The Vollrath Company has introduced the SerVue, a touchless, refrigerated, self-serve salad bar. SerVue uses sensors to automatically dispense the desired amount of food from canisters, which replaces the open-air design of a traditional salad bar. The SerVue is equipped with intelligent sensors located at the bottom of each canister, which are capable of detecting the presence of a bowl or plate and then dispensing the appropriate ingredients automatically. According to the company, “this functionality can be dialled in to provide the precise amount of each ingredient, allowing more oversight of controlled portions and food costs”. SerVue features double glass doors that house eight transparent ingredient canisters. With its refrigeration system, the unit maintains a better temperature than a typical drop-in or serving line, ensuring the freshness of the stored products. Ingredients are self-contained and protected within SerVue’s respective canisters, safeguarding them against germs and other contaminants. Brian Hedlund, senior vice president of foodservice for Vollrath, commented: “SerVue features an elevated refrigeration area that provides a beautiful visual showcase of ingredients. It gives customers a completely new, exciting and safe way to serve themselves at a salad bar and makes checking and refilling ingredients a breeze for the operator.” #TheVollrathCompany

Fisher & Paykel has announced the introduction of its new cooling appliance, the Integrated Triple Zone Refrigerator. The Integrated Triple Zone Refrigerator expands on Fisher & Paykel’s existing refrigeration technology by incorporating three distinct cooling zones, providing optimal temperature control and flexibility. The technology is available in both refrigerator and freezer models, as well as stainless steel and integrated panel designs. The machine utilises three evaporators to independently control three separate storage areas, ensuring “exceptional temperature control,” said the company. Users are able to customise each zone according to the specific ingredients, providing an ideal storage environment with optimal temperature and humidity settings. With the ability to select from three refrigeration modes, including chill, fridge and pantry, users have control over their food preservation. Additionally, the Triple Zone Freezer modes offer extra flexibility and storage options, including freezer, soft freeze and chill. The refrigerator’s variable temperature zones are said to help reduce food waste by extending the overall shelf life. Fisher & Paykel said: “Chill mode can extend the shelf life of red meat nearly three times longer than regular refrigerator settings while pantry mode provides a cool, dark place for foods that perish quickly at room temperature but are too sensitive for standard refrigeration temperatures, such as nuts and avocados”. Users can control preset temperature modes with the brand’s high-resolution LCD touchscreen or through the SmartHQ Application, which will recommend ideal temperature settings. With a choice of up to nine different configurations, the triple zone cooling technology helps reduce energy consumption by creating tailored environments for the food care system rather than keeping all food types in the coolest setting. Jennifer Bradley, VP of product management at Fisher & Paykel USA, said: “At Fisher & Paykel, we’ve been mastering the art of temperature for decades. With the launch of our Triple Zone cooling technology, the brand continues to set industry standards across innovative food care and preservation to reduce waste, save resources and ensure perfect results. This exciting introduction is poised to have a significant impact on how people care for a variety of foods, tailoring cooling solutions to their precise needs and preferences.” #FisherampPaykel

Victoria Arduino, a coffee machine manufacturer owned by Simonelli Group, has expanded its E1 Prima range with the launch of E1 Prima Pro. E1 Prima Pro features a new 2.1″ touchscreen display that was designed to provide extraction information, as well as to be easy to read and to enhance speed in controlling and customising each step and setting. From mode selection to recipe creation, temperature settings and energy-saving preferences, the company says that “everything is readily visible and is adaptable for clarity and dynamic use”. Notably, during the extraction phase, each chosen variable is precisely specified to ensure real-time control by the professional user. The E1 Prima Pro incorporates Victoria Arduino’s T3 Genius technology, allowing for temparature control of the steam boiler for maximum cup precision. T3 Genius technology ensures faster heating of the group compared to machines in the same category, with an increase in precision and reactivity. It also doubles the steam pressure and halves the quantity of water to produce a consistent milk foam. In addition, the E1 Prima Pro features Pure Brew Technology, a three-phase coffee extraction method without the pressure of a traditional espresso machine. In June, Victoria Arduino launched E1 Prima EXP espresso machine. #SimonelliGroup #VictoriaArduino

Glacier Fresh, a manufacturer of water filtration solutions, has introduced two soda makers to its portfolio: Sparkin Cold and Sodaology. The Sparkin Cold soda maker is said to be the first soda maker capable of generating cold soda. The machine delivers a “refreshing sensation” of chilled sparkling water with a simple touch of a button, achieving the perfect balance of carbonation and coolness. It also serves as a water cooler dispenser, providing options for sparkling and chilled water to cater to individual preferences. In addition, the Sparkin Cold machine also features a comprehensive safety protection system that includes a carbonation degree alarm and an automatic pressure relief design. Meanwhile, the Sodaology soda maker introduces a carbonation method that infuses CO₂ from the bottom, leading to increased dissolution and larger bubbles. According to Glacier, the unit elevates the drinking experience by enriching the “flavour and effervescence” of carbonated beverages. Furthermore, Sodaology’s wide-mouth bottles enable effortless carbonation of various drinks, including those containing solid ingredients like fruit slices. Designed with a detachable structure, Sodaology ensures effortless cleaning and maintenance. #GlacierFresh #Sodamaker

Fast food chain Subway has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Roark Capital, a private equity firm boasting $37 billion in managed assets. Some sources have revealed that the deal amounted to a substantial $9.55 billion in total value. This transaction signifies a huge milestone in Subway’s progression and evolution. It brings together the global footprint and brand strength of the chain, with Roark’s proficiency in restaurant operations and franchise frameworks. Roark’s primary focus is on investments within consumer and business service sectors, particularly in franchises and franchise-like models. “This transaction reflects Subway’s long-term growth potential, and the substantial value of our brand and our franchisees around the world,” said John Chidsey, CEO of Subway. “Subway has a bright future with Roark, and we are committed to continuing to focus on a win-win-win approach for our franchisees, our guests and our employees.” This acquisition follows Subway’s recent declaration of achieving its tenth consecutive quarter of favourable same-store sales. The chain says it will continue to implement its strategy, prioritising sales expansion, improving menu offerings, modernising its eateries, enhancing the overall guest experience and furthering its global reach. Subway has enlisted J.P. Morgan as its financial advisor, while Sullivan & Cromwell LLP is providing legal counsel. Timing is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. #Subway

Canadian flavoured coffee brand Zavida Coffee Roasters has launched two new flavoured single-serve 44-count variety packs. The pods are compatible with all Keurig machines and are available for purchase at Walmart locations across Canada. The Discovery Variety Pack includes six different coffees – three of Zavida’s classic roasts; Breakfast Blend Light Roast, 100% Colombian Medium Roast, and French Roast; along with three of its “most popular” flavoured coffees; Hazelnut Vanilla, Canadian Maple, and French Vanilla. Meanwhile, the Flavour Explosion Variety Pack features nine of Zavida’s flavoured coffees: Hazelnut Vanilla, Canadian Maple, French Vanilla, Cinnamon Bun, Chocolate Fudge Brownie, Crème Brûlée, Apple Pie, Pumpkin Spice, and Pecan Pie. Darlyn Reyes, marketing director at Zavida Coffee Roasters, said: “We believe that coffee should be more than just a morning ritual; it should be an experience. With our new Variety Packs, we aim to shake up how Canadians enjoy coffee., Coffee should be fun, so join us and explore the endless possibilities that our coffees offer – hot or cold.” #Canada #ZavidaCoffeeRoasters

Britvic Ireland has announced a €6 million investment in its Ballygowan facility in Newcastle West, County Limerick, to increase production capacity by 20%. The investment aims to meet the growing consumer demand for Ballygowan mineral water. It is also expected to create 28 new manufacturing jobs. In addition to the new roles, the investment will provide additional bottling capacity for the equivalent of 50 million fully recycled and recyclable 500ml bottles of Ballygowan, enhancing the site’s production capability and sustainability credentials. According to Ballygowan, sales of its products have undergone strong double-digit volume growth in recent years compared to pre-Covid levels. Kevin Donnelly, managing director at Britvic Ireland, said: “We are incredibly proud of this latest milestone in Ballygowan’s journey as Ireland’s most loved and leading bottled water brand, and the benefits this investment will return for Britvic Ireland and the wider community in Newcastle West”. Newcastle West is the home of Ballygowan mineral water, which has been produced and bottled at source since 1984. Britvic Ireland have been a local employer in Newcastle West since 2007. The facility currently employs 55 people in addition to the newly announced roles. Ballygowan bottles are made from 100% recycled and recyclable plastic (rPET) following a €2 million investment in the Newcastle West facility in 2021. #Ballygowan #Britvic #Ireland

Urban Eat has introduced Smart Retail Solution, a self-contained food-to-go unit with a chiller and pre-programmed microwave, aimed at helping retailers maximise sales for the brand’s micro-snacking range. The complete microwavable range from Urban Eat is showcased in a glass-fronted chiller, making it easy for customers to choose their items. After making their selection, users can then use the integrated microwave. It comes pre-programmed with Urban Eat’s micro-snacking range, providing a quality meal within 40 seconds. In addition, the Smart Retail Solution includes a built-in digital screen that provides product details to assist customers in making their selections. Anna Bond, senior customer marketing manager at Fresh Food For Now, the parent company of Urban Eat, said: “We are so excited to be able to offer our new innovative concept to operators. The Smart Retail Solution reflects our dedication to enhancing the food-to-go experience for both retailers and consumers”. She continued: “When in development, we listened to both parties to create something that would solve retailer’s current shopfloor obstacles, maximise sales potential across day parts and offer a quick and easy way to consume our great tasting products. This space-saving, easy-to-operate appliance is exactly what we are calling it – a smart retail solution.” #FreshFoodForNow #UK #UrbanEat

In a step towards achieving its vision of a circular economy for packaging, Coca-Cola HBC has inaugurated a new recycled plastic (rPET) production facility in Romania. A bottling partner to The Coca-Cola Company, HBC is now poised to deliver nearly 50% rPET usage across its EU and Swiss markets by the end of 2023 – an achievement which comes ahead of the 2025 deadline set by the UNESDA circular packaging vision for EU markets. This project, which followed an €11 million investment, including €3.5 million of state aid, showcases Coca-Cola HBC’s commitment to sustainability. Coca-Cola HBC Romania, through this facility, is now producing rPET in-house, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality rPET for its 100% recycled bottle portfolio. Romania has now become the first market within the Coca-Cola HBC Group to harmonise three key pillars of circularity: deploying 100% recycled bottles across its entire portfolio, establishing an in-house rPET production facility, and gearing up for the launch of a deposit return scheme (DRS) to facilitate the collection of bottles and cans for further recycling. This latest project sees Coca-Cola HBC Romania as the first beverage producer in the market to produce rPET in-house and marks the third rPET decontamination facility in operation across Coca-Cola HBC’s markets. In 2022, Coca-Cola HBC made strides by utilising 22% of rPET plastic across its EU and Swiss markets, demonstrating a substantial commitment to environmentally responsible practices. With this new investment and ongoing transitions to recycled bottle portfolios in markets such as Switzerland, Austria, Italy, Ireland and Northern Ireland, Coca-Cola HBC is well on track to achieve nearly 50% rPET utilisation in EU and Swiss markets by the close of 2023. The opening of the new facility is in line with Coca-Cola HBC’s dedication to achieving net-zero emissions throughout its value chain by 2040. As packaging accounts for approximately one-third of Coca-Cola HBC’s carbon footprint, the company has prioritised its efforts to reduce emissions and create a more sustainable future. The benefits of producing food-grade rPET are manifold, with one of the most significant being a substantial reduction in emissions across the entire value chain. Bottles crafted from recycled PET have an 80% lower carbon footprint compared to virgin PET resin. Moreover, the production line powering the rPET facility operates on 100% renewable energy sources, reinforcing Coca-Cola HBC’s commitment to clean and sustainable manufacturing practices. Over the past two years, Coca-Cola HBC has invested a total of €377 million in sustainability initiatives that align with its corporate agenda. Remarkably, since 2010, while global emissions have been on the rise, Coca-Cola HBC has managed to halve its direct emissions and achieve Zoran Bogdanovic, CEO of Coca-Cola HBC, commented: “I’m very proud of the progress we are seeing in our sustainability agenda and our mission to create a world without waste. At Coca-Cola HBC, our purpose is to ‘Open Up Moments that Refresh us All’ and this means that, beyond the functional refreshment that we provide, we strive to refresh our communities and the environment through the work that we do.” He added: “We are working to produce and deliver our drinks in more sustainable ways and in packaging that has a life beyond its initial use – and Romania is a great example of how we can work collaboratively with our stakeholders and the wider industry to create a circular economy for packaging”. #rPET #circulareconomy #Romania #CocaColaHBC #bottling #TheCocaColaCompany

Ecotone, an organic and plant-based food producer, has opened the doors to what the company claims is the largest 100% organic coffee and tea factory in Europe. The company, which owns brands across seven countries, has launched La Caféière with a €10 million investment to meet the growing demand for quality, organic hot drinks. With financial support from the European Union and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, La Caféière represents part of Ecotone’s global ‘Food for Biodiversity’ mission to meet the highest environmental and sustainability standards. According to Ecotone, La Caféière’s roasting smoke burner cuts CO2 emissions by 30% compared with traditional methods. Through green energy, wetland water management, 100% LED lighting and photovoltaic roof panels, the plant is designed to make the production of tea and coffee as sustainable as possible, with the aim to improve the standards of sustainability globally. The factory also operates a 100% circularity policy: 85% of total leftover materials are recycled or reused in compost and 15% are incinerated with energy recovery. Ecotone said that La Caféière’s suppliers operate agricultural practices that go beyond traditional organic standards. This includes the diversity of plant species grown per plot, fair income for small producers and positive action by partner cooperatives to combat deforestation in their areas. More than 60% of La Caféière’s sales will now be through Fairtrade certified products. The aim is to achieve over 70% Fair Trade coffee and tea within two years. The factory will produce 100 tonnes of tea annually and receive 3200 tonnes of organic coffee each year, with 5.5 million units of organic coffee sold annually. #Ecotone #EU

Primo Water has entered into a definitive agreement with Culligan International which will acquire a significant portion of Primo’s international businesses in a $575 million cash transaction. Primo, a provider of sustainable drinking water solutions in North America and Europe, said it will follow a more simplified operation with a greater focus on its North American water business following the transaction. The transaction excludes the Aimia Foods, United Kingdom, Portugal, and Israel businesses, but each of these will be sold across 2024. Primo will also accelerate the achievement of several previously announced 2024 targets, including improvements in adjusted gross margins, and earnings before tax adjustments. The company also claims that the transaction will allow it the financial flexibility to pursue organic growth and engage in “strategic opportunities complementary and adjacent to its core North American water business”. The deal would also allow the company to retain a diversified business mix across Water Dispensers, Water Direct, Water Exchange, Water Refill, and Water Filtration, as well as a balanced mix of residential and commercial customers. Tom Harrington, CEO of Primo Water, said: “We are pleased to have reached an agreement that we believe unlocks significant value for Primo Water shareowners. The transaction simplifies and focuses Primo Water on our core North American water business. Looking ahead, we will be laser-focused on growing the North American business, increasing our profitability and margins, enhancing our balance sheet strength, and returning capital to shareowners.” The transaction is expected to close by the end of December 2023, subject to the receipt of regulatory approvals and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. The closing transaction is not subject to any financing conditions.

BlueTriton Brands has announced the appointment of Joey Bergstein as its chief executive officer, effective 28 November 2023. Bergstein will step down from his role as the CEO at Sabra Dipping Company, a US-based producer of hummus and guacamole, a position he has held since 2021. Before joining Sabra, Bergstein held the position of senior vice president at Diageo from 2003 to 2011. Prior to that, he served as VP of marketing and VP of global business development at Molson Coors from 2001 to 2003. Bergstein said: “I’m honoured to bring my experience to bear at BlueTriton, where we are working to build a better water company and be a force for good. We have an amazing responsibility to help conserve, protect and responsibly package our natural resources for the long term while providing healthy hydration to millions. I am excited for the next chapter of BlueTriton and look forward to building on our foundation and positioning it for long-term growth and success.” Dean Metropoulos, chairman of BlueTriton’s board of directors, commented: “With more than 30 years of experience building and leading iconic consumer goods brands focused on sustainability, governance and corporate culture, Joey embodies what it means to be a purpose-driven CEO. His ability to help companies achieve commercial success while making a meaningful difference in the world is perfectly aligned with BlueTriton’s leadership priorities and principles.” Kimberly D. Reed, member of BlueTriton’s board of directors, added: “Joey has a proven ability to enhance businesses by establishing a clear strategy, building trust and driving results for stakeholders. The combination of his background leading sustainability-focused brands and his expertise in the consumer and beverage space makes him the ideal leader for BlueTriton as we look to differentiate ourselves within the category and continue to grow.” #BlueTritonBrands