foundational advantage. The coming years will likely see an intensified focus on improved inventory systems, with automated robotics playing an increasingly prominent role in inventory management without disrupting customer experiences. For European supermarkets facing intense competition from discount chains and online stores, the message is clear: inventory visibility is not merely about administrative accuracy; it's about creating the seamless shopping experiences that today's consumers expect and the operational efficiency needed to stay ahead in an increasingly challenging market.

JDE Peet’s has sold its tea business in Turkey to Efor Holding for an undisclosed sum. The business generated approximately €60 million in annual revenue but made a negative contribution to adjusted EBIT. The company has also decided to discontinue the planned rollout of its L’or Barista coffee machines in the US. Management of the L’OR capsules business in the US will be transferred to Peet’s, its American coffee brand, "to better capture the significant potential of the US coffee market," said JDE Peet's. Both moves are part of JDE Peet’s ongoing strategic review aimed at simplifying its operating model and improving resource allocation. The company said further updates on its transformation plans will be shared at its Capital Markets Day on 1 July 2025. In a trading update, JDE Peet’s reported that its financial performance in the first quarter of 2025 was in line with expectations. While European volumes were affected in the early part of the year, a rebound began in March. Green coffee prices have risen 28% compared to the second half of 2024, prompting the company to consider further pricing actions. The company also announced the proposed appointment of Rob de Groot as a non-executive member of its board of directors. The nomination will be subject to shareholder approval at the Annual General Meeting on 19 June 2025.

InstaChef Pro has launched Singapore’s first 'full-stack' AI food solution, the K Series, at the FHA-Food & Beverage 2025 event, held in April. The K Series combines automated kitchen technology with a ready-to-cook menu of over 300 items, offering food businesses a cost-efficient, scalable solution. Developed by home-grown tech company AiKit, InstaChef provides a variety of halal-certified dishes, including chicken and salted fish claypot rice and Thai basil chicken with rice, all made from fresh ingredients. The K Series simplifies kitchen operations by eliminating the need for exhaust systems and drainage, reducing set-up costs. Its cloud kitchen management system enables fast, automated cooking of up to 12 dishes in just three minutes, allowing businesses to scale with minimal manpower and space requirements. The system also minimises ingredient waste and operational overheads. The K Series offers a complete end-to-end solution for food businesses, blending AI-powered technology with ready-to-eat meals for seamless operation.

After years of consultation, delay and debate, the UK government has officially confirmed that a deposit return scheme (DRS) will launch in England and Northern Ireland on 1 October 2027. Set to transform how single-use drinks containers are bought, returned and recycled, the scheme is a game changer for vending operators and beverage providers. From labelling and logistics to consumer engagement and cost structures, businesses in these sectors need to prepare for significant changes. How it works At its core, the DRS is simple: consumers will pay a small deposit (likely around 20p) when purchasing a drink in a plastic bottle or metal can. This deposit will be refunded when the empty container is returned to a designated return point, either manually at a vending machine or via a reverse vending machine (RVM). But behind the scenes, the scheme’s rollout is anything but straightforward. The government has confirmed that the scheme will apply to PET plastic bottles and aluminium or steel cans between 150ml and 3l, but glass bottles will be excluded from the England and Northern Ireland rollout. This exclusion is a point of contention, especially among environmental groups, and marks a key difference from Scotland’s approach. All in-scope drinks must carry a DRS-specific label and be sold only by registered producers. Retailers will also be responsible for setting up return points or applying for exemptions. What this means for vending businesses For vending operators and beverage producers, the introduction of the DRS represents a fundamental shift in how products are packaged, sold and recycled. Here are some considerations: 1. Revamping vending operations Vending operators will need to adapt their machines to accept empty containers and process refunds. This could mean upgrading existing machines with reverse vending technology or investing in new units. The logistics of managing returns at high-traffic locations, such as offices, public spaces and transport hubs, will require significant planning. British Retail Consortium's (BRC) director of food and sustainability, Andrew Opie, said: "Retailers and the BRC have been central to the Deposit Management Organisation's (DMO) development, committing significant funding, time and resource to get to this point and we are pleased that our voice will continue to be heard as the initiative progresses". "The DMO must now get to work to ensure the smooth delivery of a DRS that works for businesses and consumers. We look forward to engaging with them and the government to ensure that DRS makes a meaningful difference to recycling across the UK.” 2. The rise of reverse vending As part of the rollout, RVMs are expected to become a familiar fixture in retail and vending environments. These machines allow consumers to return empty drink containers and receive their deposit back automatically, an approach that aligns perfectly with the self-service nature of vending. With the implementation of DRS in 2027, these machines will provide an essential return point for single-use plastic and metal drinks containers, offering a simple, automated way for consumers to return their empty bottles and cans and reclaim their deposit. The convenience of RVMs makes them ideal for high-traffic areas – such as vending locations, retail stores and public spaces – where speed and efficiency are key. For vending operators, RVMs represent an opportunity to enhance customer experience while supporting sustainability goals. Not only do they make it easier for consumers to return containers, but they also help reduce waste and improve recycling rates. RVMs are becoming an increasingly common sight across Europe, and with the UK’s forthcoming DRS, the demand for them is expected to soar. As more vending machines adopt reverse vending technology, operators will need to navigate the logistics of machine installation, maintenance and integration with the wider recycling infrastructure. RVMs will be essential not only in providing an accessible return point for consumers but also in aligning vending operators with evolving environmental standards. In addition to the benefits of increased recycling, RVMs offer an avenue for revenue generation. Many models of reverse vending machines can incentivise returners with cash, loyalty points or vouchers for future purchases, making them an attractive addition for businesses looking to improve customer engagement. This could be particularly valuable in the vending and beverage sector, where convenience is a priority for consumers. With forward-thinking operators already investing in reverse vending machines, now is the time to prepare. RVMs offer a great opportunity to stay ahead of the curve, not just in terms of compliance but also in aligning with consumer preferences for sustainable practices. For vending operators, reverse vending machines are not only a solution to the challenges posed by the DRS, but a strategic investment in the future of the industry. 3. New costs on the horizon While the deposit will be paid by consumers and returned to them, the administrative costs will not disappear so easily. Manufacturers will be expected to contribute to the scheme’s operational costs – covering everything from material handling to data reporting. Retailers installing RVMs could face upfront costs of £30,000 or more per machine, with further expenses for maintenance, space allocation and staff training. While this burden will not fall entirely on producers, it will inevitably feed back into pricing and distribution negotiations. 4. Changing how drinks are sold and returned The introduction of return logistics marks a new layer of complexity in the supply chain. Collaboration with retail partners will become even more crucial, especially for brands that rely on convenience or impulse channels. Smaller stores may apply for exemptions, but larger retailers will be required to manage container returns on-site. This could impact product placement, promotional strategies and even which formats are stocked where. Producers using harder-to-recycle formats may find their shelf presence diminishing in favour of DRS-friendly packaging. 5. Different rules for different sectors For drinks consumed on premises – think pubs, cafes or restaurants – businesses will not need to charge a deposit or provide a return point. However, those selling takeaway drinks will be subject to the same rules as retailers. Online and direct-to-consumer sellers, meanwhile, will need to plan for the additional headache of managing returns remotely – a logistics challenge that has yet to be clearly resolved by government or industry bodies. A window of opportunity? Despite its challenges, the DRS could also be an opportunity for brands to double down on sustainability credentials. With consumers increasingly aware of packaging waste and circularity, early adoption and clear communication could boost brand perception. The scheme also promises to improve recycling quality in the UK, providing high-grade materials that manufacturers can use for new packaging. This could benefit vending operators and beverage producers who rely on a sustainable supply chain. The DMO has officially been announced as the operator of the new £1.13 billion DRS for single-use plastic and metal drinks containers in England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. BRC, a key stakeholder in the DMO’s creation, welcomed the news. “A well-designed DRS, with retail at its heart, will be an important contribution to delivering a circular economy in the UK,” said Opie. In a joint statement, the UK DMO board said: “DRS is an opportunity to deliver a transformational step forward in the circular economy in the UK and the appointment of the DMO is a major milestone in that journey. We don’t underestimate the scale of the challenge, but our aim is simple – to build a system that’s fair, efficient and easy to use." The statement continued: "Our work is already underway, and we’ll be working closely with governments, businesses of all sizes, environmental groups and consumer bodies to move forward as quickly as possible.” Other industry leaders have backed the scheme. British Soft Drinks Association director general, Gavin Partington, welcomed the government’s appointment of UK DMO as scheme administrator for its DRS. Partington said: "This appointment marks a key milestone in realising the opportunities of a more circular economy, driving £1.13 billion of industry investment over the next three years and creating more than 4,000 jobs across England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The British soft drinks industry looks forward to playing our part in ensuring successful delivery of a DRS by October 2027.” Natural Source Waters Association's general manager, Kinvara Carey, added: “This announcement is great news for all involved. The DMO will have a clear focus on developing the most efficient and effective scheme to reduce littering and enable more drink containers to stay in the loop and be given another life.” Association of Convenience Stores' CEO, James Lowman, highlighted that the appointment of the UK DMO marks a major step forward in bringing the DRS to life across the UK. He underlined the vital role that local retailers and convenience stores will play in the scheme’s success, particularly in offering accessible return points for consumers. "For the scheme to deliver a step change in recycling rates," Lowman said, "local shops will need to play an integral part, offering a convenient network of return points both for local residents and people consuming drinks on the go." “We are looking forward to working with the newly-formed DMO to ensure that the scheme is operationally viable and attractive for retailers to take part in. With less than two-and-a-half years before launch, it is vital that retailers can make informed choices about how to take part in the scheme, and we are committed to providing the information and advice they need.” What businesses can do now With more than two years before the go-live date, there is still time to prepare – but not to wait. Audit your product range: Identify which stock keeping units (SKUs) fall under the scheme and begin exploring packaging adjustments. Speak to suppliers: Ensure your packaging providers are ready to deliver DRS-compliant formats. Engage your retail network:  Retailers will be your front line in delivering the scheme, and so collaboration is key. Factor in the costs: Ensure you   budget for future compliance and keep an eye on how the DRS might affect your margins. Monitor updates:   Sign up to government updates and industry forums in order to stay ahead of any regulatory shifts. Final sip The DRS represents a major shift in how we produce, sell and recover drink containers. For operators in the vending and beverage sectors, the challenge is not just about compliance but adaptation: how to stay flexible in a market increasingly shaped by sustainability and consumer expectation. Whether you’re a multinational brand or a local vending operator, the countdown to October 2027 has already begun. Preparing now will ensure you’re ready to take full advantage of the opportunities, and overcome the challenges, the scheme will bring.

Scottish Water’s Top Up Tap initiative has saved the equivalent of 15 million single-use 330ml plastic bottles. As part of the company’s Your Water Your Life campaign, the initiative promotes the use of refillable water bottles to reduce plastic waste and support environmental sustainability. It has become increasingly popular, with 131 Top Up Taps now installed across Scotland. The first tap was installed at the Scottish Parliament in October 2018. The taps provide free access to high-quality drinking water, allowing individuals to refill their water bottles on the go. Each tap is equipped with technology that tracks water usage, providing data on cost savings, plastic reduction and water volume. According to Scottish Water, the most used Top Up Tap is located at The Meadows in Edinburgh. Other high-traffic locations include Buchanan Street in Glasgow and the Scottish Parliament. The taps are located from Lerwick in the north to Portpatrick in the south. Alex Plant, chief executive of Scottish Water, said: “We are thrilled that so many people have used the taps, saving the equivalent of 15 million single-use plastic bottles. We thank everyone who fills up from our big blue taps with a reusable bottle and hope more people will do the same in the future. “With summer approaching and more of us out and about, we urge everyone to carry a refillable bottle and use our Top Up Taps to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is essential for concentration, health and performance. With 131 distinctive Top Up Taps across the country, you can easily top up while on the go."

Cuzen Matcha has launched the Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro, a commercial-grade machine designed to handle matcha preparation in busy cafés, restaurants, hotels and workplaces. The new machine responds to growing global demand for matcha. Equipped with dual mill units, the Matcha Maker Pro produces two shots of matcha in 40 seconds – which, according to the company, is more than twice as fast as the original consumer version – while automating the storage, grinding and whisking process in a single countertop unit. Over 30 pilot customers in the US and Japan have tested the Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro in settings such as cafés, hotels, spas and corporate offices. Locations including Dean & Deluca Hawaii, Ritual Coffee in San Francisco and Fairmont Spa Century Plaza in Los Angeles report serving 30 to 100 matcha drinks per day with the machine, citing its speed and consistency as key advantages. The Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro offers seven adjustable strength levels to accommodate customer preferences and is designed for quick cleaning to minimise downtime. It is currently UL certified, with NSF certification expected in mid-2025. Eijiro Tsukada, founder and CEO of Cuzen Matcha, said: “Matcha is known for its unique balance of caffeine and l-theanine, providing sustained energy and focus without the crash associated with coffee. But until now, producing matcha at a high volume with consistency and excellence has been a challenge." "The Cuzen Matcha Maker Pro simplifies the process and ensures each matcha shot is as fresh and flavorful as possible. It is a perfect solution for high-end cafes looking to distinguish themselves in a saturated market as well as employers wanting to provide a superior amenity to employees returning to the office.”

Foodservice operators know that smooth operations require more than just great food. From managing orders to controlling inventory, every detail matters. To stay efficient and uphold high standards, businesses need reliable tools that streamline both front- and back-of-house operations. 365 Retail Markets offers two solutions tailored to meet the needs of foodservice operators: the 365 Catering Software and the 365 Kitchen Management System. While each solution focuses on different aspects of foodservice, both help businesses improve efficiency and customer satisfaction. The 365 Catering Software simplifies catering and hospitality management. Its cloud-based platform streamlines ordering, approval tracking and billing. Large group orders are easier to manage with individually labeled deliveries, reducing errors and ensuring accuracy. The software also supports dietary compliance with built-in allergen management and customisable on-site menus, helping operators meet diverse customer needs while adhering to food safety guidelines. In the back of house, the 365 Kitchen Management System keeps operations efficient by helping operators track inventory, reduce waste and manage costs. The system makes it simple to monitor stock levels, avoiding both shortages and overordering. Real-time insights help make data-driven decisions on purchasing and food usage, keeping costs under control. Built-in food cost calculations and waste tracking also contribute to maintaining profitability, while clear allergen and nutritional information ensure compliance and transparency. Used separately or together, these solutions give foodservice operators greater control over their business. The 365 Catering Software improves how orders are managed, while the 365 Kitchen Management System keeps back-end processes efficient. Both tools support consistent service quality, reduce costs and help businesses deliver a better experience to customers. At 365 Retail Markets, we believe successful foodservice operations are built on strong partnerships. We work closely with operators to understand their needs and deliver solutions that integrate seamlessly into their businesses. Whether improving front-of-house efficiency, streamlining back-end processes, or both, our solutions are designed to support your goals. Reach out today to learn how our technology can help your business thrive.