Mars has finalised its acquisition of Kellanova, consolidating two iconic businesses and positioning Mars Snacking as a formidable force in the market. Andrew Clarke, global president of Mars Snacking, heralded the acquisition as a transformative moment, highlighting the combined legacy of both companies in pioneering new product categories. “Today marks a transformative moment, and I’m excited to welcome Kellanova to Mars,” Clarke said. “Together, we are uniquely positioned to bring consumers more of the brands they love while advancing our sustainability commitments and investing for the long term.” The newly formed Mars Snacking division now boasts an impressive portfolio that includes Kellanova’s billion-dollar brands alongside Mars’ existing powerhouses such as Snickers, M&M’s and Twix. The companies say this alignment will create synergies that will enhance product offerings and drive innovation in snacking. The acquisition, which was first announced in August 2024 , has successfully navigated the regulatory landscape, receiving necessary approvals from Kellanova shareholders and regulatory bodies, including the European Commission  and the US Federal Trade Commission . As of 8 December 2025, all regulatory hurdles have been cleared, allowing Mars to integrate Kellanova’s extensive brand portfolio into its operations.

Nestlé UK & Ireland has announced significant recipe changes to its Toffee Crisp and Blue Riband chocolate bars, a move prompted by soaring cocoa prices and the need for cost management in production. The reformulations have resulted in the removal of the term 'chocolate' from the product labels, as both bars now fall below the minimum cocoa content required for chocolate designation in the UK. Under UK regulations, products labelled as milk chocolate must contain at least 20% cocoa solids and 20% milk solids. Following the recent adjustments, Nestlé has rebranded the coatings of these bars as “smooth milk chocolate flavour coating,” reflecting the new formulation that does not meet the legal standards for chocolate. A Nestlé spokesperson stated: “We’ve seen significant increases in the cost of cocoa over the past years, making it much more expensive to manufacture our products. We continue to be more efficient and absorb increasing costs where possible. To continue to offer shoppers great value and enjoyment, it is sometimes necessary to adjust the recipes of some of our products.” Cocoa prices have surged due to supply chain disruptions and climate-related challenges, prompting brands to rethink their recipes and labelling strategies to maintain profitability while still appealing to consumers. Nestlé’s decision follows similar actions by other companies, including Pladis, which recently removed chocolate from its Digestives brand. This trend raises important questions about transparency and product identity in the food and beverage sector, as consumers may become wary of products that no longer align with their expectations of traditional definitions. Nestlé has noted that these updates are specific to the Toffee Crisp and Blue Riband ranges, with no plans to implement similar changes across its other chocolate products.

US oat milk brand Planet Oat has launched a new white chocolate and raspberry-flavoured coffee creamer, in partnership with TV series Emily in Paris. The partnership launches to coincide with the premiere of the Paramount Television Studios-produced TV show on 18 December. Described as combining Planet Oat’s oat milk with ‘the chic, romantic flair of Paris,’ the limited-edition creamer is infused with natural flavours of white chocolate and tart raspberry, designed to add indulgence to coffee consumption. Chris Ross, vice president of marketing and R&D at Planet Oat’s parent company HP Hood, said: “Collaborating with Emily in Paris marks a fun new chapter for Planet Oat, blending the world of entertainment with a coffee ritual in a way that feels fresh and enjoyable”. “We know our consumers crave flavour, variety and sophistication, so pairing this cultural phenomenon with the indulgent profile of white chocolate raspberry allows us to bring a taste of Paris directly to their homes.” The new dairy-free creamer will hit major retail shelves across the US this month, available in a 32 fl oz bottle.

The food and beverage (F&B) industry is one of the most water-intensive sectors in the world. From ingredient preparation and cleaning operations to cooling, heating and wastewater discharge, water plays a central role in daily production. As manufacturers strive to increase efficiency, meet stricter food safety regulations and reduce their environmental footprint, advanced water and process treatment solutions have become essential. Kurita, a global leader in water and process technologies and services, offers a comprehensive portfolio designed specifically to address these challenges in the F&B sector. Kurita’s approach streamlines and improves water-related processes at the facility, from intake to discharge, while improving productivity and reducing environmental impact. These impacts are also realised in energy savings as well as reducing CO 2  footprint. Kurita’s F&B solutions combine technologies, services, digital monitoring and sustainability-driven innovations to help customers achieve reliable, safe and efficient operations. Targeted water treatment for reliable operations One of the core pillars of Kurita’s offering is utilities and process water treatment. Food and beverage production requires clean, consistent and hygienically safe water. Kurita provides advanced technology solutions that ensure optimal water quality to meet strict industry standards and help maintain stable operations even under varying water-source conditions. Equally important is the water and energy management systems provided by Kurita, which are widely used for thermal processing, sterilisation, pasteurisation and CIP (clean-in-place) processes. Kurita offers tailored water treatment programs to control scaling, corrosion and microbiological growth in cooling systems, ensuring safe and efficient heat-exchange performance, enhancing energy efficiency and equipment lifespan. By keeping boilers clean and stable, sites can significantly reduce energy and water consumption and limit production downtime. Membrane treatment programmes for water purification are becoming more widely used. Kurita's Avista technologies extend membrane life, reduce cleaning frequency and maintain stable permeate quality, helping sites safeguard both product quality and operational costs. Kurita brings strong expertise to wastewater treatment and water recycling. F&B wastewater often contains high levels of organic matter, fats, oils and variable loads. Kurita’s wastewater technologies and equipment treatment systems help sites to meet discharge regulations, reduce sludge hauling and increase the potential for water reuse. A distinctive feature of Kurita’s F&B offering is its emphasis on digitalidation and smart monitoring. Using sensors, automation and data-driven platforms, Kurita helps sites in monitoring critical parameters such as corrosion, biofilm, scaling tendencies, water usage and chemical dosing in real time. This not only improves operational reliability but allows rapid intervention to prevent costly failures or contamination risks. In addition to digital automation, Kurita provides on-site technical service , audits and consultancy, helping our customers to optimize their full water cycle. Overall, Kurita’s F&B solutions deliver a powerful combination of operational efficiency, product safety and environmental responsibility by focusing on the entire lifecycle of water and process systems, supporting our customers in their journey toward cleaner production, regulatory compliance and sustainable growth, offering innovation backed by decades of global expertise.  For more information, please visit the Kurita F&B 360 website .

Just Eat Takeaway.com (JET) has announced that founder and CEO Jitse Groen will step down, with Roberto Gandolfo set to take over as CEO from 1 January 2026. Gandolfo, currently chair of JET’s supervisory board and head of Prosus Europe, will assume the role pending approval from the Dutch Central Bank. Groen founded Thuisbezorgd.nl – the original Takeaway.com – in 2000, growing it into a global food delivery company through acquisitions and the 2020 merger with Just Eat. JET now operates in 16 countries, with 60 million consumers and 362,000 restaurant partners. In 2024, the company processed 653 million orders worth €19 billion in gross merchandise value. Gandolfo joins JET from Prosus, where he started in 2025, following over a decade at iFood as CEO of the marketplace business. Under his leadership at iFood, the platform scaled to 120 million monthly orders, over 60 million annual customers, and a network of 400,000 merchant partners and couriers. Fabricio Bloisi, CEO of Prosus, will replace Gandolfo as chair of the JET supervisory board. Groen said: "After a quarter century as founder and CEO of Just Eat Takeaway.com, I am leaving the company today. I am immensely proud of what our team has built and I want to extend my deepest gratitude to everyone who has been part of this remarkable journey." Bloisi commented: “On behalf of Prosus and the supervisory board of JET, I would like to express our deep appreciation for Jitse for his leadership and commitment over more than two decades. Very few founders can claim to have built a company that reaches this level of scale, impact and relevance. Jitse’s contribution will remain a defining part of JET’s history and future, and we wish him the very best in his next chapter." He continued: "As JET enters this next phase under Prosus ownership, our focus is on execution and delivery for our customers and partners. We will move fast to transform JET through a focus on product, customer and innovation, creating a true European tech champion that will reshape the future of food delivery." "In that context, we are pleased to share that Roberto Gandolfo will become the next CEO of JET. Roberto has a proven track record in scaling complex operations, driving product- and technology-led transformation, and leading high-performing teams. He brings deep industry experience, an entrepreneurial mindset, strong strategic clarity and fresh ambition required to guide JET into its next chapter. We look forward to working closely with Roberto and the entire JET team to reignite growth.” Gandolfo added: “JET is a phenomenal business with a strong brand, valued partners, and great people across the organisation. I’m excited to join at this pivotal moment and to work closely with JET’s leaders to unlock the company’s next chapter of growth through innovation and best-in-class execution.”

The Coca-Cola Company’s executive vice president and chief operating officer, Henrique Braun, will succeed current CEO James Quincey as chief executive officer from 31 March 2026. Quincey will transition to the role of executive chairman after serving as CEO for nine years. Coca-Cola’s board also plans to nominate Braun, pictured above, to stand for election as director at the company’s 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareowners. During Quincey’s tenure, he led the business’ transformation through a reshaped strategy and operating model, aiming to create a more agile and networked company. This included a focus on digital transformation and modernised marketing. He also led the company through the Covid-19 pandemic, and saw the addition of more than ten billion-dollar brands under his leadership. As CEO, Braun will build on this foundation by seeking growth opportunities worldwide, driving the company closer to consumer needs and leveraging technology as an enabler of business performance. He has served as EVP and COO since 1 January 2025, overseeing all of the company’s operating units worldwide, following his appointment as EVP in 2024. From 2023 to 2024, he served as senior vice president and president of international development, overseeing seven of the company’s nine operating units. Prior to that, he served as president of the Latin America unit from 2020 to 2022, and as president of the Brazil business from 2016 to 2020. From 2013 to 2016, he was president for Greater China and South Korea. He joined Coca-Cola in 1996 and progressed through roles of increasing responsibilities in North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia, in areas including supply chain, new business development, marketing, innovation, general management and bottling operations. Commenting on his appointment, he said: “I’m honoured to take on this new role and have tremendous appreciation for everything James has done to lead the company. I will focus on continuing the momentum we’ve built with our system. We’ll work to unlock future growth in partnership with our bottlers. I’m excited about the future of our business and see huge opportunities in a fast-changing global market.” Outgoing CEO Quincey became chief executive in 2017 and chairman of the board in 2019. He joined the company in 1996 and has held leadership roles around the world. In addition to growing Coca-Cola’s brand portfolio and market share during his tenure, Quincey also played a key role in the creation of Coca Cola Europacific Partners, one of the largest independent Coca Cola bottlers in the world. He commented: “I’m stepping down as CEO after a 30-year career with the company, and I have an appreciation of what a privilege it has been to serve this great and enduring business. Henrique is a trusted and highly experienced business partner, and he’s the right leader to steer the company and the Coca Cola system for future growth and success.”

Barista Tech has introduced what it says is the market’s first grind-by-weight (GbW) espresso grinder, the Mahlkönig E65S GbW, manufactured by German grinder specialist Mahlkönig. Unlike traditional grinders that dose by time or volume, the GbW system measures coffee in real time by weight, aiming to deliver consistent dosing regardless of bean condition or grind size. The E65S GbW includes a 1,200g hopper, outputs up to 5g per second and uses an internal scale to monitor dose throughout grinding. Additional features include Disc Distance Detection for precise grind adjustments, an active cooling system to control temperature, an illuminated adjustable spout and automatic portafilter detection that selects presets and starts grinding. “Getting the perfect grind  has never been so easy,” said David Rees, marketing manager at Barista   Tech . “Serving a great cup, ever y single time, is what has driven the explosion in coffee  consumption. GbW takes coffee  quality to the next level.”  The grinder lists at £2,159 plus VAT. Top image: © Hemro International

Danone's International Delight brand is looking to welcome in the New Year with a high-profile collaboration to meet rising consumer demand for adventurous, indulgent coffee experiences at home. Partnering with media personality and entrepreneur Paris Hilton, the brand will debut a limited-edition line of coffee creamers and cold foam in January 2026. The collection features three SKUs: Raspberry Champagne Creamer, a fruity, profile inspired by Hilton’s aesthetic; Sweet & Spicy Creamer, a heat meets sweet blend; and Cotton Candy Cold Foam Creamer, a nostalgic, pink, colour-forward cold foam designed to add texture and flair to at-home beverages. The partnership reflects International Delight’s strategy to tap into cultural trends and leverage influencer collaborations to attract younger coffee dreamers. According to the brand, one-third of Zillennial consumers are seeking novel and unconventional flavour pairings, signalling a significant opportunity for category disruption through unique formulations and formats. Jennifer Michuda, senior director of creamers at Danone North America, said: “Just like Paris Hilton, we are experts at taking ordinary moments to a new level. These limited-edition flavours demonstrate how we’re pushing boundaries and introducing culturally relevant innovations that make at-home coffee more exciting.” Hilton, known for her social media reach and lifestyle branding, said: “Life is way too short to drink plain coffee, with these creamers and cold foam, we can turn every sip into a party.” International Delight has steadily expanded its portfolio through trend-forward innovations, including previous partnerships with entertainment franchises, such as Love is Blind, Bridgerton and Home Alone. This latest limited-edition line further reinforces Danone North America’s focus on category growth through flavour exploration, premium textures and in-home café experiences.

TÜV Rheinland Hong Kong hosted its first Coffee Machines & Appliances Summit on 28 November, highlighting rising safety, regulatory, and cybersecurity challenges in modern household appliances. The summit brought together global brands, suppliers, OEMs and retailers to discuss food contact material (FCM) compliance, chemical regulation and IoT security. Speakers noted that coffee machines and other small appliances are evolving from simple devices into complex, digitally connected products subject to strict global standards. Experts highlighted key trends shaping the industry: the transition to BPA-free and PFAS-free materials, increasing regulatory divergence across markets, and the technical complexity of ensuring compliance. Manufacturers were urged to adopt robust GMP processes, cross-functional governance and validated testing to avoid recalls and market delays. Cybersecurity in connected appliances was a major focus. As devices integrate apps, AI and cloud connectivity, regulators in Europe, the US and Asia now require manufacturers to implement secure-by-design practices and ongoing vulnerability monitoring. TÜV Rheinland emphasised that safety in modern appliances now requires an integrated approach spanning chemical safety, material integrity and digital security – a convergence that will define compliance in the years ahead.

As the holiday season ushers in a wave of celebrations, parties and gatherings, Day-Guard has introduced a new solution aimed at mitigating the adverse effects of alcohol consumption. This vitamin jelly stick bar is designed to support liver and gut health, providing a proactive approach to managing hangovers and promoting hydration during festive festivities. Day-Guard is formulated with a blend of antioxidants, electrolytes and prebiotics, targeting the digestive system's stress during alcohol consumption. The product aims to alleviate bloating and enhance overall hydration, positioning itself as 'insurance when you drink'. Th products aims to addresses common challenges associated with holiday drinking, including inflammation and discomfort that can lead to reduced productivity and mood swings. The concept for Day-Guard originated from two 23-year-old Brown University students, who drew inspiration from their Korean heritage. The product has garnered backing from consumer packaged goods leaders, including Magic Spoon, Rip Van Wafels and Earth Brands, all of whom began their entrepreneurial journeys in college dorms. Elaine Azlin, a global public relations consultant for Day-Guard, commented: “With parties and gatherings on the rise, many consumers are seeking ways to enjoy themselves while minimising the negative effects of alcohol. Day-Guard offers a convenient and effective solution for those looking to protect their liver and gut health.” The launch of Day-Guard comes at a time when health-conscious consumers are increasingly aware of the impacts of alcohol on their bodies.

PayRange, a mobile-first commerce platform for unattended retail, has acquired KioSoft Technologies, a global provider of cashless payment and IoT solutions, for an undisclosed sum. The move aims to accelerate the modernisation of coin-operated machines and enhance digital payment options for consumers. The combined company will serve millions of machines across the US, Canada, Latin America and Europe, merging PayRange’s mobile payment platform with KioSoft’s global operator network. KioSoft will operate under the PayRange brand, with its president, Charles Lee, joining as PayRange’s vice chairman. Paresh Patel, founder and CEO of PayRange, said: "Unattended retail is one of the last frontiers of digital transformation. For the past decade, PayRange has focused on bringing convenient mobile-first connectivity to everyday transactions." "Through the acquisition of KioSoft, we bring together our complementary skills and product offerings to reinvent self-service commerce and simplify how people pay for everyday items and experiences." Charles Lee, president of KioSoft, added: "Today's announcement represents a major leap forward in our shared vision to make everyday payments smarter, simpler, and more connected than ever. This combination is about accelerating a modernized, convenient, and unified payment experience for the millions of consumers who use unattended retail machines every day." "On behalf of my KioSoft colleagues, I am delighted to be joining the PayRange family and look forward to working together to accelerate innovation and bring more machines online."

Ecozy has introduced the Brezzano Elite, a new four-in-one touchscreen espresso machine designed to offer barista-style coffee making at home. The machine features the company’s BaristaSense Technology, which provides on-screen guidance for dosing, grind size and portafilter selection. A full-colour touchscreen displays brewing progress and machine status. The Brezzano Elite includes four brewing modes – Espresso, Cold Brew, Americano and Over Ice – and a steam wand for milk-based drinks. A manual mode is also available. The company says the system uses dual NTC sensors and automatic pressure regulation to maintain stable temperature and extraction, allowing up to ten consecutive espressos. It also includes a separate cold-water pathway to produce cold brew in 37 seconds. For Americano drinks, the machine offers Classic, Rich and Lungo presets with dedicated extraction programs. A self-cleaning function is built in, and the machine issues a reminder after about 500 brews. The Brezzano Elite is available on Amazon for $299.99.