Tomra has introduced a new reverse vending machine (RVM) – called TOMRA R2 – designed to allow smaller stores to accept over 100 empty drink containers for recycling in one go. The launch includes two new features for deposit refunds: digital vouchers accessible via mobile browsers and expanded options for charitable donations. According to the company, the Tomra R2 RVM emerges from market testing as the next generation of multi-feed returns, building on the success of Tomra R1, which is suited for high-volume retailers. The R2's compact design enables its installation in a wider range of stores, having been tested in Germany, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Denmark and the Netherlands. Tomra R2 aims to "rethink recycling" and reimagine traditional reverse vending with a minimalist, wall-mounted design that enhances user accessibility and guidance. The machine optimises screen space to provide intuitive instructions, making the recycling process simpler for users. The R2 is compatible with existing Tomra backroom storage solutions (such as Tomra MultiPac 2, EasyPac 1 and 2, and RollPac), allowing retailers to upgrade their RVM without investing in new equipment. Service access and cleaning is positioned at the back, minimising disruption on the retail floor. Additionally, retailers can now feature up to nine charities or community organisations for consumers to donate their deposit refunds, up from the previous limit of four. Tomra has introduced Digital Vouchers for deposit refunds, eliminating the need for apps. Users can scan a QR code on the RVM screen to receive a voucher in their mobile browser, creating a touch-free experience. This feature allows recyclers to shop while their containers are processed and receive their Digital Voucher afterward. Jonas Døvik, product manager for multi-feed solutions at Tomra Collection, said: "Today’s launch makes you rethink recycling and the reverse vending user experience. It brings benefit for all reverse vending stakeholders – with Tomra R2’s convenience for both retailers and recyclers, Digital Vouchers for consumers and greater donation opportunities to contribute to the wider community." #Tomra #reversevending

Santos has introduced the Kawa coffee grinder, designed for small batch grinding suitable for cupping, competitions and demonstrations. Kawa can grind 7g of coffee in 1.5 seconds and works with various filtration methods, including Turkish and brew coffee, making it ideal for coffee shops, restaurants, mobile caterers and home use. Key features include micrometric adjustment for precise grind settings, a removable fork for different portafilters and a professional asynchronous motor. Manufactured in France, the new mobile coffee grinder allows easy cleaning and maintenance, providing high-press with silent operation. Aurélien Fouquet, president of Santos, said: “The launch of our new Kawa n°76 grinder completes our new coffee range and combines all the Santos Coffee expertise in a compact version. This mobile grinder dedicated to all coffee lovers is ideal for a variety of uses, including cupping, coffee events, competitions and street vending”. #Santos #coffee

Amid rising operational pressures and tightening profit margins, foodservice operators are increasingly turning to technology to streamline operations while maintaining a personal touch, according to data analytics firm GlobalData. Though technology improves operations and customer experience, operators must address challenges such as maintaining personal service, integrating data, adapting to customer behaviour, training staff and managing customer expectations. Parthasaradhi Reddy Bokkala, lead consumer analyst at GlobalData, explained that operators are adopting a range of technologies to boost sales and profits. "Some of the technologies being adopted by the operators include digital hospitality to improve the ordering experience through technology while retaining the warmth of in-person service," Bokkala noted. "Personalised ordering systems that recognise repeat customers, [for example], can enhance the customer experience." Artificial intelligence (AI) is also playing a significant role in this transformation. Deepak Nautiyal, consumer and retail commercial director for Asia-Pacific (APAC) and the Middle East at GlobalData, highlighted how AI systems are being used to manage routine tasks like phone orders. "This allows staff to concentrate on in-store customer interactions, thereby enhancing the overall guest experience". He further explained that AI integration in voice ordering ensures prompt responses to customer calls, reducing wait times and capturing unmet demand without compromising service quality. This approach improves efficiency while maintaining personalised attention for in-store customers. However, as technology reshapes the industry, it also introduces new challenges. Bokkala pointed out that customer expectations are evolving alongside these technological changes. "Customers increasingly expect quick service and seamless experiences, which can pressure operators to prioritise speed over the quality of personal service". He added that this creates a "tension" in balancing operational demands with the need to ensure customers feel valued and attended to. Consumers in APAC have a positive attitude towards the use of technology in personalising their services. A recent GlobalData survey found that 24% of respondents found the idea of food or drink personalisation through 3D printing highly appealing, while an additional 28% find it somewhat appealing. Furthermore, 58% appreciate personalised recommendations based on their past purchases, with 20% considering this option very appealing. Bokkala added: “Operators often face the challenge of ensuring that technology enhances efficiency without compromising the personal touch that customers value. While AI can handle tasks such as taking orders and upselling, it can create a barrier between staff and customers if not implemented thoughtfully. For instance, while AI can answer calls and process orders quickly, operators must ensure that this does not diminish the warmth of in-store hospitality that customers expect.” Nautiyal concludes: “The challenge for operators is to ensure that they retain customer engagement and personal attention. Operators can successfully balance the integration of technology with personal customer service by leveraging AI for efficiency, embracing digital hospitality, utilising real-time data for informed decision-making, implementing customer-centric solutions, and maintaining transparency in workforce practices. This multifaceted approach not only enhances operational effectiveness but also enriches the customer experience.” #GlobalData #foodservice

AeroPress has introduced its new AeroPress Premium coffee press, a redesigned version of its classic model. The new model features high-end materials, including double-walled borosilicate glass, stainless steel and aluminium. It includes updated components such as a stainless steel filter cap, scoop and stirrer, designed for improved performance and aesthetics. The company has responded to consumer requests for a glass and metal version of its coffee maker with the launch of the AeroPress Premium. This model reflects current trends in the coffee industry, which emphasise space-saving designs, quick brewing methods, and improved kitchen setups. The launch also includes the AeroPress Stainless Steel Organizer, a modern stand made of stainless steel and silicone for storing the new machine and its accessories. David Cole, CMO of AeroPress, said: "AeroPress is an icon in the coffee world, and the AeroPress Premium is a tribute to our heritage while pushing forward with a new level of craftsmanship. This isn't just about adding glass and metal — it's about creating a premium brewing experience. From the handmade, double-wall glass to the precisely engineered stainless steel filter cap, every detail was designed for performance, durability and beauty." The AeroPress Premium retails for $149.95, and the AeroPress Stainless Steel Organizer is priced at $99.95. Both products are currently available via the brand's website, with additional retailers and international distribution planned for the coming months. #AeroPress #coffeepress

Starbucks is expanding its global coffee innovation network to support farmers and address the challenges of climate change. Building on its agronomy work at Hacienda Alsacia, which is Starbucks' 240-hectare coffee farm in Costa Rica, the company has added new farms in Guatemala and Costa Rica, with plans for further investments in Africa and Asia. These farms aim to boost productivity, increase farmer profitability and build climate resilience. According to the company, Starbucks purchases 3% of the world’s coffee, sourcing only Arabica beans. Climate change is impacting the availability of high-quality coffee and affecting farming communities' productivity, crop quality and livelihoods. Rising temperatures, drought and coffee leaf rust are threatening coffee supply, quality and flavour. At Hacienda Alsacia, Starbucks is addressing climate change by developing profitable farming practices and disease-resistant coffee varieties, which it shares with farmers globally. So far, the company has distributed about 90 million climate-resistant coffee trees and over 53 million seedlings. The new coffee innovation farms will expand research to combat climate challenges in more regions. The new farms in Costa Rica and Guatemala will study hybrid coffee varieties under varying elevations and soil conditions to advance research on new genetic material. The Costa Rica farm, located next to Hacienda Alsacia, will also test mechanisation, drones and other technologies to address labour challenges in Latin America. In Guatemala’s Antigua Valley, the farm will replicate smallholder farming conditions to reflect the challenges many farmers face. Starbucks plans future farm investments in Africa and Asia, creating a coffee innovation network across the three main regions of the "Coffee Belt" – Latin America, Africa and Asia Pacific. This network will study diverse cultures, landscapes and growing methods that shape coffee flavor. In addition, research from Starbucks innovation farms will be expanded through its coffee innovation network, which includes ten Farmer Support Centers in coffee growing regions worldwide and 70 "model farms" in its supply chain. Agronomists work directly with farmers on research and best practices. The sustainability learning and innovation lab at Hacienda Alsacia will also open in December to continue this work. Michelle Burns, Starbucks' EVP of global coffee and sustainability, said: “Starbucks works with more than 450,000 farms that grow the highest quality Arabica coffee in the world. Our promise to those farmers and their communities is that we will always work to ensure a sustainable future of coffee for all. Our solution is to develop on-farm interventions, share seeds, research and practices across the industry to help farmers mitigate the impacts of climate change.” Roberto Vega, Starbucks' VP of global coffee agronomy, R&D and sustainability, added: “Through these innovation farms, we will develop solutions that will not only improve coffee productivity and quality but also empower farmers with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in a changing world and challenging climate. This work is done on behalf of coffee farmers everywhere with findings that can be applied across other industries and crops that are also impacted by climate change.”  #Starbucks #sustainability

The European Commission has proposed a 12-month extension to the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), giving coffee farmers and businesses more time to comply with its demands. The EUDR, targeting commodities like coffee, cocoa and palm oil, requires importers to ensure their supply chains are deforestation-free from 30 December 2024. The new timeline extends the regulation to 30 December 2025 for large and medium companies and 30 June 2026 for micro and small businesses. The extension proposal highlights concerns over the readiness of coffee producers, with the Commission stressing that while the timeline may change, the regulation's goals remain intact. "The extension proposal in no way puts into question the objectives or the substance of the law," it said. In a press release, the European Commission said with just three months until the original implementation date, many global partners have voiced concerns about their readiness, notably during the recent UN General Assembly. Additionally, the level of preparation among European stakeholders is inconsistent; "while many expect to be ready in time, thanks to intensive preparations, others have expressed concerns," it added. With the necessary implementation tools already in place, "the extra 12 months can serve as a phasing-in period to ensure proper and effective implementation," the Commission highlighted. The European Commission has issued further guidance to assist coffee farmers in implementing the EUDR. This guidance covers various topics, including traceability requirements, legality obligations, updates on penalties and clarifications on key terms such as 'forest degradation,' 'operator' and 'placing on the market'. Further guidance has been issued, including clarifications on traceability, legality requirements and the methodology for assessing country-specific risks, expected to be finalized by July 2025. #EuropeanCommission #coffee #deforestation

Pop & Bottle, a female-founded coffee brand, is set to launch two new products just in time for the holiday season. The first, a Peppermint Mocha Oat Milk Latte, combines organic cold brew coffee, house-made oat milk, real cacao and pure peppermint for a festive flavour. The second offering, an Organic Mint Mocha Almond Milk Latte, features a blend of organic cold brew, almond milk, rich cacao and crisp peppermint. The new lattes will start appearing on store shelves at the end of October. #PopandBottle #coffee #lattes #holidayofferings

Flavia has unveiled Lavazza Lattes, a new single-serve latte aimed at enhancing the café-style beverage experience in workplaces. The new Lavazza Lattes allow employees to brew a freshly frothed latte with a single touch, providing an in-office experience that rivals traditional cafés. Each serving combines high-quality coffee with creamy milk froth. The lattes are available in three variants: Classic Latte, Vanilla Latte and Mocha Latte, each made with real milk and natural flavours and sweeteners. Each pack contains 60 calories. Daniele Foti, VP of marketing at Lavazza North America, said: "Lavazza Lattes represent the first step in our renewed commitment to modernising the Flavia brand. As we expand our portfolio to offer more of the drink categories that employees seek outside of the office, we are investing in our exceptionally reliable Flavia machines to provide high-quality beverages with minimal effort. This launch showcases our dedication to innovation and elevating the office coffee experience." Foti added: "As we take a fresh look at the Flavia system, we're excited to introduce new innovations that deliver on what consumers are looking for, both inside and outside the office. Lavazza Lattes are just the beginning of our journey to bring more of the café-style drinks employees crave, while maintaining the same trusted quality Flavia has delivered for over 40 years." According to the company, "more innovation can be expected for Flavia in the coming months". Lavazza Lattes are available for Flavia machines nationwide. #Flavia #Lavazza

Mondelēz has made an investment through its corporate venture capital arm, SnackFutures Ventures, in Urban Legend, a UK-based start-up specialising in healthier doughnuts and pastries. This minority stake aligns with Mondelēz's broader strategy to expand its footprint in the cakes and pastries segment, particularly focusing on products that cater to the growing demand for “better-for-you” bakery options. Founded in 2021 by Anthony Fletcher, a scientist with a background in food innovation, Urban Legend has developed a patented air frying technology that significantly reduces the fat, sugar and calorie content of its doughnuts by 30% to 75% compared to traditional methods. The company’s offerings, which include various filled and iced doughnuts, maintain a calorie count of 200 or less per item. Richie Gray, global head of SnackFutures Ventures, commented: “Urban Legend is well positioned to disrupt the UK’s fresh bakery category. We’re excited about the brand’s growth potential, focus on ‘mindful indulgence,’ and opportunity to help Mondelēz build capability in the fast-growing ‘better-for-you’ fresh bakery space.” Urban Legend’s products are currently available in nearly 200 retail locations across the UK, housed in dedicated bakery cabinets. With this investment, the start-up aims to scale its operations and expand its reach throughout Europe and beyond. Fletcher added: “Our combination of novel technology and extensive recipe development has enabled us to be the first ones to deliver iconic doughnuts and pastries with less sugar, fat and calories to the south of England. A partner like Mondelēz provides enormous opportunity to scale that possibility throughout Europe and the world.” SnackFutures Ventures has previously invested in other innovative food companies, including Celleste Bio, a cocoa technology firm, and Craize snack crackers, further illustrating Mondelēz's commitment to diversifying its portfolio in line with consumer health trends. In September, the snacks giant announced plans to acquire a majority stake in Evirth , a Chinese manufacturer of cakes and pastries, as part of its strategy to enhance its footprint in the rapidly growing frozen-to-chilled desserts market. Menaeihle, back in June, Mondelēz and Lotus Bakeries joined forces to boost the presence of the popular Biscoff cookie  brand in India, and create new co-branded chocolate products in Europe. #Mondelēz #UrbanLegend #doughnuts #patries #UK #startup #bakery #bakedgoods

The Watercoolers Europe (WE) 2024 Conference and Trade Fair is scheduled to take place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bucharest, Romania, on 10-11 October 2024. In preparation for the event, a dedicated mobile application is available for both Android and iOS users. Attendees can download the app by searching for 'Watercoolers Europe Annual Event' or 'WE Annual Event' in the Google Play Store or the App Store. In a statement, WE highlighted that those attending the event are encouraged to download the app to "access all event-related information" on their phone. #WatercoolersEurope #WE #Romania

Reborn Coffee has formed a joint venture with Gaingan Humantech Co to open three Reborn Coffee locations in Bangkok, Thailand. This venture aims to expand the brand’s presence in Thailand. This joint venture will begin with three high-traffic locations, starting at One Bangkok, with plans for further expansion in the coming years. The flagship store will be situated at One Bangkok, a major mixed-use development in the city centre. One Bangkok will feature five office towers, three luxury hotels, four residential towers and 450 retail stores, designed to create a vibrant community space with a gross floor area of 1.83 million square metres. Jay Kim, CEO of Reborn Coffee, said: "Gaingan Humantech Co will lead Reborn Coffee’s expansion throughout Thailand. By fostering a vibrant local coffee culture, Reborn Coffee and our joint venture partners will innovate in coffee, tea brewing, and specialty bakery offerings." "We are setting a new standard for premium beverages and artisanal products in Thailand while positioning ourselves as a leader in Southeast Asia’s thriving coffee market." #RebornCoffee #GainganHumantech #Thailand

Nespresso USA has launched its first ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee, Master Origins Colombia, in celebration of National Coffee Day (29 September). The new product is part of the Nespresso Bloom range, combining high-quality Colombian coffee with honey from the same plants. It is the brand’s first RTD coffee, part of a pilot programme expanding the Nespresso Bloom range launched last month . The RTD coffee features Colombian coffee beans sweetened with Nespresso Coffee Blossom Honey, creating a bold flavour. The honey used in the beverage is a result of Nespresso’s commitment to regenerative agriculture, harvested from Colombian farms that produce its coffee.   Alfonso Gonzalez Loeschen, CEO of Nespresso North America, said: “As on-the-go coffee demand continues to grow in the US, we saw the opportunity to reimagine how Nespresso can elevate coffee moments for today’s consumer. This RTD sits at the intersection of functionality and sustainability as a byproduct of our commitment to regenerative agriculture efforts to protect the future of coffee.”    The new RTD coffee will be available in aluminum cans at select Nespresso shops in packs of four and online in quantities of 12 starting next month.   #Nespresso #RTD #coffee