Taco Bell has launched its first-ever Live Más Café, a new concept developed in collaboration with Diversified Restaurant Group, one of the brand’s largest franchisees. The café aims to expand Taco Bell’s beverage offerings, featuring speciality drinks such as chillers, agua frescas and coffees, alongside the restaurant's classic menu items. Located in Chula Vista, California, the Live Más Café will operate daily. The concept is designed to provide fans with an inviting atmosphere and great value while introducing a new dimension to the brand’s beverage category. Diversified Restaurant Group's CEO, SG Ellison, said: “Live Más Café is a bold new chapter in our journey of innovation. Rooted in Taco Bell’s cultural rebel spirit, Live Más Café redefines the consumer experience by bringing a new line-up of indulgent beverages. This isn’t just a menu update message – it’s a movement. The new beverage platform will empower consumers to live bold and live beyond, and Taco Bell has allowed us to help write the book on this exciting new concept.”   Taco Bell's president, North America and International, Scott Mezvinsky, added: “We’re always looking for new ways to elevate the Taco Bell experience, and the Live Más Café is the perfect example of that". “This innovative pilot concept is all about expanding the boundaries of what Taco Bell can be, creating a dynamic space where guests can experience our bold flavours in new and exciting ways. The strength of our partnership with Diversified Restaurant Group has been key in bringing this vision to life. Together, we’re not only pushing the envelope on innovation but also reinforcing the power of strong franchise relationships in driving Taco Bell’s continued growth and success.” #TacoBell #US

The Campbell’s Company-owned pretzel brand Snack Factory has unveiled its latest innovation, Pop’ums, bringing together the crunchiness of pretzels with the light texture of popcorn. The brand said it was inspired to create what it calls its ‘most distinctive product to date,’ in response to data showing that millennials are seeking new types of salty snacks, with unique textures in snacking on the rise. Launching into salty snack aisles across the US in January 2025, Pop’ums were inspired by the shape of popcorn and designed to hold flavour for easy, satisfying snacking at home or on-the-go. The baked snacks are available in three flavours: White Cheddar, Golden Mustard BBQ, and Sea Salt. White Cheddar is made with real cheddar cheese to offer a classic and familiar taste, while Golden Mustard BBQ is described as ‘distinctively tangy, smoky and peppery,’ and Sea Salt combines hints of sea salt with a buttery flavour. Pop’ums are packaged in a resealable bag and will be available both at national retailers and online, for a suggested retail price of $5.49 per 9oz bag. Janda Lukin, SVP and chief marketing officer of Campbell’s Snacks, said: “Snack Factory forever changed snacking with the debut of Pretzel Crisps 20 years ago. With Pop’ums, we are rethinking what a pretzel can be once again with a snacking experience unlike any other: combining the crunchy baked goodness of pretzels with the light, flavorful munchability of popcorn to create an irresistibly delicious snack.” #SnackFactory #TheCampbellsCompany #US

UK water company Belu has introduced a new water tap with the launch of Belu Curve. Designed specifically for workplaces, the new tap aims to provide an environmentally friendly alternative to single-use bottled water. The Belu Curve tap offers hot, cold, still, sparkling and ambient water, supported by a high-capacity undercounter unit requiring minimal counter modifications. Advanced filtration removes sediment, odours, microplastics and chlorine, while ultraviolet LED purification ensures chemical-free sterilisation. The system includes intelligent eco-modes to reduce energy consumption during idle periods. In addition, it incorporates digital technology with remote monitoring. With the launch of the new tap, Belu aims to increase revenue streams and amplify its contributions to clean water initiatives worldwide. Nolan Wright, director of supply chain operations at Belu, said: "The Curve is more than just a tap for us; it brings the expertise we’ve built during our filtration journey together with our commitment to reduce waste and prioritise sustainability." "Designed for hardworking workplaces, it shows sustainability can go hand in hand with convenience... and we’ve already had some great feedback from customers. Another exciting step forward in our mission to change the way the world sees water." #Belu

Sodexo UK&I's chief executive officer, Sean Healy, has announced that he will be stepping down after seven years leading the region. Sean Healy Haley, who joined the company in 2011 as part of its acquisition of Atkins' asset management business, became CEO in 2022 following roles as regional chair and managing director. He is leaving Sodexo to pursue new career opportunities Following his departure, Jean Renton, who has been chief financial officer at Sodexo since 2019, has been promoted to the newly created role of chief operating officer, effective 1 January. She will lead the region with an operational focus on business transformation. Renton, who joined Sodexo in 2013, has previously held a number of senior business and commercial functions in the region. She also has an extensive background in finance and change management, having worked with John Lewis, Marks & Spencer and PwC prior to joining Sodexo. In addition to her COO responsibilities, Renton will continue to chair Sodexo UK&I's SoTogether gender equality employee network and serve as a non-executive director of the audit committee for the charity Wellbeing of Women. Sunil Nayak, zone president of Sodexo Europe, said: "We sincerely thank Sean for his significant contribution to Sodexo over the last 13 years. As chair and CEO of the UK&I region he has navigated the business through turbulent times in the market and simultaneously championed social impact, with Sodexo widely recognised as leaders in sustainability and inclusion." "I am delighted that Jean has accepted this role to lead the region in the next phases of our strategy and transformation. Her commercial business expertise, coupled with strong executive leadership, made her the obvious choice for this position." Renton added: "I am honoured to have been appointed into this role. I look forward to working alongside my executive team and all our site colleagues as we continue to serve our clients and consumers as the global leader in sustainable food and valued experiences." #Sodexo #UK #Ireland

Iceland Foods has unveiled the 'world’s first' mince pie vending machine in Liverpool, UK, installed outside its store in Williamson Square. According to Iceland’s sales data, Liverpool consumes more mince pies than any other city in the country, earning it the title of 'mince pie capital' of the UK. The machine offers a variety of mince pies, including options like Cathedral City cheese mince pies, caramel crumble mince pies and chocolate caramel crumble mince pies, alongside the classic variety. Iceland says the idea came from research showing nearly a third of Brits wished for mince pies on demand. With hundreds lining up to try it, the vending machine has already proved popular in Liverpool. Paul Dhaliwal, chief commercial officer at Iceland Foods, said: “The people of Liverpool have spoken, and we thought they deserved some festive cheer in the form of free mince pies from the world’s first mince pie vending machine". #IcelandFoods #vendingmachine

Last month, the Vending and Automated Retail Association (AVA) issued a warning to the government over the potential impact of recent budget changes on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the vending sector. In an open letter to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, AVA expressed concerns about the financial strain resulting from changes to Employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs), alongside increased national minimum wage and living wage levels. The industry predicts these adjustments could add £39 million in additional annual costs across the sector, threatening jobs, businesses and overall economic stability. “Our industry is predominantly made up of SMEs, many of which employ fewer than 50 people,” the letter states. “For individual businesses, the changes will add over £100,000 in costs – an unsustainable burden at a time when many are already struggling with rising costs for fuel, energy, ingredients, transport and shipping.” David Llewellyn, chief executive of AVA, warned that the combined pressure of these new costs could lead to widespread job losses, business closures and inflationary price hikes. The situation is particularly challenging for an industry reliant on long-term contracts, where passing on these additional costs to clients is often not an option. While acknowledging the government’s focus on improving public finances and supporting economic recovery, the trade association emphasised that the proposed NIC changes disproportionately affect lower earners and could undermine flexible working arrangements. “We fully support the ambition to deliver inclusive growth and economic stability,” the letter continues, “but these changes threaten to stifle the very businesses that underpin employment and opportunity across the UK.” AVA has urged the Chancellor to reconsider the NIC changes and explore alternative measures to support economic recovery without jeopardising the future of small businesses. #AVA

The Nero Group is strengthening its ties with two major British retailers, Waitrose and John Lewis, through the launch of new cafés locations. Waitrose will roll out a new café concept in five of its stores – opening in Billericay, Godalming, Keynsham, Locks Heath and Stroud – offering customers menus that pair Waitrose’s food with coffee roasted exclusively for the supermarket by The Nero Roasting Company. At the same time, Caffè Nero is opening its first location within a John Lewis store in White City, London. The 1,500-square-feet space will accommodate 72 customers and offer the full selection of Caffè Nero’s premium speciality coffees and deli food. The partnership between Waitrose and The Nero Group began in 2021, with The Nero Roasting Company supplying coffee to Waitrose’s nine million myWaitrose members. Will Stratton-Morris, Caffè Nero CEO UK, commented: “Our partnership with Waitrose continues to build and we’ve been delighted with the close working relationship we have grown. We have always seen the potential to deepen that relationship further and the launch of the new café in Waitrose is a key step in that process, as is widening the scope of our relationship with our first Caffè Nero store within a John Lewis store." "I’m excited that customers can enjoy the hospitality and premium coffee of a Caffè Nero within the unique shopping experience of John Lewis. It’s a perfect pairing and there is still so much scope for our partnership to continue to grow”. Charlotte Di Cello, commercial director for Waitrose, added: “We’re excited to build on our successful partnership with the Nero Group with the launch of our new cafés. The initial tranche of five café will offer the best of Waitrose quality food with coffee from The Nero Roasting Company in a welcoming environment with the great partner-led service we’re famous for. Our stores are hubs for local communities across the country and we know our customers love to have the option of enjoying a coffee, snack or meal after their shop.” #CaffèNero

Danone-owned brand STōK has introduced a new line of ready-to-drink decaffeinated cold brew coffee in the US. STōK Decaf is available in two variants: Unsweet and Not Too Sweet. According to the brand, with 30.2% of Gen Z and many millennials seeking health-conscious coffee options, STōK Decaf offers a 'bold and smooth' flavour without the caffeine. Brittney Polka, VP of ready-to-drink beverages at Danone North America, said: "I think we can all relate to those relentless coffee cravings that hit throughout the day. But what are you supposed to do when it's past your caffeine curfew?...Thanks to our new STōK Decaf Cold Brew, you don't need permission to enjoy cold brew any time of day." STōK Decaf Cold Brew is currently available in grocery stores across the country. #Danone #STōK #US #coldbrew #decaf

The European Vending & Coffee Service Association (EVA) has announced that its annual European Vending Experience (EVEX) will take place from 9-12 September 2025 in Split, Croatia. The four-day event will be hosted at the Meridien Lav hotel, offering attendees a blend of networking, educational workshops and conferences, and a showcase of the latest products and developments in the industry. It will also provide insights into the Croatian and Balkan markets. The event will include a mobile app for attendees and an evening boat trip from the hotel’s private marina. Registration opens in April-May 2025, with more details available on EVA's website and social media. #EVA #EVEX

Nestlé USA has appointed Martin Thompson as the company's chief executive officer and US market head, effective 1 January 2025. Thompson will report to Steve Presley, Nestlé CEO Zone Americas, and join the Zone Americas leadership team. Martin Thompson Thompson joined Nestlé in 2018 through the acquisition of Starbucks' consumer packaged goods and foodservice products business. In 2020, he became president of Nestlé Coffee Partners, overseeing US coffee brands like Nescafé, Starbucks at Home and Seattle’s Best. Thompson brings over 35 years of experience in the consumer packaged goods industry, with a strong background in sales, marketing and general management. Before joining Nestlé, he served as CEO of Ghirardelli Chocolate Company and held leadership roles at Clorox Company and Procter & Gamble. Presley said: “For the last several years Marty has led one of our most successful businesses, cementing our position as undisputed leaders in the coffee category. He was instrumental in doubling our Starbucks business globally in just four years and leading the expansion of Nescafé in the US market." "He understands that our business, regardless of category, is all about the consumer – knowing them and delighting them at every turn. Just as importantly, Marty believes in the power of people and culture to fuel business results and he builds and inspires teams that deliver. I expect he will inspire that same innovation and growth mindset he fostered within our winning coffee business as he takes on the broader CEO role.” #Nestlé #CEO #US #appointment

American podcaster Alex Cooper has announced the launch of Unwell Hydration, a new drink line designed to support wellness in everyday life. Designed 'by women for everyone,' the range is available in three flavours: strawberry, mango citrus and orange hibiscus. Each bottle contains more than 700mg of electrolytes, B-complex vitamins and green coffee extract, offering a natural boost for energy and focus. The products are made with natural flavours and colours. Cooper said: "Women are often expected to juggle multiple roles and be everything to everyone, which is why I wanted to create a hydration drink that helps replenish what we give out. Hydration, however, is a universal need, and that's what truly matters –  a drink that supports wellness for everyone, regardless of who you are." Unwell Hydration will launch exclusively at Target stores from January 2025, priced at $2.49 for a 500ml bottle and $14.99 for an eight-pack. A broader rollout to additional US retailers is planned later in the year. #UnwellHydration #US

Food tech company Deliverect has announced the acquisition of Tabesto, an all-in-one restaurant and fast-food ordering and payment kiosk. According to the company, restaurant operators using Deliverect to manage online orders can now enhance in-store service with Tabesto’s ordering and payment software. The acquisition brings 60 Tabesto employees into Deliverect, with Tabesto CEO and co-founder Guillaume Hourmant taking on the role of head of Deliverect Kiosk. Tabesto will continue operating in France and Switzerland, while the kiosk technology will also launch in the UK, Benelux and Spain, with further European and global expansion planned for 2025. Deliverect sees Tabesto’s kiosks as a key tool for digitising restaurant operations, reducing queues and boosting efficiency. The kiosks, which can increase sales by up to 30%, is designed to integrate with existing suppliers and payment systems. Zhong Xu, Deliverect's CEO and co-founder, said: “At Deliverect, our vision has always been to help the foodservice community thrive in the digital age. Today’s consumer wants the best of both worlds – they’re looking for speed alongside a premium experience. The acquisition of Tabesto enables us to further support both on- and off-premise ordering experiences. Allowing restaurants to manage their menus and operations centrally across all their digital channels." "We remain committed to this goal – exploring options to further expand the coverage of Deliverect into other regions organically as well through M&A – and are thrilled to have Tabesto’s technology and brilliant team join Deliverect in this mission.” Guillaume Hourmant added: "We’re thrilled to join forces with Deliverect, a leader in food tech innovation. This acquisition allows both of our companies to amplify our shared mission to transform the restaurant industry through digital solutions." "By integrating our all-in-one ordering and payment kiosks with Deliverect’s extensive SaaS ecosystem, we can help more restaurants worldwide embrace the power of digitization, driving efficiency and elevating the dining experience. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for our team and the industry as a whole." #Deliverect #Tabesto