Foodservice Equipment Marketing (FEM) has introduced the Ugolini range of frozen drink machines in the UK, offering two new models designed to meet the demands of operators seeking to diversify their beverage offerings. The Ugolini machines come in two formats: the compact Icon 3 and the larger NG Easy models. The new models can be used to make frozen drinks, cold creams, frozen desserts and cocktails. The Icon 3 is available in single, double and triple dispensing options, with a 2.8-litre capacity in the single-bowl version. Its compact design (180mm wide by 440mm deep and 490mm high) makes it ideal for smaller operations, while its shockproof construction and quiet operation suit busy bars. The Icon 6 model, available on request, provides a 6-litre capacity for larger quantities, ideal for making cold creams, sorbets, smoothies and frozen drinks. For higher-volume needs, the NG Easy models come in six sizes, with capacities ranging from 6 to 30 litres. These units are designed for easy maintenance, featuring removable panels for cleaning, shockproof polycarbonate containers and a secure bowl fixing system. The smallest model in this range, the NG 6/1 Easy, has a 6-litre capacity and measures 200mm wide by 480mm deep and 620mm high. Both the Icon and NG Easy models incorporate Ugolini's patented RecoverEnergy system, which features double-walled bowls for energy efficiency and anti-condensation.

The UK Water Dispenser & Hydration Association (WHA) Conference and Trade Show took place in Nottingham, UK, on Thursday 20 March 2025. Nottingham, perhaps best known as the home of Robin Hood, is also celebrated as the 'Queen of the Midlands' for its charming parks and spacious streets. And despite being landlocked, it provides the perfect backdrop for an event focused on the future of hydration. The event took place at The Nottingham Belfry, a four-star hotel that balances comfort and sophistication. The Nottingham Belfry offered a contemporary, comfortable and accessible venue for the event. With a strong focus on sustainability and guest wellness, it was an ideal setting for a gathering centred on hydration and health. Morning conferences The day began with a series of insightful keynote speeches from industry leaders, business experts and innovators, covering a range of topics from market intelligence to workplace wellbeing and cutting-edge AI applications. Roger Black Roger Black, a former athlete with 15 major championship medals, including an Olympic 400m silver and World Championship gold, shared his journey from athletics to business success, revealing the mindset and strategies that helped him overcome challenges and achieve excellence. His insights into resilience, adaptability and performance resonated deeply with the audience, offering lessons for professionals navigating their own careers. Building on themes of resilience and adaptability, Zenith Global's consulting director, Akos Petri, provided valuable market intelligence, shedding light on the water dispenser industry performance and key trends. He noted that 2024 marked a year of "resilience and value-led growth," explaining that while total unit numbers dipped, the sector adapted through higher-value offerings and strategic pricing, resulting in solid revenue performance. Petri highlighted that the latest UK Water Dispense Market Report from Zenith revealed that unit placements fell below 785,000 in 2024, reflecting a decline in the number of water dispensers in operation. According to the report, this decrease indicates a maturing market, influenced by factors such as hybrid working trends and an unusually rainy summer that slowed sales momentum. However, despite this decline, industry revenue rose by 8.5% to £191.9 million, driven by higher pricing in bulk bottled water supply and a growing demand for integrated tap systems (ITS). This data underscored the industry's ability to adapt and innovate in response to evolving market conditions. L-R: Akos Petri, Ben McGannan (from Wellbeing People), Phillipa Clow, Alastair Banks (from Optix Solutions), Roger Black and Carin Söderberg (from Wellbeing People) Phillipa Clow, general manager of WHA, also shared her remarkable experience visiting nine boreholes in Zambia, a life-changing project sponsored by the BWCA and WHA. Accompanied by Alice Mellor from water charity Just a Drop, Phillipa spoke about the transformative impact of providing clean water to communities, underscoring the essential role water plays not only in businesses but also in improving lives across the globe. Watch my interview with Phillipa and WHA's deputy chair Matt Stimpson below: Afternoon trade show The afternoon’s trade show featured over 30 stands showcasing of cutting-edge hydration solutions, emphasising innovation and sustainability. Water dispensers and filtration solutions Italian water dispenser manufacturer, Blupura, presented its Rebel water cooler, available in 30- and 60-litre-per-hour models. Designed for both hospitality and office spaces, this unit features an ice pack cooling system for enhanced performance. The hot water version includes an integrated boiler, delivering temperatures of up to 98°C, perfect for tea and hot beverages. Complementing this, Blupura’s Blutron filtration system stood out for its customisable purification options. Additionally, the company showcased its T. Flow mechanical tap, built for durability and efficiency. With a flow reducer and self-closing spring system, this stainless steel fixture is coated with a double layer of impact-resistant paint, making it ideal for high-traffic environments. Watch our interview with Debora Screpanti, marketing manager at Blupura, below: Shifting to outdoor hydration solutions, Oasis displayed its Outdoor Bottle Fillers, which feature manual activation and a vandal-resistant design perfect for public spaces. These bottle fillers are equipped with an integrated filtration system to provide safe drinking water in high-traffic outdoor locations. The company also introduced the AquaPointe Hydration Station, a sensor-activated hydration unit offering touch-free operation and an energy-efficient refrigeration system, ensuring hygienic and sustainable hydration solutions in public environments. Sustainable packaging and beverage solutions In the world of sustainable packaging, Go-Pak Group presented its FSC-certified, compostable aqueous-coated paper cups, a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic-lined cups. Using water-based polymer coatings, these cups are leak-resistant, home-compostable and ideal for eco-conscious businesses. Further expanding on the theme of multi-functional hydration technology, Coffeetek showcased its Neo Q coffee machine and water fountain, a dual-function system designed to reduce waste and promote sustainability. By combining high-quality filtered water and premium coffee in a single unit, it encourages the use of reusable bottles and cups, minimising environmental impact. Its advanced filtration system removes impurities, ensuring fresh, odour-free drinking water, while an optional UV purification kit further enhances safety. The double-bean system allows for a diverse range of coffee recipes, catering to a wide audience. Another innovation was Marco Beverage Systems' MilkPal precision milk dispenser, an innovative solution designed for high-volume coffee service. By delivering hot, cold and foamed milk with exact consistency, it reduces waste and ensures superior beverage quality. Also on display was Marco Beverage's Friia, an undercounter water dispensing system offering hot, cold, and sparkling water on demand, ideal for cafés, offices and hospitality settings. Another product was Pour'd, a beverage dispenser that streamlines the preparation of hot and cold coffee from concentrate, improving efficiency while minimising waste. Evening industry dinner After a day filled with innovation and knowledge-sharing, the event concluded with a relaxed and enjoyable industry dinner. The evening was not only a chance to unwind but also an opportunity to network with peers and celebrate the industry’s collective achievements. With entertainment from mindreader Alex Crow, a lively casino night and a silent auction benefiting Just a Drop, the dinner provided a fun and engaging way to close the event, reinforcing the industry's commitment to global water access initiatives. WHA 2025 was a success, offering a comprehensive blend of knowledge, networking and product innovation. The event highlighted the latest advancements in hydration technology, sustainability initiatives and business strategies, providing attendees with valuable insights and opportunities for growth. Here's to the 2027 event!

Refreshment brings you monthly updates on the latest news and insights from our member associations in the vending, coffee and water sectors. Featuring insights from industry leaders, this round-up highlights key developments, events and initiatives shaping the future of these industries, providing essential information on emerging trends and regulatory changes. Vending and coffee updates The vending, automated retail and coffee sectors are rapidly evolving, with new initiatives, industry events and regulatory developments shaping its future. Here’s what’s happening in this sector this month: The Vending & Automated Retail Association (AVA): Final call for input on vending hygiene guidelines The revised Food Industry Guide to Good Hygiene Practice: Vending & Dispense is nearing its official registration. Industry professionals, including vending operators, suppliers, facilities managers and environmental health officers, have a final opportunity to submit feedback before the guidelines are formalised. The updated guide aligns with Directive 93/43 EEC and will be recognised by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS). Networking event at The Crystal Maze A networking event for vending and automated retail professionals will take place at The Crystal Maze Live Experience in Manchester, UK, on 14 May 2025. Designed to foster collaboration and problem-solving, the event offers attendees a fun and engaging way to connect with peers. The event also includes breakfast, lunch, drinks and prizes. Date:  14 May 2025 Location:  The Crystal Maze, Manchester Cost:  £120 + VAT Booking:   kennedy.warwick@the-ava.com Celebrating emerging talent in catering industry   The 2025 Contract Catering Awards, which took place on Monday 3 March at the Park Plaza Westminster Bridge, London, showcased the growing role of vending in the catering industry, with the Rising Star Award celebrating outstanding new talent. With vending technology continuing to advance, businesses across various sectors – including workplaces, healthcare and hospitality – are discovering how automated retail solutions can enhance convenience, efficiency and the consumer experience. European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA): FrieslandCampina and Fresh at Work join the EVA Two major players in the food and beverage industry, FrieslandCampina and Fresh at Work, have officially joined the European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA) as supportive members. The move reflects both companies' ambitions to strengthen their market presence and foster collaboration within the vending and coffee service sector. FrieslandCampina, an international dairy company with over 150 years of cooperative history, supplies a wide range of consumer products and food industry ingredients. The company, which has branches in 30 countries and export to over 100 countries worldwide, sees its EVA membership as an opportunity to promote further its products to foodservice professionals, in particular its Lattiz milk foaming technology for foodservice. The business also expect to increase knowledge on vending industry applications, as Lattiz could be a good solution for drinks in the vending industry. EVA director general, Erwin Wetzel, highlighted: “I welcome FrieslandCampina to EVA. There are of course many synergies between a large, well-known global supplier of dairy products and coffee machine professionals in our sector, so for me the EVA can provide the perfect platform for networking and a greater understanding of the market developments." "As the self-serve coffee market continues its march towards exceptional quality, fresh milk provision is one of increasingly demanded ingredients for a quality coffee in the workplace; also demonstrated through statistics in the annual EVA market report.” Fresh at Work, part of the Melitta Group since 2018, provides comprehensive coffee and water solutions for workplaces, including coffee beans, milk and chocolate powder, coffee machines and regular maintenance services. Chief growth officer Lars Finke stated: “We are delighted to become a member of EVA to connect with industry leaders and stay ahead of market trends. EVA offers a strong platform for collaboration, knowledge exchange and advocacy within the vending and coffee service sector." "We look forward to leveraging this network, participating in key events like EVEX, and contributing to the industry’s growth. Our membership will support our commitment to innovation and help us deliver even greater value to our customers.” Wetzel added: “I am pleased to see another high-quality machine operator join EVA. Whether it is on coffee or water related trends and preferences in the German market, or finding common solutions to policy challenges, I’m convinced that the contribution by Fresh at Work to the EVA will be valuable. At the same time, the company can now benefit from the wide EVA network, our unique and widely sought-after industry knowledge and becoming part of the wider European family of vending professionals.” Water updates The water sector continues to evolve with innovative technologies, sustainability initiatives and industry events driving progress. From watercoolers to hydration solutions, here’s what’s happening in this space: Water Dispenser & Hydration Association (WHA): UK water market shrinks in units but grows in value The latest UK Water Dispense Market report from Zenith Global Commercial reveals that unit placements fell below 785,000 in 2024, reflecting a decline in the number of water dispensers in operation. The report says that the decline shows the market's maturity, the ongoing impact of hybrid working and the effect of an unusually rainy summer that slowed sales momentum. Despite this drop, industry revenue rose by 8.5% to £191.9 million, driven by higher pricing in bulk bottled water supply and growing demand for integrated tap systems (ITS). Zenith Global's consulting director, Akos Petri, said: “2024 marked a year of resilience and value-led growth. While total unit numbers dipped, revenue performance was solid thanks to the sector’s ability to adapt with higher-value offerings and strategic pricing." Key market insights Zenith Global’s report also revealed: Sustainability efforts:  The average bottled water throughput per dispenser reached 793 litres, reducing plastic waste by using returnable and refillable bottles. Growth in ITS:  ITS units have grown by 22% over the past five years. Home use on the rise:  Point-of-use (POU) dispensers for homes were the fastest-growing segment in 2024. Looking ahead, Zenith Global forecasts moderate growth over the next five years, with the total number of water dispensers expected to reach 803,000 by 2029. Watercoolers Europe (WE): WE unveils full programme for WE 2025 conference and trade fair in Milan Watercoolers Europe has released the full event programme for the WE 2025 conference and trade fair, set for 6-7 November 2025 at the Meliá Milano Hotel, Italy. The two-day event will bring together industry leaders, innovators and professionals to discuss key trends, regulatory updates, sustainability and technological advancements shaping the watercooler sector. Alongside expert-led discussions, interactive workshops will offer practical strategies for business growth in an evolving market. The WE International Trade Fair will showcase cutting-edge products and services, providing opportunities to strengthen industry connections and discover new suppliers. A highlight of the event will be the Aqua Awards & Gala Dinner, recognising excellence in the industry. The full event programme is available here . For full details on sessions, speakers and key highlights, visit the Watercoolers Europe website. International Bottled Water Association (IBWA) Bottled water professionals to gather in Las Vegas for 2025 IBWA conference and trade show Bottled water professionals from across the globe will gather in Las Vegas, US, this September for IBWA's 2025 annual business conference and trade show, held alongside the Pack Expo Las Vegas trade show. The event, scheduled for 29 September - 02 October, will feature networking events, educational sessions and a trade show showcasing the latest innovations to meet growing consumer demand for bottled water, the top packaged drink in the US. This gathering will offer valuable opportunities for industry professionals to celebrate successes, network, gain insights and discuss strategies on how to help bottled water keep its status as the leading packaged beverage in the country. Participants will also have the chance to forge new business relationships and strengthen existing connections. Registration for the event will open this spring. Updated microplastics statement: Bottled water industry calls for more research on microplastics in hydration products The bottled water industry is committed to providing high-quality, safe hydration options for consumers. While micro- and nanoplastics are increasingly found in the environment – present in the air, soil and water – research has shown that bottled water, like many other food and beverage products in plastic packaging, may also contain these particles. However, with no certified testing methods and a lack of scientific consensus on the potential health impacts of micro- and nanoplastics, the industry is calling for additional research to better understand this important issue. Although many studies on micro- and nanoparticles have used water samples (both tap and bottled), it is important to note that water is often chosen as a testing medium due to it being 'the least complex testing medium'. Current scientific evidence does not support the conclusion that drinking water is a major source of micro- and nanoplastics intake. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says: “It is not aware of scientific evidence that would support consumers being concerned about the potential level of microplastic or nanoplastic contamination in food, including bottled water. Several studies have found microplastics and nanoplastics in both tap and bottled water; however, at this time, the scientific evidence does not demonstrate that levels of microplastics or nanoplastics in water pose a risk to human health." After reviewing available studies, the World Health Organization (WHO) concluded that there is no evidence of adverse health effects from dietary exposure to micro- and nanoplastic particles smaller than 10 microns, citing the limited amount of scientific research. The WHO recommends further studies and the development of standardised methods for measuring and quantifying these particles. Alongside these health agencies, IBWA and the American Chemistry Council (ACC) are calling for more research on the matter. The ACC has pledged nearly $15 million in independent research funding and aims to make all US plastic packaging reusable, recyclable or recovered by 2040, committing billions to improve recycling infrastructure and advocating for policies that prevent plastic waste from polluting the environment. Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE): NMWE and Pilario launch LCA tool to help water sector tackle environmental impact Natural Mineral Waters Europe (NMWE) has partnered with Pilario to launch a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) tool designed to help companies in the natural mineral and spring water sector measure their environmental footprint with precision. Built around the EU-promoted Environmental Footprint methods, the tool goes beyond carbon impact to address a broad spectrum of environmental concerns, including water use, resource depletion, land use change or eutrophication.   The tool stands out for its accessibility and functionality tailored to the sector’s specific needs. It draws on comprehensive data from the PET and glass supply chains, providing companies with a reliable and consistent framework for assessing their environmental impacts. The availability of a common system also presents valuable opportunities for benchmarking – companies can compare their results against anonymised sector averages, ensuring consistent and objective measurements.   This benchmarking aspect is a significant draw even for larger companies that may already have established LCA processes in place. By utilising the same tool as their competitors, companies can gain insights into their relative performance within the industry, identifying areas for improvement and refining their environmental strategies accordingly.   Pilario’s collaboration with other beverage sectors and packaging supplier sectors further enhances the tool’s appeal. Companies producing other product categories besides water can benefit from using the same interface as all their products. Moreover, they can seamlessly import specific data from suppliers using Pilario products, further simplifying the assessment process and enhancing accuracy.   NMWE currently offers basic access to the tool free of charge to its members, enabling them to evaluate their products’ environmental impacts without financial barriers. For companies seeking enhanced functionality, premium features are available on a paid basis, allowing for deeper analysis and customized reporting.   Though designed for NMWE members, the tool’s development reflects the association’s broader commitment to promoting sustainability across the sector. As more companies adopt the tool, the consistency of data generated can further contribute to collective progress toward environmental goals.   For more information about the tool or how to access it, companies are encouraged to contact NMWE directly. This initiative underscores NMWE’s proactive role in equipping the natural mineral and spring water sector with practical resources for sustainability and environmental stewardship. Stay tuned for more updates next month.

Lipton Teas and Infusions has announced Pierre Laubies as its new chief executive officer. © Linkedin Laubies has served as interim CEO for six months, succeeding Nathalie Roos , who stepped down in 2024 after two years for personal reasons. Before this, Laubies was chairman of the supervisory board since Lipton Teas and Infusions' establishment in 2022. Laubies brings extensive experience, having held roles at Mars and Campbell Soup before serving as CEO of Jacobs Douwe Egberts and Coty. He also remains a board member at Groupe Panzani. Lipton Teas and Infusions, the parent company of household names like Pukka and PG Tips, operates production sites across four continents and is present in over 100 countries. Top image: © Lipton Teas and Infusions

Rhea launched two new products at Vendex Midlands, one-day vending event based in the UK. The company launched the rhFS1, a freestanding machine for fresh leaf tea with induction heating technology, and the rhFS2.milk, a freestanding unit with an integrated fresh milk system. The rhFS1 machine is said to be the first freestanding unit for fresh leaf tea, utilising induction heating to ensure precise extraction while preserving the flavour and properties of tea. Rhea said that this technology ensures better in-cup quality and greater energy efficiency than traditional boiler-based systems. Rhea also unveiled the rhFS2.milk, which comes with an integrated fresh milk system, enabling a range of beverages with both fresh milk and plant-based alternatives. This machine features Varitherm induction technology for precise, indirect milk heating, ensuring optimal temperatures for layered drinks like latte macchiatos. The absence of a boiler reduces limescale build-up and offers 'significant energy savings'. Andrea Pozzolini, CEO of Rhea, said: "Our constant commitment to excellence leads us to develop solutions that enhance the quality of the coffee break, offering premium hospitality and a superior consumer experience. By integrating traditional recipes with new technologies, we ensure services that respects consumer habits while improving satisfaction through sustainable and efficient solutions." Steve Rossington, MD of Rheavendors, which is the UK subsidiary of Rhea, added: "The UK market is one of the most demanding and dynamic in Europe, with a strong focus on drink quality and technological innovation. The launch of these two machines perfectly meets the expectations of British consumers, who are increasingly oriented towards premium and sustainable consumption experiences."

Portugal will introduce its national deposit return scheme (DRS) for single-use beverage packaging in 2026. This makes Portugal the first continental Southern European country to introduce a full-scale DRS. While Malta launched its DRS in November 2022, Portugal's implementation will serve as a model for neighbouring countries such as Spain, France, and Italy. The scheme will be administrated by the non-profit company SDR Portugal, with smart waste management business Sensoneo providing the IT system. Sensoneo’s IT system will cover all operational processes, including reverse logistics, tracking, collection, and warehouse and transport management. It will also feature mobile apps to enhance stakeholder engagement. A key feature of Portugal’s DRS is the integration of the Horeca sector, leveraging lessons from Sensoneo’s experience in Malta. This is expected to boost collection rates across venues. Portugal’s DRS aims to enhance recycling, reduce waste and set a standard for sustainable waste management in Southern Europe. With an estimated 7,000 to 10,000 collection points, the scheme will focus on making recycling convenient for Portuguese consumers. Pedro Lago, IT business development and IT director from SDR Portugal, said: “The first milestones achieved in this project have shown that we are on the right track for a smooth, yet rigorous and demanding, implementation. We still have a lot of hard work ahead of us, but I am confident that, thanks to strategic partners like Sensoneo, Portugal will have a well-functioning, trustworthy and advanced deposit return scheme.” Martin Basila, CEO of Sensoneo, added: “We are proud to support another deposit return scheme with our IT expertise, especially in a region that is implementing such a system for the first time. Our extensive experience from previous projects, particularly in Malta’s Horeca sector, will enable us to create a highly efficient and innovative solution for Portugal." "By leveraging our technology, we are confident that Portugal’s DRS will achieve outstanding results and serve as a model for other Southern European nations.” Top image: © Sensoneo

Private equity (PE) firms PAI Partners and Bain Capital are reportedly among buyout firms considering bids for Nestlé's water business, which could be valued at around €5 billion or more, according to Bloomberg News . Clayton Dubilier & Rice and KKR & Co have also been reviewing the business, Bloomberg said, citing sources familiar to the matter. Nestlé may keep a stake in the unit, and investment banks are expected to be appointed soon to explore options. Refreshment has reached out to Nestlé, but the Swiss food and beverage giant declined to comment. Late last year, Nestlé CEO Laurent Freixe announced plans to spin off the company's water business and premium beverages division into a standalone global business . PAI and Nestlé have previously teamed up on joint ventures for their ice cream and frozen pizza assets. In 2023, they agreed to form a joint venture for Nestlé's frozen pizza business in Europe . In 2016, they also established Froneri, a global ice cream company that now operates in 24 countries. Top image: © San Pellegrino

Scottish nutrition brand Vybey has expanded into the snacking category, launching a new range of plant-based protein bars. The new Complete Nutrition bar line-up includes three flavours: Chocolate Brownie, Raspberry White Chocolate and Mint Chocolate. The range joins the existing products in Vybey's portfolio, which include meal replacement shakes and a nootropic coffee alternative blend. The bars are made with dates, gluten-free oats, almonds, pea protein, coconut powder and tapioca powder. Aiming to support both mental and physical wellbeing, the ‘brain and body’ nutrition bars combine 20g of plant-based protein with healthy fats, gut-friendly fibre and braincare nutrients to boost focus, memory and all-round cognitive health. Each 80g bar contains 300 calories. Gordon Belch, Vybey’s co-founder, said: “Our hard-earnt learnings within vegan, dairy-free and planet-friendly ingredient decks, coupled with our pioneering push into the cognitive upsides of nootropics (Braincare range), meant we were perfectly poised to champion the next generation of ‘nutritionally optimal’ snacking bars that can be used as an on-the-go snack, as pre/post workout fuel or as a makeshift meal”. He added that the lines between indulgent treats and functional foods have “blurred like never before,” leading to the development of the bars’ “nostalgic flavours”.

Payments company MyPOS has announced the acquisition of UK-based payment solutions provider UTP Group. The move expands MyPOS’s support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the UK and Europe. UTP Max © UTP Group UTP, founded in 2013, offers portable and countertop card machines, tap-to-pay and ecommerce solutions, and flexible funding options, serving over 52,000 clients. The acquisition is said to enhance MyPOS's ability to provide scalable payment solutions with real-time access to funds. MyPOS CEO Mario Shiliashki commented: “This acquisition is not just about market expansion – it’s about empowering UK SMEs with better payment solutions, stronger support and more growth opportunities. By combining forces with UTP, MyPOS will deliver superior solutions faster, enabling businesses to grow and scale without high upfront costs. We are excited to empower local merchants and lay the foundation for long-term success in this key market.” UTP CEO Michael Ault added: “Joining forces with MyPOS is a great opportunity for UTP. Our team will have the chance to work with a leading fintech platform that’s well-positioned for future growth, backed by a growing European presence and a diverse suite of products. I am confident this partnership opens new opportunities to our robust sales team and our merchants, and I look forward to building on this momentum.” UTP clients will see no changes to their service following the acquisition. They will continue to receive the same level of support and, in time, will be integrated into the myPOS platform.

Cutwater, a spirits-based canned cocktail brand, has unveiled two new cocktail innovations for the spring and summer season – a Spicy Mango Margarita and Gin Collins, which will be available in select markets across the US, and an expansion of its popular Lemon Drop Martini.   “Between the Gin Collins or Spicy Mango Margarita, there is something in this new innovation line-up for everyone,” said Gwen Conley, Cutwater’s head of innovation. “Whether you’re pairing Gin Collins with a sprig of rosemary, Spicy Mango Margarita with a Tajín rim, or just want to enjoy either out of the can, our cocktails are made to share with your family and friends.”   The Spicy Mango Margarita creates a ‘dynamic balance of heat and sweetness’ and the Gin Collins offers a ‘crisp and refreshing’ take on a timeless classic for elevated, easy-sipping cocktails. Made with Cutwater’s tequila and a balance of juicy mango, lime and jalapeño , the Spicy Mango Margarita is 12.5% ABV, while the Gin Collins, 9% AVB, features Cutwater’s gin and notes of zesty lemon. Following a positive regional launch in 2024, the brand's Lemon Drop Martini is being expanded nationwide for the spring/summer season. Crafted with Cutwater’s vodka, the cocktail balances tart lemon and subtle sweetness, designed to provide a refreshing taste. Based in San Diego, US, Cutwater has a line-up of more than 20 canned cocktail classics made from its portfolio of bottled spirits, including tequila, vodka, rum, gin, whiskey and liqueur.

AG Barr has announced plans to discontinue its bottled water brand Strathmore by January 2026. The beverage group said it is making the move in a bid to boost profits and simplify the company’s structure. The potential closure of the site is subject to employee consultation. A spokesperson from AG Barr said: “We have announced a proposal with our Strathmore Water colleagues in Forfar, Scotland, which could see the closure of the site and 23 roles becoming redundant. The Strathmore brand has struggled to compete in recent years and we believe we have now reached a point where the Forfar site is no longer sustainable.”   The decision to discontinue the Strathmore brand and propose closing the Forfar plant comes after Barr announced redundancies last year, following the closure of its direct sales operation and the integration of the Boost energy drinks business. Last year also saw the closure of its sites in Moston, Wednesbury and Dagenham in England under the Barr Direct model.   Speaking about the potential closure, the spokesperson said: “The proposals are subject to consultation and we intend to fully support our employees through this period of change”. Top image: © AG Barr

Costa Rica exported more coffee to Europe than to the United States for the first time in 2024, according to new data from the Costa Rican Foreign Trade Promoter (PROCOMER). Exports to Europe reached $152 million, compared to $128.6 million to the US last year. This marked a significant shift, with European exports rising by 25% from the previous year, representing an absolute variation increase of $30.5 million. In contrast, exports to the US dropped by 23%, falling $37.7 million over the same period. Belgium leads European growth The growth was driven by Belgium, where exports more than doubled from $46.1 million in 2023 to $95.2 million in 2024 – a 106% increase. From 2020 to 2024, exports to Belgium had a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.8%. Other European markets also saw sharp increases. Exports to Finland rose from $2.4 million to $6.7 million (184%) from 2023 to 2024. Turkey, Romania and Poland also recorded significant gains, with Poland’s exports up 400% in the same period. Changing global market dynamics The overall shift reflects changing market dynamics and growing European demand for Costa Rican coffee. Total coffee exports from Costa Rica remained relatively stable, with a slight overall decline of 2% from 2023 to 2024. With Europe emerging as a dominant market, Costa Rican coffee producers and exporters may increasingly focus on meeting European demand, capitalising on the momentum in markets such as Belgium and Finland. This could signal the beginning of a new era for Costa Rica’s coffee industry.