Krispy Kreme has sold a majority ownership stake in Insomnia Cookies to Verlinvest and Mistral Equity Partners. The deal values Insomnia Cookies at $350 million, doubling its value since Krispy Kreme's acquisition in 2018. Krispy Kreme received $127.4 million from the sale and expects an additional $45 million in the coming weeks. The funds will be used to bolster its doughnut business and reduce debt. Krispy Kreme will retain a 34% minority stake in Insomnia Cookies. Krispy Kreme's president and CEO, Josh Charlesworth, stated that the sale allows the company to focus on its core strategy of producing, selling and distributing fresh doughnuts daily while also improving its financial health. He added: "Following a thorough review, we are confident that Verlinvest and Mistral are the right partners to share in the success of Insomnia Cookies given their food industry experience and long-standing track record of value creation”. Insomnia Cookies' founder Seth Berkowitz, who will continue as CEO, commented: “Building off of a very successful five-year partnership with Krispy Kreme, we’re thrilled to welcome Verlinvest and Mistral to this new chapter of our journey". Verlinvest's MD, Clément Pointillart, stated: “We are enthusiastic about our investment in Insomnia Cookies, an incredible brand so close to our core DNA and at a pivotal point in its growth trajectory. We’re eager to support Seth and help unlock the full potential of the business both in the US and internationally.” Top image: © Insomnia Cookies #KrispyKreme #InsomniaCookies #US

UK coffee chain Pret A Manger has announced significant changes to its 'Club Pret' coffee subscription service, which was launched nearly four years ago during the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. The subscription, which played a crucial role in reconnecting with loyal customers and attracting new ones, will undergo a transformation starting in September. Clare Clough, managing director of Pret A Manger, highlighted the success of the scheme, noting that it brought in tens of thousands of new customers and facilitated the sale of over a quarter of a billion coffees. Clough stated: "It was an innovative way to reconnect with our loyal customers and introduce Pret to tens of thousands of new ones, bringing customers back into our shops with an offer that almost seemed ‘too good to be true’". The revamped 'Club Pret' will offer subscribers 50% off up to five barista-made drinks per day for a reduced monthly fee of £10, with a special rate of £5 available for both existing and new subscribers until 31 March 2025. This new model will replace the current subscription benefits, which will end in September. Additionally, the 20% discount on food will be discontinued, and the company will eliminate dual pricing across its food products. According to the company, the changes reflect Pret A Manger’s commitment to providing better value for its customers. Clough added: "With 'Club Pret' subscription, our coffees, teas, coolers and iced drinks will continue to be the best offer on the high street, and at a much more accessible price than the £360 a year people have to pay for the current scheme." Customer backlash Despite its initial success – resulting in 57.9 million drink redemptions globally in 2022 – Pret's decision to overhaul the scheme has sparked considerable backlash from its customer base. Many are expressing dissatisfaction on social media, arguing that the new offer diminishes the value they previously enjoyed. The subscription, which once offered unlimited drinks and a 20% discount on food, will now focus on giving subscribers 50% off up to five drinks a day for a lower monthly fee. This change has led to a lot of frustration among existing customers, many of whom are voicing their disappointment online. One customer said : "The move you are making will have a devastating impact on your sales". Another added that it was "a horrendous decision to end the subscription" and that it was "very short-sighted" of Clare Clough to take away "a big revenue stream, thinking people will still buy from Pret now". "I don’t need you @Pret. I’ll make my own breakfast and coffee since you’re messing with the subscription," a third customer commented. However, Pret upheld its decision, replying to one customer with: "We're sorry to hear that you're unhappy with the recent announcement. For £10 a month, we believe that the change in the subscription is still great value for money." Additionally, these shifts not only impact Pret’s loyal customer base but also signal potential changes across the broader office coffee sector. The way Pret's revised subscription is perceived could set new trends and pressures for other coffee providers as they navigate their own subscription models. What are some alternative coffee subscription schemes? For those seeking alternatives to the 'Club Pret' coffee subscription, several options are available: Starbucks Starbucks offers a popular rewards programme called Starbucks Rewards, which provides several benefits for its members. Members earn stars for every purchase made at Starbucks, whether in-store or through the mobile app. The number of stars accumulated depends on the amount spent, with additional stars available through special promotions or bonus offers. Accumulated stars can be redeemed for various rewards, such as free drinks, food items and merchandise. Members have the flexibility to choose from options like a free drink of any size or a free bakery item. The programme also provides personalised offers and discounts based on members' purchase history and preferences, which can include exclusive deals and early access to new products. Additionally, members receive a free birthday reward, redeemable for a complimentary drink on their birthday. Costa Coffee Costa customers collect one “bean” for each drink purchased through the free Costa app. To participate, customers need to download the app, sign up for the Costa Club, and then scan their barcode to collect beans. Each time a customer uses a reusable cup in-store, they'll get an extra bean. Leon Leon’s Roast Rewards programme allows customers to earn rewards with each purchase. Since its introduction last month, the scheme offers a £25 monthly subscription that provides five barista-made drinks per day and a 20% discount on Leon's breakfast and all-day food menu (excluding meal deals). Caffè Nero At Caffè Nero, customers get a free coffee after every tenth purchase. They can use a loyalty card available in-store or through the free app. #PretAManger #coffeechain #subscription

As winter approaches, International Delight has released its new Hot Chocolate Marshmallow creamer, featuring flavours of melted milk chocolate, vanilla and marshmallows. The creamer, themed around the classic holiday film 'Home Alone,' features packaging with scenes from the movie to enhance the festive experience. Alongside the new product, the brand is also offering returning favourites: Frosted Sugar Cookie Creamer and Peppermint Mocha varieties. These offerings are also in collaboration with 20th Century Studios and feature 'Home Alone' imagery on their packaging. Jennifer Michuda, director of creamers at Danone North America, the parent company of International Delight, said: "International Delight seasonal flavours are synonymous with relishing the taste of the holidays at home. Teaming up with 20th Century Studios to introduce our Home Alone-inspired creamers and iced coffee adds new flavour to this classic holiday tradition." The hot chocolate marshmallow-flavoured creamer, along with International Delight's Home Alone-themed creamers and iced coffee, is available at major retailers nationwide. These products will be on shelves from now through the December holiday season for a limited time. #DanoneNorthAmerica   #InternationalDelight

Nestlé Professional has teamed up with McDonald's to introduce two new McFlurry flavours, coinciding with the fast-food chain's 50th birthday celebrations in the UK. Milkybar Raspberry Ripple and Munchies Cookie Dough McFlurries will be featured on a limited-edition menu, aimed at enhancing the dessert offerings for consumers. Milkybar Raspberry Ripple McFlurry combines soft dairy ice cream with mini Milkybar chocolate drops, complemented by a raspberry sauce that balances sweetness and tartness. This flavour is designed to appeal to consumers seeking nostalgic and indulgent dessert options. Munchies Cookie Dough McFlurry incorporates chocolate-coated Munchies biscuit pieces mixed into the dairy ice cream, topped with a caramel cookie dough sauce. This new offering aims to provide a satisfying dessert experience that resonates with familiar flavours. Dave Lynn, QSR lead at Nestlé Professional UK and Ireland, said: "We are excited to partner with McDonald's and introduce these two new McFlurry flavours. These products are designed to evoke nostalgia while enhancing the overall dessert experience for consumers." Ben Sherburn, head of marketing (food & beverage) at McDonald's UK and Ireland, added: "Our latest partnership with Nestlé presents an opportunity to build on the iconic status of the McFlurry as part of our 50th Birthday Menu". The new flavours will be available in both regular and mini sizes. #McDonald's #McFlurry #desserts #fastfood #UK

Aqua Italia, part of Anima Confindustria, has announced the establishment of a new group dedicated to the water coolers industry: Watercoolers Italia. Watercoolers Italia is an association that unites major Italian companies engaged in bottling and distributing water, as well as manufacturers of point-of-use products and equipment essential to the sector's supply chain. Watercoolers Italia, through Aqua Italia, will aim to enhance the economic and social roles of associated companies by promoting collaboration with public bodies and institutions. It will also protect the general and collective interests of the sector, and facilitate and harmonise the activities of companies within the industry. Aqua Italia's president, Fabrizio Leoni, said: “We are proud to have strengthened and expanded our membership base for 2024 and the coming years, certain that the new companies in the water coolers group will contribute to strengthening and making more effective the work and activities carried out by the association. This new group will not only welcome bottle and water cooler manufacturers, but also distributors as aggregate members.” #AquaItalia #WatercoolersItalia #AnimaConfindustria

Unilever has agreed to sell its water purification business, Pureit, to A. O. Smith, a US-based water technology company. Pureit operates across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Mexico. Eduardo Campanella, president of Unilever Home Care, stated that the sale aligns with Unilever's strategy to focus on high-growth areas, in line with the company's Growth Action Plan. He expressed confidence that Pureit would "thrive further" under A. O. Smith's ownership. Kevin J. Wheeler, chairman and CEO of A. O. Smith, highlighted that the acquisition would strengthen Unilever's position in the premium water treatment market and double its reach in South Asia. He added: "The acquisition will also support our corporate strategy by enhancing our premium product portfolio and distribution capabilities". "Pureit’s culture of innovation, strong brand recognition and dedication to customer service will be an excellent addition to our premium brand positioning and broad product portfolio in the region. We look forward to welcoming the Pureit team to the A. O. Smith family.” The sale is subject to customary closing conditions. Unilever will continue to manage Pureit until the deal is finalised. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Top image: ©Unilever Pureit #Unilever #AOSmith #US

US food-tech company Voyage Foods has introduced its bean-free coffee to commercial customers in foodservice and food manufacturing channels. The bean-free brew, made from roasted chickpeas, rice hulls and green tea-derived caffeine, is over 40% cheaper than traditional coffee, "providing coffee manufacturers with price stability that results in significantly better margins," said the firm. Available in various caffeinated and decaffeinated formats – including roast and ground, liquid, liquid concentrate and instant – the bean-free coffee aims to address rising coffee prices driven by extreme weather conditions and climate change. Adam Maxwell, CEO and founder of Voyage Foods, said: "Given the current dynamics of the coffee market, food and beverage suppliers are uneasy about supply-chain volatility as well as fulfilling their triple bottom line of people, planet and profit". "There will always be a place for premium, fair-trade, single-origin coffee, and that's not our target – we intend to make the biggest possible impact, and we'll do that by supplying an eco-friendlier, ethically made alternative to commodity coffee." Top image: © Voyage Foods #VoyageFoods #US

Botrista, a company specialising in data-driven, automated beverage platforms, has closed a Series C funding round led by Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC), bringing its total capital raised to $120 million. This investment underscores Botrista's expanding market presence and a shift in the restaurant industry's approach to cold beverages, driven by global demand for innovative flavours. Founded in 2017, Botrista has partnered with businesses in 37 states. Its platform allows restaurants to serve a variety of high-margin cold beverages – from boba drinks and refreshers to smoothies, shakes, cold brew coffees, lemonades, cocktails and energy drinks – all from a single machine. Botrista plans to use the capital to meet growing demand by investing in AI technology to create data-driven beverage menus for brand partners. Additionally, the company will allocate resources to R&D to expand its beverage offerings and seek out global suppliers of high-quality ingredients. Sean Hsu, CEO of Botrista, said: "JFC's support validates the vision for a more exciting beverage menu. This new funding will fuel our hyper-expansion into new markets and help more of our partners elevate their drink menu without increasing labour or complexity." Tony Tan Caktiong, JFC Chairman, commented: "Botrista is a game changer for the beverage industry. We're investing in a company that enables foodservice operators to deliver a world-class customer experience and provides substantial runway for sustained profitable growth." Jason Valentine, chief strategy officer for Botrista, added: "We currently serve partners across 37 states, including national restaurant chains, independent restaurants, college campuses, movie theatres, theme parks and other alternative venues. The timing of this fundraising perfectly aligns with the high demand from new partners and significant interest from growing restaurant brands on a global scale." Earlier this month, Jollibee Foods also announced the acquisition of Compose Coffee in a $340m deal. #Botrista

Nescafé has unveiled the latest addition to its Dessert Edition collection: the vanilla cookie dough latte. The new beverage blends Nescafé coffee with vanilla cookie dough flavour. Crafted with high-quality coffee, fresh milk and vanilla cookie dough flavouring, each serving is conveniently packaged in sachets for easy preparation. The latte contains 80 calories per mug when prepared with low-fat milk. It is suitable for vegetarians and is free from artificial flavours. It also complies with HFSS regulations. Replacing the chocolate caramel brownie mocha, the vanilla cookie dough latte joins the brand's existing sticky toffee pudding latte. Ingrid Hayes, marketing director of Nescafé Soluble Coffee at Nestlé UK & Ireland, said: "We are delighted to introduce the Vanilla Cookie Dough Latte as the newest addition to our Nescafé Dessert Edition collection". “We believe this new delicious coffee will captivate taste buds and provide a unique and satisfying experience. Get ready to indulge in the irresistible combination of coffee and dessert with the vanilla cookie dough latte." Last month, Nescafé teamed up with Aero Peppermint and Quality Street to launch two limited-edition frothy coffees: the Aero Peppermint Mocha and Quality Street Green Triangle Mocha. #Nescafé #Nestlé

Starbucks has appointed former PepsiCo chief strategy and transformation officer, Ricardo Arias-Nath, as its new senior vice president and president of its Latin America and Caribbean division. Arias-Nath oversees a region with over 1,600 stores across more than 20 markets. He succeeds Tom Ferguson, who held the role since August 2022 and had been with the company since 2005. Joining Starbucks last month, Arias-Nath brings over 25 years of experience in general management, strategy, marketing and business transformation across the consumer goods, media, distribution and technology sectors. Prior to joining the company, Aria-Nath held several leadership roles at PepsiCo, where he worked for nearly 16 years, including SVP and chief strategy and transformation officer of Latin America, VP of marketing and senior director of strategy, business development and M&A. In April, the Seattle-based coffee chain announced plans to expand into two new markets in the Latin America and Caribbean region by the end of the year: Ecuador and Honduras. Starbucks will open its first store in Ecuador this month, followed by its debut in Honduras later this year. #Starbucks #coffeechain

Brand of Brothers has announced the renewal of its licensing partnership with Britvic Soft Drinks for another decade. The agreement, managed by Ian Downes from Start Licensing, extends Brand of Brothers' collaboration on the sales, manufacturing and distribution of licensed frozen ice creams and lollies. The renewal will continue to align product development with HFSS regulations, covering popular Britvic brands such as R. White’s, Tango, Robinsons, Fruit Shoot and J2O. Carys Delve, marketing manager at Brand of Brothers, said: "We are thrilled to extend our long-standing partnership with Britvic and Start Licensing for another decade". She added: “Our collaboration has been incredibly successful, bringing the refreshing flavours of Britvic's beloved brands into new product categories. This renewal demonstrates our joined-up thinking and commitment to driving continued growth through strategic innovation that delights consumers and increasing sales and distribution in order to optimise brand visibility.” Munnawar Chishty, Britvic’s marketing director in GB, commented: “What better way to add more excitement to our iconic brands than through our licensing partnership with Brand of Brothers. From Fruit Shoot mini lollies to Tango iced lollies, this partnership allows us to bring more enjoyment to people across the nation and help them enjoy life’s everyday moments.” Downes added: “This perfect partnership has gone from strength to strength, and we are now looking forward to the future of these iconic brands within the frozen category”. The ice lolly ranges will continue to be available in major British retailers, including Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Iceland, Ocado and Nisa. Brand of Brothers also maintains a separate partnership with Britvic Ireland, with plans for the Club and MiWadi brands.

Worldline and Antenor have partnered to integrate a new contactless payment solution with Selfly Store's RFID-enabled vending machines. Selfly Store’s intelligent vending machines, found in hotels, offices and other venues, offer a digital, autonomous solution for providing meals and snacks. Available in three models – Selfly Ambient for room-temperature items, Selfly Fridge for refrigerated goods and Selfly Freezer for frozen products – the machines cater to various storage needs. The payment solution, developed by Antenor using Worldline’s full payment platform, includes unattended terminals, an omni-channel acceptance platform and an international acquiring solution. This set-up allows Selfly Store to deploy internationally with minimal effort and offers real-time reporting, improving transaction monitoring and revenue visibility. The collaboration aims to make grab-and-go shopping more convenient while providing businesses with a cost-effective system to increase revenue. By leveraging data-driven insights on sales patterns, inventory management and pricing strategies, merchants can optimise operations and boost profitability. For vending environments requiring a closed-loop payment system, the solution supports private cards linked to online wallets. Additionally, it features card tokenisation for loyalty programmes and blacklisting functionalities. Olcay Guldogan, CTO of Selfly Store, said: “At Selfly Store, we set a target to make smart vending solutions accessible to everyone, regardless of their preferred payment method. Worldline's omnichannel payment platform, with its enriched features and wide coverage, combined with Antenor's excellent dedication and competence, has helped us make a significant step towards this target. We are pleased to collaborate with top professionals like Worldline and Antenor to bring innovative solutions for merchants and consumers.” Eric Bohner, CEO of Antenor, commented: “Our mission at Antenor is to empower innovative companies like Selfly Store with the payment solutions they need to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Through our advanced payment solutions, we enable seamless transactions, elevate end-user experiences, and drive business efficiency for our clients. Worldline plays a pivotal role as an enabling partner in developing these groundbreaking solutions." Nicolas Dejonghe, head of vending and adjacent markets at Worldline, added: “We are honoured to partner with Antenor and Selfly Store. Smart fridges are an excellent concept to help operators boost their sales and improve kiosk ROI. They require specific payment features, such as additional authorisation for larger consumer baskets, to secure operator revenues. Worldline’s acceptance and acquiring full solution are a perfect fit to secure these payments across Europe.” #SelflyStore #Antenor #Worldline