UK-based coffee company Little’s has expanded its portfolio with the launch of a new chocolate coffee pod variety pack. Ideal for mocha fans, the variety pack includes Mexican Chocolate with its pure, nutty profile and Rich Mocha for those craving indulgent, creamy sweetness. Each pack contains five of each pod, catering to diverse chocolate cravings. The Nespresso-compatible pods are produced in Devon using smooth and rich 100% Arabica coffee packed in recyclable aluminium capsules. Little's flavour-infused coffee is vegan-friendly, has four calories per cup and contains no added sugar. Little’s full range is available on its website, and selections can also be found at major retailers like Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose, Amazon, Ocado, Selfridges & Co, Harvey Nichols, Harrods, Booths, Whole Foods and Holland & Barrett. #Littles #UK

TH International, also known as Tims China, the exclusive operator of Tim Hortons coffee shops in China, has secured up to $65 million in financing from its founding shareholders, Cartesian Capital Group and Restaurant Brands International (RBI). The funding includes $50 million in convertible notes, with $40 million issued at closing and the remaining amount to be funded over the next seven months, contingent on certain conditions. The three-year notes are convertible into newly issued preferred shares of Tims China, which can then convert to ordinary shares at a price based on 110% of the volume-weighted average price. In addition, RBI acquired the fast-food chain Popeyes business from Tims China for $15 million. Simultaneously, Tims China has resolved the deferred payment owed to former Popeyes China shareholders by issuing a $15 million convertible note. Yongchen Lu, CEO of Tims China, said: “We are pleased to announce this major funding package, which underscores the commitment of our founding shareholders to this dynamic business. This year will be a pivotal one for us, and fortifying our balance sheet is an important step forward towards ensuring our long-term success in this highly competitive market. This transaction enables us to drive growth in and intensify our focus on our core Tim Hortons brand.” #TimsChina #RBI #Popeyes #China

Nestlé-owned brand Coffee Mate has launched its new orange cream pop-flavoured Duo creamer, inspired by nostalgic childhood memories and popular TikTok trends. This seasonal creamer, featuring orange and vanilla cream notes, aims to enhance summer coffee routines. Leonardo Aizpuru, Nestlé's VP of brand marketing for the beverage division and business unit, said: “When it comes to pushing boundaries and turning trending flavours into delicious and crave-worthy creamers, our fans know that only Coffee Mate can consistently deliver on taste innovations that elevate the everyday coffee experience, any time of year". "This limited-edition creamer is inspired by childhood summers – with every sip, the sweet and citrusy flavour of our orange cream pop-flavoured Duo creamer will evoke nostalgic memories of ice cream trucks and hot summer days.” Available exclusively on the brand's website, the creamer will be released in limited quantities, priced at $2.17 per 16oz bottle. #Nestlé #CoffeeMate #US

According to Reuters, the Philippines' fast-food chain Jollibee Foods has announced plans to acquire a majority stake in South Korean coffee chain Compose Coffee for $340 million. Reuters said that this marks Jollibee's largest acquisition in terms of store numbers as it continues to bolster its presence overseas. Jollibee Worldwide Pte, a unit of Jollibee, will purchase 70% of Compose Coffee for $238 million, with an additional 5% acquired by its majority-owned Titan Fund. The remaining 25% stake will be retained by private equity firm Elevation. Founded in 2014, Compose Coffee operates 2,470 franchised stores with a debt-free balance sheet and strong cash returns and profit margins. The acquisition will expand Jollibee's global store network to 10,000 locations. Juan Paolo Colet, managing director at investment bank China Bank Capital in Manila, said: "This is a good move by Jollibee to further expand its global footprint and take advantage of attractive opportunities in promising markets". He also mentioned that the acquisition is anticipated to increase cash flow and deliver long-term value to shareholders. #JollibeeFoods #ComposeCoffee #SouthKorea

Healthy Smart Mart, a US provider of refreshment solutions, has introduced a fully contactless shopping experience for workplace break rooms. The new contactless shopping model allows employees to quickly and easily purchase snacks and beverages without waiting in line, saving time and reducing congestion during peak hours. The Healthy Smart Mart system offers 24/7 accessibility, enabling staff to access a wide range of products anytime. This ensures employees with diverse work schedules always have access to refreshments "to stay energised and productive," said the company. In addition, the micro market is said to enhance hygiene and safety in communal spaces by minimising physical contact points within break rooms. The contactless shopping experience reduces direct interaction with surfaces and people, lowering the risk of spreading germs. Its system uses data-driven insights to optimise stocking and product offerings. By analysing purchasing patterns and preferences, Healthy Smart Mart tailors its inventory to better meet employees' needs and preferences, enhancing satisfaction and convenience. #HealthySmartMart #US

Local Kitchens, a tech-enabled multi-brand restaurant company, has raised $40 million in a new funding round led by venture capital firm General Catalyst. The Series B round also included participation from existing investors Human Capital, Pear VC and DoorDash co-founder Stanley Tang, who has also joined Local Kitchens' board of directors. Founded in 2020 by alumni of the DoorDash founding team, Local Kitchens operates a unique model that brings together multiple restaurant brands in a single kitchen optimised for mobile ordering. The company manages all food preparation in-house, differentiating itself from ghost kitchens and virtual brand concepts. "No matter how much technology disruption there is, the future of restaurants is still about great food and great service – and that starts with investing in our employees," said Jon Goldsmith, CEO and co-founder of Local Kitchens. The company claims its model allows it to achieve 50% more sales per human hour than traditional restaurants, while also offering better wages to address industry labour challenges. Kyle Doherty, managing director at General Catalyst, said Local Kitchens' approach "empowers consumers, supports workers, and uplifts local restaurants" in a landscape transformed by demand for convenience and digital integration. Since its Series A round in 2021, Local Kitchens has scaled its business fivefold and achieved unit-level profitability, with one in ten households in the San Francisco Bay Area having tried the service. The new funding will be used to expand Local Kitchens' footprint beyond its current Northern California base, with plans to enter the Los Angeles market and beyond California. Tang added: "The trend towards on-demand dining is undeniable. With Local Kitchens, we're building the infrastructure to create needed efficiencies for the industry." Image credit: Local Kitchen website

Rohlik Group, a European food retail technology and online grocery company, has secured $170 million in growth capital. The investment was led by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and supported by existing investors such as Sofina, Index Ventures, Quadrille and TCF Capital, along with funding from the European Investment Bank (EIB) under its Scale-Up Initiative. The funding will be used to drive Rohlik’s expansion plans across the DACH (Germany, Austria, Switzerland) and CEE (Central and Eastern Europe) regions. The company aims to establish a presence in over 10 additional cities by 2030. According to the company, the planned expansion into more than 10 additional DACH and CEE cities will "significantly boost" Rohlik’s customer base and align with the company’s long-term vision of becoming the leading online grocery delivery service not just in CEE but across Europe. Founded to meet the increasing demand for high-quality online grocery services, Rohlik said it has achieved rapid growth in the DACH and CEE regions. Monthly deliveries now exceed one million, and in 2023 alone, it served over 800,000 customers. The company’s strategy centres on local assortments, competitive pricing and efficient delivery powered by proprietary technology. Rohlik operates fully automated fulfillment centres using AI, machine learning (ML) and robotics to ensure high productivity and service quality, boasting 97% on-time deliveries and 15-minute delivery windows. Tomáš Čupr, founder and CEO of Rohlik Group, said:“There is huge demand across Europe for online groceries delivered quickly and reliably without any compromise on quality. We don’t see that as a short-term phenomenon, but as a long-term opportunity around which to build a market-leading proposition." "At Rohlik, we have built the technology to deliver on that promise in a sustainable and profitable way, leveraging AI, ML and robotics technology with our obsession with customer service to drive maximum efficiency and high productivity. This funding will allow us to accelerate our growth, opening facilities in more than 10 new cities, and setthe standard in online grocery delivery across Europe.” Tamas Nagy, director and co-head of Equity Investments at EBRD, commented: “We first partnered with Rohlik three years ago and have been continuously impressed by the management team’s execution and investment into proprietary technology, automation and increasing use of artificial intelligence across its operations. We are very proud to support Rohlik’s growth and expansion plans in the years to come.” Kyriacos Kakouris, vice president at EIB, added: "This financing marks the first operation under the EIB Scale-up Initiative, designed to support more mature growth companies like Rohlik. It underscores our commitment to fostering innovation and digitalisation across Europe, particularly in sectors crucial to the competitiveness of our economy.” #RohlikGroup #Europe

Micromart has introduced an autonomous micro market technology aimed at transforming convenience retail. The new system offers a fully automated, 24/7 shopping experience, eliminating checkout lines and enhancing security to minimise theft. In response to the growing demand for micro markets, Micromart has developed secured, unattended markets that employ AI-powered order processing for fast and secure transactions. Retailers have the flexibility to customise their space with various Micromart units, including the pantry, fridge, freezer and heating tower for hot food capabilities. The technology features AI-driven order processing and secure payment systems to ensure seamless shopping and prevent theft. It also uses dynamic pricing through electronic price tags and digital video content. Additionally, the Micromart Platform allows operators to manage their business remotely, reducing operational costs and streamlining inventory management. Yang Yu, CEO of Micromart, said: "We are excited to introduce Micromart. After selling over a quarter million items via our KitchenMate food service division in Toronto, we're thrilled to white-label this proven technology for vending, micro market and foodservice operators across the US and Canada." "Our autonomous micro markets help operators reduce labour costs, minimise theft and optimise revenue, making them an ideal solution for today's economic environment." Top image: © Micromart #Micromart #US

Costa Coffee is introducing its new spring menu, highlighting the return of its KitKat Costa Coffee is introducing its new spring menu, highlighting the return of its KitKat drinks with a new addition and a variety of savoury and sweet treats. The coffee giant is bringing back its KitKat drinks range, including the new KitKat Frappé, a creamy blended chocolate frappé, topped with light whip and KitKat pieces. The range also features the KitKat Mocha and KitKat Hot Chocolate, also topped with light whip and KitKat pieces. Costa’s latest release also includes the Cinnamon Bun syrup for customising coffee. Other customisation options include toppings, light whip – which is suitable for vegans – syrups and sauces. The spring menu also brings new savoury options such as the Halloumi and Chargrilled Veg Toastie, Chicken N’Duja Toastie, Roast Chicken and Bacon Sandwich and Melon Pot. For those craving something sweet, Costa offers a range of new treats. These include the Blooming Lovely chocolate Cake, with rich chocolate frosting and white chocolate flowers; Carrot and Walnut cake, filled and topped with cream cheese butter icing and walnut nibs; Chocolate Muffin made with Kitkat Bunny, filled with KitKat-flavoured paste and topped with frosting and a KitKat Bunny Mini. Mini Egg Cookie, made with egg-shaped solid milk chocolate in a coloured candy shell; and Chocolate Cornflake Nest, featuring chocolate-covered cornflakes in a nest-shaped cake, with candy-covered chocolate eggs. Naomi Matthews, food commercial director in the UK & Ireland at Costa Coffee, said: “…we’re excited to welcome back the return of the KitKat drinks range with an indulgent newcomer, as well as tasty new and returning favourites across our sweet and savoury ranges – spring has never tasted this good.”

Nestlé has announced the launch of two new flavoured soluble coffees under its Nescafé Gold Blend brand: Rich caramel and smooth vanilla. This marks the first time that Nescafé Gold Blend combines high-quality soluble coffee with natural flavours that intensify upon the addition of milk. The new flavours are designed to complement the classic Nescafé Gold Blend taste, offering a balanced cup of coffee with a touch of sweetness without any added sugar. The coffees are designed to be enjoyed with milk, dairy alternative or creamer to enhance the flavours "while keeping the smooth signature Nescafé Gold Blend taste that people love," said the company. Both variants are sugar-free, contain no added sugar and are classified as non-HFSS. Ingrid Hayes, marketing director for Nescafé Gold Blend, said: "We are thrilled to introduce the new Nescafé Gold Blend flavours, rich caramel and smooth vanilla, to coffee lovers across the UK". “Nescafé is dedicated to meeting the evolving preferences of consumers and we are delighted to showcase this commitment by providing even more ways for coffee drinkers to enjoy the exceptional taste of Nescafé in the comfort of their homes." “Our new innovative additions to Nescafé Gold Blend bring a touch of sweetness without the need for added sugar, providing a truly flavourful coffee experience to satisfy even the most discerning palates.” The soluble coffees will be available in 95g jars starting this month at Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons stores across the UK. #Nescafé #Nestlé #UK

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has released its 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report, highlighting significant strides the beverage giant has made toward its ambitious environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals. The report details KDP's progress across four key focus areas: Environment, Supply Chain, Health & Wellbeing, and People & Communities. The company's efforts have been guided by its newly elevated "Drink Well. Do Good" purpose, which is now the core of its strategic framework. Monique Oxender, chief corporate affairs officer, said: "Keurig Dr Pepper's corporate responsibility commitments and progress are deeply intertwined with policy progression and partnerships". She continued: "It is at this intersection where necessary technologies and behaviours can flourish, paving the way for enduring, impactful solutions". Some of the key highlights from KDP's 2023 report include: Emissions reduction The company reported a 21% decline in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions, and a 12% reduction in select Scope 3 categories, compared to 2018. Initiatives driving this progress include increased renewable electricity procurement and the deployment of 18 electric vehicles in Canada. Circular economy advancements KDP achieved a 15% reduction in virgin plastic use across its packaging portfolio compared to 2019, incorporating 27% post-consumer recycled content. This was aided by the conversion of Bai and Core Hydration+ products to 100% recycled plastic bottles. Sustainable supply chains The company made headway on its goal to support regenerative agriculture and conservation practices on 250,000 acres by 2030, reaching over 43,000 acres in 2023. KDP also reported 100% responsible sourcing of its coffee and cocoa. Positive hydration products KDP's investments in innovation, renovation and partnerships resulted in 59% of its product portfolio providing 'positive hydration' in 2023, up from 57% the prior year. The company continued to expand the distribution of better-for-you offerings. The report was prepared in reference to global sustainability reporting frameworks, including the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Index, the Sustainable Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Standards and the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). Additional disclosures, such as KDP's CDP Climate and Water submissions, are available on the company's website.

Italian coffee producer Lavazza has made a binding offer to acquire online coffee company, MaxiCoffee, according to Reuters. Based in France, MaxiCoffee sells coffee and tea products. In addition to its online platform, the company operates through about 60 retail outlets. The acquisition will see Lavazza strengthen its position in France and e-commerce. Lavazza’s CEO, Antonio Baravalle, said: “The acquisition of MaxiCoffee will enable us to consolidate our positioning in France, which has always been a key market for the Group, and to strengthen our e-commerce footprint by increasing our presence in the B2C/consumer market. The operation fits perfectly into our international development strategy and, in particular, allows us to extend our already excellent and extensive sales and distribution partner network with a solid and leading company in its reference market, which shares the same values with Lavazza: product quality, a long-term vision and a strong focus on its employees and stakeholders.” He continued: “Our strategy is to support the further development of MaxiCoffee, which will maintain its profile as a multi-brand e-commerce platform and remain independent. Our entry will not change its successful business model in any way. On the contrary, it will foster its growth through the execution of our international development plans”. MaxiCoffee founder Christophe Brancato will reinvest in the company’s capital with a minority stake. No financial details were disclosed. #France #LavAzza #MaxiCoffee