All news articles for July 2024

 Herrania 1. Credited to Douglas C Daly of New York Botanical Garden

Have scientists discovered climate-proof chocolate?

By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe

A scientific breakthrough may pave the way for developing more climate-resilient cocoa trees, potentially ensuring the continued production of cacao-based products like chocolate.

Image: Hotel Chocolat

Mars-owned Hotel Chocolat opens 25 new stores

By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe

Chocolatier bets big on bricks and mortar stores as it begins a new era under new ownership. Here’s why Hotel Chocolat thinks IRL retail still matters

Image: Getty

Should you be marketing on the metaverse?

By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe & Jess Spiring

As one confectionery firm launches its own candyland on Roblox to appeal to young gamers, we explore the merits of brand-building in virtual reality

Could sugarcane super crop cut cost of sugar? GettyImages/AlexandraFlorian

Could sugarcane super crop cut cost of sugar?

By Donna Eastlake

The cost of sugar has increased sharply in recent years. Now researchers believe gene editing could boost supplies. But how, and what does this mean for manufacturers?

Source: D. Ataman

Sweets & Snacks Expo

Smart Sweets unveils new formula across portfolio at Sweets & Snacks

By Deniz Ataman

Better-for-you gummy maker, Smart Sweets, launched its new and improved formula across its portfolio, including five new SKUs, catering to consumers seeking healthier candy for nearly any type of occasion, Katrina Hahn, Smart Sweets’ co-CEO, told FoodNavigator-USA...

Image: Getty/Kinzie+Riehm

Seasonal innovation

How to get ready for halloween 2024

By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe

As the majors finalise their campaigns for candy’s ‘biggest moment’ how can smaller confectioners turn spooky season into sales?

A scientist uses AI at the Nestlé Institute of Agricultural Sciences. Image: Nestlé

Smart technology

Five ways AI is transforming the confectionery sector

By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe

With AI at the helm, the confectionery industry is entering a new era of innovation and efficiency, transforming everything from product creation to personalized marketing strategies. Here's how

Health and sustainability are key priorities for generation alpha. Image: Getty/ insta_photos

Six things generation alpha consumers want

By Natasha Spencer-Jolliffe & Jess Spiring

As today’s teenagers become more financially independent, what do manufacturers need to know about their preferences and priorities?