Food & Drink Network UK’s Post

Over 58 million tons of food — 131 kg per person — are wasted every year across the EU. Yet, innovative solutions are emerging to tackle this challenge. Radial Europe Groningen successfully onboarded Foodello - Fiksuruoka.fi, a Finnish market leader that rescues surplus products from food producers, importers, wholesalers and retailers. Through its model, Foodello has already saved over 16 million kilograms of food and offers these products to consumers at significant discounts. This partnership marks Radial's first collaboration with an online supermarket for #fulfilment services. The goal: to support Foodello's rapid growth with a tailored logistics solution. "We offer Foodello personalized fulfilment to be able to handle the increase in orders. We will improve their customer experience and support their continued growth. This will also inspire other online supermarkets to choose Radial.", says Dries De Love, Executive Vice President Europe, Radial. ➡️ http://prez.ly/CrSc #wearebpostgroup #foodwastereduction #elogistics

Amid wholesaler consolidation and a tightening market, the call for solid brand strategy and active distribution partner engagement has never been louder. While the landscape is indeed evolving, the core principles of brand success remain constant. You don't need to reinvent the wheel, but it’s crucial to re-examine your strategies and processes to build a rock-solid foundation. Too many industry headlines spell doom and gloom, yet the opportunity for growth right now is incredible if you have the right strategies in place. All bs aside, now is the time to establish those systems and truly differentiate your brand. Wholesalers are actively seeking brands with strong foundations because it empowers not just the brands but the wholesalers too, fostering mutual success and growth. Even if you're operating an established brand, it's entirely feasible to rework your core systems and position yourself for sustainable growth and profit. Don't let yourself believe that the end is near; instead, recognize the vast opportunities available for those who know how to seize them.

Refresco acquires Frías Nutrición S.A.U. 👏 The Dutch drinks group has announced the acquisition of the Spanish plant-based beverage producer for an undisclosed fee. Frías Nutrición were acquired by Alantra Private Equity in 2019 and the group have agreed to sell the business to Refresco, who are looking to expand their youthful plant-based portfolio. The Rotterdam-based beverage producer opened its first European plant-based production line in Germany two months ago and recently entered the oat drinks category. Hans Roelofs, CEO of Refresco, commented: "As part of our proven buy-and-build strategy, we are looking to expand our capabilities in existing and adjacent beverage categories." “The acquisition of Frías significantly strengthens our position in the fast-growing plant-based drinks category. It complements our existing footprint in Spain with a production facility solely dedicated to plant-based products.” Bruno Delgado-Luque, Partner at Alantra Private Equity, added: "Together with the Frías family, we launched a major investment plan that resulted in the creation of one of the most modern and efficient plant-based drinks factories in Europe." “We are confident that Frías has a bright future ahead and will continue its successful growth with the support of Refresco.” #News #Drinks #Beverage #Acquisition #Growth #PlantBased #Strategy

INTEGRATION OF OPERATIONS - GRUPO CCU - GRUPO AJ VIERCI   The Chilean business group Compañía Cervecerías Unidas (“CCU”) and the Paraguayan business Grupo Vierci have joined commercial forces through the integration of the operations of Bebidas del Paraguay S.A. (“BDP”) and Distribuidora del Paraguay S.A. (“DDP”) (both from the CCU Group) with AV S.A. (“AV”) (from the Vierci Group). Following the transaction, the shareholding structure of these companies is distributed as 51% for the CCU Group and 49% for the Vierci Group.   As a result of the transaction, BDP will operate two bottling plants, consolidating its position as one of the leaders in beverage production and bottling in Paraguay. Meanwhile, DDP and AV strengthen their position as leaders in the country's distribution, marketing, and commercialization of beverages and food products. The beverage portfolio includes renowned brands such as Pulp, Pepsi, Paso de los Toros, Mirinda, Split, Watt's, Puro Sol, Agua La Fuente, Aquafina, Gatorade, Red Bull, Rockstar, Heineken, Amstel, Sol, Sajonia, Kunstmann, Blue Moon, Paulaner, Schin, Pisco, Mistral, Misiones de Rengo, and La Celia. Additionally, they distribute PepsiCo food and snacks, with key brands such as Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Fandangos, and Quaker.   This integration will enable business growth, benefit all employees, and boost the investment of the CCU and Grupo Vierci.   The CCU Group, BDP, and DDP were advised by #GrossBrown, whose team was led by Partner Sigfrido Gross-Brown and Senior Associate Francisca Peroni. The design of the transaction, as well as the corporate, financial, and transactional aspects, were overseen by Partner Sigfrido Gross-Brown, Senior Associate Francisca Peroni, and Associate Alvaro Portillo Prono, while Associates María José Gill and Camila Basili handled the structuring of the operational and logistical integration of the business. The notification of the transaction to the National Competition Commission (“CONACOM”) for its respective authorization is being managed by our associates Álvaro Portillo and Luciana Callizo. The Gross Brown team included Paulina Figari, Franco De Gasperi, and Alberto Fleytas Squef. We congratulate our colleague, Attorney Pablo Troche, Abog., and his team of lawyers who advised the Vierci Group. #NewslettersGrossBrown #paraguay #business #commercial

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Tate & Lyle is acquiring CP Kelco (a division of J.M. Huber Corporation) for $1.8 billion, and Huber will become a long-term shareholder after the transaction is complete. While CP Kelco's portfolio is solely focused on a small number of product offerings, including pectins, citrus fibers, etc., Tale & Lyle's portfolio is broad, with a key focus on mouthfeel, fortification, and sweeteners. CP Kelco's focused portfolio will complement Tate & Lyle's broader product offering. Apart from food ingredients, CP Kelco also provides personal care ingredients in a limited capacity, but there is no indication of how that segment will be handled. As both businesses are complementary to each other, the acquisition is going to accelerate revenue, resulting in high-end growth and potential market dominance. https://lnkd.in/eT99wRBX

IBC Simply Acquires March Foods Ltd for Unprecedented Growth! Significant developments are being made in the industry as Italian Beverage Company (IBC Simply) acquires March Foods Ltd, one of the UK's leading co-packing and co-manufacturing companies. This strategic move creates a powerhouse in UK food and drink manufacturing and packing, ushering in a new era of innovation and capabilities. Key Highlights: 🤝 Formation of Delightful Food Group: The acquisition establishes Delightful Food Group, bringing together the expertise of IBC Simply and March Foods under a common parent group. 💡 Cutting-edge Technology and Innovation: The collaboration aims to leverage cutting-edge technology, innovative packaging formats, and enhanced capabilities to provide customers with a comprehensive, forward-thinking solution. 🌐 Continuity and Growth: Operations at March Foods will remain unchanged, ensuring customer continuity. The move is poised to open up new growth opportunities and expand offerings. Ricky Flax, CEO of Delightful Food Group, shared, "We see this acquisition as the first step of a growth plan for Delightful Food Group, and we're excited to see where our journey takes us." Read the full article in Wholesale Manager Magazine to delve into the details of this transformative move in the food and drink industry: https://lnkd.in/dcfCeR2R #wholesale #wholesalers #distribution #supplychain #manufacturing #foodandbeverageindustry #foodanddrink

Challenges in the #greenhousegrown industry exist around the world. Why? "Hundreds of jobs to go as fresh produce supplier UK Salads goes under" https://lnkd.in/gmdG-Gkn UK SALADS LIMITED was a family business, established in 1992, before it was bought out by private investors in 2019 under the name of Aquila Food Group Holding Company. The Aquila Food Group is an investment holding company headed by Group CEO Jack O’Brien with a goal is to build a £1bn revenue group in the F&B space within the next 5 years encompassing 7 core F & B verticals. The model is to align with long established and well-run companies, for which they can benefit from being part of a larger group, leverage economies of scale & effectively create the best wholesale experience for their clients whilst driving positive change in each subsidiary’s local environment. The last set of full accounts for UK Salads lodged with Companies House, the UK’s company register, covered the year to 31 October 2022. During the period, the group’s turnover reached £69.2m ($87.8m), up from £51.1m a year earlier. Operating profit was £789,198, versus £725,483. UK Salads made a net profit of £467,578, against £854,177 the year previous. #greenhousegrown #controlledenvironmentagriculture #indoorfarming #indoorag #agtech #privateequity #why

NAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF EUROPEAN ALCOHOL DISTRIBUTION In the intricate world of #alcohol logistics, few companies have mastered the art of seamless #distribution across Europe as effectively as Nedcargo. As a leading logistics provider, Nedcargo has established itself as the gateway to the European continent for global wine, beer, and spirits brands. With a robust network and cutting-edge infrastructure, the company plays a crucial role in ensuring that some of the world’s most beloved alcoholic beverages reach the shelves of retailers, bars, and restaurants across Europe. The Backbone of European Alcohol Logistics Nedcargo’s operations are strategically located near major European ports and in key consumer markets, enabling the company to offer unparalleled service in terms of speed, efficiency, and compliance. The company’s state-of-the-art warehouses are equipped to handle the complexities of alcohol storage, including temperature-controlled environments essential for preserving the quality of wine and beer. Moreover, Nedcargo’s deep understanding of European Union regulations ensures that every shipment complies with the stringent requirements, avoiding costly delays and legal hurdles. Challenges in a Dynamic Market However, the European alcohol distribution market is not without its challenges. The industry is heavily regulated, with varying compliance standards across different countries. Navigating these regulatory landscapes requires not only logistical expertise but also a keen understanding of the legal intricacies involved in alcohol transportation and storage. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales channels has added a layer of complexity to traditional distribution models. Consumers are increasingly expecting faster delivery times and greater transparency, which puts pressure on logistics providers to innovate and adapt. Looking Ahead: Innovation and Sustainability Nedcargo is not just keeping pace with these challenges but is also leading the charge towards a more sustainable future in logistics. The company is investing in green technologies and exploring new ways to reduce its carbon footprint, recognizing the growing importance of sustainability in today’s global supply chains. As Nedcargo continues to expand its footprint across Europe, it remains committed to providing reliable, compliant, and efficient logistics solutions for the alcohol industry. By leveraging its extensive network, advanced technology, and deep regulatory expertise, Nedcargo is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of alcohol producers and distributors alike. In an industry where timing, quality, and compliance are paramount, Nedcargo stands out as a trusted partner for navigating the complexities of European alcohol distribution. #Nedcargo #AlcoholLogistics #EuropeanDistribution #SupplyChain #WineLogistics #BeerLogistics #Sustainability Diederik Jan Antvelink Mark van Ommen Peter Korpershoek Nancy Goossens

CARLSBERG BUYS BRITVIC Carlsberg Group has agreed to acquire Britvic plc for £3.3bn, growing its bottling activities for PepsiCo and expanding further in the UK. Britvic, PepsiCo’s bottler in Britain, will bolster Carlsberg’s portfolio with brands like Robinsons and Fruit Shoot. Carlsberg will pay 1,290p per Britvic share and provide a 25p special dividend, representing a 36% premium over Britvic’s prior share price. Initial investor skepticism turned as Carlsberg projected £100mn in cost savings over five years. NATIONAL INSTITUTIONS Britvic’s origins date back to the mid-19th century when it began as the British Vitamin Products Company, founded in 1845 in Chelmsford, Essex. Initially focused on providing affordable, nutritious soft drinks fortified with vitamins, the company adopted the name “British Vitamin Products Company” in the 1930s, with the brand name “Britvic” becoming a trademark in 1949. Over the decades, Britvic expanded its product range and market presence through strategic growth and acquisitions. This included establishing partnerships like its long-standing relationship with PepsiCo, which allowed Britvic to distribute popular brands like Pepsi and 7UP in the UK. Carlsberg is nearly the same age. The renowned Danish brewery, was founded in 1847 by J.C. Jacobsen in Copenhagen. Named after his son Carl and the Danish word for hill, "bjerg," the brewery quickly became known for its commitment to quality and innovation in brewing. Carlsberg introduced the concept of using pure yeast cultures in the brewing process, which revolutionised the industry. The company expanded internationally over the years, maintaining its reputation for excellence. Today, Carlsberg is one of the world's largest beer producers, with a diverse portfolio of brands enjoyed globally. BED FELLOWS Brewers and bottlers are often bed fellows and this is a logical move. They are very similar businesses with common routes-to-market focused on distribution and availability, similar production focused on OEE. The acquisition aligns with Carlsberg’s strategy to diversify, expand market reach, and drive innovation - offers revenue growth and more access to the alcohol-free segment. There will be as stated significant cost synergies. Feels like a smart move. Having said that the history of FMCG is littered with smart acquisitions that got ugly. To be honest, one of the best I think still remains competitor The Coca-Cola Company’s acquisition of innocent drinks under the banner of “Connected Not Integrated”. Congratulations and looking forward to seeing what next Simon Litherland and Jacob Aarup-Andersen. ____ #TheCPGGeek #IBM #IBMRetail #IBMConsumer #FMCG #ConsumerGoods #Retail #RethinkRetail Proud to be a #RethinkRetailTopExpert RETHINK Retail Per-Magnus Andersson - Jonathan Wright - Yagnesh (Yagi) Odhavji - Andrew Worsley-Tonks