SIG announced that it will construct a new plant in Queretaro, Mexico to serve North American markets. The plant will further expand SIG’s global production network and will enable the company to build on its strong track record of growth in North America.
Through its existing sales and service presence, SIG has been able to forge strong relationships with major dairies in Mexico, a large and growing milk market. In the USA, SIG has a well established co-manufacturing customer base and is ideally placed to serve innovative and expanding new categories.
SIG will invest around €40 million in the new plant over the period 2021-2023. The investment will cover state-of-the art production capacity for the printing, cutting and finishing of carton packs. The plant is expected to open in the first quarter of 2023 and will create around 200 jobs. It will have a highly flexible layout with a focus on ergonomics and the environment. Land and buildings will be financed through a long-term lease with an NPV of approximately €20 million.
Eckes-Granini and Refresco today announced that they have established the JuicyChain Foundation. This is a nonprofit organization with the purpose of making the global juice supply chain more sustainable. The foundation will manage and further develop the “JuicyChain”, which is an open source blockchain-based traceability and transparency platform. IDH Sustainable Trade Initiative is acting as an Advisor to the Board of the JuicyChain Foundation.
This new platform, based on The New Fork’s open food chain platform, was designed to create added value for all parties involved in the juice supply chain: from growers to processors, bottlers, brand owners, retailers and consumers. JuicyChain supports a move towards a significant increase in availability of sustainable juice in the marketplace. All companies in the juice industry can join JuicyChain and share information about sustainable juice easily and efficiently. Consumers and other stakeholders will be able to examine provenance and sustainability data by scanning a unique QR code on a finished juice product.
The New Fork has developed the platform blueprint and are the JuicyChain Foundation’s IT Provider. This blockchain based platform brings transparency to the efforts to increase the sustainability of juice in the industry.
“The blockchain technology brings us new and exciting possibilities to drive positive change. With the JuicyChain, we are continuing to work on increasing digitalization and sustainability of our business processes.” explains Holger Schlenger, CIO at Eckes-Granini.
JuicyChain aims to accelerate the uptake of sustainable juice volumes by providing supply chain transparency and trust. It enables customer and consumer-facing communication on sustainable juice with minimum entry barriers. JuicyChain members will need to be aligned with the sustainable sourcing definitions under the Sustainable Juice Covenant, hosted by IDH, The Sustainable Trade Initiative.
More companies are invited
We invite all parties in the juice supply chain to join JuicyChain so that we can further develop the platform together. Join us and be a frontrunner driving traceability, transparency and sustainability in global juice supply chains. As Coert Michielsen, CPO at Refresco says: “By teaming up with others we can move faster towards a common goal of more sustainable juice supply chains and promote the uptake of sustainable juice across the supply chain.”
Orange production for the 2020-2021 crop season totaled 268.63 million boxes1
The final 2020-2021 orange crop for the São Paulo and West-Southwest Minas Gerais citrus belt, published on April 12, 2021 by Fundecitrus – performed in cooperation with Markestrat, FEA-RP/USP and FCAV/Unesp2 – was 268.63 million boxes of 40.8 kg each (90 lb), which represents a decrease of 6.65 % in relation to the first crop forecast published in May 2020, accounting for a reduction of 19.13 million boxes. This crop had a decrease of 118.16 million boxes in comparison to the previous season, which is equivalent to a volume 30.55 % smaller than that of the 2019-2020 cycle, confirming a record crop loss for all the years in which the crop suffered the physiological effects of the negative biennial production cycle of orange trees since the beginning of the historical series in 1988. Total orange production included:
47.00 million boxes of the Hamlin, Westin and Rubi early-season varieties;
13.85 million boxes of the Valencia Americana, Seleta and Pineapple early-season varieties;
81.45 million boxes of the Pera Rio mid-season variety;
91.95 million boxes of the Valencia and Valencia Folha Murcha late-season varieties;
34.38 million boxes of the Natal late-season variety.
Approximately 19.33 million boxes were produced in West Minas Gerais.
One of the reasons that explains this substantial crop loss is the fact that orange trees started flowering in the spring of 2019, when reserves were lower because they had been used in the previous crop season when there was a significant yield increase. Decreased reserves led to a significant reduction in the number of fruits per tree in this season, a phenomenon known as alternate bearing. The other reason is the strong negative influence of the climate throughout the season. …
1Hamlin, Westin, Rubi, Valencia Americana, Seleta, Pineapple, Pera Rio, Valencia, Valencia Folha Murcha and Natal. 2Department of math and science, FCAV/Unesp Jaboticabal Campus.
Arla Foods Ingredients is highlighting the potential of its Lacprodan® ISO.Clear to bring the benefits of protein to juice drinks.
Consumers are increasingly seeking beverages that combine health benefits with great taste and refreshment. At the same time, many are turning away from standard juice drinks because of their perceived high sugar content.
This is helping drive demand for fortified and functional beverages, the global market for which is forecast to grow to USD 125 billion by 2025, at a CAGR of 5.1 %.1 High-protein and source of protein claims are also growing in the category, with an 8.6 % increase between 2015 and 2020.2
Lacprodan® ISO.Clear is a whey protein isolate developed for the fortification of functional beverages without cloudiness, graininess or off-taste. Lacprodan® ISO.Clear has a protein content of 90 %, offers high heat stability and is clear in solution making it suitable for pasteurized or UHT processed juice drinks.
To showcase its potential, Arla Foods Ingredients has launched a new protein-enriched juice drink concept. It shows how manufacturers can use Lacprodan® ISO.Clear to deliver the well known benefits of whey protein isolate in a refreshing, great-tasting juice drink format with no added sugar. It also demonstrates how juice drinks fortified with Lacprodan® ISO.Clear can be positioned for a variety of markets, for example as:
A new breakfast standard for health-conscious consumers
A nourishing, on-the-go vitalizer for kids
An enjoyable post-workout recovery drink
A nutritious drink for older consumers, or patients who need extra protein
Mathias Toft Vangsoe, Sales Development Manager, Health and Performance, at Arla Foods Ingredients, said: “Many consumers are starting to move away from standard juice drinks, but they still want health benefits alongside natural ingredients, great taste and refreshment. This is creating new demand for innovative functional beverages, and protein-enriched juice drinks represent a particularly exciting opportunity in the sector. Products with Lacprodan® ISO.Clear taste just like juice drinks should, but with the benefit of high-quality, natural whey protein isolate. They’re also very easy to add to existing recipes, making them the ideal way to add new appeal to traditional juice drink ranges.”
Lacprodan® ISO.Clear works well with a broad range of juice types, in particular clear juice drinks, and can be combined with other health-promoting ingredients such as vitamins, minerals and probiotics.
The 2020-2021 Florida all orange forecast released by the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board is down 3.80 million boxes to 51.7 million boxes. If realized, this will be 23 percent less than last season’s revised final production. The forecast consists of 22.7 million boxes of non-Valencia oranges (early, mid-season, and Navel varieties) and 29.0 million boxes of Valencia oranges. A 9-year regression has been used for comparison purposes. All references to “average”, “minimum”, and “maximum” refer to the previous 10 seasons, excluding the 2017-2018 season, which was affected by Hurricane Irma. Average fruit per tree includes both regular and first late bloom. …
Please download the full citrus crop production forecast: www.nass.usda.gov
Beloved baby food brand to join growing portfolio of better-for-you whole fruit snacks
Sun-Maid Growers of California announced it will acquire Plum Organics, a leading premium, organic baby food and kids snacks brand, from Campbell Soup Company. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Plum offers a diverse portfolio of organic foods and snacks to meet the nutritional needs of babies, tots and kids. All of Plum’s products are certified organic and non-GMO.
“We’re excited to welcome Plum Organics’ nutritious line of baby, toddler and kids’ food products to our imaginative world of delicious, whole fruit snacks. Our purpose is to help mom find better-for-you food options that taste great and kids will love. Adding Plum to our innovative product lineup delivers even more choices for her and her family,” said Harry Overly, CEO and president of Sun-Maid Growers of California. “Plum is a natural fit for the Sun-Maid family given our expertise, leadership and rapid growth in healthy snacking, along with our strong emotional connection with family households. Its acquisition is an integral part of our continued dedication to providing superior products while delivering category growth. We’re committed to carrying on Plum’s mission of serving babies the very best food from the first bite.”
Chris Foley, Campbell’s President of Meals & Beverages, said, “The sale of the Plum Organics baby food brand is part of our ongoing strategic process to create even greater focus on driving growth in the division’s core categories of soup, sauces and beverages.”
Plum Organics was founded in 2007 by a group of parents on a mission to give the very best food to their little ones. Campbell acquired Plum in 2013.
The anticipated closing date for this transaction is Spring 2021.
Tetra Pak announced it is ready to deploy its portfolio of tethered cap solutions. The portfolio brings numerous benefits to food and beverage manufacturers and consumers, as the company builds on its vision of the most sustainable food package. These benefits include minimising litter, as the cap will stay attached to the package. The carbon footprint can also be reduced because the company’s tethered caps are planned to become available as a plant-based option, therefore increasing the renewable content of the package.
U-paper straw on Tetra Pak carton package (Photo: Tetra Pak)
In tandem, the company is accelerating the expansion of its paper straws offering to ensure further renewable and low carbon materials across the range of packaging solutions. The aim of this is to address a broad range of customer sustainability needs without compromising on food safety, while still delivering on the end-user drinking experience.
Lars Holmquist, Executive Vice President Packaging Solutions and Commercial Operations, Tetra Pak, says: “These are key milestones in our journey towards the world’s most sustainable food package: a carton that is fully made from renewable or recycled materials, is fully recyclable and carbon-neutral. We consistently strive to deliver products and services that adds value to food and people while protecting the planet. Our promise, ‘PROTECTS WHAT’S GOOD™,’ allied with this strong purpose means we are providing customers with innovative products that also meet the rapidly changing demands of society.”
Tetra Pak’s tethered caps and paper straws developments mark the latest additions to its range of responsible end-to-end solutions, allowing manufacturers to achieve their ambitions in three essential areas – food safety, food waste and the environment – simultaneously.
Lars Holmquist (Photo: Tetra Pak)
Holmquist continues: “Approximately 32 % of all plastic packaging is not collected and plastic can take hundreds of years to degrade[1]. We focus on recycling by design, committing to invest approximately € 100 million per year over the next 5 – 10 years to develop more sustainable packaging solutions. This includes alternatives to replace fossil-based plastics and avoid littering, as well as maximising the use of renewable, responsibly sourced materials in our packages. Addressing people’s needs for recycling is a critical component for not only becoming more sustainable but making food more available and safer for all consumers.”
These steps are also central to ensuring that Tetra Pak’s customers in Europe will be ready to comply with the Single Use Plastics (SUP) Directive, an integral part of the wider approach announced in the Plastics Strategy and an important element of the EU Circular Economy Action Plan[2].
With this in mind, Tetra Pak has accelerated innovation in the caps domain. Holmquist adds: “The significant challenge of deploying tethered caps is the scale of the change that this brings across the value chain. If we look at Europe alone, more than 1,000 packaging lines supplied by us will be potentially transformed, translating into over 20 billion packages which are expected to be converted. All of that in three years, while minimising impact on our customers’ operations, optimising the consumer experience and contributing to both minimising litter and creating a carton package with increased plant-based and recycled content.”
Tetra Pak is progressing on this complex journey by working seamlessly across various project streams. Overall, this covers approximately 40 different packages with tethered caps. Those caps are all planned to become available as a plant-based option. The first one to be released on the market is the HeliCap™ 26 Pro closure. This product features a new screw and flip concept with a self-locking hinge, securing food protection while providing convenience for in-home consumption. Its opening and closing mechanism has proven popular with consumers, demonstrating that the solution is delivering further benefits in addition to meeting legislative requirements[3].
Holmquist concludes: “We won’t stop here. We are continuously innovating our sustainable openings offering. We envision a world where carton packages never become waste and where every carton is collected and recycled.”
[1]Source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation, https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/ [2]Main objective of Directive 2019/904 is the prevention and reduction of marine litter from single-use plastic items. The implementation of this directive into EU member states’ national legislation will lead to a ban of selected products from the market, whenever affordable alternatives are available, among other measures. While bans on plastic straws will come into force by July 2021, EU-based beverage producers, retailers and manufacturers, as well as importers, are obliged to implement tethered caps and lids – designed to remain attached to containers – by July 2024. [3]Source: consumer research conducted in Spain, Italy and Poland in November 2019, with 300 consumers through face to face interviews, focussed on HeliCap™ 26 Pro opening on Tetra Prisma® Aseptic 1000 Square package.
The supply of early citrus fruits was increasing in São Paulo State (SP) in late March, while the demand from juice processors was lower, and businesses were facing a new period of restrictive measures to fight covid-19 in Brazil.
Although estimates do not point to an extremely high availability in April, supply should still be higher than that in March, since more early oranges should reach the ideal maturation stage to be harvested this month. As for demand, besides the new restrictive measures, logistic issues were constraining purchases from wholesalers and retailers in Brazil.
Among the major changes in food services during the covid-19 pandemic are the halt in school meals, which highly demands in natura oranges, and the closure of bars and restaurants, where the demand for juice is high. Thus, in March, fruits were mostly sold to supermarkets.
PRICES – Although orange prices were still high in March, underpinned by lower supply, they decreased late in the month. The average price for pear oranges in March was 38.71 BRL per 40.8-kilo box, on tree, 2.7 % down compared to that in February. For hamlin oranges (early variety), the average closed at 29.48 BRL/box, on tree, practically stable in the same comparison.
According to Cepea collaborators, some farmers anticipated the harvesting of pear oranges, aiming to take advantage of the current price levels – these agents are aware of the forecasts for higher supply of early oranges in the market from April onwards and, thus, fear quotes may drop in the coming weeks.
In the Brazilian market of tahiti lime, which is also largely sold to bars and restaurants, the decrease in the demand and the slightly higher supply pressed down quotes in March. Besides, the pace for exports and crushing slowed down.
The average price for tahiti lime closed at 20.60 BRL per 27-kilo box, harvested, 32.8 % down from that in February. However, despite this devaluation, prices are currently higher than that last year, due to lower production this season.
Organic cold brew sparkling teas crafted in partnership with James Beard Foundation
Enroot launched its much-anticipated line of small-batch, slowly cold brewed, organic sparkling teas. The new beverages, consisting of five unique blends, pay homage to co-founder Cristina Patwa’s grandmother and her legacy as a farmer and food entrepreneur in the Philippines. Birthed in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, Enroot beverages are sustainably sourced and flavourfully combine organic teas, fruits and herbals to create a smooth, delicious tasting experience.
As the NEXTY award winner in Best New Organic Beverage, the sparkling wellness brews are thoughtfully crafted with chefs involved in the James Beard Foundation’s Impact programs. The botanically packed blends use only organic teas, herbs, fruits and spices, and a 20-hour cold brew method that honors the rituals of brewing to deliver perfectly extracted flavours and wellness attributes. At only 25 calories per bottle – with no added sugar, sweetener or “flavours” – the lineup also offers a variety of clean caffeine options, from caffeine-free to ~ ½ espresso.
The Enroot collection of sparkling teas will be available at drinkenroot.com and at select grocers beginning in Southern California, USA. Flavour profiles launching are:
Relax: Strawberry Lavender Rosemary Tulsi
Reenergize: Mango Turmeric Ginger Guyausa
Revitalize: Raspberry Mint White Peony Tea
Rejuvenate: Peach Hibiscus Jasmine Green Tea
Revive: Apple Lemon Cayenne Yerba Mate
“This has been a three-year labour of love from leaf to bottle with a caring community of award-winning, pioneering chefs and skillful engineers, who developed our distinct brewing and batching method,” said Enroot CEO Cristina Patwa. “The results are delightful, and we are grateful to be on this journey with friends who share similar values.”
The female-led small business was founded by three friends, Cristina Patwa, John Fogelman and Brad Pitt, based on their shared passion for Food, Family and Farms, and a desire to help make a change in the food industry. As a public benefit corporation and pending certified B Corp, Enroot is a Sustaining Partner and proudly gives back to the James Beard Foundation’s Women’s Leadership Programs, which strives to address the lack of diversity and parity in the food and beverage industry.
“As admirers of the Foundation’s advocacy work, we collectively wanted to create a brand that is rooted in good flavour and intent – particularly by having a strong connection to our health, the earth and each other now more than ever,” said Pitt.
“We are proud of our partnership with Enroot, and our shared values of advancing women and creating a world that is more delicious, diverse and sustainable,” said Clare Reichenbach, CEO of the James Beard Foundation. “We remain committed to providing women with the tools they need to create the life they want and build back stronger than ever before.”
Based and brewed in California, Enroot is the first start-up in food and beverage to create a comprehensive responsible sourcing policy with SCS Global Services, the trusted leader in third-party sustainability and food quality certification. Using plastic-free packaging, the company partners with its suppliers to carefully source quality organic ingredients and help reduce its carbon footprint.
About the James Beard Foundation The James Beard Foundation promotes Good Food For Good™. For more than 30 years, the James Beard Foundation has highlighted the centrality of food culture in our daily lives. Through the variety of industry programs that educate and empower leaders in our community, the Foundation has asserted the power of food to drive behavior, culture, and policy change. The organization is committed to giving chefs a voice and the tools they need to make the world more sustainable, equitable, and delicious for everyone. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, the James Beard Foundation launched the Open for Good campaign to ensure that independent restaurants not only survive, but that the industry is able to rebuild stronger than before.
First Southern Hemisphere Fruit Trade Congress highlighted the key priorities of the Southern Hemisphere Association of Fresh Fruit Exporters (SHAFFE) in its strategy for 2021 – 2023 and served as a platform for announcing a new cooperation agreement with the Chinese fruit importing industry. The first ever online event also highlighted the key challenges and opportunities for the region and defined that building on individual key strengths is the way forward for 2021 and beyond.
The Southern Hemisphere Fruit Trade Congress organized by the Southern Hemisphere Association of Fresh Fruit Exporters, with the defining theme “Keeping the World supplied” has taken place virtually on the 25th of March 2021. With 615 registered participants from all-over the world and two run-ups for convenient dial-in from different time zones, the first annual Congress has reached an exceptional outreach.
Starting with a keynote speech by FAO Deputy Director General Ms Beth Bechdol, highlighting the importance of the support of the fresh fruit industry to the United Nations campaign “International Year of Fruit and Vegetables 2021, at the heart of the conference program have been the outlook review provided by current SHAFFE president Charif Christian Carvajal from the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association (ASOEX). Mr. Carvajal highlighted the key areas of activity of SHAFFE, including strengthening the organizations resource availability, stimulating formation of fresh produce industry professionals’, modernizing information systems, and collaborating with like – minded trade organizations and international public entities to create common grounds of dialogue and exchange. The outlook was accompanied by an extensive outlook panel discussion moderated by SHAFFE Secretary General Nelli Hajdu together with 8 thought leaders from the various Southern Hemisphere countries.
The SHAFFE congress was also the scene for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the China Chamber of Commerce of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CCCFNA). The Chinese market has become an important outlet for Southern Hemisphere Traders. The market has been growing 90 % over the past five years to 2.5 billion USD market.
The Southern Hemisphere looks back on a very good season 2020 despite Covid-19 constraints challenging producing and trading operations. With a decrease of 8 % in volume but a continued increase of value of 5 % in 2020 (9.8 million T, 14.6 billion USD), Southern Hemisphere traders have secured continuous fruit supply in 2020. The outlook was followed with a panel discussion with thought leaders from the 8 Southern Hemisphere SHAFFE member countries, highlighting the state of play of their respective industries, capitalizing their key individual strengths from investment into organic to emphasis on varietal diversification and/or to branding the desire of consumers for food safety.
The congress additionally showcased contributions from SHAFFE partner organisations including the the China Chamber of Commerce of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CCCFNA), Freshfel, the European Fresh Produce Association, British Summer Fruits,the US Produce Marketing Association , Canadian Produce Marketing Association and the International Federation for Produce Standards), hence wrapping up a complexity of tasks and challenges for the interconnected global fruit sector.
California-based company aims to revolutionize how consumers experience food and beverage products with natural modifier that enhances flavour, amplifies taste characteristics and improves “Kokumi” mouthfeel effect.
The U.S. subsidiary of one of the world’s top flavour & fragrance development companies is on a mission to unlock the flavour and taste potential in a broad range of food and beverage products across North America.
T. Hasegawa USA introduced its new natural flavour modifier Boostract™ to the North American market. This innovative new technology aims to revolutionize the way consumers experience food and beverages by adding or enhancing the effect of kokumi (which translates to “rich taste” in Japanese). Kokumi increases the richness of taste while maintaining balance between different flavours for a more satisfying experience in foods and beverages.
Developed over a two-year period as an exclusive technology by T. Hasegawa, Boostract solves a recurring challenge that many of the world’s top food and beverage brands face: delivering a consistent taste experience to consumers. The goal is ensuring the sensations of flavour, taste and characteristics are true to the original product recipe, which often presents a major problem during production.
“The moment a food is harvested or produced, it typically begins declining in taste, so an extra flavour boost is required to better define a delicate flavour note,” explained T. Hasegawa’s VP of research & development, Jim Yang. “Often the nuances of flavour complexity are lost during large scale production, so Boostract enables us to deliver a better flavour and taste experience for our customers and ensure consistency in their products.”
In addition to enhancing the kokumi effect and improving flavour, Boostract is an effective masking agent, eliminating unwanted flavour notes in confectionary products and ‘functional gummies’ while boosting the desired flavors in protein bars, ice cream and more.
Boostract also reinforces T. Hasegawa’s leadership in the sports nutrition and coffee/tea categories because the product can both mask bitter flavours and amplify the mouthfeel inherent in these beverage products. The Boostract flavour modifier can also boost the sweet characteristics of fruit notes, such as making citrus taste fresher, or highlighting the distinct flavour notes of an exotic tropical fruit in beverages.
Boostract is developed through three different mechanisms utilized by T. Hasegawa, including extraction, enzyme and thermal reaction technology. These mechanisms are used alone, or in various combinations, depending on the food or beverage product application. The end result is a clean-labelled natural product that is not yeast-based like other flavour modifiers and can even be organic certifiable in the future.
T. Hasegawa’s Boostract flavour modifier is currently available in dairy and non-dairy versions (in both liquid and powder form), with a tomato-based variation adding to the lineup soon. Additional Boostract varieties are currently in development, including Vanilla, Chocolate, Coffee and Tea.
Electrolit – the preferred, premium hydration beverage made from pharmaceutical quality grade ingredients – announced the launch of the Zero line in response to growing consumer demand for lower calorie, lower sugar functional beverages. Electrolit Zero will fill store shelves across the U.S. this month in three flavours: Berry Blast, Lemon Breeze and Fruit Punch Splash.
“Over the past year, consumers have increasingly looked at their health as a long-term investment, and they are calling for lower sugar, lower calorie options to achieve their hydration goals,” said Caridad Ochoa, Commercial Director with Electrolit. “We all know that hydration is critical to function at our best, and with our Zero line, we can reach a new set of health-minded consumers seeking premium hydration.”
Electrolit Zero will be available in three new flavours: Berry Blast, Lemon Breeze and Fruit Punch Splash. Manufactured with a slightly modified formula, Electrolit Zero will maintain the integrity and scientifically backed ingredients of the current line, with ingredients like magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium glucose, and sodium lactate for fast, effective hydration.
Consumers will recognize Electrolit’s iconic square bottle and logo on the Zero bottles, with an added Zero label.
Electrolit continues to grow their national footprint and will extend their Zero line to select current retailers, including 7-11, HEB, AMPM, among others. Electrolit can also be purchased at Walmart, Kroger, and more, and through online channels.
About Electrolit Electrolit manufactures a scientifically formulated premium hydration beverage that replenishes the body after physical activity, intense heat, hangovers, or sickness. Formulated with magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium glucose, and sodium lactate plus six ions for electrolyte absorption, Electrolit aids in recovery of the hydro electrolytic imbalance, fulfilling metabolic and hydration needs. Available in nine delicious flavors, Electrolit is currently offered in national, grocery, convenience and online channels across the U.S., including Walmart, Kroger, HEB, 7-11 and more. Electrolit is manufactured and owned by Pisa Pharmaceuticals, the largest pharmaceutical company in Mexico and Latin America.
Royal DSM, a global science-based company in Nutrition, Health and Sustainable Living, announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire the flavour and fragrance (F&F) bio-based intermediates business of Amyris, Inc., which extends DSM’s offerings in Aroma Ingredients with bio-based ingredients for the flavour and fragrance and cosmetics industries.
DSM will acquire the business currently consisting of seven intermediate products (four already generating meaningful sales and EBITDA, two just launched and one under development) which will be added to DSM’s existing Personal Care & Aroma Ingredients activities.
DSM will acquire the business for an upfront consideration of US$ 150 million, which represents an estimated 15x EV/EBITDA 2021 multiple. Amyris will share in the EBITDA growth over the period 2021-2024 of certain of the activities (mainly the products just launched/ under development), receiving additional earn-outs equal to 9x the realized EBITDA in 2024, which is estimated to result in a total earn-out amount of US$ 100-150 million. DSM and Amyris will continue their R&D partnerships.
In recent years DSM acquired Amyris’ Farnesene business and technology for nutritional and F&F ingredients, as well as its Brotas (Brazil) biotechnology manufacturing facilities. DSM has been producing several F&F products for Amyris in this facility. Acquiring now the entire F&F business from Amyris is synergetic for DSM as it:
Further strengthens DSM’s globally-leading biotechnology base with F&F intermediate products and increases the scale of DSM’s biotechnology activities in nutritional ingredients;
Broadens DSM’s existing offerings in Aroma Ingredients with additional biotechnology-based products for DSM’s – already existing – F&F customer base;
Strengthens DSM’s sustainability profile further, as bio-based F&F ingredients offer additional alternatives to chemistry-based products as well as botanically-sourced ingredients.
The fruit, starch and sugar group AGRANA is extending its presence in Asia and acquiring the fruit preparations business of the local food producer Taiyo Kagaku Co. Ltd. AGRANA Fruit Japan Ltd. will be starting with the production of fruit preparations on 1 April and therefore now includes a fourth Asian country in addition to China, India and South Korea. As the global leader in fruit preparations, AGRANA now maintains 26 production sites in 20 countries.
The fruit preparations plant in question is located in Yokkaichi, in southern Japan, around 100 km east of Osaka. From there it will supply customers in Japan’s bakery products sector as well as dairies and ice cream producers. Japan has a constantly growing market for fruit preparations with a volume of around 60,000 metric tons and forecast annual growth of 2-3 % a year.
“The acquisition of this Japanese fruit preparations plant from TAIYO is an important step as part of our expansion in Asia. The growing Japanese market for fruit preparations is characterised by high quality demands and innovations. This ties in perfectly with our high quality standards and the innovative direction as the global market leader in the fruit segment, where we satisfy the needs of our customers with a wide portfolio – ranging from standard fruit preparations for yoghurts and ice creams to premium-segment fruit solutions such as sauces, condiments, fillings and smoothie bases,” explains the CEO of AGRANA Beteiligungs-AG, Johann Marihart.
Fruit preperations at AGRANA AGRANA’s fruit preparations contain top quality fruit which is either puréed or diced and used in dairy products or in the ice cream and bakery products industries. These products are individually designed by AGRANA on the basis of close development-related collaborations with customers. In addition to fruit preparations, AGRANA also offers innovative preparations with “brown flavours” such as caramel, coffee or vanilla as well as so-called inclusions (e.g. chocolate balls). In addition to the food processing industry, AGRANA also supplies its fruit preparations to fast-food companies and food service providers.
The next edition of Interpoma, the only international trade show dedicated to the apple sector, will take place in 2022, from November 17th -19th.
After a thorough evaluation and a series of discussions with exhibiting companies, Fiera Bolzano has decided to return to the usual trade show calendar, which sees Interpoma as a biennial event scheduled in even-numbered years, alternating with Agrialp, the agricultural trade show of the Alpine arc, in odd-numbered years. After the 2020 edition had to be held exclusively as a digital event, it was initially planned to repeat Interpoma in physical presence in 2021. However, considering the exclusive format of Interpoma which, in addition to the trade show, includes a program of customized tours at the regional level and the involvement of the entire city of Bolzano, transformed for the occasion into the apple capital, the Board of Directors of Fiera Bolzano has decided to reschedule Interpoma in 2022, from November 17th to 19th.
“The uncertainty regarding international travel for next fall has led us to the decision, after a thorough evaluation, to postpone the Interpoma trade show to 2022. Interpoma thrives on an international atmosphere with trade visitors from all over the world. We are confident that in 2022 we will be able again to offer a format that fulfils the expectations of our exhibitors, visitors and partners”, says Thomas Mur, Managing Director of Fiera Bolzano.
Indeed, Interpoma makes internationality its main strength. At the last edition in attendance, in 2018, visitors came from 70 different countries.
The next appointment with Interpoma at Fiera Bolzano is therefore from November 17th – 19th, 2022.
SIG joins AIM-Progress to collaborate for positive impact through responsible sourcing
SIG announced it is the first in the beverage carton industry to become a member of AIM-Progress, a global forum of leading fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) manufacturers and common suppliers, assembled to enable and promote responsible sourcing practices and sustainable supply chains.
Collaborating for positive impact
Responsible sourcing has been a key pillar of SIG’s net positive ambition to go Way Beyond Good for society and the environment since the outset. This commitment is closely aligned with AIM-Progress’ focus on collaborating for positive impact through responsible sourcing, making membership a natural fit.
The goal of AIM-Progress is to positively impact people’s lives and ensure respect for human rights, while delivering value to its members and their supply chains. A priority is to build members’ and suppliers’ capability to adopt and implement the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights.
As the first beverage carton provider to join the organisation, SIG has an excellent opportunity to build strong partnerships with other members. The aim is to work together to co-create solutions and share best practices that can positively impact people’s lives and ensure human rights are respected through the supply chain.
Helping customers meet demand for responsible sourcing
FMCG brands are seeing increasing demand from consumers, investors and other stakeholders to demonstrate that they meet high ethical, environmental, labour and human rights standards – not only in their own operations, but throughout their products’ supply chain.
SIG’s solutions enable customers to clearly demonstrate that their packaging comes from responsible sources. The company has led the industry in the development and adoption of certifications for responsible sourcing for over a decade.
SIG is the only aseptic carton provider to offer packs with all three main materials certified as responsibly sourced – FSCTM-certified liquid packaging board, ASI-certified aluminium foil and ISCC PLUS-certified polymers. All three of these certifications include stringent requirements on human rights as well as other social and environmental criteria. SIG has also made a strong commitment to human rights in its business and supply chain as a signatory to the United Nations Global Compact.
About AIM-Progress AIM-Progress is a forum of leading Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) manufacturers and common suppliers, assembled to enable and promote responsible sourcing practices and sustainable supply chains. It is a global initiative supported and sponsored by AIM – the European Brands Association.
Doctor’s Biome, a probiotic health and wellness shot composed of 15 strains of extensively researched, science-backed probiotics is now available in Canada
Doctor’s Biome, a leader in clinically validated juice-based probiotics, founded by a group of doctors and scientists now offers shipping to Canada. “We are extremely excited to be able to expand into Canada and offer this unique, one of a kind probiotic,” says Dr. Howard Robins, the Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer. “Hundreds of my patients in my ozone-therapy practice have seen a significant change in their gut health. Helping people achieve their health and wellness goals has always been a driving force behind Doctor’s Biome.”
Unlike other probiotic brands in capsule or tablet form on the market, Doctor’s Biome guarantees active, living probiotics in an organic vegetable-fruit juice. Since Doctor’s Biome is in a fully hydrated liquid form, it allows for faster absorption and maximum benefit.
In order for probiotics to be most effective, they should be living at the time of manufacture and also upon entering your digestive system. Doctor’s Biome provides active, living strains of probiotics with each daily dose that remain alive upon entering your digestive tract and then continue to flourish in your gut microbiome.
Doctor’s Biome only uses strains that have been extensively researched. The 15 strains of probiotics or “healthy bacteria” compete against a spectrum of harmful bacteria and yeasts for nutrients and space, which helps to rebalance the gut and support healthy digestion.
About Doctor’s Biome Doctor’s Biome is a synbiotic, which is a combination of prebiotics (the food that feeds the good bacteria in your gut) and probiotics (good bacteria in your gut that normalizes and rebalances your gut microbiome) that work together in the gut.
Prebiotics: fiber in the organic vegetable-fruit juice feeds the probiotics, which in turn help them propagate so that they can outnumber the bad bacteria in your gut and create a healthy GI tract.
Probiotics: 15 scientifically-backed strains of probiotics targeted to help normalize digestion and rebalance the amount of good bacteria in your gut microbiome.
To date, AGRANA had been expecting an overall annual EBIT in 2020/21 of at least € 87.1 million. Following a provisional review of the figures, the Group is now expected to achieve provisional earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) in its 2020/21 financial year in an amount of € 78.7 million (prior year: € 87.1 million). Group revenue will amount to around € 2,550 million (2019/20: € 2,480.7 million).
Besides the anticipated, significantly weaker, operating performance in the fourth quarter 2020|21, extraordinary items in the fruit preparations business are the main reason why EBIT in 2020|21 is below the level of the prior year.
The 2020/21 annual report will be published as planned on 11 May 2021.
Since March 01, 2021, Uwe Keiter has been actively supporting A+F Automation + Fördertechnik GmbH, Kirchlengern, as new Vice President Sales and Business Development. He succeeds Uwe Hüsener who retires at the end of 2021. “With the help of such an internationally experienced sales expert we will be able to decisively intensify connections with our current and future customers. This will enable us to offer even better end-of-line packaging solutions for the dairy, food and beverage industries in all relevant market segments“, comments Thomas Lehmann, CEO of EOL Packaging Experts GmbH and managing director of A+F.
Uwe Keiter studied electrical engineering, specialising in automation, at Niederrhein University of Applied Sciences. He successfully completed his studies with an engineering degree. After leaving university Uwe Keiter worked as a project engineer. He then changed to national and international sales of automation technology for the food industry. Uwe Keiter then went on to hold responsible positions in international key account management in the pharmaceutical, food beverage and care product segments.
His last position before joining A+F was in the development and sales of Industry 4.0 digitalisation solutions. Besides his activities in sales, Uwe Keiter has been doing voluntary work for over ten years for the non-profit organisation OMAC which addresses issues concerning standards for production companies, especially in the packaging industry. Uwe Keiter has been chairman of the OMAC Packaging Workgroup for many years.
About A+F Automation + Fördertechnik GmbH: A+F was founded in 1974 and, as a leading supplier of end-of-line packaging machinery, enjoys an excellent reputation worldwide for its expertise in the development of high-quality packaging solutions. A+F offers integrated solutions for the dairy, food and beverage, as well as the cosmetics industries. The company develops digital solutions for the evaluation of machine and ambient data, the results of which are used to increase production output.
About EOL Packaging Experts GmbH: EOL Packaging Experts (EOL) was founded in 2017. It is an international group of companies headquartered in Germany and offers end-of-line packaging machines and systems. Under the umbrella of the parent company EOL a strong international industrial group has been established. This group comprises the companies A+F Automation + Fördertechnik GmbH, Kirchlengern, as leading supplier of integrated and innovative system solutions for secondary and tertiary packaging, Standard- Knapp, Inc., Portland, Connecticut, as leading manufacturer of end-of-line packaging machines on the American market and BMS Maschinenfabrik GmbH, Pfatter, as leading system provider for innovative sorting systems, state-of-the-art dry part solutions and flexible repacking solutions.
Messe Berlin is cancelling its FRUIT LOGISTICA SPECIAL EDITION 2021 on 18-20 May 2021 because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic in Europe and the rest of the world.
“I’m quite sure today’s cancellation is no surprise to anyone,” says Madlen Miserius, Senior Product Manager. “The coronavirus pandemic is lasting longer than expected. We wanted to make an onsite event happen in May. But the prospects both for international business travel to Berlin and for large face-to-face gatherings are too low. And under these circumstances it’s simply impossible for us to meet face-to-face.”
Messe Berlin had worked hard to prepare a special edition of FRUIT LOGISTICA to take place over three days in May. The FRUIT LOGISTICA SPECIAL EDITION was designed to withstand key uncertainties of the pandemic and to safeguard customers in terms of their health and of their investment in the show. And the concept resonated with business: more than 600 companies from Europe and the rest of the world had registered.
“We developed FRUIT LOGISTICA SPECIAL EDITION as we knew through discussions with the industry that the market’s desire for a physical event was very strong. That’s why we developed a concept to offer our exhibitors the greatest flexibility at the smallest possible risk,” says Madlen Miserius, Senior Product Manager.
“Unfortunately, the pandemic still has the upper hand, and this is what has lead to today’s cancellation,” says Miserius. “There is a huge global family of people in the fresh fruit and vegetable business and it comes together every year at FRUIT LOGISTICA. We are already in discussions with international market players and are hard at work to prepare ourselves for FRUIT LOGISTICA 2022. We will do everything to ensure our 30th edition is a vibrant onsite event. So make a date in your diary for FRUIT LOGISTICA in Berlin on 9-11 February 2022.”
The Brazilian exports of Frozen Concentrate Orange Juice (FCOJ) equivalent are currently 17 % lower than that in the previous season, according to Secex. Between July 2020 and February 2021 (2020/21 season), shipments totaled 670.7 thousand tons. Revenue from these exports totaled 985.19 million USD, 27 % down from that in the same period last season.
Among the major purchasers of the Brazilian juice, the European Union was the one that most reduced purchases. From July/20 to Feb/21, shipments to the EU totaled 419.7 thousand tons, 22 % down from that in the previous season. Revenue totaled 626.44 million USD, 32 % down in the same comparison.
Exports to the United States have been more stable, totaling 135.83 thousand tons, very similar to that from the previous season. Revenue totaled 201.62 million USD, 8 % down in the period.
AutoCoding’s software solution automates and integrates in-line packaging systems, such as labelers, scanners, coders and checkweighers
JBT Corporation, a global technology solutions provider to high-value segments of the food and beverage industry, has announced the acquisition of AutoCoding Systems Ltd, a leading provider of software solutions for the automated set-up and control of end-of-line packaging devices. AutoCoding extends JBT’s capabilities in packaging line equipment and associated devices, including coding and label inspection and verification. The company is headquartered near Runcorn, UK, with additional operations in the US and Australia, and generates approximately $7 million in annual revenue.
AutoCoding’s central command software solution integrates and automates the use of in-line packaging devices, such as coders, scanners, labelers, and checkweighers, reducing manual inspection and downtime for line configuration. While AutoCoding is scalable across JBT FoodTech’s diverse end markets, it provides a particularly strategic fit with JBT’s Proseal business where its tray sealing equipment begins the end-of-line process.
“AutoCoding’s offering embodies JBT’s broader mission to make better use of the world’s precious resources by providing a solution that substantially enhances our customers’ success. AutoCoding helps its customers reduce food waste, ensure complete and accurate food packaging information, and facilitate traceability and food safety,” said Brian Deck, JBT’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “The acquisition also expands our capabilities in the large and growing global market for in-line coding and inspection solutions, which includes hardware and software for food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical customers.”
JBT is a leading global technology solutions provider to the food & beverage industry with focus on proteins, liquid foods and automated system solutions. JBT designs, produces and services sophisticated products and systems for multi-national and regional customers through its FoodTech segment. JBT employs approximately 6,200 people worldwide and operates sales, service, manufacturing and sourcing operations in over 25 countries.
PepsiCo is shaking up the cocktail mixer category with the launch of Neon Zebra, a new line of non-alcoholic cocktail mixers with a vibrant personality that offers a shortcut to great-tasting-cocktails in seconds. A modern alternative to complicated cocktail recipes or large format cocktail mixers, each 7.5oz mini-can of Neon Zebra mixed with your spirit of choice, makes two tasty cocktails without the fuss. Made with real juice and no artificial sweeteners, Neon Zebra mixers don’t compromise on taste. These non-alcoholic cocktail mixers come in four flavours: Margarita Mix, Strawberry Daiquiri Mix, Mojito Mix and Whiskey Sour Mix.
As a leader in beverage innovation, PepsiCo is entering the growing cocktail mixers category at a time when today’s homebound consumers are looking for easy-to-make cocktails. In fact, the cocktail mixers category (including total mixers, ginger beer, club soda, and tonics) saw 28 % growth in 2020 and is worth more than $858MM.1 Cocktail culture is taking hold at home, and people are looking for innovations that fit their lifestyle.
“With at-home cocktail consumption on the rise, we saw an opportunity to build and disrupt this fast-growing category with a product that meets consumers’ needs for convenience – to cut out time and mess without compromising on quality and taste,” said Emily Silver, VP of Innovation & Capabilities, PepsiCo Beverages North America. “Neon Zebra adds a new level of personality in the cocktail mixer category with its bold flavours and colours and easy-to-use, recyclable mini-can format. We’re thrilled with this new venture and all of the opportunities to come in the mixology category.”
With Neon Zebra, making classic cocktails is wildly easy, whether you’re an amateur mixologist or just a fan of great cocktails. Simply add 1 can of Neon Zebra + 3 oz. of liquor = 2 #WildlyEasy cocktails. Serve them over ice, top with your favorite garnish (or don’t!) and cheers to cocktail-making made easy.
Neon Zebra cocktail mixers come in four wildly popular flavours:
Margarita Mix: Paired with your favourite tequila, it’s tangy and bold with a flavourful citrus kick of lime.
Strawberry Daiquiri Mix: Sweet & fruity strawberry flavour with a hint of lime. The perfect balance with your favourite rum.
Mojito Mix: Tasty lime and the light sweetness of real sugar makes a refreshing mojito, mixed with your rum of choice.
Whiskey Sour Mix: Sour, but not too tart, for a balanced citrus flavour your whiskey will appreciate.
Neon Zebra launches in sustainable, recyclable packaging via aluminum cans and paperboard 6-packs. Neon Zebra started to roll out in the US across retail and online stores in March for an MSRP of $6.99-$7.99 for six 7.5FL oz cans.
1MULOC, 52 weeks, 2020; includes Total Mixers, Ginger Beer, Club Soda and Tonics
SHAFFE – The Southern Hemisphere Association of Fresh Fruit Exporters will launch its very first Annual Southern Hemisphere Fresh Fruit Trade congress at the 25th of March 2021. With the defining theme “Keeping the world supplied”, this first edition will be dedicated to give exclusive insights and market intelligence on the current production & trading situation for key temperate fruit crop under pandemic conditions with contributions from all eight Southern Hemisphere suppliers: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, New Zealand, Peru, Uruguay and South Africa. Southern Hemisphere exporters contribute with 11 million T of exported temperate fruit with a market value of $ 14 billion USD to nearly ¼ of global fruit supply and play a significant role to the availability of healthy food choices.
The 1st virtual Southern Hemisphere Fresh Fruit Trade congress will be taking place at the 25th of March 2021, providing for the first time in the associations history exclusive market insights from all eight big Southern Hemisphere exporting nations with regard to crop trends, production and trade outlook for the year ahead. “We want to contribute towards more predictability and market know-how during these difficult times – and allow our trading partners in the Northern Hemisphere countries better planning for the year ahead”, says passing SHAFFE president Anton Kruger, Fresh Produce Exporters’ Forum (FPEF), South Africa. He adds “We receive many requests to share our market intelligence with a broader public – something we normally had done individually during one of the many annual trade shows throughout the year. This year we are teaming up, to show our common value and how we ensure supply security in our countries!”
“In order, to allow as many of our trading partners in the Northern Hemisphere to participate to the congress, we have decided to run two passages in one day, one at 11.00 am, to target our Asian trading partners and one run-up at 5.00 pm, to allow Northern American and European partners to join. With its globalized trading network, SHAFFE operates in an incredibly unique and international environment – a challenge we are happy to take for the congress!”, says SHAFFE Secretary General Nelli Hajdu. The program will encompass outlook reflections from all SHAFFE member associations (Fedecitrus, Argentinan Blueberry Committee, CAFI, Citrus Australia, Abrafrutas, Chilean Fruit Exporter Association (ASOEX), New Zealand Apple and Pears, ProCitrus, Upefruy, Fruit SA), detailed analysis of global temperate fruit trade developments and insights on changing consumer patterns for fruit consumption and purchase in key markets such as the U.S., China, Germany, U.K. and Russia. The secretariat is working with high speed towards the launch of the program. The registration-link is already open and participation will be free.
More and more reuse and recycling schemes for beverage packaging are seen as efficient tools for reducing the environmental impact of packaging systems and for increasing their resource efficiency.
In this scenario, AROL REVERSE is becoming a must for all those bottlers looking for an effective response to unscrew pre-threaded plastic caps and threaded aluminium caps from glass and ref-pet bottles.
Reverse main features:
Safe unscrewing of caps with a diameter from 28 to 38 mm
Speeds up to 60,000 cph (1,000 cpm)
3 to 30 heads
No cap – no decapping feature to prevent bottle neck damage
Quick format change
Special handling parts in stainless steel for ref-pet bottles to prevent scratches to bottles and give longer life to components
Decapping heads completely in stainless steel
Available with stainless steel cap discharge piping and container
Flexible design to be adapted to the local condition of any plant
Advanced inspection systems for height variance at the infeed and cap detection at the discharge.
About AROL AROL was founded in 1978 and steadily grew as a global provider of capping solutions. It designs 100 % of its capping and caps sorting machines and it produces inside + 95 % of their parts. 700+ equipment delivered every year and 24.500+ installed all over the word in a vast variety of industries, from 1.000 to 90.000 BPH, make of AROL the largest specialist of customized solutions to any capping need. The AROL technical support is available for the whole life cycle of the machine and counts on a highly skilled team of specialists operating from each of its 10 worldwide offices. AROL is part of AROL Group, together with UNIMAC-GHERRI, specialist in filling and capping of glass, metal and plastic containers with twist-off and pre-threaded caps for dense, semi dense and pasty products; TIRELLI, focused on packaging equipment for the cosmetics industry and MACA Engineering S.r.l, specialist in designing and manufacturing machines for the production, assembly and cut of aluminium and plastic caps and closures. The solutions proposed by AROL GROUP can serve therefore the beverage, beer, food, wine, spirits, personal care, chemical, household care and cosmetics industries.
Registration for components opens simultaneously
Interested companies from the packaging industry and the associated processing industry can register for interpack 2023 online at www.interpack.com right now. The trade fair will take place from 04 to 10 May 2023 at the Düsseldorf Trade Fair Centre.
interpack is a platform for complete value chains. This includes processes and machines for packaging and processing packaged goods, along with packaging materials, packaging containers and packaging manufacture, complete with services for the packaging industry.
Exhibitors that gained approval for interpack 2021, which was cancelled due to the pandemic, can rebook.
The supplier trade fair, components, will take place in parallel with interpack again. You can also register for this now, at www.packaging-components.com.
Symrise AG reliably continued its profitable growth course in 2020 despite the challenging environment. The Group increased its sales by 3.3 % to € 3,520 million taking into account portfolio and currency translation effects. In organic terms, sales went up by 2.7 %. The Group thus significantly outperformed market growth, which is estimated at 1.0 % for 2020. At the same time, Symrise stayed behind its defined sales target, as the business development in the month of December was impacted by a criminal cyber-attack. Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) rose by 5.8 % to € 742 million in 2020. Profitability reached an outstanding level with an EBITDA margin of 21.1 % and was within the expected margin range. Against the backdrop of the good performance, the Executive Board and the Supervisory Board propose a dividend increase to € 0.97 for the fiscal year 2020 to the annual general meeting.
Over the past months Freshfel Europe has been advocating in cooperation with its members for more flexibility from the UK when it comes to the obligation for EU fresh produce exports to the UK to carry phytosanitary certificates from 1 April. In an announcement (March 11th) by the UK government about the adjustment of the timelines in the introduction of controls for EU imports, made in a written statement by RT Hon Michael Gove, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, is therefore warmly welcomed by Freshfel Europe and the fruit and vegetables sector as a crucial relief to enable the sector to smoothly adapt to Brexit in the ever-challenging context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
In the announcement, the UK agrees to postpone the introduction of phytosanitary certification obligations for most fresh produce, considered low risk plant products, until January 2022, when documentary checks will start to apply. Physical checks at Border Control Posts on fresh produce will only be applied from March 2022. Freshfel Europe General Delegate Philippe Binard emphasized that, “Freshfel Europe has been voicing strong concerns over the last months and we consider that this postponement is essential to ensure the supply of the UK market and the continuation of trade flows through the Channel, across which the EU27 exports over 3 million tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables a year”. Currently EU supply represents 40 % of the UK’s internal demand for fresh produce.
Following this welcome news, the sector further calls EU and UK authorities to make the most of this extended 9- month transition to speed-up preparations to ensure the smooth running of operations in 2022. The challenge remains enormous – over 750,000 phytosanitary certificates will be required on an annual basis to sustain EU-UK trade in fresh produce, a substantial economic and administrative burden, and a threat to the capacity of the industry to continue ‘just in time’ operations if administrative procedures are not sped-up. Freshfel Europe Director for Trade and Market Access Natalia Santos-Garcia Bernabe, highlighted that, “In Freshfel Europe and FPC’s letter to the RT Hon Michael Gove, the sector reiterated the need for electronic certification transmission between the EU and the UK to be up and running before the end of the year through the e-Phyto hub”. The postponement will give more time on both side of the Channel to work on digitalization and the successful introduction of electronic certification in 2022.
Scholle IPN, a leading global supplier of flexible packaging solutions, announced that they have completed the purchase of Bossar, a global supplier of flexible horizontal form-fill-seal packaging equipment.
The new business combination will leverage the combined capabilities of both businesses to provide one stop shopping for vertically integrated, sustainable solutions for the global flexible packaging market.
The company will retain the Bossar brand and will continue to utilize Bossar’s operational headquarters in Barcelona, Spain, and their manufacturing facility in India. The combined business has operations across Europe, Russia, China, India, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Canada and the United States.
With no calories, no sweeteners and all smiles, bubly bounce is the perfect afternoon refreshment, offering five delicious new combo flavours and 35 mg of caffeine per 12oz. can
Bubly sparkling water introduced the launch of bubly bounce – a sparkling water with no calories, sweeteners, or artificial flavours, and just a kick of caffeine. The introduction of bublybounce, which is availablein the US in five refreshing combo flavours, marks the brand’s first caffeinated beverage and new line since its launch in 2018.
bubly, one of the fastest-growing brands in the sparkling water category1, now combines everything people already love about bubly, with 35 mg of caffeine. bubly bounce provides hydration with a little caffeine, the perfect refreshment to get you through the afternoon or you know, just tackle Mondays.
“bubly sparkling water was created to bring more smiles into the sparkling water category, and new bubly bounce takes it to the next level with caffeine,” says Zach Harris, Vice President, Water Portfolio at PepsiCo Beverages North America. “As more individuals seek out sparkling waters with added benefits, bubly bounce delivers all of the delicious flavour and hydration of the original, now with just a kick of caffeine.”
New bubly bounce sparkling water is available in five delicious combo flavours, including mango passion fruit, triple berry, blood orange grapefruit, citrus cherry and blueberry pomegranate. bubly bounce can be purchased at all major retailers, and online, and comes in a variety of convenient purchase options ranging from 16oz. single serve cans, to 24-packs of 12oz. cans. A 12oz. can of bubly bounce contains 35 mg of caffeine, while a 16oz. single serve can contains 47 mg of caffeine.
About bubly The bubly sparkling water brand is shaking up the sparkling water category with refreshing and delicious flavors, an upbeat and playful sense of humor, all while keeping it real with no artificial flavors, no sweeteners, and no calories. Each flavor of bubly and bubly bounce features bright, bold packaging, unique smiles for every flavor, and comes with its own witty greeting on the tab and personal messages on the can for maximum enjoyment and smiles. Just as love comes in all colors of the rainbow, bubly sparkling water is available in seventeen delicious flavors: blackberrybubly, limebubly, cherrybubly, grapefruitbubly, strawberrybubly, raspberrybubly, mangobubly, peachbubly, orangebubly, cranberrybubly, watermelonbubly, pineapplebubly, lemonbubly, applebubly, passionfruitbubly, blueberrypomegranatebubly, and whitepeachgingerbubly. bubly bounce is available in five refreshing combo flavors: mango passion fruit, triple berry, blood orange grapefruit, citrus cherry and blueberry pomegranate. no calories. no sweeteners. all smiles.™
1 IRI, 2020, US only
The global pectin market is estimated to reach USD 1.87 billion by 2026 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.4 % from 2018 to 2026. Pectin market is projected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. Increasing health consciousness among consumers and various health benefits of pectin products is expected to drive the global market over the forecast period.
Pectin are plant-derived compounds, a structural heteropoly saccharide that is contained in primary cell walls of the terrestrial plants. It is mainly extracted from citrus fruits, apples, apricots, cherries, oranges, and carrots. Commercially, it is available in the form of white to light brown powder. The industry is characterized by companies characterized by medium level of integration in the value chain. Packaging and shipping play an important role in integrating the value chain. This helps the companies to incorporate their businesses in a cost-effective way.
Suppliers include companies which are involved in the production & distribution of processes raw materials such as apple, citrus, and others. The rising shortage of raw materials and increased import for Brazil and European countries is resulting in high bargaining power to the suppliers. In addition, low threat of backward integration from manufacturers, except some of the major and giant market players is also resulting in high bargaining power of suppliers.
The pectin market witnesses an external threat of substitution from natural gum and Citri-fi. Citri-fi is natural functional fibers, which are derived from citrus fruits. They offer hydrocolloidal properties, which is significant for high water holding capabilities. There are also some synthetic alternatives such as polyurethane, but these are usually not considered suitable for skin contact applications. However, the various advantages of pectin over these products are expected to lower the threat.
Pectin extracted from this raw material are used for high cholesterol high blood pressure, & blood sugar, joint pain, weight loss, prevent colon & prostate cancer, high triglycerides, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and diabetes. In addition, some people also use pectin to prevent poisoning caused by strontium, and other heavy metals.
Despite the shortage in the supply of raw material, some of the major players are also trying to increase their production capacity to meet the demand. For instance, Cargill acquired FMC’s plant to boost their pectin production capacity. The market is highly fragmented and competitive. In addition, it also experiences the presence of small-scale as well as giant players. The key and major companies are investing in R&D activities and frequently involved in merger and acquisition to increase their market share and product portfolio. Some of the companies that have a significant influence in the industry include DuPont Nutrition & Health, FMC Corporation, CPKelco, Herbstreith & Fox, Devson Impex Private Limited, Cargill Incorporated, B&V srl. and Yantai Andre Pectin Co. Ltd.
Growth in food & beverage industries, in emerging economies, is expected to drive the Asia Pacific market. The market is projected to grow rapidly in the Asia Pacific region, owing to the changing lifestyle of consumers in emerging economies including, China and India. The rising health consciousness among consumers and the presence of major players in North America is projected to positively drive the growth of the market over the forecast period.
Firmenich, one of the world’s largest privately-owned fragrance and taste companies, became the first company in the world to successfully upgrade its global EDGE Certification for gender equality in the workplace to the next level: “Move” status. Recognizing the Group’s ever more inclusive culture, the leading business certification standard for gender equality awarded Firmenich Move status for its progress in expanding diverse representation at all levels and a strong sense of belonging among its diverse workforce. Firmenich continues to lead in workplace equality, having been the 7th company in the world and the first in its industry to achieve global certification in 2018 at Assess level.
“I am very proud that Firmenich is one of only two companies that have achieved Global EDGE MOVE certification, raising the bar for gender equality under EDGE’s demanding benchmarks for continuous improvement,” said Gilbert Ghostine, CEO Firmenich. “EDGE recognizes our concrete achievements in embedding equality worldwide, as an employer of choice and a trusted and reliable partner for our customers. I am particularly pleased that we set the standard at the very top of the organization with gender parity on our world-class executive team.”
“The remarkable leap forward Firmenich has made in two years at the global level from the first level to the second level of EDGE Certification, EDGE Move, demonstrates that intentional, prioritized and measured actions undeniably accelerate progress towards gender balance, diversity and inclusion,” said Aniela Unguresan, Co-founder of EDGE Certified Foundation. “Specifically, Firmenich’s global EDGE Move certification illustrates the company’s progress in terms of gender representation and proactive management of pay equity across its main countries of operation.”
“Firmenich continues to set the standard for excellence as the best place to work in our industry. Since our first global EDGE certification in 2018, we have achieved significant milestones, from no gender pay gap worldwide to systematically implementing diverse talent pools,” said Mieke Van de Capelle, Chief Human Resources Officer at Firmenich. “While I am very proud of our achievements, we are focusing on new frontiers with targeted action that goes beyond gender. It’s about embracing the power of inclusion of minority groups, securing effective representation and engagement of people with different abilities, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds and sexual orientation.”
Building on its achievements, the Group’s new Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy sets ambitious 2030 people goals, including commitments on human rights, ethnic pay equity, creating 5,000 job opportunities for youth and continuing to raise the representation of differently-abled people in its workforce to 10 %.
Since 2018, Firmenich has raised women’s representation in its global workforce to 41 % and eliminated gender pay gaps. Expanded flexible working opportunities worldwide, effective recruitment and promotion practices, as well as continuous training and mentoring, have enhanced equal representation at all levels including critical pathways to senior management. Half of Firmenich’s Executive Committee is female.
EDGE Certification at the global level entails a global evaluation of Firmenich data and processes, as well as a comprehensive survey of its employees worldwide. Firmenich emerged from the rigorous assessment as an employer that is clearly meeting and exceeding core certification criteria around hiring, pay, retention, development and engagement of its employees.
About EDGE Certification EDGE is the leading global assessment methodology and business certification standard for gender equality. It measures where organizations stand in terms of gender balance across their pipeline, pay equity, effectiveness of policies and practices to ensure equitable career flows as well as inclusiveness of their culture. Launched at the World Economic Forum in 2011, EDGE has been designed to help companies not only create an optimal workplace for women and men, but also benefit from it. EDGE stands for Economic Dividends for Gender Equality and is distinguished by its rigor and focus on business impact. EDGE assessment methodology was developed by the EDGE Certified Foundation, which continues to act as the guardian of EDGE methodology and certification standards. Its commercial arm, EDGE Strategy, works with companies to prepare them for the EDGE Certification. EDGE Certification’s diverse customer base consists of 200 large organizations in 44 countries across five continents, representing 29 different industries and employing globally more than 2.4 million employees.
Ocean Spray Wave™ was developed in close collaboration with Walmart to address the rising demand for great tasting, lightly caffeinated sparkling beverages that keep people moving through their day
Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc., the agricultural cooperative owned by more than 700 farmer families, introduced Ocean Spray Wave™, a refreshing, naturally caffeinated sparkling water with a splash of real fruit juice. A healthier option for consumers looking to bypass sugary caffeine drinks without giving up on flavourful taste, Ocean Spray Wave™ was incubated, developed and shipped in less than a year launching exclusively with Walmart in the US and is a result of the cooperative’s agile approach to product development and innovating to offer healthier options for everyone.
The collaboration with Walmart led to the creation of a lightly caffeinated beverage as consumers look for healthier options to sustain themselves throughout the day. With a new generation of consumers primed to try Ocean Spray beverages following its 90th harvest and the social media sensation around the Dreams Challenge and popularity of the Cran-Raspberry juice, the brand is glad to introduce Ocean Spray Wave™ in the midst of the company’s current explosion to connect with younger consumers and what they seek in their day-to-day.
Ocean Spray Wave™ contains real fruit juice and 50 mg of naturally sourced caffeine from black tea. The drink also has zero grams of added sugars, no artificial flavors or preservatives and no artificial sweeteners. It is available in four crisp and refreshing flavours: Strawberry & Lemon, Mango & Passionfruit, Mandarin & Blackberry, and Cranberry & Pineapple.
Ocean Spray Wave™ is currently available online and in store at Walmart.com. To learn more, visit OceanSpray.com. The suggested retail price is $4.98 for an 8 pack.
Nestlé USA announced that it has acquired Essentia Water (“Essentia”), a premium functional water brand headquartered in Bothell, Washington. Essentia pioneered ionized alkaline water more than twenty years ago and is the leading brand in that space in the U.S. Essentia’s 2020 sales were USD 192 million.
This transaction is part of Nestlé’s continued transformation of its global water business, which was announced in June 2020. The company is sharpening its portfolio to focus on international premium and mineral water brands and healthy hydration products, such as functional water. This follows the agreement to sell Nestlé’s U.S. and Canadian regional spring water brands, purified water business and beverage delivery service announced in February.
The volume of Elopak’s Natural Brown Board cartons surpassed one billion units in February 2021. The milestone is good news for the company’s sustainability efforts, as the lower CO2 footprint of these cartons means an estimated 3,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions have been avoided as a result. The reduction in CO2 emissions resulting from the use of Natural Brown Board is equivalent to approximately 1,400 round trip flights for one person London – New York.
The news comes after Elopak recorded a significant increase in its sale of Natural Brown Board cartons in 2019, with brands responding to increased consumer interest in the environmental credentials of their products by making the transition to sustainable packaging solutions. Today approximately 20 % of the Pure-Pak® milk cartons Elopak sells in Western Europe are produced with Natural Brown Board.
Launched in 2017, in partnership with supplier Stora Enso, Elopak was the first packaging company to provide gable top cartons made with Natural Brown Board. These Pure-Pak® cartons are renewable and recyclable. They have a lower CO2 footprint owing to reduced wood consumption and the elimination of the bleaching process. Their rustic, natural look effectively communicates this commitment to sustainability and instantly stands out on the shelves.
Several customers were quick to embrace the Natural Brown Board with Arla being the first major brand to adopt the innovation for its line of organic EKO products in Sweden. In June 2018, when Arla launched its Arla Organic range of milk and drinking yoghurts, the brand opted again for one litre Pure-Pak® cartons with Natural Brown Board, which were rolled out across the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Germany and Finland.
Some customers have taken the concept further and removed the renewable plastic cap. Norwegian dairy, TINE, transitioned from a white carton with a cap to a Natural Brown Board carton without a cap, resulting in a carbon footprint reduction of around 40 %. Sweden’s second-largest dairy Skånemejerier has also removed the caps on all their Hjordnära organic milk one-liter cartons, launching its organic milk in new Pure-Pak® cartons with an easy opening funnel feature to replace the plastic closure.
Since its launch, Elopak’s Natural Brown Board cartons has served as a platform for further sustainability-focused innovations, including the Pure-Pak® Imagine launched in 2020. The carton is a modern version of the company’s original Pure-Pak® carton, containing 46 % less plastic and designed with a new easy open feature. It has no plastic screw cap and is 100 % forest-based made with Natural Brown Board, making it Elopak’s most environmentally friendly carton to date.
New research shows no adverse association between change in Body Mass Index (BMI) and consumption of 100 % orange juice among older children adding to a growing list of studies suggesting children and teens can benefit from regularly drinking 100 % orange juice without concerns about weight gain. The four-year longitudinal study published in Pediatric Obesity found that drinking 100 % orange juice was associated with smaller changes in BMI over time in girls, with no significant effect on BMI in boys.
The analysis by researchers at the University of Connecticut and Harvard’s School of Public Health and Medical School included children ages 9 to 16 who were followed from 2004 through 2008.1 The analysis showed there was a clear lack of a connection between orange juice and increased BMI in this age group. One hundred percent orange juice contributed, on average, between 40 to 50 calories to the daily diet while milk contributed almost four times that amount, from 150 to 180 calories. This amount of orange juice represents under 4 ounces per day on average, which falls well below the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics, which suggests limits for 100 % fruit juice consumption of 8 oz. daily for children over 7. The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans counts 100 % fruit juice as a fruit serving and recommends that primary beverages either be calorie free – especially water – or contribute beneficial nutrients, such as fat-free and low-fat milk and 100 % fruit juice.2
“Children in this age group fail to consume adequate amounts of fruit and certain micronutrients such as vitamin C and potassium,” said Dr. Rosa Walsh, Director of Scientific Research at the Florida Department of Citrus. “Although the preferred choice is whole fruit, this research supports that moderate consumption of 100 % orange juice can be a beneficial addition to the diet to help meet fruit intake recommendations and is unlikely to contribute to childhood obesity.”
This longitudinal study, funded by an unrestricted grant by the Florida Department of Citrus, adds to the growing body of scientific research supporting the role of 100 % orange juice in adults’ and children’s diets.
Another data analysis of nearly 14,000 Americans, ages 4 and older, concluded that people who drink 100% orange juice have lower BMI and healthier lifestyle behaviors than people who don’t drink orange juice.3
A longitudinal analysis of more than 7,300 children and adolescents in the GUTSII cohort concluded that 100% fruit juice or OJ intake was not associated with negative effects on body weight, BMI or BMI percentile. In fact, higher OJ intake was associated with greater changes (positive) in height for girls.4
A trend analysis for children reported that despite higher energy intakes, there was no significant difference in physical activity levels, percent overweight or obese, or BMI z-score when comparing kids who consume 100 % orange juice versus those who don’t.5
A comprehensive review performed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for their Evidence Analysis Library examined the association between 100 % fruit juice intake and weight in children and concluded that the evidence does not support an association between 100 % fruit juice consumption and weight status or adiposity in children ages 2 to 18 years of age.6
Every glass of 100 % orange juice supports overall health and can help adults and children meet intake recommendations for key nutrients they may be lacking in their diets. An 8-oz. serving size contains vital vitamins and antioxidants, including vitamin C, potassium, folate, hesperidin and more, with no added sugar. From helping improve diet quality to providing key nutrients that can help support a healthy immune system, 100 % orange juice offers a number of health benefits and can also easily be incorporated into simple, great-tasting recipes.
About the Florida Department of Citrus The Florida Department of Citrus is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by a tax paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels. The industry employs more than 37,000 people, provides an annual economic impact of $6.5 billion to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida’s schools, roads and health care services.
Ardagh Group S.A. , a global supplier of infinitely-recyclable metal beverage and glass packaging for the world’s leading brands, and Gores Holdings V, Inc., a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by an affiliate of The Gores Group, announced that they have entered into a definitive business combination agreement under which Gores Holdings V will combine with Ardagh’s metal packaging business that will be held by Ardagh Metal Packaging S.A. (“AMP”) to create an independent public company. The Company intends to apply to list its shares on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the new ticker symbol “AMBP”.
Ardagh will retain an approximately 80 % stake in AMP and receive up to $3.4 billion in cash in the transactions. Oliver Graham, CEO of Ardagh Metal Beverage, will be CEO of AMP. Paul Coulson, Chairman and CEO of Ardagh, will serve as Chairman and Shaun Murphy, COO of Ardagh, will serve as Vice Chairman of the Company following the closing of the transaction.
AMP is a global leader in the supply of sustainable and infinitely-recyclable beverage cans. The Company has a leading presence in the Americas and Europe and is the second-largest beverage can producer in Europe and the third-largest in North America and Brazil. As the only pure-play beverage can company, AMP products touch billions of consumers worldwide. The Company believes that strong demand in traditional and new beverage categories coupled with environmentally-conscious end consumers are driving an inflection point in beverage can demand and the Company is well positioned to capitalize on these multifaceted growth opportunities. The Company has a compelling financial profile, with a clear and tangible growth trajectory backed by long-term customer contracts and expects to double Adjusted EBITDA from $545 million in 2020 to over $1.1 billion in 2024.
About Ardagh Group S.A. Ardagh is a global supplier of infinitely-recyclable metal and glass packaging for the world’s leading brands. Ardagh operates 56 metal and glass production facilities in 12 countries, employing more than 16,000 people with sales of approximately $7 billion.
About Ardagh Metal Packaging AMP will hold Ardagh’s metal packaging business, which is a leading supplier of beverage cans globally, with a particular focus on The Americas and Europe. Headquartered, in Luxembourg, the business supplies sustainable and infinitely-recyclable metal packaging to a diversified customer base of leading global, regional and national beverage producers. Ardagh’s metal packaging business operates 23 production facilities in Europe and the Americas, employs approximately 4,900 people and recorded revenues of $3.5 billion in 2020.
About Gores Holdings V, Inc. Gores Holdings V is a special purpose acquisition company sponsored by an affiliate of The Gores Group for the purpose of effecting a merger, acquisition, or similar business combination. Gores Holdings V completed its initial public offering in August 2020, raising approximately $525 million in cash proceeds. Gores’ strategy is to identify and complete business combinations with market leading companies with strong equity stories that will benefit from the growth capital of the public equity markets and be enhanced by the experience and expertise of Gores’ long history and track record of investing in and operating businesses for over 35 years. To date, Alec Gores and affiliates of The Gores Group have announced and completed six business combinations representing over $27 billion in transaction value. Prior business combinations for special purpose acquisition companies sponsored by affiliates of The Gores Group include: Hostess (Gores Holdings, Inc.), Verra Mobility (Gores Holdings II, Inc.), PAE (Gores Holdings III, Inc.), Luminar (Gores Metropoulos, Inc.), United Wholesale Mortgage (Gores Holdings IV, Inc.), and the pending Matterport transaction (Gores Holdings VI, Inc.).
About The Gores Group LLC Founded in 1987 by Alec Gores, The Gores Group is a global investment firm focused on partnering with differentiated businesses that can benefit from the firm’s extensive industry knowledge and decades long experience. Gores Holdings V and The Gores Group are separate entities with separate management, although there is overlap in size and industry of target acquisition and personnel involved.
Leading botanical extracts company to produce pharmaceutical grade CBD for the international market, using Italian biomass
Indena, a leading Italian company in international markets, has been authorised by the Italian Ministry of Health and Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) to produce cannabinoid-based cannabis extracts. Indena will produce pharmaceutical grade cannabidiol (CBD) for the global market for clinical and commercial use.
Indena is the first company in Italy to receive authorisation from the Ministry of Health to manufacture cannabinoid-based cannabis extracts. The approval process continued and Indena has also received authorisation from the AIFA, making it one of the few companies in the world able to produce cannabidiol (CBD) for the pharmaceutical market. CBD is an active ingredient obtained by extraction and isolation from the inflorescences and aerial parts of hemp (Cannabis sativa L.).
With its 100 years of experience in the production of high-end botanical extracts, Indena is well placed to produce high purity CBD. The raw material will be grown and processed in Italy. The supply chain, which complies with the strict criteria set out in the Italian regulations, is controlled, certified and fully traced by the company. Indena’s traditional rigour in managing the production chain was a key factor in obtaining authorisation.
Indena uses registered varieties of hemp with a THC level of less than 0.2 % in accordance with European standards. It also guarantees a residual THC content of less than 0.02 %, well below the limits defined by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and by DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration). This approach enabled Indena to promptly submit the DMF (Drug Master File) for this product to the FDA.
“We have been working a long time for this outcome. It is the result of an intense and fruitful collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the AIFA, for the construction of a rigorous approval process to guarantee the safety and control of production, both of the raw material and of the active principle”, says Stefano Togni, Corporate Director for Business Development and Licensing of Indena SpA. “We are aiming at the international pharmaceutical markets. As an Italian company, we are proud to be able to make this totally Italian product of the highest quality available globally, an ingredient expected all over the world for its beneficial effects on a number of pathologies”.
The hemp biomass used by Indena is processed in a pharmaceutical plant that is regularly authorised by AIFA and inspected by the main international regulatory agencies (FDA, KFDA, PMDA and others). All production is carried out in compliance with pharmaceutical GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), in line with the highest quality standards that the company has always applied which have been recognised by the international scientific community and consolidated over 100 years of business.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active pharmaceutical ingredient whose use is approved for seizures associated with some rare forms of childhood epilepsy (Lennox-Gastaud syndrome, Dravet syndrome and tuberous sclerosis complex), and in clinical development for other forms of epilepsy. Furthermore CBD is under clinical investigation for schizophrenia, and for its therapeutic potential in other psychiatric disorders, neurological or autoimmune/inflammatory based diseases1.
Once again, Indena’s focus on quality, scientific rigour and innovation has enabled it to receive recognition from Italy’s top pharmaceutical regulatory institutions. This will enable the company to produce an active principle for which there has been market demand for some time.
1C. Michael White, PharmD, A Review of Human Studies Assessing Cannabidiol’s (CBD) Therapeutic Actions and Potential, J Clin Pharmacol 2019, 59(7), 923-934.
All over the world, Steinecker has for more than 145 years now been known as a strong brand synonymous with brewing technology. By combining technology from Steinecker with its own portfolio, Krones has meanwhile positioned itself on the market as a one-stop supplier in the brewing and beverage industry for over 25 years.
Krones wants to be there for its clients as a partner they can rely on whenever they need help and to this end locate areas of untapped optimisation potential on a continuous basis. In order to see this aspiration rigorously through to achievement, it is necessary to review the relevant processes and render them more efficient and customer-responsive. As part of this thrust, Krones has now decided to focus even more meaningfully in future on plant and equipment construction in process technology.
Beginning in April 2021, the newly founded Steinecker GmbH will therefore offer all of the solutions and equipment required in a brewery, from raw materials reception right through to the finished product. The company’s portfolio will be supplemented by appropriate after-sales and service concepts. Dirk Hämling will take over as Managing Director. He has since last summer been in charge of the Breweries Business Line at Freising. Dirk Hämling has spent more than 20 years gaining valuable international experience and during that time held various managerial positions at plant and machinery manufacturers whose focus is on process technology.
Marrying strengths to strengths
The Krones facility in Freising near Munich will in future be Steinecker GmbH’s headquarters – and the roughly 450-head-strong team working there, comprising experienced brewery and beverage experts, engineers, technologists, project managers, and automation and production experts, will continue to look after their brewery clients’ projects all over the world, just as they have done before. The entire project planning and processing team, the engineering, production and erection/installation departments, plus the product development operation, will be represented at this facility. One major focus will first and foremost be on a sustainable, energy-efficient, CO2-neutral brewing process. The company’s own experimental brewing facility, the Steinecker BrewCenter, is the perfect supplement here, offering a basis for developing innovations and upgrades of products used in the brewing process.
The company’s portfolio will be expanded to include two additional modules: Steinecker will also combine at one location all automation-related products and services and integrate control solutions like its own Botec F1 process control system – providing this service not only for breweries but also for clients in the dairy and beverage sectors. Furthermore, the company will offer appropriate after-sales and service concepts, precisely tailored to the requirements of process-technology systems.
Above and beyond this, Steinecker will continue to benefit from its can-do alliance with Krones, utilising the group’s strong, international production, sales and service network with its over 100 sites located all over the world. When a beverage company will in future opt for a turnkey solution from the House of Krones, the entire kit, comprising not only process-technology systems but also filling technology or utility solutions, will come from a single source as before.
Beviale Moscow will take place in the Main Stage Event Hall in Moscow from 16 to 18 March 2021. This makes Russia’s first trade fair for the entire beverage production chain one of the few events that allows the sector to come together in person in the spring of 2021. The organisers are responding to explicit requests by Russian exhibitors and visitors who can now look forward to a well-designed and attractive event concept. Numerous event partners and associations are helping to create the high-quality supporting programme. Naturally, all the measures prescribed by the local authorities will be strictly implemented at Beviale Moscow 2021. This special round of the event will pave the way for the next chapter of the Beviale Moscow success story in 2022, which is already attracting a lot of interest, especially from exhibitors unable to attend this year.
Thanks to its timely relocation to the Main Stage Event Hall, Beviale Moscow was able to allow its customers to plan with certainty in what is a precarious environment with underlying conditions that are constantly changing. This location is ideal for this special round of Beviale Moscow this year. Around half of the exhibitors who had registered for the subsequently cancelled 2020 fair, and most partners, will be taking part in Beviale Moscow 2021. Some 80 percent of exhibitors come from Russia, but it is also worth mentioning the around 20 percent of international exhibitors who have committed to the event despite the difficult circumstances.
Comprehensive safety and hygiene concept
“The huge response and extensive support from the sector are a clear indication that our concept has paid off and that Beviale Moscow is the most important platform for the Russian beverage industry,” says a delighted Thimo Holst, Project Manager Beviale Moscow at NürnbergMesse. “We have therefore done our utmost to offer our customers and partners a modified yet high-quality concept under the current circumstances.” This includes a comprehensive safety and hygiene plan. As well all the regulations imposed by the local authorities, like measuring temperatures at the entrance and the wearing of face masks and gloves, Beviale Moscow 2021 is implementing other measures: Sufficient distances are ensured on all special display areas, entrances and exits are separate, numerous hand sanitising stations are provided around the hall, and the air is being continually filtered.
High-quality supporting programme as in previous years
In respect of content, the fair will be on a par with the event planned for 2020. Almost all partners and associations are continuing to support Beviale Moscow this year again and are helping to create an extensive, high-quality supporting programme. At the “Conference on wine production in Russia”, the partnership with the “Vinitech Innovation Tour” will take effect for the first time. Russian wine experts will introduce the peculiarities of the market, while French experts will hold presentations on technology and innovation, giving conference participants a comprehensive overview of the wine market and its future. In Russia, milk production and processing are key issues for the beverage industry. An overview will be provided by the Russian industry portal “The Dairy News” under the heading “The New Milk Retail in Russia”. In collaboration with Coca-Cola, Beviale Moscow will for the first time host a conference on the trend towards healthy drinks. Other items on the programme agenda familiar from previous years are a conference on the Russian beer market conducted by the ABBM, Association of Beer and Beverage Market, the conference on beverage packaging by the National Packaging Confederation NCPack, and the Craft Drinks Corner.
Given the circumstances, the representative Bavarian Pavilion with four Bavarian firms taking part in Beviale Moscow 2021 is particularly worthy of mention. “We are delighted by the unequivocal support of Bayern International, which was impressed by the event following the success of the first pavilion in 2019 and is continuing to back us this year as well,” says Holst. “We are especially pleased that Roland Weigert, Deputy Minister of the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, will provide a welcoming address by video at the opening of the trade fair.” The continuity of the Bavarian Pavilion underscores the extremely strong economic relations between Bavaria and Russia. In addition, the Representative Office of Bavaria in the Russian Federation will offer a symposium at this year’s Beviale with the title “The latest information and trends in the brewing industry in Bavaria and Russia”.
Joint venture leverages manufacturing expertise, global go-to-market capabilities, and food and beverage industry experience to create and scale innovative ingredient solutions
Grupo Arcor, the leading food company of Argentina, and Ingredion Incorporated, a leading global ingredient solutions provider to the food and beverage industry, have signed an agreement to create a joint venture that will leverage the two companies’ manufacturing expertise, complementary geographic footprints and commercial capabilities to broaden food and beverage ingredient offerings to customers in Argentina, Chile and Uruguay. Arcor and Ingredion will hold a 51 % and 49 % stake, respectively. The joint venture will have a combined turnover of more than US$ 300 million.
Arcor will transfer its ingredient operations to the joint venture, which includes one manufacturing facility in Lules (province of Tucumán) and two manufacturing facilities in the Industrial Complex Arroyito (province of Córdoba).
Ingredion will transfer its Argentina, Chile and Uruguay operations to the joint venture, which includes two manufacturing facilities in the districts of Chacabuco and Baradero (province of Buenos Aires).
The manufacturing facilities produce value-added ingredients, such as glucose syrups, maltose, fructose, starch and maltodextrins that are essential to the food, beverage and pharmaceutical industries.
The joint venture will be managed by a jointly appointed team of executives who will be responsible for integrating the combined operations to market, sell and manufacture ingredients within Argentina, Chile and Uruguay and to further optimize the manufacturing network and support functions to create incremental shareholder value.
The joint venture will operate on a stand-alone basis and upon the closing of the transaction, Arcor will consolidate the business. Ingredion will account for its interest in the joint venture under the equity method of accounting, and hyperinflation accounting will be applied to equity income for Ingredion’s reporting purposes.
The joint venture has been approved by each company’s board of directors and is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. Infupa is acting as financial adviser to Arcor and Bruchou as its legal counsel; Finanzas & Gestión is acting as financial adviser to Ingredion and Baker & McKenzie as its legal adviser.
About Ingredion Ingredion Incorporated (NYSE: INGR) headquartered in the suburbs of Chicago, is a leading global ingredient solutions provider serving customers in more than 120 countries. With 2019 annual net sales of more than US$6 billion, the company turns grains, fruits, vegetables and other plant-based materials into value-added ingredient solutions for the food, beverage, animal nutrition, brewing and industrial markets. With Ingredion Idea Labs® innovation centers located around the world and nearly 12,000 employees, the Company co-creates with customers and fulfills its purpose of bringing the potential of people, nature, and technology together to make life better. Visit ingredion.com for more information and the latest Company news.
About Arcor Arcor is the leading food company in Argentina, the first global producer of hard candy, and the main confectionery exporter in Argentina, Chile, and Peru. It has more than 40 industrial plants and employs nearly 20,000 collaborators. Arcor has entered into many alliances, like the one between Bagley Latinoamérica and the French group Danone, the Grupo Bimbo partnership in Mexico, the strategic alliance with Coca-Cola for the joint development of new products and the creation of Kamay Ventures, one of main open capital investment funds in Argentina. Grupo Arcor’s daily production volume amounts to 3 million kilograms and its brands are sold in more than 100 countries worldwide. Its annual turnover for 2019 was US$ 2.5 billion.
The World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA) has released the Southern Hemisphere apple and pear crop production forecast for the upcoming season. According to the forecast, which consolidates the data from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa, apple production is estimated to increase by 6 % in 2021 compared to the previous year, while pear production is projected to stabilise.
The World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA) has released its 2021 apple and pear crop estimate for the Southern Hemisphere. This report has been compiled with the support of ASOEX (Chile), CAFI (Argentina), ABPM (Brazil), Hortgro (South Africa), APAL (Australia) and New Zealand Apples and Pears, and therefore provides consolidated data from the six leading Southern Hemisphere countries. WAPA’s Secretary General Philippe Binard commented on the usefulness of gathering the insights from these major producers: “Elaborating this collective data has previously proved a valuable exercise for the global apple and pear industry and a reliable source of information when the season progressively shifts from the Northern to the Southern Hemisphere”.
Regarding apples, the aggregate Southern Hemisphere 2021 crop forecast suggests an increase of 6 % (5.090.000 T) compared to last year (4.818.000 T), with increases in Australia, Brazil, and South Africa of 23 %, 20 % and 6 % respectively, a decrease in New Zealand of 5 %, and stable figures in Argentina and Chile. The aggregate increased by 2 % compared to the average of crops between 2018 and 2020. Chile remains the largest Southern Hemisphere apple producer in 2021 with 1.512 million T, with Brazil in second place (1.130 million T), followed by South Africa (1.013 million T), Argentina (617 million T), New Zealand (547 million T), and Australia (271 million T). Gala remains the main variety (39 %), followed by Fuji (14 %) and Red Delicious (13 %). Export figures are estimated to stabilise at 1.691.562 T, with stable figures for Chile (650.773 T), a 4 % increase for South Africa (476.000 T), and a 7 % decrease for New Zealand (372.000 T).
Southern Hemisphere 2021 apple production (Photo: WAPA)
Regarding pears, the Southern Hemisphere growers predict a stabilisation of the crop at 1.346.000 T and an increase of 2 % compared to the overall average of years 2018-2020. The increase in South Africa, Australia, and Argentina of 3 %, 2 %, and 1 % respectively are expected to compensate for the 3 % and the 10 % decrease in Chile and New Zealand. As in previous years, Packham’s Triumph and Williams BC/Bartlett are the major varieties, with 36 % and 28 % respectively. Forecasted export figures for pears are reported to increase by 6 % compared to the previous year and reach 708.690 T, with a 12 % increase for Argentina (373.996 T), a 2 % increase for South Africa (214.361 T), and a 3 % decrease for Chile (108.315 T).
Made with water, fruit juice, and electrolytes for taste, Frutly provides teens with flavourful hydration
PepsiCo has released one of its newest product innovations, Frutly, a hydrating juice water designed with teens in mind. A newcomer to the juice aisle, Frutly is made with water, fruit juice, and electrolytes for taste to provide flavourful hydration and a good source of vitamins C and E.
Frutly was created in response to a clear whitespace among juice brands, aiming to reinvigorate the category by addressing both parents’ desires for more nutritious beverage options for their families and the needs of teens who have outgrown the juice boxes and pouches of their childhood. In fact, 56 percent of people leaving the ambient juice category blame poor nutritional factors like sugar, calories, and artificial sweeteners for pushing them away1. Frutly fills this gap, delivering refreshing taste, nutritional benefits and hydration without added sugar or artificial sweeteners.
“With more meals being enjoyed at home these days, we’ve learned that parents are keeping their pantries filled with products they feel good about giving their families, but also that their teens want. As a father of three, I know how challenging it can be to strike that balance,” says Anup Shah, vice president and chief marketing officer, Juice Brands, PepsiCo Beverages North America. “Having hydrating drinks available that are also shelf-stable remains essential as we all continue to work and learn from home, and Frutly is well positioned to serve as a delicious and nutritious option that both teens and their parents can agree on.”
Available in three flavours — Strawberry Kiwi, Fruit Punch, and Apple Grape – Frutly has 60 calories per 12-fluid-ounce serving and is now on grocery store shelves in the U.S. in single flavour four-packs.
1According to a 2019 IRI study for PepsiCo.
About Frutly: Launched in early 2021, Frutly is a new brand of juice beverages from PepsiCo. Frutly is made with water, fruit juice, and electrolytes for taste to provide flavorful hydration and a good source of vitamins C and E. Frutly contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners, offering delicious taste for teens in a product parents can feel good about. Frutly is available in 12-fluid-ounce bottles in three flavors, Strawberry Kiwi, Fruit Punch, and Apple Grape. Frutly is now on shelves nationwide.
Following the news that the Coca-Cola Company is trialling its first paper bottle; Alice Popple, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers her view:
“Coca-Cola trialling a new paper bottle comes as no surprise as there has been an increase in sustainability initiatives from brands attempting to revamp strategy and ensure longevity post COVID-19. Brand’s sustainability initiatives will be vital in the future as GlobalData’s research reveals that nearly half (48 %)1 of global shoppers view ‘plastic-free packaging’ claims to be more important to them now, than before the COVID-19 pandemic, with 13 %1 claiming that it is a top priority.
“Last year saw a decline in revenue for Coca-Cola as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic2, therefore a strategy switch up is necessary to boost sales and interest in the brand. One in three (31 %)3 of global consumers say that they have stopped or are buying less carbonated soft drinks than before the pandemic – a main reason for this may be the excess of single-use plastic in the sector, aligning to the high degree of importance that plastic free packaging is currently experiencing.
“Joining the zero-waste initiative is vital for consumer satisfaction in 2021, with over a third (36 %)1 of global shoppers being specifically interested in a brand’s new sustainability initiatives following the pandemic. Coca-Cola’s trial of its first paper bottle will stem other market leaders to follow suit.”
1GlobalData’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Recovery Consumer Survey Results: Week 11 – Global (Published 9th December 2020) – Combined responses: “It is now my top priority”, “It is significantly more important to me”, and “It is slightly more important to me” 2GlobalData’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Company Impact: Coca-Cola H2 Update 3GlobalData’s Coronavirus (COVID-19) Recovery Consumer Survey Results: Week 11 – Global (Published 9th December 2020) – Combined responses: “I have stopped buying this”, “I am buying significantly lower quantities than before”, and “I am buying slightly lower quantities than before”
The drinktec advisory board and Messe München have taken a joint decision to postpone the world’s leading trade fair for the beverage and liquid food industry until the fall of 2022. The new dates are September 12 to 16, 2022. This action was prompted by the international nature of the drinktec event. The decision could not be delayed given that industrial goods trade fairs involve extensive planning and complex high-tech construction work.
Despite the coronavirus crisis, drinktec is registering high demand for floorspace from customers both in Germany and abroad. Three quarters of the available exhibition floorspace has already been booked. “This confidence in the brand and drinktec’s reputation as the world’s leading trade fair in its field are precisely why we need to ensure that we meet our customers’ expectations,” says Dr. Reinhard Pfeiffer, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Messe München. “Until recently, we assumed that the pandemic situation would improve, making international travel possible. The latest developments have quashed these expectations. Two thirds of all drinktec visitors come from abroad. Of these, half come from other continents. This means we cannot deliver the benefits of a leading global trade fair this year.”
The global beverage industry meets in Munich only once every four years. “Companies synchronize their innovative developments in line with this cycle, which is why we had to find timely dates in the trade fair calendar. Canceling altogether and leaving an eight-year gap in between trade fairs would have been unacceptable for the industry,” explains Dr. Pfeiffer.
Volker Kronseder, Chairman of the drinktec advisory board, welcomes the trade fair’s proactive approach as many exhibitors, especially those with large-scale exhibits, would have to start preparing for the trade fair now: “We are very glad to see that Messe München is acting on the unanimous wishes of the panel of experts. The earlier we take this decision, the lower the costs and the greater the planning security for customers. We expect conditions to be much improved and more stable in 2022.”
drinktec’s conceptual sponsor, the VDMA (German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association), also supports the decision. Richard Clemens, Managing Director of the VDMA’s Food Processing and Packaging Machinery Association, says: “The beverage industry has been hit hard by the coronavirus and needs fresh impetus, which a drinktec weakened by travel restrictions couldn’t provide. The market can expect an impressive drinktec 2022 that will give the entire industry the stimulus it needs.”
Preparations and plans currently underway for drinktec 2021 and the integrated oils+fats event will now be seamlessly transferred to the new 2022 dates.
Process engineering group GEA and Israeli foodtech start-up Better Juice have joined forces to help beverage manufacturers produce healthier, lower-sugar fruit juice.
Better Juice has developed a groundbreaking solution that naturally reduces the amount of sugar in fresh juice by up to 80 percent, without affecting its nutritional value or taste. GEA is now engineering the process technology the start-up needs, setting this innovative solution on course for industrial production.
Demand for healthier juice
GEA frequently works with innovations partners such as start-ups in order to react more quickly to market trends and explore alternative solutions. Reducing the amount of sugar in our diets is one of the dominant themes in the food industry today, since people who consume excess sugar are more likely to be overweight, obese, or suffer from conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has increased demand for orange juice as a vitamin-rich, immune-boosting drink*…
*Source: The Wall Street Journal (2020): “Grocery-Store Rush Spurs Big Gains in Sleepy Orange-Juice Futures”
Coca-Cola in Europe will trial its first ever paper bottle prototype. The move marks a further step in fulfilling The Coca-Cola Company’s global vision of achieving a “World Without Waste”, in which the Company has pledged to ensure all of its packaging is collected, recycled or re-used by 2030.
The new paper bottle prototype has been developed through a partnership between scientists at the Coca-Cola Research and Development Laboratories in Brussels and The Paper Bottle Company (Paboco).The technology developed by Paboco is designed to create 100 % recyclable bottles made of sustainably sourced wood with a bio-based material barrier capable of resisting liquids, CO2 and oxygen, and suitable for liquid goods such as carbonated and still drinks, beauty products and more. The current prototype consists of a paper shell with a recyclable* plastic lining and cap. The ultimate goal is a bottle that can be recycled as paper.
“The trial we are announcing today is a milestone for us in our quest to develop a paper bottle”, said Daniela Zahariea, Director of Technical Supply Chain & Innovation for Coca-Cola Europe. “People expect Coca-Cola to develop and bring to market new, innovative and sustainable types of packaging. That’s why we are partnering with experts like Paboco, experimenting openly and conducting this first in-market trial. It’s part of delivering on our World Without Waste commitments.”
The trial is scheduled to take place in the second quarter of this year and will involve the Company’s plant-based AdeZ drink being offered to 2,000 consumers in Hungary, through a partnership with Kifli.hu – one of Hungary’s fastest growing online grocery retailers.
The launch is an important step in seeing how the paper bottle prototype performs and how consumers react, according to Coca-Cola Europe’s Stijn Franssen, R&D Packaging Innovation Manager. The paper bottle prototype is 100 % recyclable* and currently consists of a paper shell, with a recyclable plastic lining and cap. Mr Franssen said the Company’s partnership with Paboco is focused on developing a paper bottle than can be fully recycled as paper.
“This trial will provide us with invaluable insight and feedback”, said Mr Franssen. “We will get to see how the paper bottle prototype performs as packaging and what consumers think and feel about it. This is an exciting step forward for us, as it means we’re out of the lab and into the real world. So for the first time, consumers will actually be drinking one of our products from a potentially new type of paper packaging”, he added.
*where technology is available
Summer arrives early with unveiling of unsweetened sparkling Lemon Limeade, Strawberry and Pink Lemonade from the first sparkling water brand made with real squeezed fruit
Lighter, brighter and even more refreshing, lemonade is reimagined as Spindrift®, the first sparkling water made with real squeezed fruit, puts its signature spin on this summertime favourite. Crafted with a uniquely balanced pairing of real squeezed lemons and limes, Spindrift’s Unsweetened Lemonade Sparkling Waters come in three twists on the classic. New Lemon Limeade, Strawberry and Pink Lemonade Spindrift flavours sparkle with 0 – 1 g of sugar, bold real fruit ingredients and a timeless delicious taste that embraces refreshment.
“We’re excited to introduce our newest flavour innovations to lemonade lovers and all of our loyal Drifters, who continue inspire our real-fruit sparkling water vision,” said Bill Creelman, founder and CEO of Spindrift. “Lemonade is a classic beverage enjoyed by all. But with concerns about health and diet at an all-time high, we challenged ourselves to reimagine what this traditionally sugary drink could taste like with a Spindrift spin—real ingredients, uncompromised taste and legible calories. Each Lemonade flavour has a distinct and unforgettable flavour profile that will blow people away and make them do a doubletake on the sugar content.”
In addition to the right combination of real fruit, which Spindrift takes considerable time to get just right, the sugar content in the new lemonade lineup is nearly nonexistent. With just 0 – 1 g of sugar in each can, the bold flavours of lime and lemon truly shine. The result is a new category of lemonade: unsweetened, sparkling with real ingredients and just 3 – 10 calories per can.
This is the first time that Spindrift, in its 10-year history, has introduced three flavours at once with a new line of sparkling water. The flavours include:
Lemon Limeade – Started with lemon, added a splash of lime and lightly carbonated for a deliciously healthy alternative to sugary beverages.
Pink Lemonade – with crushed cherries and raspberries, for a touch of sweetness. It’s Lemonade – but Pink.
Strawberry Lemonade – We started with Lemon and Lime and threw ripe, juicy strawberries into the mix. Together this trio makes for an unforgettable taste you’ll keep coming back to.
Spindrift Lemonade will be shared with the Spindrift Community first. Fans who’ve signed up to be a part of the Drifter Community by February 22nd will receive an email with a promocode for a chance to redeem a drinkspindrift.com exclusive, Lemonade 6 pack. Spindrift Lemonade will be available in March at Target stores in the US and through DrinkSpindrift.com.
About Spindrift Spindrift® is the first sparkling water made with real, squeezed fruit. Founded in 2010, Spindrift® celebrates simplicity, transparency, and the superior taste that only real ingredients can deliver. All products are free of added sweeteners or natural flavours, and only consist of water, just the right amount of bubbles, and real squeezed fruit – yup, that’s it. Spindrift® works with family farms to source the best fruit to make the fresh juices and rich purees they use. The result is light, bright, and flavour-rich sparkling water that tastes just like the fruit in its name. Varieties include: Pineapple, Lime, Blackberry, Cranberry Raspberry, Cucumber, Half Tea & Half Lemon, Grapefruit, Lemon, Orange Mango, Strawberry, and Raspberry Lime. Spindrift® sparkling water is available in the US at grocery retailers and café-style restaurants, including Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods Market, Starbucks, Kroger, Target, and online at Amazon and shop.drinkspindrift.com. Spindrift® was ranked #385 on Inc. Magazine’s 2017 list of fastest-growing companies. The company donates to environmental not-for-profits through their membership to 1 % For the Planet. Spindrift® is headquartered in Newton, MA. (US)
Nestlé S.A. announced that it has reached an agreement to sell its regional spring water brands, purified water business and beverage delivery service in the U.S. and Canada to One Rock Capital Partners in partnership with Metropoulos & Co. for USD 4.3 billion. The Company’s international premium brands including Perrier®, S.Pellegrino® and Acqua Panna® are not a part of the deal. The transaction is expected to close following the completion of customary closing conditions.
The sale includes the following brands in the U.S. and Canada, which had sales of around CHF 3.4 billion in 2019: Poland Spring® Brand 100 % Natural Spring Water, Deer Park® Brand 100 % Natural Spring Water, Ozarka® Brand 100 % Natural Spring Water, Ice Mountain® Brand 100 % Natural Spring Water, Zephyrhills® Brand 100 % Natural Spring Water, Arrowhead® Brand Mountain Spring Water, Pure Life® and Splash. It also comprises the U.S. direct-to-consumer and office beverage delivery service ReadyRefresh®.
The agreement follows Nestlé’s announcement last year that it would conduct a strategic review of parts of the North American waters division and sharpen the focus of its global water portfolio.
Commenting on the transaction, Mark Schneider, Nestlé CEO, said: “We continue to transform our global waters business to best position it for long-term profitable growth. This sale enables us to create a more focused business around our international premium brands, local natural mineral waters and high-quality healthy hydration products. We will also boost our innovation and business development efforts to capture emerging consumer trends, such as functional water.”
Nestlé reiterated its commitment to make its entire water portfolio carbon neutral by 2025. In 2020, Nestlé announced renewed sustainability commitments which build on existing efforts to enhance water stewardship and tackle plastic waste.
Symrise AG announces its sales figures for the financial year 2020 due to a special event end of last year. The Company achieved organic sales growth of 2.7 % which is slightly below the targeted range of 3 to 4 %. This is due to a cybersecurity attack in mid-December 2020, which temporarily caused significant disruptions to business operations. This one-time effect is reflected in the sales figures of the fourth quarter with an organic growth of 0.7 %. Meanwhile production processes have been restored globally. With respect to the profitability target, Symrise expects an EBITDA margin at the lower end of the guidance range of 21 to 22 %.
“Symrise maintained a very solid performance in a market environment impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. We were well on track until mid-December 2020 when we became the target of a criminal cybersecurity attack with blackmailing intent. It was out of question for us to give in. As a consequence, our business operations were at times severely restricted and we were therefore not able to fully achieve our growth targets. However, we follow a clear ethical compass and reject any form of criminal fraud or extortion. Although there were some delays in production and logistics, customers and business partners encouraged us in our position and we expressly thank them for that. Our business operations are meanwhile largely back to normal, and we are proceeding at high speed to clear the backlog of orders,” said Dr Heinz-Jürgen Bertram, CEO of Symrise AG.
Despite the heterogeneous market environment shaped by the global coronavirus pandemic, Symrise achieved organic sales growth of 2.7 % in 2020. Growth was impacted by the slower sales development in the month of December, which resulted from the cybersecurity attack. The fourth quarter recorded organic sales growth of 0.7 %. Excluding this one-time effect and based on a good sales performance in October and November as well as a robust order intake, Symrise would have achieved its original targets. Taking negative currency translation effects of € 152 million (- 4.5 %) into account, group sales in reporting currency amounted to € 3.521 billion (2019: € 3.408 billion). This represents an increase of 3.3 %.
Symrise remains confident that it will achieve an EBITDA margin at the lower end of the guidance range of 21 to 22 % for full year 2020.
The Company aims to increase its annual sales to € 5.5 to 6.0 billion by 2025. Symrise wants to achieve this with annual organic growth of 5 to 7 % (CAGR) as well as additional targeted acquisitions. In the medium term, profitability should remain within a target corridor of 20 to 23 %.
Effects of the cybersecurity attack largely remedied
The cybersecurity attack in December represented a criminal attack by unknown perpetrators with blackmailing intent. Symrise had immediately shielded its IT infrastructure and shut down essential IT systems after it had become aware of a cybersecurity attack in mid-December. In addition, the Company took comprehensive internal measures to counteract the attack and analyse the impact. Furthermore, Symrise immediately involved the relevant authorities and called in external forensic cyber experts.
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