Archives for April 12, 2018

Nestlé plastics target: ‘Clear’ ambition or ‘greenwashing’?

Nestlé wants to make 100% of its packaging recyclable or reusable by 2025. The company says its ‘clear announcement’ demonstrates its commitment to ‘minimise’ the impact of packaging on the environment but critics argue a more radical approach is necessary.

Startup tracker

Chewpod enters US functional gum market; founder not intimidated by declining gum sales

Functional gum brand Chewpod has entered the $25.1bn US gum market starting this month, primarily targeting millennials with an active lifestyle.

Financial results

Barry Callebaut posts ‘exceptionally strong’ half-year volume growth in cocoa and chocolate

Barry Callebaut has posted a 37.5% net profit growth to CHF 173m ($181m) during the first half of fiscal year 2017/18 (six months up to February 28, 2018).

Gum innovation

Is Hershey’s Ice Breakers glitter gum the next unicorn Frappuccino?

Hershey will release its first edible glitter-sprinkled gum in the US under its Ice Breakers brand starting April 15, 2018, as it believes the sparkle trend will sweep the food industry in 2018.

M&A

Ferrero completes acquisition of Nestlé US candy business, swallowing more than 20 brands

Nutella maker Ferrero has completed the acquisition of Nestlé’s US confectionery business, including more than 20 of its brands such as Butterfinger, BabyRuth, Crunch, and SweeTarts.

Dispelling the myths of Industry 4.0; Tetra Pak webinar to address the challenges

Industry 4.0 represents a fundamental shift in the global manufacturing sector but questions abound around who it effects, what are its challenges, and when it will begin.