Everton, an Italy-based tea and infusions company, has acquired Eastern Tea, a US tea producer and distributor. The acquisition is said to enhance Everton’s operations in North America, expanding its blending and packaging capabilities in the region. It is also expected to improve sourcing, distribution, commercial operations and innovation, strengthening Everton's position in the global tea market. Eastern Tea, headquartered in Monroe Township, New Jersey, has been in operation since 1982 under the ownership of the Barbakoff family. The company supplies bagged leaf teas under the Bromley brand and private labels, serving major retailers across North America. Everton, which has production and distribution facilities in Italy, Croatia and India, employs over 450 people and sources tea globally. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Five Star Breaktime Solutions has announced the acquisition of KBS Vending. The deal will strengthen Five Star’s presence in Dayton, Ohio, reinforcing its commitment to providing "exceptional breaktime experiences and service" to businesses across the state, said the company. Founded in 1997, KBS Vending is a provider of vending machine maintenance services. The company also offers refreshment services such as coffee, water and tea. Keith Survant, Five Star’s senior VP of the north region, said: “We're thrilled to welcome KBS Vending customers to our family as we continue to expand our growth in Dayton, Ohio. This acquisition marks an exciting milestone in our journey and we're eager to provide the same high-quality service and support that our customers have come to expect." Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Evoca Group-owned coffee machine brand, Wittenborg, is celebrating its centenary with the release of a new premium tabletop coffee machine – the W100 – combining the company’s heritage with modern advancements. The machine has a contemporary design with rounded edges and a 12-inch touchscreen interface with integrated connectivity options. Its electronics use HTML5 technology for flexible user interface updates. The W100 is also built with high-performance components suited to the hospitality sector. The W100 incorporates environmentally friendly materials and processes, features an Eco mode and has an improved life cycle assessment. Evoca UK has confirmed that the ES version of the W100 will be available in the UK from March. This model includes a 4kg coffee canister for freshly ground coffee, an instant decaffeinated option and a capacity of up to 200 drinks per day. A second version with a fresh brew tea option is expected to launch in the coming weeks.

Health-Ade is expanding its SunSip prebiotic soda line with two new flavours: Dr Bubbles and Cream Soda. These options join the existing line-up of gut-healthy sodas that are sweetened naturally with fruit juice, monk fruit and organic cane sugar. With 6g or less of sugar per can and 40 calories, they offer a healthier alternative to traditional sugary sodas. Dr Bubbles reimagines the classic Doctor soda with a black cherry base and subtle spices, while Cream Soda offers a nostalgic creamy vanilla flavour with caramelised notes. SunSip’s sodas are designed to support gut health with added prebiotics and vitamins such as C, B6 and B12, as well as minerals like zinc and selenium. The Dr Bubbles and Cream Soda flavours have been designed without the aftertaste often associated with stevia, which makes them an appealing option for consumers seeking a better-for-you soda. The new flavours, retailing at $2.49 per can, will initially be available at Whole Foods for six months before reaching other retailers.

Pret A Manger has scraped plans to double the price of its coffee subscription service in the UK. The coffee chain confirmed that, instead of raising its monthly Club Pret fee to £10 at the end of March, it will keep the price at £5. Pret had intended to raise the cost of its loyalty programme – which gives subscribers 50% off up to five barista-made drinks per day – at the end of March as part of a revamp. The chain faced criticism for discontinuing its free coffee subscription last September, which had allowed subscribers to claim five free coffees per day and receive a 20% discount on food. Previously, Pret customers paid £30 a month for the perks. "Our Club Pret monthly subscription fee will remain at just £5. At Pret, we believe in offering high-quality, organic coffee and barista-made drinks at fantastic value," Pret said in email to its subscribers. "With Club Pret, you’ll continue to enjoy great savings on up to five barista-made drinks per day." The new price will be available to both new and existing Club Pret subscribers.

Pepsi is launching two zero sugar drinks in different flavours: Strawberries ‘N’ Cream and Cream Soda. The launch caters to the rising demand for flavoured cola, which, according to the company, is growing three times faster than unflavoured cola, particularly among Gen Z shoppers. To appeal to this demographic, the pack designs are bold, and the launch is supported by a comprehensive communications plan targeting Gen Z consumers. Ben Parker, VP of Sales – Off Trade at Carlsberg Britvic, said: “Pepsi brings unique flavours and zero-sugar offerings to retailers’ shelves. This latest launch is an exciting and bold step into the indulgence space and is designed with Gen Z flavour lovers in mind." "The treat-inspired flavours will entice shoppers with a new experience and help increase sales in a highly competitive category. We’ll be working with retailers to help make the launch a success, with the aim of increasing footfall and sales, thanks to the product’s distinctive look helping it stand out on shelves.” The new offerings are available across selected UK grocery stores, with plans for wider distribution in convenience and foodservice outlets . The launch follows last week's unveiling of Coca-Cola's Orange Cream variants in the US and Canada, underscoring the rise in popularity of flavoured cola and 'nostalgic' flavour combinations.

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has added three new fruity flavours to its Fanta zero-sugar line-up in the UK. Two brand-new permanent additions, Fanta Zero Apple and Fanta Zero Raspberry, will roll out in stores from 24 February. They will be available in 330ml cans, 500ml rPET bottles, 2L rPET bottles and multipacks. Additionally, a limited-edition Fanta Tutti Frutti Zero Sugar will launch from mid-March in a ‘sleek’ can format with a bright and colourful design, aiming to ‘transport shoppers back to their teen years’ with a mixture of peach, pineapple and banana flavours. According to NIQ research, the low-calorie flavoured carbonates segment has increased by 23.1% in value over the past year. This latest launch from CCEP aims to help retailers expand their customer base and tap into the 2.5 million shoppers that frequently buy Fanta flavours, according to Kantar data, while catering to growing demand for sugar-free options. Rob Yeomans, vice president of commercial development at CCEP GB, said: “We’re excited to be expanding our core Fanta zero sugar range with the introduction of tangy Fanta Zero Apple and sweet Fanta Zero Raspberry, which will cater to consumers’ growing appetite for apple and raspberry flavours”. He added: “Our limited-edition Tutti Frutti Zero Sugar is like a carnival in a can, boasting a vibrant design that catches the eye and offering a nostalgic flavour. Limited editions are a great way to engage new shoppers, getting people excited and talking about the Fanta brand, while helping our customers drive sales.”

Coca-Cola said it may have to increase its reliance on plastic bottles in the US as president Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs push up the price of aluminium, the company's CEO, James Quincey, said in its latest earnings call. The concerns come after Trump imposed a 25% tariff on all imported steel and aluminium, a move that could drive up the cost of canned food and drinks across the US. The tariff is set to take effect on 12 March, potentially making aluminium cans considerably more expensive and forcing beverage companies to seek alternative packaging solutions. A shift towards plastic bottles could further complicate Coca-Cola’s sustainability goals. In December, the company quietly dropped its target for recycled materials in packaging, lowering its ambition from 50% recycled content by 2030 to a revised goal of 35-40% by 2035. "If one package suffers some increase in input costs, we continue to have other packaging offerings that will allow us to compete in the affordability space," Quincey told investors. "So for example, if aluminium cans become more expensive, we can put more emphasis on PET [plastic] bottles, etc." However, the Coca-Cola chief also downplayed the potential impact of tariffs on the business, emphasising that packaging represents only a small share of total costs. "I think we're in danger of exaggerating the impact of the 25% increase in the aluminum price relative to the total system," he said. "It's not insignificant, but it's not going to radically change a multibillion dollar US business. And packaging is only a small component of the total cost structure." In 2018, during his first term in the office, Trump imposed tariffs on foreign steel and aluminium imports, although many beverage manufacturers were granted exemptions. This time, however, he has made it clear that the tariffs will be enforced "without exceptions or exemptions." In other news, on Tuesday, 11 February, Trump signed an executive order to bring back plastic drinking straws, reversing a US government rule to replace them with paper straws as part of efforts to cut back on single-use plastics. “It’s a ridiculous situation. We’re going back to plastic straws,” Trump told reporters at the White House while signing the order.

Olipop, a rapidly growing player in the functional beverage sector, has successfully closed a $50 million Series C funding round led by JP Morgan Private Capital’s Growth Equity Partners. This investment not only underscores Olipop's rising prominence in the beverage market but also highlights the increasing interest from investors in health-oriented alternatives to traditional soft drinks. Founded in 2018 by Ben Goodwin and David Lester, Olipop has positioned itself as a strong player in the modern soda category, offering a high-fibre (made with plant fibre and prebiotics) beverage with significantly lower sugar content compared to conventional sodas. The brand's approach has resonated with health-conscious consumers, contributing to its status as the leading single-serve non-alcoholic beverage manufacturer in terms of dollar and unit growth. Approximately 50% of Olipop's growth is attributed to new consumers entering the market, indicating a shift in purchasing behaviour within the beverage sector. The funding will be directed towards product development, marketing expansion, and diversification of distribution channels, allowing Olipop to reach a broader consumer base across the US. Currently, Olipop products are available in nearly 50,000 retail locations, including major chains such as Walmart, Target and Whole Foods Market. In addition to its growth trajectory, Olipop has recently conducted human clinical trials that suggest its products may aid in blood sugar stability and metabolic health. This aligns with the brand's commitment to not only providing a healthier alternative to soda but also making its products accessible through health insurance networks under 'food as medicine' initiatives. The Series C round marks a significant milestone for Olipop, particularly as it follows the company's achievement of profitability in early 2024. The investment from JP Morgan validates Olipop's business model and reflects a broader trend in the beverage industry towards health-focused products that meet changing consumer preferences. Christopher Dawe, managing partner at JP Morgan Growth Equity Partners, said: “The brand's authenticity, mission-driven team and enormous market opportunity resonated with us. We look forward to supporting Olipop through its next phase of growth.“ Dawe will join Olipop's board of directors as part of the funding agreement. As part of the restructuring following this funding round, Olipop has announced the appointment of Mel Landis, a former Coca-Cola executive, as its new president. Landis brings over three decades of experience in the beverage industry and will play a crucial role in guiding Olipop through its next phase of growth. Co-founder David Lester will transition to an advisory role on the board, marking a shift in leadership as the company aims to solidify its position in the competitive beverage landscape.

Nestlé has announced the launch of a new mocha-flavoured KitKat, developed in partnership with its popular coffee brand, Nescafé. This collaboration aims to redefine the coffee break experience for consumers and capitalise on the synergies between two of the company’s most recognised brands. The new KitKat Mocha features a crispy wafer biscuit enveloped in a coffee-flavoured chocolate coating, designed to appeal to consumers seeking a snack that complements their coffee routines. Each two-finger bar contains 104 calories, positioning it as a moderate indulgence suitable for daily consumption. The product is free from artificial colours, flavours and preservatives, and it is marked as suitable for vegetarians, aligning with current consumer trends favouring cleaner labels and transparency in food sourcing. Angelica De Los Rios Granja, brand manager for KitKat at Nestlé UK & Ireland, said: “This partnership brings together two beloved brands to create the ultimate break experience”. The focus on enhancing the coffee break experience reflects a broader trend in the food and beverage industry, where brands are increasingly looking to innovate by merging categories. Nestlé's commitment to sustainability is evident in the sourcing of ingredients for its products. The cocoa used in KitKat bars is sourced from farming families participating in Nestlé’s Income Accelerator Programme, which aims to improve the livelihoods of cocoa farmers. In addition to the new mocha flavour, Nestlé has recently expanded its KitKat line-up with the introduction of KitKat Hazelnut and KitKat Sharing Blocks. This diversification strategy is indicative of Nestlé's approach to maintaining relevance in a competitive market, particularly among younger consumers who value variety and novelty in their snack choices. For those preferring a warm beverage, Nestlé is also promoting the Nescafé KitKat flavour latte, further bridging the gap between its confectionery and coffee offerings.

Poppi, a prebiotic soda brand, is facing criticism following its recent marketing campaign involving branded vending machines gifted to influencers. The stunt, which included sending full-sized machines stocked with their sodas to influencers in the lead-up to Super Bowl LIX, has sparked a backlash on social media, with fans questioning why such costly gesture was reserved for wealthy influencers instead of their broader customer base. One comment on X – former Twitter – expressed the frustration of many, stating: "Scrolling on TikTok just to see Poppi send vending machines full of soda cans for free to rich people is crazy, why do rich people deserve free things??? Like ONE can of these sodas is almost $3. Shame on you!!! @drinkpoppi." Another comment on TikTok added: "If they can afford to be giving out literal vending machines to influencers their product should not cost as much as it does!" Over the years, Poppi has primarily used influencers to promote its products, including a Super Bowl commercial featuring Alix Earle (who is also the brand investor), Jake Shane and Robert Rausch. Many argue that Poppi’s decision to target affluent influencers with the vending machines was "out of touch" and missed the mark. "In this economy and political climate it’s sooooo out of touch … genuinely blown away on how this got approved," wrote another TikTok user. Some believe the machines should have been placed in public spaces like colleges or shelters, where they could have benefitted a wider audience. Under influencer Emilie Kiser's TikTok video, where she shared a clip of the vending machine being installed in her home, one viewer commented: "I hope they deliver these vending machines to hospitals, schools, shelters and libraries". The campaign also attracted attention from Poppi’s competitor, Olipop, which claimed that each vending machine cost around $25,000. "Also for the record, those machines cost $25K each lol,” Olipop commented on a TikTok video. Poppi responded with co-founder Allison Ellsworth posting a TikTok on the brand’s page to address what she called the "misinformation being spread" by "one of our competitors". In the comment section, when a user inquired about the cost of the vending machine, Poppi clarified: "The number referenced was inflated by over 60%." "This vending machine campaign was put in place to bring awareness to the biggest soda moment of the year, the Super Bowl,” she said in the video. “We wanted to share Poppi with creators across the US who are hosting Super Bowl parties for their friends and families." She continued: "These vending machines will be part of the brand for years to come and we want to work with you guys to get them to places you'd like to see them out in the world”. “We hear you. So help us nominate your friends, your family, your favorite teacher’s lounge, your sorority, your fraternity, whatever it is, wherever you guys want Poppi to show up, and let's get Poppi to the masses because, at the end of the day, we're a brand trying to revolutionize soda for the next generation.”

The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has approved Coca-Cola HBC Northern Ireland's acquisition of BDS Vending Solutions. Coca-Cola HBC is involved in bottling and distributing various beverages and providing vending services, including the installation, operation and servicing of vending machines, to customers. BDS Vending, based in Dublin, offers similar vending services, including vending machine sales, operation, servicing and customer support. In February 2024, Coca-Cola HBC and BDS Vending reached an agreement for the purchase of the vending machine firm , subject to approval from CCPC. Following the notification of the proposed acquisition to the CCPC in March 2024, the commission initiated a phase two investigation to assess the potential impact on competition in the Republic of Ireland. After receiving additional information from both parties, the CCPC concluded that the deal could proceed without significantly reducing competition. The CCPC said: "Significant additional information was provided by both parties during the course of the investigation, such that the CCPC is satisfied that the deal can proceed." Terms of the transaction were not announced. Top image: © BDS Vending