Corporate Ops
Hershey introduces a new line of filled chocolate bars, Red Baron launches microwaveable shareable pizzas, and Monster's Flrt brand debuts its first fall limited-edition flavors.
PepsiCo is increasing its investment in the fresh food sector to align with consumers' growing interest in healthy foods. One of the largest processed food companies in the United States is turning its attention to the fresh produce section of stores, a move that could open up long-term growth opportunities.
As the use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs rises, food companies face sales pressure and are beginning to launch smaller portions and high-protein, high-fiber products. General Mills, Nestlé, Danone, and others have already positioned themselves, but the industry remains divided on the drugs' long-term impact.
Kraft Heinz will invest $30 million to renovate its Kendallville, Indiana plant, the exclusive manufacturing site for Jet-Puffed marshmallows and Kraft Caramels. The investment will be used to optimize production lines and aligns with the company's previously announced $3 billion U.S. manufacturing expansion plan.
Research released by Spins on Tuesday shows that in the 52 weeks ending June 14, Gen Z and millennials together contributed 81% of the year-over-year increase in private label spending. Gen Z accounted for 43%, millennials 38%, and Gen X 19%. The report notes that future private label growth will increasingly depend on young consumers and recommends that retailers expand in categories with high penetration but low private label share, such as energy drinks, carbonated beverages, juice, pizza, and cold cereal.
Ice cream brand Ben & Jerry's announced on Wednesday the addition of three independent directors, aiming to restructure its governance and reinforce its social mission. The new directors bring experience in environmental justice, civil rights, and economic equity, and the appointments come amid ongoing governance disputes with parent company Unilever and the spun-off Magnum ice cream company.
自1982年创立以来，Newman's Own 的产品深受婴儿潮一代和 X 世代喜爱。如今，品牌新任 CMO Mark Anthony Edmonson 致力于将品牌使命传递给千禧一代，通过强调优质原料、100%利润捐赠、新包装和零售媒体合作，提升品牌在年轻群体中的文化相关性。
加拿大竞争局已向竞争法庭提出申请，要求阻止B&G Foods将其在加拿大的Green Giant和Le Sueur业务出售给Nortera Foods，理由是交易可能损害竞争。B&G Foods表示正在评估包括法律和监管在内的多种选项。
Sazerac, the owner of Buffalo Trace and Fireball, is expanding into soju with the launch of Dalho, a Korean grain spirit available in original, peach, strawberry, and lychee flavors. The brand debuts with a 50-milliliter bottle—a first for the category—to lower the barrier for first-time consumers. The move follows Sazerac's recent acquisitions of Dirty Shirley, a stake in 818 Tequila, and Au Vodka, as it diversifies amid shifting spirits trends.
Activist investor Kanen Wealth Management is pressing Zevia, a better-for-you soda brand, to explore a sale. Kanen argues that Zevia has failed to capitalize on the modern soda boom, with sales declining despite significant spending. Zevia's board says it will engage constructively with shareholders.