“That was the kind of FACHPACK we know and love!” – That was the general consensus among exhibitors and visitors at FACHPACK 2024, which has just closed following a highly successful three-day event. Thirty-seven thousand trade visitors, one third from outside Germany, learned about the latest trends and innovations at the stands run by the 1,455 exhibitors, and discussed pressing packaging issues with the experts. The key theme of “Transition In Packaging” was strongly in evidence in all the exhibition halls and in the supporting programme. “The great response speaks for itself: Despite the changes happening in the packaging industry and the many challenges it is facing, the European packaging sector at FACHPACK proved extremely innovative, solution-oriented and confident,” says Heike Slotta, Executive Director Exhibitions at NürnbergMesse, summing up the event. In 2025, FACHPACK will be held at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg together with POWTECH TECHNOPHARM.
“Once again, FACHPACK has shown itself to be a clear guide and driving force for the packaging industry in Europe,” says Slotta, summing up the mood at FACHPACK 2024. “And that’s what we need! The packaging sector is in a state of transition. New regulations have to be implemented, and high expectations in terms of sustainability and the circular economy need to be met. At the same time, the industry faces challenges brought about by demographic change. And then there are other themes relating to the energy supply system, supply chains, digitalization and artificial intelligence. Here in Nuremberg we’ve just had three days of experiencing first-hand just how innovative, solution-focused and optimistic the industry is in dealing with these challenges and helping to structure the transition. The FACHPACK motto ‘We create the future’ once again sums it up nicely.”
Visitors from throughout Europe
FACHPACK offered an extensive range of solutions and innovations in the areas of packaging, packaging systems and packaging processes. Most visitors to FACHPACK travelled to the Exhibition Centre from other countries in Europe. After Germany, the top ten countries were Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Czech Republic, Poland, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Turkey and Hungary. The international contingent made up 33 percent of the total.
Industry professionals: Top decision-makers onsite
The results of a visitor survey by an independent institute confirmed that 96 percent of the industry professionals were happy with the products and services in the exhibition halls. Some 90 percent of the trade visitors said they were involved in making the purchasing and procurement decisions in their respective businesses. Two thirds of them hold management positions. The visitors came mainly from the food and feed, pharmaceutical and medical, chemical, cosmetics, retail, automotive, electrical and electronic, non-food, logistics and packaging industries.
Women4Packaging network off to a successful start
The Women4Packaging networking event was very well received, with 150 female industry players seizing the unique opportunity on the first day of the trade fair to network onsite and interact on current themes and trends in the packaging sector. The keynote by Vera Strauch, founder of the Female Leadership Academy and expert in Feminist Leadership, provided stimulating ideas. This initial gathering received a thoroughly positive response, and the Women4Packaging network will be continued and expanded accordingly, to ensure a focus on women in the packaging industry in the future. Regular meetings are planned. Phuong Anh Do, Deputy Director FACHPACK, is overwhelmed by the response to the new industry platform: “There are many qualified women in the packaging industry. That’s why we’re particularly pleased to have created a trail-blazing network for women at FACHPACK in the form of Women4Packaging, which offers female players in the industry an opportunity for constructive interaction with like-minded colleagues and genuine added value.”
German Packaging Award and Gold Awards presented
On the first day of FACHPACK, the German Packaging Institute (dvi) announced the winners of the Gold Awards for this year’s German Packaging Award. The five best innovations for 2024 came from the categories of Digitalization, Functionality & Convenience, Sustainability and Packaging Machines. A total of 41 innovative solutions that were recognized with the German Packaging Award in August were celebrated.
New: Packaging Valley organizes Packaging Machinery Forum in collaboration with FACHPACK in 2025
In early summer 2025, Packaging Valley and FACHPACK will join forces for the new Packaging Machinery Forum format. This leading forum for packaging machine construction will offer exclusive insights into the future of the sector. It will focus on topics of interest to customers of the packaging machine construction industry. Technological themes such as digitalization will be given the same prominence as questions of business models, market developments, and how to ensure future-proof production. Participants can also look forward to customized sessions run by top-level experts to deal with individual questions. The forum also offers an ideal platform for networking, which enables direct connections to decision-makers and leading thinkers in the sector. More information will follow soon.
Save the date: The next FACHPACK will take place together with POWTECH TECHNOPHARM at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg from 23 to 25 September 2025.
Almost 9 in 10 (89 %) parents across the UK are concerned that their children aren’t getting enough vitamins and minerals in their everyday diets, according to a new study.
The study, which surveyed parents across Great Britain, suggests the rising cost of living is partly to blame, with over 1 in 3 (38 %) saying food and drink rich in vitamins and minerals can be expensive to buy. The survey also revealed almost half (47 %) of British parents have no clear idea what foods or drinks their children are consuming at school – making it difficult to ensure they are maintaining a healthy, balanced diet.
However, the study also revealed a lack of awareness among parents about the levels of essential vitamins and minerals in everyday staples such as fruit juice – which are inexpensive and easy to consume as part of children’s daily routine.
Fruit juice is an easy, affordable way for children to get a head start on key nutrients*: for example, a standard 150 ml glass of orange juice provides more than 90 % of the recommended vitamin C intake. A recent study published in the journal, Nutrition Research Reviews, found that 100 % fruit juice currently provides over a quarter (26 %) of the vitamin C intake for children across the UK, with the average child consuming just two to three small glasses a week.
While most Brits recognise that orange and other fruit juices are a good source of vitamin C – essential for a healthy immune system, skin health, and helping to increase iron absorption – the research revealed that many parents are unaware of the added health benefits provided by fruit juice which contains vitamins, minerals and plant bioactives.
For example, 9 in ten parents are unaware that orange juice contains folate – proven to support normal immune health and helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue. The majority of UK parents (87 %) also don’t know that orange juice contains potassium, a mineral which supports normal muscle function – helping children to stay fit and active.
The study revealed the small amount of calories in a typical small glass of fruit juice – just 20-40 kcal per day or 1-2 % of a child’s average daily calorie intake. Almost half (46 %) of parents across the UK mistakenly think fruit juice contains added sugar, despite the fact that 100 % fruit juice never contains added sugars, colours or preservatives and cannot be diluted with water under UK and European law.
Leading nutritionist and dietitian, Dr Carrie Ruxton, said: “Children’s health remains a top priority for parents across the country. However, with continuing financial pressures and uncertainty around kids’ food consumption at school, parents are finding it hard to keep track of what their children are eating and encourage healthier food choices.
“Although promoting and maintaining the health of your kids may feel like stressful at times, there are easy, affordable ways to ensure your children are fighting fit, and armed with all the vitamins and minerals they need. A simple first step is ensuring your kids have a daily glass of orange juice, which not only provides up 90% of the vitamin C recommendation per day** but is packed with a wide range of nutrients and antioxidants to support immunity, energy levels and active lives.”
Carrie Ruxton’s top five easy, quick and affordable ways to keep children healthy are:
Drinking Daily Juice: Giving children a daily glass of 100 % orange juice with breakfast will naturally increase their intakes of vitamin C, folate and potassium to support normal immune health and muscle function. It doesn’t matter whether you buy a carton of fruit juice or squeeze it at home – both are rich in vitamin C.
Fibre-tastic: Fibre is an essential nutrient to encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and promote healthy digestion. An affordable way to weave this into your kids’ diets is to swap sugary breakfast cereals for wheat biscuits or bran flakes, or add peas, beans or sweetcorn to evening meals.
Taste the rainbow: Aim to give your kids five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. Try adding blended or grated veg into pasta sauces, or bananas to sweeten desserts. Buying frozen veggies and fruit is an affordable way to preserve key ingredients for longer.
Delicious Dairy: Yogurt drinks and desserts are often a good source of calcium and vitamin D for children, which are important for growth and maintaining strong bones. They are also relatively affordable when brought in multi-packs.
Get fishy: Giving children a portion of oily fish each week will provide inflammatory omega-3 fats to improve brain function, alongside key bone strengthening nutrients such as zinc and selenium. Tinned fish such as tuna is affordable, has a long shelf life, and is an easy after school meal served with pasta, sweetcorn and mayonnaise.
*Walton J & Kehoe L (2024) Current perspectives and challenges in the estimation of fruit juice consumption across the lifecycle in Europe – PubMed (nih.gov). ** Salar FJ et al. (2024) Comparison of vitamin C and flavanones between freshly squeezed orange juices and commercial 100% orange juices from four European countries – PubMed (nih.gov)
Tetra Pak has collaborated with a leading company in the European juices, nectars and soft drinks markets to launch the new Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge beverage carton. This innovative portion package stands out on the shelf, with its distinct look and ergonomic design catering to the preference of modern consumers for taller, slimmer packaging. Research1 shows that, with buyers rethinking discretionary spending, a ‘less is more’ design approach is gaining in popularity, characterised by pared back simplicity. Designed for ease of use, the shape of the new paper-based carton package also makes it more comfortable to hold, particularly for smaller hands. Its wide opening ensures a steady flow for easy drinking, while its compact size makes it convenient for on-the-go consumption.
Product wastage is minimised by combining the slanted top of the Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge carton with a DreamCap™ 26 Pro tethered closure. This helps to prevent litter too, as the cap stays attached to the package; therefore, it can be collected alongside the carton once consumers have enjoyed their drink and put the container in the correct bin for recycling.
In addition, the leading European juice brand opted for increasing the renewable share of material in the package to over 85 %, and this translated to reducing the carbon footprint of this carton by 76 %.2 This is achieved by combining paperboard from forests certified to Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC™) and other controlled sources with plant-based polymers, derived from responsibly sourced sugarcane. Its reduced climate impact is set to appeal to young consumers, who are more likely to make environmentally conscious purchasing decisions (as found in research from Harvard Business Review).3
The Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge is ideal for a wide range of on-the-go beverages, including dairy, juices and functional drinks. Available on the latest Tetra Pak® A3/CompactFlex filling machine, as well as on existing lines through a simple, cost-efficient upgrade, it brings the packaging configurations4 on a single filling machine to five. This versatility enables a quick switching between different packaging sizes and different opening systems, optimising production efficiency5 and broadening the range of on-the-go offerings. The latter helps food and beverage (F&B) brands to select the package that best matches specific consumption needs, therefore, attracting an even wider audience.
When it comes to transportation, the taller and slimmer shape of the package means it is possible to fit around the same number of litres and up to 10 % more packages per pallet,6 meaning fewer shipments while delivering more product.
Francesco Faella, Vice President Business Sector Ambient, Tetra Pak, comments: “By collaborating with a leading European juice brand and launching the Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge, we are answering the industry’s call for added flexibility and stylish design options to help brands stand out on the shelf. Importantly, we are doing this while also addressing consumer preferences and expectations. Based on our recent global research7, environmental concerns remain high for 76 % of respondents, with over 60 % choosing products that have environmentally sound packaging in a bid to protect future generations and one fifth showing preference for containers made of renewable materials.”
1Tetra Pak-WGSN Design Trend Forecast 2023-2024 2Source: Carbon Trust™-verified Tetra Pak ‘Carton CO2 Calculator’ model version 10 (valid from April 2024). Scope: cradle-to-grave measurement of a Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge carton with plant-based packaging materials and additional materials (i.e. cap) compared to a standard Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge with fossil-based plastic. Geography: EU Industry data. For more information, visit carbontrust.com/tetrapak 3https://hbr.org/2023/09/research-consumers-sustainability-demands-are-rising 4The five packaging configurations include the following: Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 200 Edge with straw; Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 200 Edge with DreamCap™ 26 closure or DreamCap™ 26 Pro tethered closure; Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 250 Edge with straw; Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 250 Edge with DreamCap™ 26 closure or DreamCap™ 26 Pro tethered closure; Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 300 Edge with DreamCap™ 26 closure or DreamCap™ 26 Pro tethered closure. 5Addition of three formats in Quick Change, with Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 200 Edge and Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 250 Edge, hence improved flexibility and efficiency when compared with Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 330 Square. 6Compared with the Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 330 package in EU pallet with WASF open ends. 7Tetra Pak’s latest Sustainable Packaging consumer research, run in 2023, comprised a total of 14,500 consumer interviews based on an online questionnaire in 29 markets: Germany, France, UK, Italy, Belgium, Denmark, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, South Africa, Egypt, China, India, Japan, Australia, Indonesia, Philippines, South Korea, Vietnam, Brazil, USA, Mexico, Colombia, Argentina.
Perricone Farms, a premium craft juice company with deep roots in California’s citrus industry, announced its acquisition of Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, an award-winning juice company based in Fort Pierce, Florida. The merger unites two of the highest quality and most trusted names in the juice industry, strengthens both brands, and enhances the ability to serve customers with excellence in quality and customer service in the US.
The combined company will be able to take advantage of bi-coastal production facilities, improve its delivery capabilities, expand product offerings, and leverage its additional scale to ensure juices reach customers with the same uncompromising quality they have come to know and love.
“We are excited to add Natalie’s to the Perricone Farms family. Natalie’s commitment to producing the highest quality products, combined with unmatched customer service, aligns with the core values we have been providing in the marketplace for years. Working together, we will be stronger and will be able to provide greater value to our customers,” said Bob Rovzar, CEO of Perricone Farms. “This exciting merger offers new opportunities for growth and expansion, including entrance into new markets, developing innovative products, and strengthening relationships with customers, suppliers, vendors, and partners. Together, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s are now better equipped to ensure the continued success and growth of both brands.”
Over the decades, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s Juices have become industry experts at procuring and producing the highest quality juices. By unifying these two entities, we strengthen our undisputed reputation for being the best premium juice provider in the food service and retail channel.
“The impressive growth that has driven the success behind the Natalie’s brand for the past 35 years has been built on the brand loyalty and relationships we have established with our customers and consumers. We are forever grateful for the opportunity to serve them with the nation’s best-tasting juice—not because it was our job, but because we loved doing it,” said Natalie’s CEO, Marygrace Sexton, who founded the award-winning juice company, named after her daughter, over 35 years ago. “We are excited for the future and the opportunities this partnership will provide our cherished Natalie’s family. Natalie’s has been built to last and will be providing you with authentic juices on a world-wide scale for generations to come.”
With the foundations for both companies built on a shared vision and values that have existed for generations, the combined company will remain devoted to a legacy that has been rooted in tradition and a commitment to exceeding expectations in quality and customer service.
Citrus flavours are beloved for their refreshing zest, versatility, and ability to invigorate the senses. Consumers are drawn to them not only for their familiar taste but also for their perceived health benefits, with rising demand for natural citrus flavours driven by the clean-label trend.
Orange continues to be one of the most widely consumed citrus flavours in the world, yet despite its popularity, the global orange oil market is facing significant supply challenges due to factors such as crop shortages, poor fruit quality, and climate-related disruptions.
As demand for natural products continues to grow, driven by widespread use in food and beverages, cosmetics, and cleaning products, orange oil prices are expected to increase over the next 3-5 years.
In response these challenges, Flavorchem, a global flavour and ingredient supplier, developed taste mod™ orange, an innovative line of orange oil replacers, offering the zesty taste of citrus at a more affordable price.
“Our sweet orange oil replacers have been applied in easy-to-use flavour forms specifically designed for beverages,” says Niki Hernandez, Senior Manager Flavour Development. “Available in extract, emulsion, and spray dry forms, it comes in both TYPE and WONF versions and meets specific regulatory requirements.”
Flavorchem’s expertly crafted sweet orange oil replacers offer the bright, refreshing flavours your products require, while ensuring consistency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability that today’s market demands. Taste mod™ orange delivers an authentic, true-to-fruit Valencia Orange flavour, labeled as “natural flavour” and ideal for clean-label products. Perfect for a wide range of beverage applications, it provides a reliable, high-quality alternative to traditional orange oils.
Results of the annual Commercial Citrus Inventory show total citrus acreage is 274,705 acres, down 17 percent from the last annual survey. The net loss of 57,551 acres is 14,505 acres more than what was lost the previous season. New plantings at 4,751 acres are down from the previous season.
All 23 published counties included in the table on page 3 showed decreases in acreage. Hendry County lost the most acreage, down 12,374 acres from the previous season. Polk County leads in citrus acreage with 58,516 acres, followed by Desoto County at 51,800 acres.
Orange acreage is now at 248,028 acres, down 18 percent from the previous season. Valencia acreage now accounts for 63 percent of the total orange acreage, non-Valencia acreage represents 35 percent, and the remaining orange acreage is unidentified …
Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov
“Transition in Packaging” will be the key theme for FACHPACK at the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg from 24 to 26 September 2024. This describes the powerful currents that are affecting the packaging sector in Europe right now. High expectations in terms of sustainability combined with new packaging regulations, increasing digitalization and artificial intelligence are just three of the driving themes at FACHPACK 2024. Demographic change also poses challenges for the industry. FACHPACK perceives itself as a guide for the sector, offering both interaction and direction. “The dynamics in the packaging industry have never been greater,” says Heike Slotta, Executive Director Exhibitions at NürnbergMesse. “And companies are responding with impressive powers of design and innovation. We will get to experience these first-hand during the three days of the trade fair, and I’m very much looking forward to it.” The key theme of “Transition in Packaging” will be reflected at the stands of the 1,463 exhibitors, in the extensive lecture programme, in the fascinating special shows and themed pavilions, and in the award presentations. Some 35,000 visitors from the consumer and industrial goods industries are expected.
FACHPACK provides a compact yet comprehensive overview of the products and services along the entire packaging process chain for industrial and consumer goods. That means packaging, the associated technology and the accompanying processes. The trade fair extends to eleven exhibition halls this year. Of the 1,463 exhibitors, 47 percent will travel to Nuremberg from outside Germany, the majority from Austria, Switzerland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Belgium, Greece, the Czech Republic, France and Turkey.
About 56 percent of exhibitors represent the packaging sector, in other words packaging materials and packaging accessories. Forty-four percent are from the packaging technology area, i.e. packaging machines, labelling systems and automation. The package printing and finishing segments and internal logistics are also covered at FACHPACK.
New food for thought and solutions for the packaging industry
Following a few challenging years, FACHPACK is back in the form in which the industry knows and appreciates it: 1,463 exhibitors will be present in the eleven exhibition halls, and not only the most prominent names in the packaging industry but also many smaller SMEs which will also find their customers here. “FACHPACK is quite simply a ‘class reunion’ for the European packaging industry,” Slotta observes, adding: “For three days we will once again experience the hands-on mentality that’s characteristic of this sector and feel its momentum. The current transformation in the packaging industry is something we are facing with optimism and a focus on solutions. We are actively involved in shaping this transformation, fully in line with our slogan, ‘We create the future’!
New network: Women in focus
A new feature is the Women4Packaging networking event for women in the packaging industry, taking place in the Brussels Room, NCC Mitte, at mid- day on the first day of the trade fair (24.9). This will give female players in the industry a unique opportunity to network on-site, provide mutual inspiration and interact on current themes and trends in the packaging sector. The whole thing takes place in a relaxed atmosphere. A highlight is the Keynote by Vera Strauch, founder of the Female Leadership Academy and expert in Feminist Leadership, on “Grow Your Influence: How to build a strong network and make an authentic impact”. About 150 participants have registered.
New ideas: Presentations with their finger on the pulse
FACHPACK perceives itself as a driving force for the sector. In addition to the extensive product exhibition and the many innovations on show there, this will also be evident from the lecture programme in the forums PACKBOX (Hall 4), INNOVATIONBOX (Hall 2) and SOLPACK 5.0 (Hall 3). All three draw on themes of current interest to the sector, e.g. dealing with the new Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulations (PPWR), the circular economy, automation and AI, and also alternative packaging solutions and new fibre-based raw materials.
Highlights in the lecture programme include:
Safe and sustainable? Evaluation of packaging materials with a focus on recyclates
Quo Vadis Packaging?– what does the new EU packaging regulation mean in terms of practical business examples
Digital packaging data: A must-have to handle complexity and new legal demands
How AI is driving the circular economy
Digitalization – smart packaging for greater transparency and sustainability
Future-Ready Packaging – How to make your packaging fit for the future: Best practice examples of paper-based packaging solutions!
The future of retail: new insights and their impact on the packaging industry
In the PACKBOX forum, moderated on this occasion by industry experts Matthias Mahr (LebensmittelPraxis magazine), Dr Johannes Bergmair (Pack Experts and World Packaging Organisation) and Oliver Berndt (Deutsches Verpackungsinstitut (German Packaging Institute, dvi), key partners to the packaging industry will give shape to the programme and invite visitors to listen in and join the discussion. SOLPACK 5.0, moderated by Peter Désilets and Volker Muche (sustainability agency pacoon GmbH), is devoted to sustainable packaging solutions. At INNOVATIONBOX, moderated by Nina Schönrock and Petra Bindl, registered exhibitors will introduce their new product developments and process innovations in short, punchy presentations.
Good packaging design: Special show “Outside the Box”
Anyone interested in packaging design should be sure to look in on the special design show “Outside the Box” in Hall 4. Organized for FACHPACK by bayern design, this illustrates the drafting and design process from idea through to good packaging design, and offers valuable insights into the impact of design on development processes. Unusual exhibits, e.g. innovative packaging for fitted sheets or a reuse system for domestic products such as detergents or soaps, are used to show design processes that make packaging more suitable for the circular economy, improve awareness of the brands behind products, and create a sense of identification and awareness among customers and users.
Fascinating approaches: Alternative packaging solutions
FACHPACK will offer inspiration this year with a special item on the programme: the “Alternative packaging solutions” pavilion. This is where examples of alternatives to traditional materials will be presented, along with an insight into what could be possible in the future. In the fully booked pavilion in Hall 3, for example, exhibitors will display compostable film bags, padding material made of grain husks, compostable tea bags, packaging made of sugarcane, and much more besides. The SOLPACK 5.0 forum is also part of this pavilion.
Fresh wind: Start-ups conquer the industry
Anyone on the lookout for fresh, unconventional ideas and products to resolve packaging questions will also find these this year among the start- ups in the packaging sector in Hall 2. Awaiting visitors are the “Young Innovators” pavilion for young, innovative companies, sponsored by the German Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Protection (BMWK), and the “Newcomers Pavilion”, which provides a platform where first-time exhibitors at FACHPACK and international newcomers to the sector can introduce themselves and their innovative products and services to the experts.
New industry talents in focus: Students Day on Thursday
The STUDENTS DAY on the third day of the fair (26.9) brings together prominent companies and new talents in the packaging industry. At the invitation of FACHPACK and the German Packaging Institute (dvi), students from the German-speaking region will meet in workshops with professionals from the likes of DALLI Werke, Henkel, Tchibo, Smurfit Kappa and Beiersdorf. An animated exchange of ideas on the demands of the future and the specifics of working in the packaging industry is guaranteed.
Achievements honoured: German Packaging Award
On the first day of the fair, the stage will once again be set for a total of 41 winners of the German Packaging Award, Europe’s top showcase for all aspects of packaging. Almost 250 submissions from 13 countries were submitted in advance for personal inspection and assessment. The German Packaging Award is presented by the German Packaging Institute (dvi) in ten categories. The presentation will take place in the Munich Room, NCC Mitte, from 16:30. As a premium partner, FACHPACK will present the special award for young talents. This distinction recognises the best packaging designs by school pupils, apprentices and students.
Industry development: Caution and optimism for 2025
The results of a current survey among associations in the German packaging industry show that weak economic conditions and growing regulatory demands are particular sources of concern for the packaging sector. According to the associations, however, an initial recovery in the economic situation in Germany is making itself felt. A cautious optimism is in the air for 2025. “As an industry platform, FACHPACK can assist the packaging industry with its challenges,” says Slotta. “Together it’s possible to develop ideas and solutions to encourage economic success for the industry. A trade fair that represents an entire sector can achieve more than individual companies on their own.”
According to the Food and Packaging Machinery Association at VDMA, incoming orders for packaging machines in the first four months of 2024 increased by 16 percent in real terms. Positive development overall is expected for the second half of the year. Global demand remains huge, and the potentials in the emerging economies in particular are far from being exhausted.
IK Industrievereinigung Kunststoffverpackungen (the Plastic Packaging Industry Association, IK) expects a slight economic recovery in the second half of 2024. The strongest drivers of hope in its view are the stable export expectations and adaptation strategies on the part of companies to secure supplies of raw materials and the circular economy. The Industrieverband Papier- und Folienverpackungen (IPV), the German association representing producers of packaging made from paper and plastic films, perceives major opportunities in the strong trend toward light, customizable and easily recyclable packaging. The folding box segment sees the possibility of an upswing in the future substitution of packaging based on petrochemicals with fibre-based recyclable packaging. A slight upturn in business from autumn 2024 is expected in the wooden packaging sector. In addition to the economic situation in Germany, the Bundesverband Holzpackmittel, Paletten, Exportverpackung (the German association for wooden packaging materials, pallets and export packaging, HPE) is looking toward foreign trade, since it perceives that a decline in foreign trade is causing a downward trend in demand for wooden packaging. As for glass containers, the Bundesverband Glasindustrie (the German glass industry association) assumes that the situation will continue to stabilize during 2024. The Verband der Wellpappen-Industrie (German Corrugated Board Industry Association, VDW) expects to see a gradual process of recovery for 2024. In the first five months of 2024, VDW members experienced revenue growth of 1.6 percent compared to the same period last year. Further information, figures and graphics on the packaging market in Germany and Europe can be found in the FACHPACK360° news portal.
There is a global call for reduced sugar that is shaking the JNSD world – particularly fruit juice production. Driven by consumer concerns about health and weight, and further burdened by sugar taxes and other regulations in a number of countries, how can you reduce the sugar level of juice products, while maintaining quality and consumer appeal?
You can dilute the juice, of course, but there are also technologies available to reduce the intrinsic sugars in the juice itself (mainly sucrose, glucose and fructose). These are membrane filtration, enzymatic sugar transformation, and yeast fermentation. Tetra Pak has invested in fermentation – with a special process that can reduce sugar to practically zero.
The new approach to this problem reduces sugar through controlled fermentation, followed by yeast removal and removal of the alcohol. The resulting juice with 0 % sugar can then be blended with normal juice to achieve any level of sugar reduction you desire.
The yeast Tetra Pak use has been specifically selected because of its history of safe use within the food industry, its suitability for sugar reduction in juice, and its fermentation efficiency and reproducibility.
A new white paper by Tetra Pak describes processing lines for fermentation, yeast removal and dealcoholisation, as well as final blending of fruit juices. The company explain why the monitoring of temperature, agitation and sugar levels is essential to an optimal and cost-effective process. Food-grade alcohol can be extracted from the process for various food and beverage applications, if desired.
The concept has been proven in technical and consumer tests, and offers you a broad opportunity to create an entirely new product category – reduced-sugar juices and drinks. The scope of creative blending is practically limitless.
Nanovel unveils AI-powered fruit harvesting robot, secures USD 900,000 in funding
The Nanovel AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot is the world’s first-of-its-kind system designed to pick citrus fruit for fresh markets from large trees with dense foliage, representing a breakthrough in fruit-harvesting technology.
Nanovel, an Israeli AgTech startup, has unveiled an AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot capable of picking tree fruit for the fresh market. The robot offers a solution to growers worldwide dealing with farm labor shortage and rapidly increasing costs. According to a survey conducted by Western Growers organisation, profitability and labour availability were ranked as the top two challenges faced by specialty crop growers.
Nanovel was established in 2018 by the company’s CEO Isaac Mazor, a successful serial entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in technology innovation, AI, computer vision, and robotics. Mazor was the Founder and CEO of Jordan Valley Semiconductors, which was acquired by Bruker International in 2015 (Nasdaq : BRKR).
(Photo: Nanovel)
The Nanovel AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot is the world’s first-of-its-kind system designed to pick citrus fruit for fresh market in dense foliage, representing a high level of technological complexity. The system features a multi-arm platform, which will initially be towed by a tractor. Future versions are planned to include an internal driving unit and autonomous navigation capabilities. The robot’s telescopic arms are equipped with edge computing, advanced vision systems, and AI to identify, assess, and selectively pick fruit with precision that meets fresh market quality standards. In the first phase, the robot is planned to harvest oranges, with later expansion to other types of citrus, the most widely cultivated fruit globally. The company’s crop roadmap includes lemons, grapefruits, avocados, mangoes, peaches, and nectarines.
Each arm of the robot uses a patented end-effector with a vacuum gripper to cradle the fruit and then trim the stems using cutters without damaging the fruit. The fruit is then transported via conveyor belts to bins. The robot uses advanced edge computing to deliver real-time, AI-driven data necessary for fruit picking. This is a key component of Nanovel’s technology, allowing the robot to pick fruit in dense foliage. Nanovel robots will prove invaluable to growers in the United States, where orange harvesting occurs year-round, allowing for high capital utilisation.
With this in mind, the California Citrus Research Board (CRB) has signed a non-dilutive funding agreement with Nanovel, which includes the delivery of a robot after a series of field trials in California, totaling USD 900,000. The field trials are set to start in the spring of 2025, and will be conducted in cooperation with leading citrus growers
A key benefit of the Nanovel AI-powered autonomous fruit-harvesting robot is its ability to significantly reduce labor costs and minimize the logistical challenges associated with hiring seasonal workers. Studies show that manual harvesting is the single most labour-intensive task for fruit farmers, accounting for up to 50 % of annual cultural costs in the citrus industry in developed countries. Additionally, the system can operate day and night, optimising productivity and ensuring crops are picked at optimal times, potentially improving fruit quality and market value.
Furthermore, automating the harvesting process helps avoid the dangerous task of laborers picking fruit while on ladders. This alone supports a huge improvement in worker safety and reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Additionally, the real-time collection of harvest data by the system, delivers invaluable insights that can be used for packing and marketing activities and can also provide important agronomic insights to growers.
“Our mission is to secure the affordability of fresh fruit through autonomous harvesting,” said Isaac Mazor, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Nanovel. “Our goal is to deploy Nanovel’s solution into major global citrus markets, particularly in the US and Southern European countries like Spain and Italy. We aim to set a new standard for fresh market harvesting, ensuring high quality and economic viability for growers.”
Collaborations between well-known brands, such as the recent Coca-Cola and Oreo partnership, are of mutual benefit to companies by way of sales and marketing promotion. The partnerships allow collaborating brands to leverage their existing fan bases and create a buzz around the product. As such, beverage companies need to innovate beyond their markets, as 65 % of global consumers say it is essential or nice to have a well-known brand when deciding to make a purchase*, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
In August this year, The Coca-Cola Company announced a partnership with Mondelez to launch a limited-edition cola with flavours inspired by Oreo cookies. As well as recently, the two global brands have released Oreo Coca-Cola cookies. This collaboration aims to celebrate the bond between the food and drink-based brands as they label themselves “besties” and offer consumers a unique and playful experience.
Similarly, Fanta, another brand under Coca-Cola, is rolling out a limited-edition apple flavour variant called Fanta Zero Afterlife. This launch is timed for Halloween and is part of Fanta’s Halloween activity. The packaging will feature Beetlejuice-themed designs, creating a strong association with Fanta and Warner Bros. Pictures brands.
George Shaw, Consumer Analyst at Globaldata, comments: “This marketing campaign aims to drive talkability and engage both Fanta and film fans. Moreover, these collaborations and limited-edition products are part of a larger trend in the beverage market, where companies are constantly looking for ways to innovate and attract consumers with unique offerings. By partnering with well-known brands or incorporating popular themes, companies can generate brand excitement and increase sales.”
By introducing limited-edition flavours, companies can create a sense of urgency and encourage consumers to try the product before it’s gone. The impact of these collaborations and limited-edition products is significant. GlobalData’s Q2 2024 Global consumer survey reveals that consumers value novel and unique features when making purchasing decisions and 60 % of them consider it essential or nice to have novel/unique features when deciding to make a purchase. This aligns with the strategy of Coca-Cola.
According to GlobalData, the global carbonates market is projected to reach USD 521 billion by 2029, and global companies are collaborating to capture market share.
Shaw adds: “This highlights the competitive nature of the carbonates industry and the importance of innovation and strategic partnerships. Coca-Cola and Fanta’s collaborations demonstrate their efforts to stay ahead in the market and attract consumers with unique offerings.”
Coca-Cola is not the only beverage brand using collaborations. GHOST, a supplement lifestyle brand, has launched a lineup of hydration drinks in collaboration with Sour Patch Kids. This collaboration aims to provide consumers with a familiar tasting way to optimise their hydration during intensive workouts. GHOST can tap into the popularity of the Sour Kids Patch brand to attract a new base of customers previously unreached by hydration beverages and attract a potentially younger demographic.
Shaw concludes: “The collaborations between beverage brands like Coca Cola and Ghost showcase the importance of innovation and strategic partnership. As consumer demand for novel and distinctive offerings grows, these collaborations in the carbonates and sports drinks markets are crucial for capturing market share and increasing brand loyalty.”
*GlobalData 2024 Q2 Consumer Survey – Global, published in July 2024, included 22,016 respondents
Elopak announced that it will further accelerate growth by expanding its capacity at the announced U.S. production plant. The new production plant situated in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA is under construction and will now include two production lines.
When announced in June 2023, the production plant included a significant investment of around USD 70 million covering land, building and equipment. State-of-the-art technology will produce Pure-Pak® cartons for liquid dairy, juices, plant-based products and liquid eggs. Over 100 permanent jobs will be created and the new production facility is expected to start production in H1, 2025.
Since this announcement, the company has sold out the full production capacity for the first production line and is experiencing continued demand. Today’s announcement of a second production line will contribute with up to USD 110 million in revenues for an incremental investment of around USD 25 million. The second production line is expected to be in production in 2026.
Thomas Körmendi, CEO says: “I am pleased to announce the expansion of the new US plant with a second production line to continue to build on and accelerate the profitable growth in the region. This is a clear response to the continued strong demand that we see for Elopak as a reliable business partner. This is a new step towards realising our newly announced long-term ambition to become a 2 EUR billion company”.
“We have sold out the full production capacity for the first production line in the new plant, further strengthening and derisking the investment case for our expansion into the US. With the construction progressing according to plan and with a continued strong demand for our products, it is time to add more capacity to better serve existing and new customers in Americas”, says Lionel Ettedgui, EVP North America.
Most part of São Paulo state registered high temperatures in early September. This scenario brought concerns for citrus growers, who may face another year of significant heat waves.
Climatempo says that heat waves in September have become more common in most part of Brazil; however, they have been more intense and are lasting longer.
2024/25 CROP – São Paulo state and Triângulo Mineiro may harvest 215.78 million 40.8-kg boxes in the 2024/25 orange season, according to data released by Fundecitrus on September 10. The volume may be 30 % less than in the crop before, which registered average production, and below the first projection, of 232.38 million boxes.
The decrease is related to the smaller fruit size, due to the dry and warm weather. The weather also accelerated the harvesting pace, since it influenced the ripening. More than half of the crop can be harvested in this dry weather scenario because rains are forecast only for late September.
The volume of rainfall was small in almost all areas in the citrus belt, except in the southwestern region of São Paulo. Fundecitrus indicates that the only area where the production is expected to increase in this season is the southwest of SP – the harvest may be 19 % higher than in 2023/24. In other regions, the production decrease can be between 28 % and 60 %.
Perricone Farms, a premium craft juice company with deep roots in California’s citrus industry, announced its acquisition of Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, an award-winning juice company based in Fort Pierce, Florida. The merger unites two of the highest quality and most trusted names in the juice industry, strengthens both brands, and enhances the ability to serve customers with excellence in quality and customer service in the US.
The combined company will be able to take advantage of bi-coastal production facilities, improve its delivery capabilities, expand product offerings, and leverage its additional scale to ensure juices reach customers with the same uncompromising quality they have come to know and love.
“We are excited to add Natalie’s to the Perricone Farms family. Natalie’s commitment to producing the highest quality products, combined with unmatched customer service, aligns with the core values we have been providing in the marketplace for years. Working together, we will be stronger and will be able to provide greater value to our customers,” said Bob Rovzar, CEO of Perricone Farms. “This exciting merger offers new opportunities for growth and expansion, including entrance into new markets, developing innovative products, and strengthening relationships with customers, suppliers, vendors, and partners. Together, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s are now better equipped to ensure the continued success and growth of both brands.”
Over the decades, Perricone Farms and Natalie’s Juices have become industry experts at procuring and producing the highest quality juices. By unifying these two entities, we strengthen our undisputed reputation for being the best premium juice provider in the food service and retail channel.
“The impressive growth that has driven the success behind the Natalie’s brand for the past 35 years has been built on the brand loyalty and relationships we have established with our customers and consumers. We are forever grateful for the opportunity to serve them with the nation’s best-tasting juice—not because it was our job, but because we loved doing it,” said Natalie’s CEO, Marygrace Sexton, who founded the award-winning juice company, named after her daughter, over 35 years ago. “We are excited for the future and the opportunities this partnership will provide our cherished Natalie’s family. Natalie’s has been built to last and will be providing you with authentic juices on a world-wide scale for generations to come.”
With the foundations for both companies built on a shared vision and values that have existed for generations, the combined company will remain devoted to a legacy that has been rooted in tradition and a commitment to exceeding expectations in quality and customer service.
Health claims influence the food and beverage purchasing decisions of most consumers, and are particularly likely to resonate with the youngest, research has shown.
Global ingredient supplier Prinova surveyed over 1500 adult consumers in Europe and the US.* Seventy-two per cent said they were more likely to buy a food or beverage product if the packaging mentioned a health benefit. However, this rose to 87 % among those aged 18 to 24, and to 80 % among those aged 25 to 34.
Overall, the claims most likely to influence purchasing decisions were low-sugar or sugar-free, weight management and energy support. The ingredients most likely to influence purchasing decisions were probiotics, vitamins and minerals and fibre, while the concerns most likely to affect food and beverage purchases were gut health, healthy ageing and fatigue.
James Street, Global Marketing Director at Prinova, said: “There’s a long-term trend towards more proactive approaches to wellbeing, with dietary changes a key element of consumers’ strategies for living better. As a result, they’re increasingly seeking out food and beverage products with health benefits. Our research demonstrates the value of well communicated health claims, especially in key areas like gut health and energy support. While they resonate powerfully across all demographics, our research provides new evidence that zoomers and millennials are particularly likely to focus on wellness when choosing between products.”
The research also reveals high levels of interest in personalised approaches to nutrition. Seventy-nine per cent of respondents believed that their particular genetic make-up affected their nutritional needs either slightly or significantly, with millennials and women particularly likely to agree.
Forty-one per cent were keen to try a test that monitored how particular foods affected their bodies, while 32 % were interested in tracking their diet and nutrition through an app or questionnaire. Thirty per cent of respondents overall, and 37 % of those aged 25-34, were interested in wearable devices to monitor their blood sugar levels.
Sixty-six per cent of the consumers surveyed played video games at least once a week, and 61 % of these said they used food or nutrition products to improve their gaming performance. The ingredients most associated with superior performance were caffeine, B vitamins and ginseng.
Prinova is a leader in categories like amino acids, plant proteins, sweeteners and vitamins. Its branded ingredients include enduracarb® trehalose, a slow-release carbohydrate designed to provide sustained energy, and LactoSpore®, a clinically validated shelf-stable probiotic.
*Survey of 1,582 consumers in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK and the US. Conducted online in June 2024.
Total orange production1 is updated at 215.78 million boxes
The first update of the 2024-2025 orange crop forecast for the São Paulo and West-Southwest Minas Gerais citrus belt, published by Fundecitrus, carried out in cooperation with Markestrat and full professors from FEA-RP/USP and FCAV/Unesp2, is 215.78 million boxes of 40.8 kg. Of the total, 200.46 million boxes come from the first three blooms, while 15.32 million boxes belong to the fourth bloom. Compared to the initial estimate in May, the projection shows a reduction of 16.60 million boxes, which corresponds to a 7.1 % decrease. Analyzing by maturity group, the early-season varieties decrease by approximately 3 %, the mid-season (Pera) by 11 %, and the late-season varieties by 7 %. Compared to the previous crop (307.22 million boxes), the current projection represents a 29.8 % drop, with early-season varieties down by roughly 33 %, mid-season (Pera) by 35 %, and late-season varieties by 24 %. It is also estimated that approximately 14.34 million boxes will be harvested in the Triângulo Mineiro region. …
The 11th edition of the Juice Summit will take place on 16 and 17 October 2024 in Antwerp
The Juice and Nectar Industry is set to convene at the Juice Summit 2024, jointly organised by AIJN, the European Fruit Juice Association, IFU, the International Fruit and Vegetable Juice Association and SGF International (SAFE – GLOBAL – FAIR).
Since its launch in 2013, the Juice Summit has grown into the leading event for the juice industry, attracting over 450 participants every year. This highly anticipated gathering will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from all around the world to explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the global juice sector.
The Juice Summit 2024 will offer a unique opportunity for insightful dialogue and building valuable connections. Attendees will gain insights from prominent speakers, engage in thought-provoking panel discussions, and participate in interactive sessions focused on key industry themes.
Key highlights of the Juice Summit 2024:
Inspirational keynotes: Hear from leading figures in the juice industry, including Elwin de Groot, Head of Macro Strategy at Rabo Research and Thomas Körmendi, CEO of Elopak Group.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry colleagues, potential partners, and thought leaders to foster new collaborations and exchange ideas.
Session highlights:
Understanding Consumer Minds, Market Trends, and Research-Driven Strategies: Explore consumer behavior, market dynamics, and expert perspectives on the new sugar-reduced juice category.
Main threats and new approaches for a healthy orange industry in Brazil: Explore challenges like citrus greening, economic pressures, and environmental factors, along with innovative strategies to protect the orange industry.
The PPWR (r)evolution: How the juice business can thrive in a circular economy? Learn about the evolving regulations and how the industry can adapt to thrive in a circular economy.
Supply Chain & Demand: Analyse the complexities of balancing supply and demand in the juice industry, focusing on logistics, forecasting, and the impact of global market fluctuations.
To secure your place at the Juice Summit 2024 and view the full agenda, please visit The Juice Summit. Early registration is encouraged, as spaces are limited and expected to fill quickly.
All Citrus Value Up 6 Percent, Production Up 12 Percent
The USD 221 million preliminary on-tree value of the 2023-2024 citrus crop is 6 percent more than the USD 208 million revised value for 2022-2023.
Florida’s all citrus production in 2023-2024 is 20.2 million boxes, up 12 percent from the previous season’s 18.1 million boxes. All orange production increased by 14 percent to 18.0 million boxes. Non-Valencia production at 6.76 million boxes is up 10 percent from the 2022-2023 season. Valencia orange production at 11.2 million boxes is up 16 percent. All grapefruit production decreased 1 percent to 1.79 million boxes. Tangerine and tangelo production in 2023-2024 is down 6 percent from the previous season …
Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov
Swiss headquartered international Baumer Group has acquired Manas Microsystems Pvt. Ltd. Manas Microsystems is one of the largest and technologically leading manufacturers of flow meters in India. The company provides innovative products for flow measurement of various gases and liquids. Manas flow meters are well suited for a wide variety of applications, as they are rugged, accurate, and operate in harsh environmental conditions.
Manas was founded in 1998, located in Pune/Western India. With a team of 80 employees who manu-facture, calibrate and provide after sales support, Manas today is a well recognised name in the process industry. With a wide portfolio of flow meters, a certified test and calibration laboratory, Manas is serving diverse industries including water and waste water, dairy, automotive, sugar, textile, paper and pulp, heat treatment and pharmaceuticals.
Mr. Shrikant Sahasrabudhe, founder and Managing Director of Manas Microsystems, is delighted to hand over the company to Baumer: “The integration of Manas Microsystems into the Baumer Group will strengthen our position in flow measurement business allowing us to deliver even more value to our cli-ents and stakeholders. Manas Microsystems brings innovative technology, a talented team, a proactive service team, a strong client base and a good infrastructure, while Baumer brings in international experi-ence, a large customer base, modern techniques and a good brand image that is complementary to our business.”
Dr. Oliver Vietze, CEO and Chairman of the Baumer Group says: “Baumer has been active in India for almost 20 years, both with its own sales organisation and with a production site for process instruments. With our broad sensor portfolio, we have established an excellent position in this growing market. With the acquisition of Manas Microsystems, we are strengthening this position and are further expanding the expertise of Baumer as an international specialist in process sensor technology.”
Recent wildfires in several areas in São Paulo state concerned players. According to data gathered by Cepea, wildfires hit some citrus areas, especially the central-north of the state; however, this scenario may not bring significant impacts on the volume of fruits available in the market.
According to players surveyed by Cepea, the areas hit by wildfires are small and the landowners were able to control them rapidly. The rainfall in some areas also helped to control the problem. Damages were more significant for other crops, especially sugarcane.
Market
Prices for the pear orange have been at historical levels this year both in the in natura market and in the industrial segment. The limited supply of the current season and the firm demand from the industry explain this scenario. The price average was at BRL 100.00 per 40.8-kilo box, on tree, at the end of August.
However, the cold wave in São Paulo state in late August led consumers to be away from trades in the orange market. This scenario was reinforced by the end-of-the month period. On the other hand, the limited supply and high prices of industrial contracts continued to sustain quotations in the in natura market.
The demand for recycled plastics is increasing rapidly worldwide: consumer awareness is growing, companies are setting themselves ever more ambitious sustainability targets and recycling requirements from international governments are also increasing. As a company with almost 30 years of experience in plastics processing and almost 25 years in the field of recycling, Krones has now taken the pioneering decision to pool its recycling expertise in the independent subsidiary Krones Recycling GmbH from July 2024.
A logical step, as Krones CEO Christoph Klenk explains: “The spin-off will enable Krones Recycling to develop faster and in line with market requirements. Because in line with our claim Solutions beyond tomorrow, this division makes a decisive contribution to protecting the environment by returning plastic waste to the value-added cycle.”
More flexibility, familiar all-in-one service
In addition, thanks to leaner processes and structures, the new company will be able to respond more quickly to changes in the constantly changing recycling market, says Michael Gotsche, Managing Director of Krones Recycling GmbH: “The newly founded company offers us the necessary flexibility and scope for action to be able to implement decisions in a customer-oriented, fast and optimised manner.”
For all its independence, however, the name Krones Recycling not only symbolises the focus on plant en-gineering in the field of recycling, it also reflects the close connection to the Krones Group. “We know that our clients appreciate Krones’ overall line expertise, which means they get everything from a single source. They can continue to rely on this in the future. The worldwide sales and service network is also available to us without restriction,” Gotsche continues.
Ambitious goals
A large number of plastics such as PET, PE, PP and PS are already being processed on Krones Recycling’s lines worldwide. “Our vision is to make a daily contribution to a global circular economy for all plastics by offering our customers sustainable and profitable recycling solutions,” says Michael Gotsche, describing the overarching business objective. There is also a clear marker in relation to Krones’ sustainability targets: at least 30 per cent of the plastics processed on Krones lines are to be returned to the cycle as a recycled resource.
Consequently, Krones Recycling will continue to conduct intensive research into new innovations at its in-house Recycling Technology Centre. There, tests on the recyclability of various plastics, including adhesives and colours, can also be carried out under real conditions on behalf of customers.
The German plant manufacturer WELTEC BIOPOWER is supporting Yarra Valley Water for the refurbishment of its 1-megawatt biogas plant in the north of Melbourne. Yarra Valley Water, is one of Australia‘s largest water and wastewater companies. Since the completion of the waste and food waste plant by WELTEC BIOPOWER and its project partner in 2017, Yarra Valley Water’s Aurora Treatment Plant has been energy self-sufficient. In order to be able to operate the plant profitably into the future, it has been undergoing a technical modernisation including biological service was planned for August 2024. The work of the local team is being supported by WELTEC on site.
The output of the plant, which has two 530-kilowatt CHP units, covers the energy requirements of the biogas plant. The electricity generated is able to power both the facility itself and the sewage treatment plant, with excess energy is exported to the electricity grid. The plant has a processing capacity of 33,000 tons of organic waste from food processors and restaurants to generate around 7,500,000 kilowatt hours of energy per year. Accepted waste includes fats, oils, brewery and dairy residues, fruit and vegetables which are fed into the stainless steel containers. The plant has already won prestigious awards for its technology: These include the Premier‘s Sustainability Award for leading innovation and practice in Victoria and the Banksia Award for Leading in Circular Economy.
At the start of the maintenance work, the tanks will first be completely emptied. In addition, the roofs of the two 3,573 cubic meter stainless steel fermenters and internal plant components such as the agitator technology will be replaced. The plant will then be commissioned and operational management will be secured. The digester contents will be temporarily stored in the storage tank and material can be filled back into the tanks after the refurbishment so the plant can be up and running quickly. This saves resources and costs. In addition, it is easier to restart the biological process when the fermented material is immediately available. Last but not least, the processes also comply with occupational safety requirements, which are a high priority in Australia – especially when emptying and filling the tanks. WELTEC will also provide on-site staff training.
“WELTEC BIOPOWER has been a valued partner in our successful journey with our Wollert Facility. We value their commitment to safety and quality and have leveraged their expertise in mechanical and biological consulting over the lifespan of our facility,” emphasises Stephanie Salinas, Manager Waste to Energy Services at YVW. “WELTEC can look back on extensive experience with such complex refurbishment projects. We are delighted that we have been able to enjoy the trust of our customers over such a long period of time,” says Vladimir Bogatov, Area Sales Manager Asia Pacific at WELTEC BIOPOWER. With more than 400 biogas plants planned and built worldwide and a strong service department, WELTEC has the necessary level of expertise for such modernisations. This experience is also valued Down Under to ensure that the plant operation remains flexible and continues to live up to its reputation as one of Australia‘s most innovative biogas projects in the future.
Company’s largest-ever campaign will support zero sugar, full-flavour line rolling out in the US this fall
Zero sugar juices are known for having zero flavour – until now. Welch’s, the leading name in bold fruit flavours for over 150 years, is changing the game with the launch of their new line of zero sugar juices that don’t compromise on flavour.
“We heard from our more health-conscious consumers that they wanted a zero-sugar juice option that didn’t compromise on flavour, and the options currently in the juice and refrigerated aisles just weren’t delivering on that ask,” said Scott Utke, Chief Marketing Officer at Welch’s. “Our team worked tirelessly to innovate a line of zero-sugar juices that are bursting with the bold, fruit flavours Welch’s is known for, and we believe this new line is a game-changer for consumers who are mindful about the choices they are making when it comes to sugar.”
In September, Welch’s largest-ever marketing campaign, “You Gotta Sip It, To Get It,” will kick off to support the new line of zero sugar juices. From social to streaming, custom integrations to sponsorships, and sampling to experiential events – the campaign will appear across various consumer touchpoints. Highlighting the puzzling moments in life that make our heads tilt in curiosity. However, once one tries Welch’s Zero, these bewildering moments transform into a refreshingly flavourful experience – reinforcing the notion that “You Gotta Sip It to Get It!”
Welch’s Zero Sugar is available in two refreshing refrigerated flavours: Passion Fruit and Grape (59 oz cartons), and three delicious shelf-stable flavours: Tropical Punch, Strawberry, and Concord Grape, offered in multi-serve (64 oz) and single-serve (10 oz) sizes. Crafted with the same commitment to quality and flavour that has made Welch’s a trusted household name, each serving is bursting with vibrant, real fruit flavour with 0 grams of sugar and provides an excellent source of Vitamin C (20 % of DV).
All flavours of Welch’s Zero will be available in juice aisles and refrigerated sections at retailers in the US starting September 1.
The 2024/25 crop-year for orange juice exports (from July/24 to June/25) has started in July and shipments, which had been moving down in 2023/24, continued to move at a slow pace. This scenario was already expected, since the supply is limited in Brazil, due to the confirmation of a smaller orange production in São Paulo state and in Triângulo Mineiro. At the same time, Brazilian imports of in natura orange and tangerine rose in July.
Orange juice exports
According to Comex Stat, Brazil shipped 53.4 thousand tons of orange juice in July, downing 38 % compared to the same month in 2023. The limited supply boosted quotations. As a result, the revenue totaled USD 198.9 million in July/24, for an increase of 9 % in relation to July/23.
NFC orange juice shipments amounted 164.2 thousand tons in July/24, and the revenue totaled USD 96.45 million, upping 3 % and 55 % against July/23. As for FCOJ exports, the total was 23.6 thousand tons (-59 %), and the revenue was USD 102.4 million (-15 % in one year).
In natura citrus fruits imports
In natura orange imports are at record volumes this year, boosted by the low domestic supply and high prices of national fruits. According to data from Comex Stat, from January to July, 34.8 thousand tons were imported, 87 % up in relation to the same period last year. Expenses amounted USD 24.7 million, 72 % more this year against the previous.
As for tangerines, the volume purchased by Brazil in the partial of 2024 totaled 14.5 thousand tons, 96 % more than in the period from January to July last year. Expenses are at USD 15.65 million (+89 %).
Domestic market
Quotations of citrus fruits surveyed by Cepea may continue to increase in August, sustained by expectations of a limited supply for all varieties. This scenario can be verified despite the orange season peak.
The orange harvesting is moving at a good pace in the citrus belt, but most part of the produce has been allocated to the juice industry. Factories continue with high prices to purchase the raw material, leading many producers that typically operate in the in natura market to allocate oranges for processing activities. Therefore, not even the low demand, due to mild temperatures, was able to press down quotations.
Symrise announces the opening of a new office and lab facility for Food & Beverage in Beijing. To optimally serve the dynamic and rapidly growing consumer base in the area the company has invested EUR 1.5 million in the facility. The location will enhance the R&D capabilities, customer proximity, and market presence in the North of China.
The country’s diverse and evolving tastes, driven by a rising middle class and increasing urbanisation, lead to stronger demand for beverages, dairy, culinary, and snacks. By expanding its presence in China, particularly with the new facility in Beijing, Symrise can perfectly cater to local preferences and swiftly respond to market trends.
The 800 sqm facility in Beijing covers 250 sqm of office space and 400 sqm of advanced laboratory areas as well as 150 sqm administration rooms. The labs include specialised zones for beverage and dairy creation, application, savory creation as well as snacks and seasonings, each equipped with dedicated workstations and evaluation rooms. This state-of-the-art setup enables Symrise to develop products tailored to the market. It can also provide comprehensive and swift support to customers in the region, ensuring timely and efficient service.
A key market for food & beverage applications
“China represents a crucial market for Symrise due to its dynamic and rapidly growing consumer base in food & beverage applications. As a logical consequence we have expanded our Beijing site to significantly enhance our R&D capabilities,” said Walter Ribeiro, Global President, Food & Beverage at Symrise. “With a focus on customer proximity and technical excellence, this facility will serve as a vital hub for innovation and customer collaboration.
The facility also adds further resources to the company’s main lab in Shanghai, ensuring continuous support and resource optimization. It offers an improved working environment for the team, with modern amenities and a design that balances flexibility, efficiency, and local cultural elements.
“This strategic positioning enhances our ability to innovate and introduce new products tailored to Chinese consumers,” adds Robert Marti, VP North Asia, Food & Beverage at Symrise. “It also strengthens our engagements with local food and beverage producers. As we continue to develop and optimise our offerings, both our customers and consumers will benefit from a broader range of high-quality products, leading to increased satisfaction and loyalty in this key region.”
The Beijing office and lab underscore Symrise’s commitment to innovation, customer intimacy, and market expansion. With additional hires of technical experts, the company sees itself well-positioned to drive growth and deliver superior products across various categories. Symrise anticipates this facility will enhance its current offerings and open market opportunities, solidifying its presence in the Northern China and beyond.
A recent survey shows that more and more people are concerned about their mental health: 53 % of respondents report anxiety, 33 % struggle with fatigue and exhaustion and 30 % are affected by depression (Innova Trends Survey 2024). Awareness of the connection between nutrition and well-being is clearly reflected in the attitudes of consumers. Worldwide, 43 % of them stated that they had started eating a healthy diet in 2023 to improve their mental or emotional well-being (Innova Lifestyles and Attitudes Survey 2023). More and more manufacturers of food supplements and functional beverages are picking up on this consumer behavior.
Minerals and vitamins for a powerful brain
Many micronutrients support mental and emotional well-being, cognitive performance and sleep quality. Fortification with significant amounts of vitamins and minerals allows for the advertisement of these properties in the form of health claims under the Food Information Regulation (EU) No. 1169 / 2011. In addition, consumers are showing an increasing interest in other functional ingredients such as nootropics and adaptogens, which contribute to improving cognitive performance and stress management.
“Numerous research results indicate that micronutrients in the form of dietary supplements can help reduce stress and anxiety and improve mood and sleep,” says Clarissa Burk, Product Manager at SternVitamin. “Our micronutrient premixes simplify the development of new end products that meet the growing consumer demand for solutions in these areas. They are guided by current nutritional and lifestyle trends and can be customised to our customers’ product parameters and production processes.”
Inspiration for the development of new products
An overview of which micronutrients and functional ingredients support mental well-being and cognitive performance can be found in the SternVitamin white paper “Healthy mood. Healthy mind. Healthy sleep.” In addition to consumer data and market trends, scientific background information provides valuable insights for the development of new products.
The premix solutions presented in the white paper are also informed by this knowledge and consist of blends of micronutrients and other functional ingredients tailored to various facets of mental health. These can be used in the production of various end products that meet the growing needs of consumers. For example, the SternMind premix solution for instant beverages supports mental health, reduces symptoms of mental stress and promotes positive thinking. It contains a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals as well as L-theanine, and can be supplemented with other ingredients such as Rhodiola rosea and Panax ginseng.
IFF, a global leader in food and beverage, home and personal care, scent, and health announced that it aims to complete the renovation and expansion of its facilities in Shanghai Hongqiao Airport Business Park, Shanghai, China. The site will be fully operational by the end of August 2024. The 16,000 square-meter site, named “Shanghai Creative Center,” is IFF’s largest in Asia. The project is designed to drive the development of innovative solutions across the IFF portfolio in China and the Greater Asia market, further strengthening its global leadership in fragrances, flavours, functional ingredients, and bioscience-based portfolios.
“The Shanghai Creative Center will bring together capabilities across IFF, all in one location, enabling us to improve our delivery of end-to-end solutions for customers in Asia and around the world,” said Erik Fyrwald, IFF chief executive officer. “This was a natural next step following the opening of our Singapore Innovation Center in 2022 and reaffirms our dedication to advancing innovation in Asia.”
IFF first entered the Chinese market in 1981, becoming the fragrance and flavour industry’s first multinational to establish footprint and to set up a factory. The newly renovated site signals the importance of the Asia region to IFF, globally. Today, China is one of the most important markets for flavours and fragrances with high potential for growth. Furthermore, the region’s demand for bioscience-based products is rapidly accelerating, as consumers increasingly seek options for greater longevity and healthy lifestyles. IFF’s deep knowledge and experience in these sectors, coupled with this investment in the innovation center, positions the Company to offer differentiated products to market quickly and effectively to support its customers’ brand growth strategies in China.
Freshfel Europe sent a letter to the European Commission warning that the proposed redeployment of existing EU funds away from promotional ‘multi programme’ activities could threaten the competitiveness of EU fruit and vegetables and hinder the progress on promoting the health and environmental assets of fresh produce.
Freshfel Europe, on behalf of the European fresh produce sector, submitted a letter responding to the EU Commission’s proposal to drastically reduce the agricultural promotion policy budget over the next three years by EUR 281.7 million, resulting in a total budget cut of over 50 % for this popular CAP policy. Worryingly, the budgets for ‘multi programmes,’ which involve multiple Member States as well as the Commission’s own promotion projects in third countries, have been scrapped entirely, only leaving in place the so-called “simple programmes.”
Freshfel Europe expressed concerns regarding the impact this would have on the EU fresh produce competitiveness and the continuity of essential promotion and marketing activities co-funded by the EU budget. Philippe Binard, General Delegate of Freshfel Europe stated: “While the EU decreases its promotion budget, global competitors such as the USA continue to invest millions to promote American food and farm exports. This underscores the urgent need to keep a strong EU promotion policy to maintain our competitive edge globally.”
A lacklustre promotion policy will also significantly and negatively impact the EU’s efforts to inform society and consumers about health and environmental issues relating to food diet. The latest estimation of daily fruit and vegetable consumption level is estimated at 340 g per person. This is well below the WHO minimum health recommendations of 400 g, driven by healthy diet considerations to address the challenges of non- communicable diseases and obesity. Furthermore, the Nordic Council has recommended reaching a minimum daily consumption of 800 g of fruit and vegetables: 400g for health benefits and an additional 400 g to offset negative environmental impacts. Clearly, 340 g is insufficient to address pressing health and environmental challenges The EU’s promotion policy and its co-funding opportunities are essential for sustaining much-needed promotion and information activities to communicate about the high health benefits and the low environmental impact of fresh fruit and vegetables. The role of fresh produce as “essential” and “public” goods needs to be properly voiced.
With these challenges in mind, Freshfel Europe is highly concerned about the disproportionate decreases in the promotion policy budget, especially for multi programme projects. The fresh produce sector has always shown a strong and growing interest in participating in multi programme projects across all EU Member States, as demonstrated by the 52 % increase in applications between 2023 and 2024. Philippe Binard added: “In a time of growing geopolitical instability, with economic uncertainty impacting consumers’ purchasing power and attitudes, and the need to promote the social and environmental benefits of fresh fruit and vegetables, it is crucial for the EU’s fresh produce sector to be well supported in a more cogent, cohesive, and coherent manner than has been proposed.”
With this latest move, the Commission is once again demonstrating a lack of consistency, coherence, and ambition to accompany the Green Deal strategy towards a plant diet. It is also significantly undermining its desired transition towards a more sustainable food chain. Within already limited financial resources, the budget is one of the only tools that can drive consumer attitudes towards a better diet, in alignment with the Farm to Fork strategy and Europe’s Beating Cancer Plan. Phillippe Binard commented: “This is a very short- term vision. This approach by the Commission ignores the indirect long-term huge financial burden on the healthcare systems due to unhealthy diets. The World Economic Forum estimates that EUR 2 is needed for each EUR 1 spent on food to remedy the cost of an inappropriate diet.” He concluded: “This budget redeployment is not only a very bad management choice in regard to the return on investment and efficiency of the promotion policy, but it will be financially very detrimental in the medium to long term for society.”
Freshfel Europe is calling on the Commission to review its position and not to undermine the effectiveness of a popular policy of its CAP. With the proliferation and acceleration of multiple crises impacting the agricultural sector, a strong promotion policy remains more relevant than ever for both the internal and international markets.
Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, BENEO and Puratos collaborate with Belgian farmers to launch joint Climate Farming Project
Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, a beet sugar producer, BENEO, a leading manufacturer of functional ingredients, and Puratos, a global leader in bakery, patisserie, and chocolate ingredients, have joined forces to launch a pioneering Climate Farming Project. The ambitious initiative supports Belgian farmers in implementing more sustainable farming practices and promotes regenerative agricultural principles that contribute to enhancing soil health and reducing environmental impact.
Addressing climate change and ensuring resilient farming practices is crucial to meet the demands of future generations. The project partners recognise that this requires collaboration between the agricultural sector and the food industry. Empowering farmers through training and stimulating the exchange of knowledge are key components of this joint commitment.
The project is already underway and will run until 2025, involving 15 pilot farms across Belgium. Together, they will cultivate sugar beet, wheat and chicory according to various regenerative farming methods in an area equivalent to the size of more than 1,100 football fields.
Throughout the project, farmers will work on specific farming measures. This includes strategies such as reducing mineral nitrogen fertilization and pesticide use through more organic means and enhancing biodiversity by planting flower strips and hedges next to the fields. Improving the biomass of cover and catch crops that are planted after the main crop harvest will also reduce soil erosion and enhance soil fertility and biodiversity in agroecosystems. In addition, it will aim to reduce the tillage and soil work to different degrees as a measure to combat erosion. These efforts are supported by the localised application of mineral fertilisers, the use of organic fertilisers, biopesticides and the early sowing of multi-species catch crops.
At the outset, the Climate Farming Project engaged in a comprehensive diagnostic phase using a farm assessment tool called Greencard. This initial evaluation was crucial in setting measurable objectives and selecting appropriate regenerative agriculture practices, which could then be implemented in subsequent phases. The results can be used to expand these practices to other farmers working with BENEO and Raffinerie Tirlemontoise.
Fabrice Flamend, a farmer from Eghezée, Belgium, and member of the Climate Farming Project, shares his perspective: “It is clear that the agricultural sector must move towards a more regenerative approach. While there are many ideas on how to achieve this, involving farmers and their expertise from the field in these discussions is vital. We need to uncover feasible techniques where factors such as soil condition, crops, equipment and profitability can be taken into account. This is why I am excited to be part of the Climate Farming Project. It provides a platform to exchange know-how and experience between farmers, and the companies that process our crops. Through the Climate Farming Project, we can work together on solutions that will future-proof agriculture.”
Through this partnership, Raffinerie Tirlemontoise, BENEO and Puratos underscore their shared commitment to sustainable farming practices and the pursuit of innovative solutions, all while respecting the needs of farmers and future generations.
The Prognosfruit Conference is Europe’s leading annual event for the apple and pear sector, gathering apple and pear experts from across Europe and beyond. Prognosfruit 2024 took place in Budapest, Hungary. During the conference, WAPA (World Apple and Pear Association) released its forecast for the upcoming season of 2024/2025. The forecast for apples is set at 10,2 million t, 11,3 % lower than last year. The pear crop shows a slight recovery from 2023, increasing by 4,9 % to 1,79 million t.
Prognosfruit, the leading annual event for the apple and pear sector, took place in Budapest, Hungary. Prognosfruit 2024 was organised by WAPA in cooperation with FruitVeB (Magyar Zöldség-Gyümölcs Szakmaközi Szervezet). The meeting was opened with an address by István Nagy, Hungarian Minister of Agriculture, currently holding the rotating EU Presidency. He presented the agenda and priorities of the European Council of Agriculture Ministers. This agenda includes the future direction of the agricultural policy in challenging times and the future of the CAP, to secure the competitiveness of the production, and to address the impact of climate change, the sustainability debate, food security, labour issues, and geopolitical uncertainties.
In 2024, the apple production in the EU for the top producing countries contributing to this report is estimated to decrease by 11,3 % compared to last year to a total of 10.207.405 t. This year’s crop is also 13,6 % below the average of the previous 3 years. Regarding the main varieties, Golden Delicious production is set to shrink by 10,2 % to a total of 1.972.514 t. Gala, the second-largest variety, is expected to decrease by 11,1 % (1.350.835 t). Red Delicious is estimated to grow in production (+2,8 %), while Idared’s should be 18,4 % lower than in 2023.
The EU pear crop for 2024, on the other hand, is estimated to grow by 4,9 % compared to last year’s production with a total of 1.790.229 t. This increase is due to the recovery in Italy’s production (+120,5 % compared to 2023) and despite a reduction in the Belgian and Dutch figures (-26,6 % and -8,7 % respectively). In 2024, the production of Conference pears is estimated to decrease by 13,5 %, to 776.128 t. William BC pear production, on the other hand, should grow by 33,8 %. Abate Fetel’s production is forecasted to recover to 124.832 t (+131,8 %)
The market balance will be influenced by a relative steadiness of volume destined for the fresh market due to stable production Western part of the EU in France, Italy, and Spain. On the other hand, the Central and Eastern regions of the European Union were heavily impacted by poor blossoming, late frost, and hail, leading to lower crops in Poland, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Austria. This will imply a lower supply for apple processing in the 2024/2025 season.
The outlook for the season is overall positive and should provide opportunities for better returns for the sector, which still faces the challenges of inflation and rising costs of the past months.
Elopak ASA has maintained its momentum from the first quarter of 2024 to deliver yet another strong quarter, with organic revenue growth of 3.8 % in the quarter and continued strong development in the company’s EBITDA margin. Elopak’s strong financial performance in the first half of 2024 reaffirms the company’s higher run rates.
Q2 2024 highlights:
Quarterly revenue of EUR 288.4 million (Q2 2023: EUR 278.1 million) with an organic revenue growth of 3.8 %
Pure-Pak® volumes grew in both Europe and Americas
Adjusted EBITDA of EUR 43.8 million with a margin of 15.2 % (Q2 2023: 14.9 %): Capital structure remains strong with leverage ratio of 1.9x – Record high dividend payment of EUR 34.4 million in May for FY2023 – Refinanced debt capital structure: triple-tranche inaugural green bonds successfully issued and new revolving credit facility signed
Commenting on Elopak’s performance, CEO Thomas Körmendi said: “I am happy to report yet another strong quarter with continued strong performance across all our markets. Our strong balance sheet and refinanced debt capital structure ensure that we remain in a solid position, enabling further investments in various growth initiatives going forward. We expect the strong financial performance to continue in the second half of the year in line with our reaffirmed run rates”.
Good value for money more important than low price – and organic is back
The complexity of world affairs has not lessened since March 2023. World crises have not gone away, rather the opposite. One positive development is that the inflation rate dropped in Europe1. This change is also reflected in the survey by Südzucker regarding consumers’ price sensitivity. If the price sensitivity is decreasing, other aspects of purchase criteria must gain importance in comparison. But what are the growing interests of consumers when buying food & beverages?
Main purchase criteria – naturlness, organic and regionality gain focus
The top three drivers for purchasing food & beverages did not change: taste, health and price. But while taste and price dropped significantly, health remained stable. Aspects like naturalness, organic and regionality, however, are continuing to grow in importance.
Taste as the number one purchase decision remained on a high level and far above from the second important driver – health. The drop may indicate that taste is more and more of a given for the consumer and a must-have. The fact that a good taste and sensory profile is a matter of course is also evident when it comes to sugar-reduced products.
Taste as the number one purchase decision remained on a high level and far above from the second important driver – health. The drop may indicate that taste is more and more of a given for the consumer and a must-have. The fact that a good taste and sensory profile is a matter of course is also evident when it comes to sugar-reduced products. 60 % (incl. Italy) are concerned about how sugar reduction in food/drinks is achieved. In comparison to price, taste went down in Belgium and the UK, while price fell significantly in all countries. One potential reason for consumers‘ decreasing price sensitivity could be explained by the decreasing inflation rate in Europe1; consumers no longer look for the cheapest product, but for the product with the best value for money that also fulfils other consumer needs. It must be clear to consumers what they are getting for their money …
Please download the full Südzucker Consumer Study 2024 for free under www.suedzucker.com.
1Source: Eurostat – Annual inflation down to 2.45 in the euro area (europa.eu)
Data released by the USDA in late July reinforced the scenario of limited world supply for the 2023/24 orange season (or 2024/25 in the Southern Hemisphere). Despite the slight increase in the production estimate compared to the crop before, the total volume may continue at historical low levels. Moreover, the decrease in Brazil, major global producer of both orange and juice, may not be counterbalanced by other suppliers.
The USDA indicates that the 2023/24 world crop is projected at 47.4 million tons, upping 1 % compared to the season before. In Brazil, the output may decrease 1.2 %, to 15.3 million tons – equivalent to 375 million 40.8-kg boxes. However, the decrease indicated by the USDA might be underestimated. In São Paulo and in Triângulo Mineiro, the production is likely to drop 24.4 %, according to Fundecitrus, and there are doubts whether a possible increase in other states would compensate the low volume produced in the citrus belt.
Orange juice
In spite of the slight rise in the global orange production, the orange juice output is projected at 1.5 million tons, 3 % down against the season before. The decrease is related to the lower availability of fruits to process in Brazil, which represents more than 70 % of the global OJ production.
The Brazilian output is calculated at 1.1 million tons, downing 9 %, and national exports are likely to decrease in the same intensity, since almost 100 % of the Brazilian production is sent to the international market.
Tahiti lime
The global production of lemons and limes in 2023/24 is estimated to move up 2 %, reaching 10.1 million tons, boosted by the higher output in the European Union and in Turkey.
It is worth noting that these numbers consider lemons (Sicilian, for instance) and limes (such as the tahiti lime). Among major producing countries, only Mexico produces significant volumes of tahiti lime (which is produced and exported by Brazil). Mexican shipments are likely to reduce 7.5 %, which can keep the focus of this country on supplying the US, opening more room for the Brazilian tahiti lime in the European market – Brazil has been hitting records in exports year after year.
Alesayi Beverage Corporation, a leading beverage manufacturer in Saudi Arabia since 1959 with 60 % market share in the energy drinks’ category, is partnering with SIG to expand its product and packaging portfolio. Using a state-of-the-art SIG SureFill 42 Aseptic BIB filling system, Alesayi will launch exciting new products in hotels, restaurants and cafes (HoReCa).
For Alesayi Beverages this is a completely new entry into the business with products in bag-in-box packaging, relying on the expertise of SIG who is the global leader in BIB packaging. SIG will initially supply Alesayi Beverages with its SIG SureFill 42 Aseptic filling line, as well as 10L SIG bags using the SIG 2Pure Film, a one-layer film specifically developed for water and ideal for BIB applications, retaining a high water quality for up to a year without affecting taste. The 10L bags come with SIG OptiTap 2300 fitment, a self-closing thumb toggle valve for simple, intuitive and consistent dispensing of water and other beverages, offering convenience to consumers.
Mohammed Ali Alesayi, Chief Board of Directors and CEO at Alesayi Beverage Corporation: “This is just the beginning of our long-term strategic partnership with SIG, as we continue our ambition to become the number one food and beverage co-packer in the MEA region. We’re committed to offering our customers SIG’s unique portfolio of sustainable packaging solutions, including aseptic carton, bag-in-box and spouted pouch, as well as accelerating our sustainability roadmap.”
The new BIB system will be located at Alesayi Beverages new state-of-the-art production facility in Jeddah, which covers more than 98,000 square meters built up area.
Abdelghany Eladib, President & General Manager India, Middle East and Africa at SIG: “By operating our bag-in-box packaging system, Alesayi Beverages will benefit from the system’s flexibility and high performance, enabling product diversification using a number of bag shapes, sizes and fitments. Alesayi will be able to cater to the different business needs of the HoReCa market, starting with water and then moving on to juices and condiment sauces. We look forward to developing our strong partnership and helping Alesayi to launch novel products in our highly convenient packaging solutions.”
Alesayi strives to be a leader in the beverage business and to offer its co-packing customers additional solutions such as juice dispensers as well as coffee and CSD post mixes.
Caliwater, a leader in plant-based hydration beverages founded by Vanessa Hudgens, officially launched peach mango flavour profile with GNC stores July 2024
Leading plant-based hydration beverage innovator Caliwater launches its newest and fifth flavour, Peach Mango, exclusively in partnership with GNC stores in the United States. Joining the flavour offerings of Prickly Pear, Ginger & Lime, Watermelon and Pineapple, GNC officially debuted Peach Mango along with Pineapple and Wild Prickly Pear on shelves across the United States as of July 10th. Caliwater is an all-natural functional cactus water with half the sugar and calories compared to coconut water, it not only tastes better but supports hydration, immunity, digestion, and skin health.
Caliwater has grown tremendously since coming to market in January, 2022. Caliwater is the ultimate hydration solution. Derived from the desert superfruit, Prickly-pear, it boasts abundant antioxidants and 5 naturally occurring electrolytes, with superior taste and is a sustainable beverage.
Caliwater is defined by a drive to create innovative, functional, plant-based hydration beverages that bring us closer to the planet and each other. Inspired by the lush and varied landscapes of California, Founders Oliver Trevena and Vanessa Hudgens looked to their own desert regions in the Sonoran Desert of Mexico to source prickly pear cactus fruit, known for its rare and potent healthful properties. Their vision – to sip on Cali in a can. Prickly Pear Cactus Fruit, known for its rare and potent healthful properties, is brought to life in their first, brand new, canned beverage product, which is not only delicious, but super hydrating, refreshing, and filled with antioxidants and digestion benefits.
Other investors behind Caliwater that join Vanessa Hudgens and Oliver Trevena include actors Gerard Butler, Glen Powell, Ross Butler, Gregg Sulkin, fitness personality Brooke Burke, UFC champion Claudia Gadelha, actress Nikki Reed, NFL star Aaron Rodgers, DJ Ruckus, and MLB player, Cody Bellinger.
The benefits of Prickly Pear fruit are endless. It is one of the few natural products in the world that can boast excellence in nutrition, taste, colour, and health benefits due to its rare combinations of phytonutrients. It is superior to other super-fruits, having been shown to benefit cardiovascular health by maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and promoting cell growth.
Prickly Pear contains five naturally occurring electrolytes, including potassium, magnesium, and sodium, aiding in rapid hydration, muscle control, and recovery. It also has high levels of antioxidants, broadly classified into four types: flavonoids, betalains, phenols, and vitamins C and E, which help quench free radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress, support skin health, and provide other anti-aging benefits. Additionally, Prickly Pear is an excellent source of dietary fiber, known to aid digestion and possess anti-inflammatory properties. It is one of the few non-animal sources of taurine, a key element for vegetarians and vegans, known to help regulate blood pressure.
Caliwater is available in over 10,000 locations in the United States, and online on Amazon, Walmart Marketplace and Thrive Market. Find Caliwater at: Wegmans, HEB, Ralphs, Pavilions, Fresh Thyme, Gelsons, Bristol Farms, Pete’s Market and more, plus their kids line, now available on Amazon and Walmart Marketplace!
About GNC GNC stores are focused on a wide range of products geared toward weight loss, bodybuilding, nutritional supplements, vitamins, natural remedies, and health and beauty products, in both its owned brands as well as third-party brands. Its products are also sold on GNC.com and on GNC’s Amazon Marketplace. The company offers consumer products and services via retail locations, franchises, online, digital commerce and wholesales and retail partnerships. Featuring over 325 brands, GNC offers an endless supply of health and wellness products.
Oranges
Global orange production for 2023/24 is estimated to rise 1 percent to 47.4 million tons as lower production in Brazil and the European Union is more than offset by larger crops in Egypt, the United States, and Turkey. Consumption and fruit for processing are both up with production while exports are flat.
U.S. production is estimated to rise 8 percent to 2.5 million tons on higher yields due to favorable weather. Consumption, imports, and exports are flat, while oranges for processing are up with the increase in supplies.
Brazil production is estimated down slightly to 15.3 million. Lower yields are expected, primarily due to poor weather conditions that contributed to drought, as well as some impacts from greening. Consumption and fruit for processing are estimated down with the reduced supplies …
GNT is working to develop new plant-based, sustainable EXBERRY® colour solutions for food and drink using unique fermentation technologies.
The company has been creating EXBERRY® colours from fruit, vegetables, and plants since its foundation in 1978. It is now expanding into fermentation for the first time to increase innovation and sustainability in its plant-based solutions.
Producing colours through fermentation allows for improved functionality as well as highly efficient and sustainable year-round production. Once the raw materials have been cultivated, they can be scaled up in larger bioreactors for industrial production. This phase involves maintaining optimal conditions to ensure high biomass yield and pigment concentration.
To deliver on its aims, GNT has chosen to collaborate with Plume Biotechnology, a UK-based start-up focused on innovation in fermentation science and bioprocessing for natural colours.
Frederik Hoeck, GNT Group’s Managing Director, said: “As pioneers in plant-based colors, innovation has always been crucial to GNT and we’re fully committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions for our customers. As a family business, we understand the importance of acting responsibly and ensuring we are truly sustainable. This partnership with Plume will help us add new, futureproof options to our plant-based EXBERRY® portfolio.”
Thomas Burns, CEO at Plume Biotechnology, said: “The rapid evolution of fermentation-based technologies is providing unprecedented opportunities within the realms of natural colours. Plume is passionate about translating these cutting-edge technological developments into healthy, exciting, and sustainable products for consumers. In GNT, we have found the perfect strategic partner with a shared commitment to delivering excellent products whilst keeping sustainability at the heart of everything we do.”
The collaboration is designed to help GNT expand the options in its plant-based EXBERRY® portfolio while meeting its sustainability ambitions. In 2022, GNT announced 17 targets to optimise its environmental and social impacts by the end of the decade.
Its Sustainability Report 2023 revealed significant progress on many of those goals, including a 22 % reduction in carbon intensity at the company’s factories since 2020 and a 13 % improvement in water efficiency.
Finn Rieken, Strategy Director at GNT Group, said: “We are committed to leading the food colouring industry on sustainability. As well as promoting responsible agriculture and cutting emissions at our factories, we’re constantly exploring new options for highly sustainable colours that can deliver exceptional performance. We believe fermentation-based colours have huge potential to tick both those boxes. We are confident that working with Plume will allow us to deliver exciting new plant-based, sustainable solutions for food and beverage manufacturers around the world.”
Explore how different food and beverage categories in Germany are developing
Germany, known for its love of hearty meals and indulgent treats, is experiencing a fascinating shift in its food and beverage landscape. While Germans remain a nation of food lovers, they are increasingly prioritising health and sustainability. Here, through our 360 research into the German food and beverage market, we explore how these values are influencing purchasing decisions across various categories, from beverages to snacks and meal preparation.
Beverages in the German Market
German consumers want to reduce their alcohol intake; however, alcoholic beverages are still at large within the country. When asked why they want to control how much alcohol they drink, the most common consumer response was “because it is unhealthy.” Some consumers are turning to non-alcoholic beverages as replacements. Beer is the dominant non-alcoholic beverage in Germany, but variety and novelty is helping drive other non-alcoholic beverage purchases. Indulgent is the top claim for non-alcoholic beverage drinkers, chosen as most important by 25 % of consumers. A further 16 % look for low/no/reduced sugar claims, so healthy indulgence should be a target of note for innovators.
In soft drinks, bottled water consumption is on the rise, with more than one in five Germans increasing their intake in the past year. Two in three named its healthy image as a driver of consumption. For other key soft drinks subcategories, such as carbonated beverages, energy drinks, iced coffee and iced tea, the combination of low/no/reduced-sugar claims with indulgence positionings are the most influential claims for consumers …
Revl Fruits™, the adult juice box* with flavours that bring you back to your childhood with just one sip, wants to encourage fans to “Grow Up Never” and take back all the joys of being a kid by saying goodbye to the boring constraints of adulthood. To further this inspiration, starting today, the brand is giving fans the chance to win the cushiest of cushy summer jobs – Global VP Of Water Park Inflatables.
Inspired by the fun-filled freedom and laid-back nature of a summer job that many of us remember, the Global VP of Water Park Inflatables will get to slam their laptop shut and embrace the last morsel of summer. In addition to bragging rights, the winner will receive USD 50,000**, a lifetime supply of Revl Fruits Juice*, and the opportunity to be in charge of, being in charge of nothing – except drinking 100 % juice and floating around in a pool of their choice.
“As we rolled out Revl Fruits earlier this year, we noticed one common sentiment from consumers – many haven’t enjoyed juice since they were kids because of sugar. With no added sugar, mouthwatering flavours, and a splash of coconut water, our fans told us they finally felt free to sip on juice, and the flavours brought them back to their childhood with just one sip. It got us thinking – what other ‘kid only’ things have we given up?” said Christina Zwicky, Head of Brand Marketing for Revl Fruits. “The motto of ‘Grow Up Never’ was inspired by these consumers and will continue to be our north star for our marketing efforts. I’m excited to showcase this first step with the introduction of our Global VP of Water Park Inflatables contest and offer our fans the opportunity to experience the joy of being a kid and celebrate the last moments of summer.”
Fans can hang on tight to the last bit of summer before reality sets in and apply to the “job” now through August 14 by recording a video explaining why they’re an adult that’s never grown up and why they won’t take this job seriously as a boring adult would. To enter, tag @RevlFruits on Instagram or Tik Tok with #GrowUpNeverContest and submit the video on growupnever.com.
Revl Fruits, 100 % juice, brings joy to juice again with no added sugar or unnecessary additives. These four mouthwatering flavours are the perfect poolside sips:
Boldly Cran™: Packed with cranberry juice’s bold, tangy essence, Boldly Cran juice spotlights the naturally rich flavour of cranberries.
Tart Cherry: Tart Cherry juice is a celebration of this vibrant fruit. Each sip delivers the distinctive tartness that cherry enthusiasts crave, earning it PEOPLE Magazine’s Best New Juice of 2024.
Berry Wild: A fusion of nature’s most vibrant superfruit juices – cranberry, pomegranate, and açaí – Berry Wild is crafted to perfection and straight-up yum.
Truly Tropical: Featuring an enchanting blend of pineapple and mango juices, Truly Tropical will take you on a vacation with each sip.
Depending on the flavour, Revl Fruits™ SRPs range between USD 4 and USD 8, and all flavours are currently available in the U.S. at Kroger, Target, Publix, and Amazon.
*Oh, you thought we meant alcohol? Nope. No alcohol included **NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open to legal residents of: The U.S. & D.C who are at least 18 or the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence, whichever is older. Contest runs 12:00 ET on 7/31/24 to 11:59 pm on 8/14/24. Void where prohibited. Limit one (1) entry per person. See Official Rules at www.growupnever.com. Prize Definition: USD 50,000″salary” is a one-time payment of USD 50,000.00 to the winner. In addition to a lifetime supply of Revl Fruits™ Juice which equates to one (1) carton of 32 oz Revl Fruits™ juice per week for the winner’s lifetime or until USD 11,000.00 in Revl Fruits™ juice products or equivalent 32 oz. juice products have been awarded to the winner, whichever occurs sooner, in the form of manufacturer coupons to be mailed to the Grand Prize winner’s address. SPONSOR: Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.
Refresco, the global independent beverage solutions provider for retailers and global, national, and emerging (GNE) brands in Europe, North America, and Australia, today announces it has successfully completed a EUR 400 million Term Loan B.
This transaction adds a new stand-alone EUR 400 million Term Loan B with an interest rate of EURIBOR plus 3.50%. Proceeds from the TLB will be used to repay its borrowings under its Revolving Credit Facility, repay EUR 100 million of its existing EUR Term Loan B (E+3.75%), and increase cash on balance sheet.
CFO Refresco, Bill McFarland, commented: “We are pleased with the strong market demand for our Term Loan B, and with the enhanced liquidity and financial flexibility this transaction provides. Refresco continues to deliver on our Buy & Build strategy – including our most recent announcement on our agreement to acquire Frias – while strengthening our balance sheet and improving our credit metrics. We appreciate the recognition and support of the markets.”
No other material changes were made to the terms and conditions of the TLB. The maturity date of the TLB remains July 2029, as per the existing facilities.
As part of the transaction, the Company has also increased its Revolving Credit Facility by EUR 125 million to EUR 625 million.
Sidel, a leading provider of equipment, services and complete line solutions for packaging liquids, foods, home, and personal care products, established a new office in Almaty, Kazakhstan. The strategic decision aims to bring Sidel’s expertise closer to its customers and best support their growth in the region.
Sidel has been serving the Central Asia and Caucasus (CCA) region for more than 10 years. The region is a significant market with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, and Armenia exhibiting growing GDP and disposable income levels.
Building upon the strong relationships Sidel has already developed with fast moving consumer goods producers in CCA, the company will continue to significantly invest in this region, providing its high standard solutions and services while supporting the local market needs.
The new office will give producers direct access to Sidel’s regional expertise, including local project management, advanced engineering solutions and on-the-ground support services that understand and respond to local market nuances.
Sidel is also committed to investing in the local labour market, leveraging local talent, and developing skills in all core operational functions, including sales, project management and services.
New study explores the impact of EU Sustainability Regulations and the implications of the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) for global commodity supply chains and consumer markets
EUDR aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions and help limit biodiversity loss by influencing global action on climate change targeting commodities linked to deforestation
EUDR will require companies trading in certain commodities who wish to trade with the EU to prove that their product and its value chain are deforestation-free
EUDR compliance premiums for companies operating in the supply chain for oil palm products and their derivatives and rubber could be in excess of USD 1.5 billion for these two commodities alone. This could lead to price increases as companies are likely to pass on the extra costs of EUDR compliance to consumers
Food, drink and personal care categories likely to be most affected by retail price hikes due to the EUDR include coffee, chocolate, soy-based meat alternatives and oil palm products and their derivatives including hundreds of personal care products such as shampoo
The EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which comes into force at the end of the year, is the latest round of EU sustainability regulation which attempts to influence global regulatory policy and value-chain practices as part of the bloc’s effort to achieve key aims of The European Green Deal such as no net emissions of greenhouse gases by 2050.
The EUDR is arguably one of the most far reaching and impactful pieces of EU sustainability regulation, targeting commodities linked to deforestation, which includes cattle, cocoa, coffee, oil palm, rubber, soya, and wood as well as some of their derived products, such as paper/paperboard, leather, shampoo, chocolate, tyres, and furniture.
EUDR Compliance
Under the EUDR companies that trade in these commodities and their derived products in the EU market or who export them from the EU will need to follow mandatory due diligence reporting of the goods and supply chains they wish to trade in and demonstrate that their products are not linked to deforestation, or to forest degradation through, for example, the expansion of agricultural land. The regulation will require companies and industries in countries that supply the EU to transition to a sustainable, deforestation-free supply chain and legal agricultural value chain if they wish to trade in the EU.
USD 1.5 billion potential cost to EU consumers
Agribusiness Consultants at GlobalData a leading data and analytics company estimate that EUDR compliance premiums for companies operating in the supply chain for just two of the targeted commodities, oil palm products and their derivatives (such as crude palm oil (CPO) and palm kernel oil (KPO)), and rubber could be in excess of *USD 1.5 billion alone. Whilst companies operating in these supply chains will be able to absorb some of the costs themselves a good proportion of these compliance premiums are likely to be passed onto EU consumers in the form of food and drinks and product price increases.
EU Sustainability Regulations study
GlobalData Food & Beverages Consultants’ new study: ‘EU Sustainability Regulations: How the EUDR and other Sustainability Regulations will impact consumer markets’, explores some of the EUs key sustainability regulations focusing on the aims of the EUDR and the compliance challenges ahead for farmers, companies, and manufacturers trading in the commodities targeted by the regulation.
The study also looks at what the EUDR could mean for the global supply chain of the target commodities, the potential impact on consumer markets and pricing within the EU and how the EUDR could affect the bloc’s future competitiveness with China.
With the EUDR coming into full force on 30th December 2024 for large companies (2025 for SME’s), the new study is also a timely reminder for large companies operating in the Food & Beverages, Foodservice, Retail and Packaging sectors to finalise their EUDR compliance strategy over the next six months to avoid being late in aligning their operations with the new EUDR rules.
It could be argued that the EU aims to use the ‘Brussels effect’ to direct global policy on sustainability. This is the idea that the global landscape responds to the EU ‘externalizing’ its laws because the bloc is such a significant global consumer market. According to **Eurostat, the EU has a population of over 448.7 million people, one of the biggest consumer markets in the world.
The European Investment Bank predicts that the EUs various climate actions could result in a potential hit to EU-wide GDP of – 0.4 % by 2030, taking into account all of the EUs sustainability initiatives, but says the costs of not acting would be greater.
Fred Diamond Senior Food & Beverages Consultant and Analyst at GlobalData comments: “The aims of the EUDR are understandable and cutting greenhouse gas emissions and protecting biodiversity is essential. However, there could be some disruption ahead. The extra demands of the EUDR could lead some commodity suppliers in what the EU terms ‘third countries’ to move away from the EU and increase trade with countries that impose fewer regulatory requirements such as China. Some food categories, such as plant-based meat, may have to reformulate and switch to other protein sources, such as pea protein if the result of the EUDR is an increase in the price of soya for food production.
“The gap between big and small companies could get wider as larger companies are more able to shoulder the additional regulatory burden. The exact impact on consumers will depend on a variety of factors, including how companies choose to respond to the regulation, the extent to which the regulation is enforced, and how much assistance EU member states are willing to give to supplier countries to help them align with the new rules. However, with recent news reports confirming that the world’s top climate scientists expect global heating to go well beyond the current 1.5C target, sustainability regulation associated with cutting greenhouse gas emissions, such as the EUDR which targets deforestation, remains an urgent priority for the planet.”
To read GlobalData Food & Beverages Consultant’s new study ‘EU Sustainability Regulations: How the EUDR and other Sustainability Regulations will impact consumer markets’ in full please download your free copy here
*The USD 1.5 billion EUDR compliance premium figure is based on GlobalData Agribusiness consultants understanding of current commodity pricing and the likely impact of increased costs of EUDR compliance on the supply chain of these commodities. However, the company recognises that EUDR compliant commodity premiums are still being agreed confidentially between buyers and sellers so some uncertainty remains over the final numbers. **Eurostat is the statistical office of the European Union.
CCL Label, a world leader in labels and packaging, announces the inauguration of a brand-new production facility for shrink sleeve labels in Tibi, Spain near Alicante.
“We are very excited to offer shrink sleeves produced in Spain for local brands and multinational brands operating in Spain. Investing into local production follows CCL’s strategy to stay close to the production sites and filling lines of major food and beverage as well as home and personal care brands and service them locally and efficiently”, explains Lukas Nachbaur, Commercial and Technical Director at the new facility. “Our first brand customers have placed and received orders and were happy with the quality and service.”
Modern printing technology for premium shrink sleeves
“The investment in this greenfield facility is a commitment to the growing Spanish consumer products market. There are many great brands that call Spain their home and the country has a proud tradition to produce outstanding high-quality food and drinks including beer, wine and spirits”, Reinhard Streit, VP and Managing Director Food&Beverage at CCL Label points out. “We installed state-of-the-art assets to service these premium brands in the best way possible – we see that we can offer our customers very special printing technology that is unique in Spain.”
The installed assets offer customers premium printing technology. The combination of offset and gravure printing offers customers the greatest flexibility when it comes to changing designs frequently.
Award-Winning floatable EcoFloat sleeve technology a focus
Although all shrink sleeve materials will be available, there will be a focus on the award-winning EcoFloat shrink sleeves made from polyolefin that are approved for PET, HDPE and PP bottles and containers and have been embraced by renowned brands.
Shrink sleeves are applied by heat and conform to a variety of container shapes, acting like a second skin. They are made from floatable low-density polyolefin material, which is at the forefront of sustainable shrink sleeve technology. The design of the sleeves allows for easy separation from the primary container during the recycling process, thus supporting material separation and enhancing recycling efficiency.
“Just as other European countries, Spain will have to deliver on the ambitious new packaging and packaging waste (PPWR) regulation. The regulation also includes mandatory Design for Recycling and our low density, floatable EcoFloat polyolefin sleeves have been endorsed by several recycling associations like RecyClass and the European PET Bottle Platform (EPBP),” says Marika Knorr, Head of Sustainability and Communication at CCL Label. “PET bottles that are combined with a EcoFloat sleeve are fully recyclable and this helps increase the yield of food-grade PET resins, that then can be fed back into new bottles – closing the loop. Mandatory recycled content targets are also an integral part of PPWR legislation.”
Sustainability a priority at production site
The sleeve production will be ultimately be co-located with the In-Mould Label production site (formerly Creaprint) that was acquired about a year ago. The IML Business is expected to move to the new site in Tibi in 2026.
“IML is a rapidly growing decoration technology. The label becomes an integral part of injection or blow moulded plastic containers without the need for adhesives, typically using the same resin material as the container for easy recycling”, comments José Vincente Guillem, general manager of the CCL Spain IML plant.
Refresco, the global independent beverage solutions provider for retailers and global, national, and emerging (GNE) brands in Europe, North America, and Australia, announced it has entered into an agreement to acquire Frías Nutrición (“Frías”) from Alantra Private Equity and the founding family. This transaction is subject to regulatory approval.
Frías is a leading manufacturer of plant-based drinks with a production facility located in Burgos, Spain and employs around 250 people. Frías produces private label plant-based drinks, including almond, rice, hazelnut, and soy drinks, for key Spanish retailers and beyond.
CEO Refresco, Hans Roelofs, commented: “As part of our proven Buy & Build strategy, we are looking to expand our capabilities in existing and adjacent beverage categories. The acquisition of Frías significantly strengthens our position in the fast-growing plant-based drinks category. It complements our existing footprint in Spain with a production facility solely dedicated to plant-based products.
“In addition, acquiring Frías enables us to further expand our service offering to retailers and branded customers and retailers across Europe, accelerates our product innovation capabilities in the plant-based drinks category, and underscores our ability to capture opportunities in the market.”
Bruno Delgado-Luque, Partner Alantra Private Equity, added: “Since we acquired Frías in 2019, the company has been on a remarkable growth trajectory, confirming its leadership position in the Iberian Peninsula, and expanding its international business. Together with the Frías family, we launched a major investment plan that resulted in the creation of one of the most modern and efficient plant-based drinks factories in Europe. We are confident that Frías has a bright future ahead and will continue its successful growth with the support of Refresco.”
About Refresco Refresco is the global independent beverage solutions provider for retailers and global, national and emerging brands with production in Europe, North America and Australia. Refresco offers an extensive range of product and packaging combinations from juices to carbonated soft drinks and mineral waters in carton, PET, Aseptic PET, cans and glass. Refresco continuously searches for new and alternative ways to improve the quality of its products and packaging combinations in line with consumer and customer demand, environmental responsibilities and market demand. Refresco is headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands and has more than 14,500 employees.
About Alantra Private Equity Alantra Private Equity is a pioneer in the Iberian private equity market with more than 30 years of experience and investments of c. €2.0bn. It has a unique and proven track record in the food and beverage, healthcare, and industrial technology sectors throughout different economic cycles. Since 1990, Alantra Private Equity has led investments in more than 120 assets (60 platforms and 65 add-ons) and has completed more than 50 exits.
BENEO, a leading manufacturer of functional ingredients for food, feed and pharma, is pleased to announce the appointment of Olivier Roques as CEO and new member of its Executive Board of Directors at BENEO GmbH, effective from 1st June 2024.
With an engineering degree in agronomics and a Master’s degree in Business Administration, Olivier brings more than three decades of experience within the international ingredients industry to this new role. He started his career in the dairy and flavour industries, followed by more than twenty years in leadership roles in the USA and Europe at Agrana Fruit, a world leading manufacturer of fruit preparations. This included positions in sales, food safety and quality and new product development. Prior to his new role at BENEO, Olivier was positioned as CEO of Agrana Fruit Europe.
In addition to being BENEO’s new CEO, Olivier will also be responsible for overseeing all sales and marketing as BENEO’s new Chief Sales Officer, succeeding Dominic Speleers. His appointment comes at a pivotal time as BENEO’s product portfolio of plant-based functional ingredients continues to grow in diversity.
After weeks of dry weather, rains were registered in many citrus areas in São Paulo state in mid-July. Although the volume of rainfall was not homogeneous among regions (rains were registered especially in the south and in the southwest of São Paulo state), it brought a certain relief for citrus growers, who were concerned with the dry weather that had already been affecting the trees.
The rainfall was more significant in the southwest of SP state; thus, flowers may start blossoming. In areas where rains were less abundant (or they were not registered), more humidity is necessary for the flowers to blossom.
As for the tahiti lime, the recent rainfall is not likely to increase the supply in this moment, but it may favor the harvest and the quality in the coming weeks.
Juice exports decrease in the 2023/24 season
Brazilian shipments of orange juice dropped in the 2023/24 season (from July 2023 to June 2024), after increasing in the previous crop. Brazil exported 1 million tons, downing 8.1 % compared to the season before (data from Comex Stat). The revenue totaled USD 2.7 billion, for an increase of 25 % in the same comparison. The export decrease is mainly related to the low volume of juice in stocks in Brazil.
Processing activities
The orange processing continues to move at a fast pace in São Paulo state. Some players from the industry surveyed by Cepea say that the crushing is more advanced this season, and that the processing activities of early varieties are likely to reduce this month. Last year, the processing finished only in the second fortnight of September; however, in 2024/25, activities are expected to end in July or in August.
A recent study reveals that natural sugars found in fruit juice appear to support physical recovery after exercise
Cloudy apple juice was found to recover the intestinal barrier function more quickly than other drinks – this helps to support recovery
The body’s stress makers reduced more quickly in recovery after drinking fruit juice when compared with other beverages
The study, led by Dr Patrick Diel, shines a light on the potential health benefits of fruit juice for fitness enthusiasts
Drinking fruit juice could help the body recover more quickly after intense physical activity such as long-distance running, according to a new study.
The peer-reviewed study, published in international journal, Nutrients, found that while added sugars can have a negative impact on the intestinal barrier after exercise, the naturally occurring sugars and polyphenols (plant compounds) found in fruit juice seem to support a more balanced recovery.
While it’s common to reach for a sugary sports drink during or after exercise, scientists have known for some time that added sugars can cause problems with the intestinal barrier – a critical part of our immune defence. A leaky intestinal barrier can lead to harmful bacteria crossing from the gut into the blood which stimulates inflammation. This, then, increases the risk of overtraining syndrome and metabolic conditions such as endotoxemia – where the body has a toxic reaction to bacteria.
The study, led by Dr Patrick Diel, was set up to find out whether fruit juices caused the same inflammatory effect as sugar-sweetened drinks.
The researchers looked at the gut health of runners before and after an ultramarathon. They compared the impact of drinking diluted cloudy apple juice with a test drink which mimicked a typical sugary sports drink. This contained identical amounts of sugar but not the polyphenols and other fruit complexes naturally found in juice.
The researchers found that, while both exercise and sugars can disrupt the intestinal barrier, the natural compounds found in fruit juice eased these effects*. Runners who drank the cloudy apple juice after the race recovered their intestinal barrier function more quickly than those who drank the sugar-sweetened test drink*.
Another part of the study on amateur runners found that drinking diluted cloudy apple juice after running influenced a protein called CD14 suggesting that the juice supported the body’s immune system. Furthermore, the study showed that runners who drank fruit juice reduced their stress markers more quickly compared with those who drank the sugar-sweetened test drink.
Dr Patrick Diel from German Sport University in Cologne, said: “The research comes at a timely moment for anyone inspired to get more active in the run up to the Olympic games, and these findings offer a fresh perspective how to best replenish our bodies. Simply diluting cloudy apple juice and drinking it after playing sports or exercising seems to be an easy and healthy option which supports both gut health and immune function”.
Award-winning dietitian, Dr Carrie Ruxton said: “To properly recover after exercise, our bodies need healthy carbohydrates. In light of these findings, I would encourage athletes, fitness enthusiasts and causal gym-goers to add a serving of around 150ml of cloudy apple juice to their sports bottle and top up with tap water for a low cost and effective sports drink. Not only will this mixture keep us hydrated, it also provides energy-giving natural sugars and polyphenols to promote optimal recovery.”
As with any dietary change, it is important to drink juice in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. However, these studies suggest that when it comes to supporting the body after an Olympic-inspired workout, cloudy apple juice is the perfect health hack.
*Valder, S. et al. Effect of Sugar- and Polyphenol-Rich, Diluted Cloudy Apple Juice on the Intestinal Barrier after Moderate Endurance Exercise and in Ultra-Marathon Runners. Nutrients 2024, 16, 1353. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16091353
Botrista, the company behind data-driven, automated beverage platform, has successfully closed Series C funding round, bringing its total capital raised to USD 120 million since inception. This substantial investment underscores Botrista’s growing market presence and indicates a significant shift in the restaurant industry’s approach to cold beverage menus, reflecting the increasing global demand for quality and innovative flavour profiles.
Since its establishment in 2017, Botrista has rapidly developed into a recognised industry player, working with partners in 37 states. The company’s advanced platform enables restaurants to effortlessly serve an extensive range of high-margin, on-trend cold beverages – from boba drinks and refreshers to smoothies, shakes, cold brew coffees, lemonades, cocktails, and energy drinks – all from a single, efficient machine.
This innovative solution has attracted the attention of major players in the food service industry and secured significant investment from global leaders, including the Series C round’s lead investor. Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC). JFC, a global restaurant company with 18 brands in 33 countries, the second fastest-growing restaurant brand in the world.
Sean Hsu, CEO of Botrista and ex-Tesla automation engineer, expressed his passion for the partnership with JFC: “JFC’s support validates the vision for a more exciting beverage menu,” Hsu said. “This new funding will fuel our hyper-expansion into new markets and help more of our partners elevate their drink menu without increasing labor or complexity.”
JFC, a key player in the food service industry with 18 recognisable brands such as Smashburger, Jollibee and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, believes strongly in Botrista’s potential to transform the restaurant landscape. “Botrista is a game changer for the beverage industry”, Dr. Tony Tan Caktiong, JFC Chairman said. “We’re investing in a company that enables food service operators to deliver a world-class customer experience and provides substantial runway for sustained profitable growth.”
Jason Valentine, Chief Strategy Officer for Botrista, highlighted the company’s market reach: “We currently serve partners across 37 states, including national restaurant chains, independent restaurants, college campuses, movie theaters, theme parks, and other alternative venues,” Valentine said. “The timing of this fundraising perfectly aligns with the high demand from new partners and significant interest from growing restaurant brands on a global scale.”
For restaurant executives looking to stay ahead of beverage trends and boost profits, Botrista’s solution offers a compelling opportunity. With its innovative technology and strong financial backing, Botrista is well-positioned to continue shaping the cold beverage landscape in food service, offering a clear vision of the future of drink service.
As Botrista strengthens its confident market position, the company remains focused on driving innovation, enhancing operational efficiency, and delivering value to its partners across the food service industry.
A groundbreaking stevia composition for cost-effective, premium sweetening
Tate & Lyle PLC, a world leader in ingredient solutions for healthier food and beverages, unveils its new stevia composition, OPTIMIZER STEVIA® 8.10. This innovative ingredient delivers the highly desired premium taste profile closest to sugar, even at high sugar replacement levels, while offering a more cost-effective solution than other premium sweeteners.
This stevia composition offers a comprehensive set of benefits for both manufacturers and consumers. With OPTIMIZER STEVIA® 8.10, manufacturers gain access to a versatile, great tasting stevia at a lower cost-in-use, offering an improved value compared to other premium stevia sweeteners. This translates to delicious, low-calorie options that meet consumer demand without compromising on taste. The unique composition qualifies for labelling as “stevia extract”, (following JECFA* guidance) aligning with consumer preference for a sweetener derived from nature.1**
With versatility across applications, OPTIMIZER STEVIA® 8.10 is ideal for achieving a superior taste profile in high sugar-replacement formulations like nutrition bars and shakes, functional beverages, vitamin gummies, and yoghurt.
Abigail Storms, Senior Vice President Global Platform, Sweeteners & Fibers, Tate & Lyle said: “OPTIMIZER STEVIA® 8.10 is a breakthrough for the industry. We’ve leveraged our technical expertise to create a sweetener that not only meets the highest standards of taste and quality but also delivers cost savings to our customers. OPTIMIZER STEVIA® 8.10 opens a world of possibilities for food and beverage manufacturers because they no longer have to compromise on taste because of cost. Whether you’re looking to improve taste, reduce costs, or enhance the nutritional profile of your products, OPTIMIZER STEVIA® 8.10 delivers on all fronts.”
This development underscores Tate & Lyle’s unwavering commitment to scientific innovation. Through proprietary production processes, the company has unlocked the potential of previously underutilised steviol glycosides, naturally occurring components within the stevia leaf. This innovative process developed by Tate & Lyle’s scientists and engineers enables greater use of the stevia leaf extract, promoting more efficient manufacturing processes.
1Tate & Lyle Proprietary Research, 2024 Global Consumer Ingredient Perception Research – US; Base size n=302 *Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives **The applicability of label claims and the regulatory and intellectual property status of Tate & Lyle ingredients varies by jurisdiction
The 2023-2024 Florida all orange forecast released by the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board is 18.0 million boxes. The total is comprised of 6.76 million boxes of non-Valencia oranges (early, mid-season, and Navel varieties), unchanged from the June forecast, and 11.2 million boxes of Valencia oranges, up 100,000 boxes from the June forecast. The forecast of all Florida grapefruit production remains at 1.79 million boxes. Of the total grapefruit forecast, 240,000 boxes are white, and 1.55 million boxes are the red varieties. The Florida all tangerine and tangelo forecast is unchanged at 450,000 boxes …
Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov
Stephan Büttner (Photo: AGRANA)
In the first quarter of the 2024/25 financial year (the three months ended 31 May 2024), AGRANA, the fruit, starch and sugar company, generated operating profit (EBIT) of € 32.3 million, a significant reduction of 49.1 % from the first quarter of the prior year. Revenue eased slightly, by 2.3 %, to € 944.3 million. “After the robust results of the full year 2023/24, as expected we had a weaker start to the 2024/25 financial year. The significant decline in profit resulted from the highly challenging market environment in the Sugar and Starch segments, where sales prices fell. Business in the Fruit segment was better, leading to a significant increase in Fruit EBIT,” says AGRANA Chief Executive Officer Stephan Büttner.
Results in each business segment for the first quarter of 2024/25
FRUIT segment
The Fruit segment’s revenue in the first quarter was € 415.6 million, up 3.6% from the same period one year earlier. The increase occurred both in the fruit preparations and fruit juice concentrate businesses and resulted from volume growth.
EBIT of the segment as a whole grew to € 27.0 million in the first three months of the financial year (Q1 prior year: € 24.4 million). In the fruit preparations activities, EBIT was significantly above the year-ago level. The improvement was attributable partly to a positive business performance in the Europe region (including Ukraine) and in Mexico.
STARCH segment
Revenue in the Starch segment in the first quarter was € 265.5 million, a reduction of 16.3% from the year-earlier comparative period (Q1 prior year: € 317.1 million), when the war in Ukraine had led to powerful increases in market prices. Owing to the decline in raw material and energy prices, market prices for the segment’s products decreased noticeably year-on- year, which impacted the selling prices obtained for the entire Starch portfolio. Ethanol sales prices, for instance, fell by about 25 % amid a substantial drop in Platts quotations.
At € 9.4 million, EBIT in the Starch segment was down very significantly year-on-year. A key reason for this was the margin decline in starch and saccharification products driven by significantly lower sales prices for core and by-products.
SUGAR segment
Sugar segment revenue was € 263.2 million, up 6.2 % from the first quarter of the previous year. The negative effect of lower sugar sales prices was more than made up for by higher sales volumes. The trajectory of the sugar market was most recently driven by the sugar imports from Ukraine and the expectation of increased EU sugar production in the 2024/25 campaign.
The Sugar EBIT result in the financial first quarter was a deficit of € 4.1 million, a pronounced deterioration from the year-earlier period. This reflected especially the significant fall in sugar selling prices, which was steepest in the regions heavily affected by the imports of Ukrainian sugar.
Outlook
For the full 2024/25 financial year, AGRANA expects a significant reduction in operating profit (EBIT) compared to the previous year. Group revenue is projected to show a moderate decrease.
Total investment across the three business segments in the 2024/25 financial year, at approximately € 120 million, is to be moderately below the 2023/24 value and in line with budgeted depreciation. About 12 % of this capital expenditure will be for emission reduction measures in the Group’s own production operations under the AGRANA climate strategy.
You need to load content from reCAPTCHA to submit the form. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Turnstile. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
