Halfday, a brand specialising in gut-healthy iced teas made with prebiotics, has launched a new limited-edition flavour, Tropical Tea, which combines pineapple, passion fruit and guava. This product is positioned to appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for refreshing beverage options during the summer months. The Tropical Tea flavour aligns with Halfday’s commitment to providing beverages that are both enjoyable and beneficial for digestive health. Each can contains 4g of sugar, 35 calories and 6g of prebiotic fibre sourced from the brand's proprietary Goodday Prebiotic Blend, which includes cassava root fiber, fructan fiber, and organic agave inulin. This formulation aims to maintain a balance between flavour and health benefits, catering to the growing demand for low-sugar, functional beverages. Mike Lombardo, co-founder of Halfday, indicated that the new flavour is a departure from the brand’s traditional offerings, designed to evoke a sense of adventure and summer enjoyment. The launch of Tropical Tea comes at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking beverages that not only quench their thirst but also provide health benefits. The iced tea market has seen a surge in demand for products that are low in sugar and high in functional ingredients. By introducing limited-edition flavours, Halfday aims to differentiate itself in a competitive landscape, appealing to consumers looking for novelty without sacrificing health. Kayvon Jahanbakhsh, co-founder and CEO, noted that these limited-edition releases allow the company to explore new taste profiles while maintaining its focus on health. Tropical Tea is exclusively available at Whole Foods Market locations across the US and on Amazon. At Whole Foods, consumers can purchase the beverage in 4-packs for $7.99 or single cans at two for $4. On Amazon, it is offered in 12-pack cases for $29.88.

Krispy Kreme has finalised the sale of its remaining ownership stake in Insomnia Cookies, a move that underscores the company's commitment to financial restructuring and strategic growth. The transaction, which generated approximately $75 million in net cash proceeds, will be directed towards debt reduction, as announced by the company on June 10 2025. This divestiture follows Krispy Kreme's earlier decision to sell a majority stake in Insomnia Cookies in July 2024, reflecting a broader strategy to streamline operations and enhance financial stability. The cash influx from this latest sale is expected to play a crucial role in alleviating the company's debt burden, a significant concern for many businesses in the current economic climate. Krispy Kreme CEO Josh Charlesworth highlighted the importance of this transaction in a statement: “We continue to take swift, decisive action to de-leverage our balance sheet and drive sustainable, profitable growth”. He highlighted that the company is now focusing on two primary opportunities: expanding its US market presence and pursuing capital-light international franchise growth. This strategic pivot comes at a time when the food and beverage industry is increasingly prioritising operational efficiency and profitability. By divesting non-core assets, Krispy Kreme aims to concentrate resources on its flagship brand, known for its iconic Original Glazed doughnuts, and to expand its innovative digital business model, which has seen significant growth amid changing consumer preferences. The cash generated from this sale could allow Krispy Kreme to invest in enhancing its supply chain efficiencies or expanding its product offerings, aligning with industry trends that emphasise sustainability and consumer engagement. Additionally, the company's commitment to reducing debt may bolster investor confidence, particularly as the market continues to recover from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Pact Coffee has expanded its presence in Waitrose with the launch of a new decaffeinated pod product, responding to growing demand for high-quality, caffeine-free options. The new product – a decaf version of the roaster’s Bourbon Cream Espresso – is rolling out in Waitrose stores nationwide this month. It is currently the only speciality-grade decaf coffee listed by the retailer. The move follows a reported 200% year-on-year increase in Pact’s direct sales of decaf coffee. The company cited recent consumer research indicating that half of UK consumers have bought decaffeinated coffee for home use in the past six months, and that seven in ten would be more likely to drink it if higher-quality options were available. Will Corby, Pact Coffee’s director of coffee, commented: “By definition, speciality coffee must score at least 80 points from 100 with professional tasters. This coffee scores 84, so consumers will be able to enjoy top-quality decaf.” The pods, which contain freshly roasted coffee, are being introduced with a promotional price of £4 for a ten-pack until 20 July, after which they will be priced at £5.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has warned that several major crops, including coffee and beans, could lose half their optimally suitable land by 2100. The organisation has upgraded its Adaptation, Biodiversity and Carbon Mapping Tool (ABC-Map) geospatial app with a new indicator, providing information on the suitability of major crops in evolving climate scenarios to the end of the century. Developed for policymakers, technicians and project designers, the ABC-Map offers an initial screening of the climate-related risks, biodiversity indicators and carbon reduction potential of a selected project. The open-source app uses satellite imagery based on Google Earth engine, with information from global datasets. Data from a study by French fin-tech start-up Finres, commissioned by the International Fund for Agricultural Development and funded by the French Development Agency, is incorporated into the indicator. The study, ‘ Have crops already reached peak suitability: assessing global climatic suitability decreases for crop cultivation ,’ uses a new method to assess crop suitability in varied climate scenarios. It concludes that five out of nine major staple and cash crops – wheat, coffee, beans, cassava and plantain – are already losing optimal growing conditions, and some could lose half their optimal suitable land by 2100. In particular, the study’s researchers suggest coffee production in some of the major coffee-growing regions could decline sharply by the end of the century. Beans and wheat could also experience significant losses, especially in regions such as North America and Europe. The ABC-Map features indicators in three sections: adaptation, biodiversity and carbon. The new indicator expands the scope of the adaptation section, which previously only displayed information on past trends in a given area, such as temperature and rainfall. Users can input a location and select a crop from 30 options, with the tool highlighting the suitability of selected crops in that area for time periods stretching to 2100. It provides a ‘crop suitability score’ for two different climate emission scenarios. The FAO said it is also planning to introduce an indicator with information on livestock heat stress and another for crop water requirements, which would estimate expected rainfall and potential irrigation needs.

Michael Ault The food and beverage industry is in the midst of a major transformation, driven by advancements in payment solutions and digital ordering systems. As customers now expect faster, more seamless transactions and businesses face rising operational costs, embracing new technologies is no longer optional, it’s pivotal to surviving in a highly competitive market. Michael Ault, UK country manager at MyPOS, explores how payment technologies are reshaping the industry and why embracing these tools is now essential for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market. The UK has one of the highest adoption rates of contactless payments in the world. In March 2024, there were 1.59 billion contactless card transactions, a 5.9% increase from the previous year, and this number is only projected to grow. Consumers now expect fast, hassle-free payments, whether they’re picking up a coffee on the way to work or dining at a high-end restaurant. Contactless payments have become the norm, allowing customers to tap their cards or smartphones to complete transactions in seconds. Mobile wallets, such as Apple Pay and Google Wallet, further streamline the process, enabling users to store multiple payment methods and loyalty cards in one place. This shift has reduced wait times and improved overall customer experience, particularly in high-traffic establishments like quick-service restaurants (QSRs) and pubs. Integrated point-of-sale (POS) systems are also revolutionising how businesses operate as they go beyond simple payment processing and provide real-time analytics and inventory tracking. By analysing transaction data, businesses can tailor promotions and menu offerings based on customer preferences, boosting both sales and customer satisfaction. Digital orders mean service efficiency The way people order food and drinks has changed significantly in the last few years. A survey by Barclaycard found that 42% of UK consumers prefer to order digitally rather than interact with staff, particularly in fast-paced environments like coffee shops and takeaway restaurants. Online ordering systems, mobile apps and self-service kiosks are now commonplace, offering customers greater flexibility and convenience. Online ordering platforms enable customers to browse menus, customise their orders and schedule pickups or deliveries without needing to call or visit in-person. Mobile apps take this a step further by offering tailored experiences, like personalised recommendations, order history and exclusive loyalty perks. Self-service kiosks are becoming a familiar sight in restaurants, allowing customers to place orders and pay without waiting for staff. McDonald’s, for example, has seen significant success with this model, reducing queue times and improving service efficiency. These kiosks not only enhance convenience but also boost order values, with orders 11% larger when using kiosks, as customers tend to spend more when they have the freedom to browse menu options are their own pace. Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasing role in digital ordering. AI-powered chatbots assist with orders, provide recommendations and answer frequently asked questions, further streamlining the experience. Personalisation driven by AI fosters customer loyalty, encouraging repeat visits and higher spending. The challenges ahead While the benefits of frictionless payments and digital ordering are clear, businesses face several challenges when adopting these technologies. Cybersecurity risks: As digital transactions increase, so does the threat of cybercrime. The UK saw over £570 million stolen due to payment fraud in the first half of 2024, highlighting the need for robust security measures. Businesses must prioritise encryption, tokenisation and strong authentication to protect customer data. Luckily, some fintech platforms combine intuitive, user-friendly interfaces with high-level security – making it easier for businesses to adopt them and even encouraging higher customer spending. Integration with legacy systems: Many F&B businesses still operate on outdated technology that is not always compatible with modern payment and ordering solutions. Upgrading infrastructure requires investment in both technology and staff training. Upfront costs: While digital solutions often lead to long-term savings, they typically require an initial investment. Businesses must weigh the costs against the benefits and look for pay-as-you-go providers. Staff training: Implementing new technology successfully depends on employees being comfortable using it. Comprehensive training ensures staff can assist customers effectively and troubleshoot issues quickly. Opportunities for F&B businesses Embracing these technological advancements presents a number of opportunities for F&B businesses. Digital platforms allow businesses to engage with customers through personalised promotions, loyalty programmes and direct feedback mechanisms. This fosters brand loyalty and drives repeat businesses. Automation also reduces manual errors, speeds up service and allows staff to focus on delivering exceptional customer service. Real-time data analytics improve inventory management and demand forecasting. Additionally, online ordering and delivery services help businesses reach a wider audience beyond their physical locations, creating new revenue streams. The UK’s takeaway and food market were valued at approximately £23.1 billion in 2024, demonstrating the potential for growth. Overall, keeping up with technological trends ensures businesses can adapt quickly to evolving consumer behaviours and expectations and therefore stay ahead of competitors. What’s next? The UK is moving closer to a cashless society, with only 14% of transactions expected to be cash-based by 2026. Restaurants will need to prioritise contactless payments, mobile wallets and even biometric authentication methods. As e-commerce becomes increasingly mobile-first, restaurants and food vendors must optimise their digital experience for smartphones to stay competitive. Additionally, concept of a checkout-free store, where customers can simply pick up items and leave without scanning or queueing, is gaining traction. This model could redefine the traditional restaurant and takeaway experience. The integration of cutting-edge payment solutions and digital ordering systems is transforming the UK’s F&B sector. While challenges exist, businesses that proactively embrace these technologies will be better positioned for growth. Those who prioritise seamless payments, personalised digital experiences, and operational efficiency will not only meet customer expectations but also future proof their businesses in today’s increasingly digital world.

Popeyes UK has secured £43 million in new financing to support its ongoing expansion plans across the country. The fast food chain, which now operates more than 80 sites, agreed the new facilities with Barclays Corporate Banking. The funding adds to backing from TDR Capital, which took a majority stake in the business last year. Popeyes entered the UK market in November 2021. In 2024, the company opened 33 new restaurants, bringing its estate to 65 sites by year-end. This year, it plans to open 45 more locations, aiming to nearly double its UK footprint and create around 2,500 new jobs. So far in 2025, the company has surpassed 80 operating restaurants. In April, Popeyes also announced a partnership with SSP Group to develop outlets in UK travel hubs, starting with a location at Birmingham Airport this summer. Drew Taylor, CFO at Popeyes UK, commented: “The new finance facilities will enable us to build on our successful growth in the UK to date and execute our expansion strategy over the coming years, with more than 45 openings targeted in 2025 alone.”

WMF Professional Coffee Machines has extended its 2-Milk Solution to the WMF 1500 S+ speciality coffee machine, enabling cafés, bakeries and businesses with medium coffee demand to serve both dairy and plant-based beverages. Designed to process a variety of milk types – including oat, soy, almond and pea – the system supports the growing demand for vegan coffee drinks, particularly among younger consumers. The WMF 1500 S+ features a daily capacity of up to 180 cups and can handle multiple recipes using its three product hoppers for coffee beans, powders or toppings. The integrated 'Dynamic Milk' system offers a choice of four textures of hot milk foam and three textures of cold milk foam, optimising preparation of a wide range of beverage styles. Plant-based milk recipes can be programmed into the machine and selected via its ten-inch touch display. The model also includes automatic cup height detection and a ‘Dynamic Coffee Assist’ function to maintain consistent drink quality. For maintenance, the WMF 1500 S+ is equipped with the WMF AutoClean system, which automatically cleans the coffee and milk systems in compliance with HACCP standards, eliminating the need for manual cleaning. WMF says the update allows medium-sized businesses to diversify their menu with plant-based options while maintaining operational efficiency.

Australian-inspired speciality coffee roaster, Bluestone Lane, has partnered with Laird Superfood to launch two new functional iced coffee drinks across its more than 50 US café locations. The new offerings – Laird Superfood Latte and Laird Superfood Mocha – combine espresso with Laird Superfood’s mushroom-infused creamers. The drinks feature organic extracts of chaga, lion’s mane, maitake and cordyceps mushrooms, which are marketed to support stress defense, cognition, immune function and energy, respectively. Bluestone Lane plans to expand the collaboration this fall with additional hot beverages using Laird Superfood Creamer with functional mushrooms. Andy Stone, chief brand and culture officer at Bluestone Lane, said: "...we've developed two delicious new drinks using Laird Superfood's performance creamers – a powerful blend of functional mushrooms designed to fuel both body and mind. This partnership brings together shared values of wellness, innovation and living with intent." Jason Vieth, CEO of Laird Superfood, added: "Partnering with Bluestone Lane is a natural extension of our mission to make functional, plant-based energy accessible in everyday moments. By aligning our premium, functional mushroom creamers with Bluestone Lane's commitment to quality coffee culture, we're offering customers a delicious way to fuel their day with real, nourishing ingredients that have functional benefits for the mind, body and overall well-being." The Laird Superfood Latte and Mocha are now available at Bluestone Lane cafés nationwide, priced at $7.45 and $7.95.

Caffè Nero UK CEO Will Stratton-Morris has stepped down from his role and from the UK board, the company has confirmed in its latest trading update. Stratton-Morris, who led the UK business for more than seven years, will remain with the company in a new group-level position as chief business development officer. Caffè Nero founder and group CEO Gerry Ford said: “Will has worked very hard over the past seven years to promote the Caffè Nero business in the United Kingdom. The board and I would like to thank him for all his effort and commitment." "As we move into a phase of greater expansion, I’m sure Will’s skill sets will prove extremely useful to the group in establishing new business partnerships, developing our footprint in new countries and securing new commercial relationships.” In the interim, leadership of the UK business will be overseen by Ford, group CFO Ben Price and Caffè Nero UK managing director Glyn House. The company said the process to appoint a new UK CEO is already underway, with an announcement expected in the coming months. The leadership changes were announced alongside a strong Q3 performance for the group, which reported 11% year-on-year global sales growth for the period from December to February. In the UK, Q3 sales rose 8%, with like-for-like growth of 6.2%. The group also reported record Christmas trading, with over 2 million UK customers served in December and two record sales weeks of more than £9 million. The Nero Group currently operates 1,121 stores across 11 countries, including more than 700 in the UK.

Lavazza North America has launched Dolcevita Decaf, a new premium decaffeinated coffee aimed at meeting rising consumer demand for high-quality caffeine-free options. Part of the company’s Dolcevita range, the medium roast blend is designed to deliver a full-bodied flavour profile, with notes of chocolate and caramel. According to Lavazza, the new product was developed in response to customer feedback and growing interest in decaf coffee among health-conscious consumers. Daniele Foti, VP of marketing for Lavazza North America, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce Dolcevita Decaf in response to consumer feedback and the growing demand for premium decaffeinated options. We listened carefully to our customers, and this product reflects our commitment to quality and innovation in every cup – making decaf just as enjoyable as its caffeinated counterparts.” Dolcevita Decaf is currently available through select retailers and the company’s online store.

Mondelēz International has filed a lawsuit against retail chain Aldi, alleging that the retailer has ‘blatantly’ copied the packaging designs for several of Mondelēz’s well-known cookie and cracker brands. In court documents filed in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois last week, Mondelēz argues that Aldi’s use of private label packaging across several cookie and cracker products enable the retail group to ‘trade upon the valuable reputation and goodwill Mondelēz has developed in its longstanding, highly distinctive and well-known trade dress for numerous of its cookie and cracker snack products’. Mondelēz claims that Aldi has engaged in willful trademark infringement, trade dress infringement, unfair competition, unjust enrichment and dilution of its brand identities. The company said it has contacted Aldi previously and ‘on numerous occasions’ objecting to Aldi’s use of similar packaging to products under Mondelēz’s Oreo, Teddy Grahams, Belvita and Tate’s Bake Shop biscuit brands, as well as its Triscuit crackers. While Aldi has previously discontinued ‘infringing’ products in response to Mondelēz’s complaints, the snack giant alleges that the retailer has continued to engage in a known pattern and practice of selling ‘unacceptable’ copycat products. The products in question, shown in the court documents, include Aldi’s own-brand Original Chocolate Sandwich Cookies, which Mondelēz shows next to its popular Oreo cookies product with similar blue packaging and a lighter blue halo around the cookie. It also highlights similarities to Mondelēz’s packaging designs for its Wheat Thins, Nutter Butter, Chips Ahoy, Nilla, Ritz and Premium biscuit and cracker products across a range of Aldi’s similar own-brand products, such as Thin Wheats and Vanilla Wafers. Mondelēz is seeking damages, injunctive relief and jury trial, stating in the filing that Aldi’s use of the ‘infringing’ packaging designs are ‘likely to deceive and confuse customers,’ as well as ‘threatening to irreparably harm Mondelēz and its valuable brands’. The lawsuit follows another recent high-profile trademark infringement legal battle between Aldi and British cider maker Thatchers , in which the UK Court of Appeal ruled that Aldi’s Cloudy Lemon Cider took ‘unfair advantage’ of Thatchers’ brand.

Refresco has announced an agreement to acquire Telemark Kildevann Holding (TKV), a Norwegian producer of soft drinks and bottled water. TKV is a family-owned company with two production sites in Fyresdal and Aurskog, Norway. It supplies both retailers and branded customers in Norway and Sweden. Refresco, which operates 75 manufacturing facilities across Europe, North America and Australia, said the acquisition will expand its presence in the Nordic market, building on its existing operations in Finland. Refresco CEO Hans Roelofs commented: “The acquisition of TKV marks another milestone in the execution of our proven Buy & Build strategy, further reinforcing our presence in Europe". "TKV’s loyal customer base, strong capabilities and well-established market position enhances our ability to serve retailers and branded customers in Norway, Sweden and beyond. I look forward to welcoming over 60 employees to the Refresco team and further grow the business together.” The deal is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close later this year. Financial terms were not disclosed. Top image: © Telemark Kildevann