University of Nottingham engineering alumni secure funding for device lowering food & beverage industry emissions

Tess Egginton
-
0
University of Nottingham engineering alumni secure funding for device lowering food & beverage industry emissions
A group of alumni from the University of Nottingham’s Faculty of Engineering have received funding for a new device that could significantly reduce carbon emissions for the food and beverage industry.
The device is a biofuel cell (BFC) which addresses the emissions of electricity used in essential processes by harnessing liquid organic waste to generate electricity that is directly fed into on-site equipment, including bottling equipment or battery storage systems. The aim is to decarbonise the food and beverage industry. The next generation fuel cell is possible due to the combination of advanced coating, design and manufacturing techniques, which results in high-efficiency electrodes. Pipeline Organics’ next-generation BFC will be able to produce more electricity per unit volume than traditional BFCs, and promises to be the world’s first BFC capable of generating clean energy at an industrial scale. The primary target for the device, the Food and Beverage Industry, produces roughly 25-30% of the world’s annual Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. In 2019 it was estimated at 158 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e) per year (Food and Drink Federation, 2021). This novel technology will benefit the food and drink industry by delivering a:
  • Reduction in energy bills, due to lower reliance on the National Grid for electrical power;
  • Reduction in carbon emissions, because the Biofuel Cell produces direct electricity through a zero-carbon biological process;
  • Resilient source of energy year-round independent of weather, because the Biofuel Cell relies on a customer waste, and not wind, sunlight or sludge shipments, to operate.
Pipeline Organics is comprised of University of Nottingham alumni with backgrounds across science and engineering. During a competition called YES20 hosted by the University of Nottingham, the team conceptualised an earlier version of the technology which led to a competition win in April 2021. They also proceeded to win the Ingenuity Competition in 2023, hosted by the same Haydn Green Institute for Entrepreneurship at the University of Nottingham, and were strong advocates for the Institute, Ingenuity Lab and its competitions since. The product Pipeline Organics are developing was inspired by the technical insights of two of the company’s founders, combining Keyvan’s expertise in fuel cell and coating chemistry with Eric’s knowledge of computational modelling and manufacturing design. In 2024, after developing a benchtop prototype using prior funding from various competitions and an Innovate UK grant, Pipeline Organics raised a further £1.5m, including a £630,000 grant from Innovate UK. This will enable Pipeline Organics to create and study a feasibility prototype that functions in real industry wastewater, leading to a commercially-ready product in the next 18-24 months. On the importance of Innovate UK funding, Andrew Raslan, co-Founder and COO, said: “The Innovate UK funding is a critical piece of the puzzle that will allow us to fund expensive research and development for hardware that is ‘part metal, part biological’. Co-funding by Innovate UK will allow us to access innovation and deeptech-focused investor networks. “Following operational studies, the data we gather will show very objectively what the value of our product is to our customers in terms of electricity generation, cost savings and carbon savings. This should get us a few early adopters who will buy our ‘beta product’ and will champion us for further funding and early industry adoption of the Biofuel Cell.”

Kite Packaging to attend London Packaging Week

Tess Egginton
-
0
Kite Packaging to attend London Packaging Week
Kite Packaging, a leading UK packaging supplier, is set to exhibit at London Packaging Week on the 11th and 12th September 2024. The exhibition will take place at ExCel London. The company will be stationed at stand B14 where they will be showcasing an array of packaging products and services. This includes luxury, beauty, beverages, FMCG industries and more. There will be a specific focus on sustainable solutions within gift, food, bottle, and postal and e-commerce-ready packaging. Amongst the showcase will be Kite’s range of shredded and tissue papers along with flexi-hex and corrugated sleeves for bottles. Also included will be kraft takeaway boxes and bowls, insulated box liners and postal boxes. All those interested in attending can register by following the link.

Mars to acquire Kellanova in $35.9bn deal

Tess Egginton
-
0
Mars to acquire Kellanova in $35.9bn deal
Mars, a family-owned, global leader in pet care, snacking and food, is set to acquire Kellanova, a leading company in global snacking, international cereal and noodles, North American plant-based foods and frozen breakfast foods, in a $35.9bn deal. Kellanova is home to iconic snacking brands including Pringles®, Cheez-It®, Pop-Tarts®, Rice Krispies Treats®, NutriGrain® and RXBAR®, as well as food brands including Kellogg’s® (international), Eggo® and MorningStar Farms®. With roots dating back more than 100 years, Kellanova had 2023 Net Sales of more than $13 billion, with a presence in 180 markets and approximately 23,000 employees. Kellanova’s portfolio complements the existing Mars portfolio, which includes billion-dollar snacking and confectionery brands like SNICKERS®, M&M’S®, TWIX®, DOVE® and EXTRA®, as well as KIND® and Nature’s Bakery®. Mars also has 10 pet care brands with over $1 billion in sales, including ROYAL CANIN®, VCA®, PEDIGREE®, BANFIELD®, WHISKAS®, BLUEPEARL®, CESAR®, SHEBA®, ANICURA® and IAMS®. With more than 150,000 Associates across its Petcare, Snacking and Food businesses, Mars had 2023 Net Sales of more than $50 billion. Poul Weihrauch, CEO and Office of the President of Mars, Incorporated, said: “In welcoming Kellanova’s portfolio of growing global brands, we have a substantial opportunity for Mars to further develop a sustainable snacking business that is fit for the future. We will honor the heritage and innovation behind Kellanova’s incredible snacking and food brands while combining our respective strengths to deliver more choice and innovation to consumers and customers. We have tremendous respect for the storied legacy that Kellanova has built and look forward to welcoming the Kellanova team.” Steve Cahillane, Chairman, President and CEO of Kellanova, added: “This is a truly historic combination with a compelling cultural and strategic fit. Kellanova has been on a transformation journey to become the world’s best snacking company, and this opportunity to join Mars enables us to accelerate the realization of our full potential and our vision. The transaction maximizes shareholder value through an all-cash transaction at an attractive purchase price and creates new and exciting opportunities for our employees, customers, and suppliers. “We are excited for Kellanova’s next chapter as part of Mars, which will bring together both companies’ world-class talent and capabilities and our shared commitment to helping our communities thrive. With a proven track record of successfully and sustainably nurturing and growing acquired businesses, we are confident Mars is a natural home for the Kellanova brands and employees.” Upon completion of the transaction, Kellanova will become part of Mars Snacking, led by Global President Andrew Clarke and headquartered in Chicago. Mars intends to apply its brand-building approach to further nurture and grow Kellanova’s brands, including accelerating innovation to meet evolving consumer tastes and preferences, investing locally to expand reach and introducing more better-for-you nutrition options to meet evolving consumer needs. Andrew Clarke, Global President of Mars Snacking, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to create a broader, global snacking business, allowing Kellanova and Mars Snacking to both achieve their full potential. “Kellanova and Mars share long histories of building globally recognized and beloved brands. The Kellanova brands significantly expand our Snacking platform, allowing us to even more effectively meet consumer needs and drive profitable business growth. Our complementary portfolios, routes-to-market and R&D capabilities will unleash enhanced consumer-centric innovation to shape the future of responsible snacking.”

Forbidden Foods to acquire Oat Milk Goodness

Tess Egginton
-
0
Forbidden Foods to acquire Oat Milk Goodness
Health & wellness food company Forbidden Foods is to acquire Oat Milk Goodness (OMG), an Australian plant-based non-dairy milk company, in a $3.42m deal. Co-founded by Australian cricketer Steve Smith, OMG was established to develop a home-grown oat milk product that takes advantage of Australia’s abundant supply of natural oats, and is also free of industrial seed oils such as canola, rapeseed or sunflower oil which can cause inflammation. Since launching, OMG’s core oat milk product has established strong traction among merchant customers in the café and barista industry. OMG has since broadened its product range to include flavoured milks and ‘prOATein’ options, and has expanded distribution through ranging in Woolworths and Ampol Foodary outlets. Through its distribution channels, OMG is also ranged in leading independent and health food stores. OMG is actively pursuing international expansion opportunities with an initial focus on India, where it has a unique opportunity to leverage Steve Smith’s profile in the Indian market and take advantage of increased demand for health products among Indian consumers. OMG’s near-term priorities are to fast-track the expansion of its existing product range, including more prOATein options, overseas expansion, while also building out its sales team and allocating resources to targeted marketing campaigns. Forbidden Foods’ Chief Executive Officer, Alex Aleksic said: “We are pleased to confirm this strategic acquisition with a company of OMG’s calibre. The proposed transaction represents a unique opportunity to leverage the respective strengths of both companies and create an integrated multi-channel, health-focused products business serving domestic and international markets. “Strategically, the Forbidden Foods Board and management team holds the view that OMG’s product suite specifically complements Forbidden Foods’ core range of Blue Dinosaur healthy snack foods, by adding a leading health-drink range in a fast-growing market. “Both parties have also identified numerous synergy opportunities in sales & marketing and the streamlining of overheads and internal administration costs, which will drive growth and cost efficiencies.” Oat Milk Goodness co-founder, Steve Smith, said: “We are excited to have entered into this SPA (Share Purchase Agreement) with Forbidden Foods and are confident that it will provide a springboard for OMG’s future growth. “While there are a number of synergies between the businesses, OMG has the potential to benefit from the agreement through access to capital markets and international expansion opportunities. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all shareholders, as well as key management for their support as we progress the business’ next phase of growth.”

SHICKEN eyes US expansion

Tess Egginton
-
0
SHICKEN eyes US expansion
Plant-based challenger brand, SHICKEN, is ramping up its distribution across the pond, landing listings of its Tikka Kebab in Costco US. SHICKEN will be the only UK plant-based brand in stores, following the huge success of its authentic Asian frozen meals offer in Costco UK over the past two years and expansion into Costco Iceland, Sweden and France earlier this year. The SHICKEN Tikka Kebab has become a Costco destination shop for customers, with sales of this line alone increasing by 15% across all stores in the UK and Europe over the last year. The family-owned brand is one of the few UK plant-based offers to crack the US market, after making its debut in Sprouts Farmers Market Stores in January this year. The premium retailer now lists SHICKEN’s best-selling Tikka Masala, Jalfrezi, and Butter Curries, plus its Tikka Kebab Skewers, across 380 stores, spanning 23 states. The SHICKEN launch in Costco US will initially cover stores in the north-west, with potential to expand to further regions, taking the potential opportunity across the entire Costco estate to over $40 Million in sales revenue. Commenting on the Costco US expansion, Veg Capital and Veganuary Co-Founder, Matthew Glover, said: “We knew from the off that the growth potential for the SHICKEN range was huge – the dishes taste incredible and their passion and commitment to quality and plant-based innovation stood out from day one. “We are over the moon to see SHICKEN land this fantastic US listing, as part of their growing international business with Costco. “This is just the beginning of an exciting journey and we’re proud to see Parm, Satvinder and the team, flying the flag for ethical and sustainable plant-based food.” SHICKEN Co-Founder, Parm Bains, said: “We are delighted about this major step in our exciting in partnership with Costco. “Expanding into Costco’s domestic market is a game-changer, not just for coverage across the US, but further global markets, including Costco Canada, Mexico, Australia, Japan and Korea. “The last year has really shaped the future of the business, as we continue to secure more shelf space across our global markets, through distribution gains and game-changing NPD – including our recent move to top 14-allergen free pea protein in all our recipes. “SHICKEN exists to bring the nation’s favourite world food cuisines into an inclusive, convenient, sustainable plant-based offer, without compromising on restaurant quality authentic taste and we can’t wait to see where this exciting step will lead!”

Yum Yums: the must-have sweet treat for this summer’s staycations

Tess Egginton
-
0
Yum Yums: the must-have sweet treat for this summer’s staycations
Sweet treats are essential for the British summer getaway, and Yum Yums are the top pick for staycation snacking this year. According to research by The Delicious Dessert Company, 75% of Brits are opting for staycations, making the first food shop a crucial moment for stocking up on indulgent snacks, with 17% of staycationers indulging in donuts or Yum Yums. The Delicious Dessert Company’s latest addition is the Caramelised Biscuit Yum Yum, now at Tesco stores. This treat features rich caramel fondant combined with crispy caramelised biscuit pieces, all encased in perfectly baked pastry. Claire Smith, Head of Insight at The Delicious Dessert Company, shares: “The Caramelised Biscuit Yum Yums are part of our summer collection, an ideal snack for on-the-go, whether enjoying a scenic drive or relaxing at your holiday destination.” Find out more about The Delicious Dessert Company at https://www.thedeliciousdessertcompany.com/

Multi-national food company fined £360,000 after worker loses fingers

Tess Egginton
-
0
Multi-national food company fined £360,000 after worker loses fingers
A multi-national food company has been fined more than £300,000 after one of its workers lost four fingers on his right hand while unblocking a machine at a site in Glasgow. Kerry Ingredients (UK) Limited received the fine following an incident at its factory in Hillington on 4 August 2021. The 39-year-old man was working on a mixer at the site, where dry seasoning blends and mixes are manufactured for the food industry. During the mixing process the machine began to develop a blockage, which the worker attempted to clear by inserting his right hand into the machine. However, as he did so, it came into contact with the rotating blades which resulted in the amputation of four of his fingers. Since the incident, the man has had to re-learn how to do everything with his left hand. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) established that there were no fixed guards preventing access to the blades from the underside. It also found there were not any interlocked guards which would stop the rotating parts if any component on the underside of the mixer were to be removed. Kerry Ingredients (UK) Limited of Bradley Road, Bristol pleaded guilty on 26 July 2024 to a contravention of The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1988, Regulations 11(1) and (2) and the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, Section 33(1)(c). At a further hearing on 8 August 2024, the company was fined £360,000. HSE principal inspector Hazel Dobb said: “This incident could so easily have been avoided by simply carrying out correct control measures and safe working practices. “Companies should be aware that HSE will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action against those that fall below the required standards.”

The London Packaging Week 2024 show preview

Tess Egginton
-
0
The London Packaging Week 2024 show preview
As top brands and thought leaders from across the packaging sector prepare to descend on London Packaging Week 2024, this year’s exhibition is shaping up to be the best and biggest yet. It’s the final countdown towards to one of the UK’s premier exhibitions for stylish, sustainable packaging solutions as London Packaging Week 2024 approaches, and with thousands of visitors flocking to see top brands and discover exciting innovations, organisers Easyfairs believe that 2024’s show could be the most successful to date. On 11 & 12 September, London Packaging Week is taking over the ExCeL centre to shine a spotlight on the best and brightest that the global packaging industry has to offer. The exhibition, already tipped to be among the hottest events in this year’s packaging calendar, will open its doors to thousands of attendees, brands, suppliers, and packaging developers, all seeking to discover the next big thing in packaging. The 4,500+ visitors already expected for this year’s event can explore a star-studded cast of 190 exhibitors filling every square foot of the show’s floorplan. These attendees can look forward to connecting with thought leaders from across packaging to foster new ideas, and prepare to network with leading brands such as Tesco, Sainsbury’s, John Lewis, Itsu, The Walt Disney Company, Bacardi, Holland & Barrett, Amazon, Avon, The National Gallery, Aldi, The Macallan, Bloom & Wild, Boots, and more. Numerous leading packaging industry suppliers have already confirmed their attendance at London Packaging Week 2024, including some of the biggest names in the business. Delegates will have the unique opportunity to connect with representatives from AllPack, Evisosys, Sun Branding, Berry Global, DekorGlass, DS Smith, and more, solidifying London Packaging Week’s reputation as a must-see show for anyone involved in the industry. Comprising four events across two days, London Packaging Week’s constituent exhibitions examine a cross-section of the issues that matter most in today’s packaging sector. Visitors seeking luxury packaging innovations will be able to find them at Packaging Première, which connects designers and manufacturers with major international brands. Meanwhile, attendees will be able to discover the latest in beauty packaging at PCD, the world’s premier event for this industry, and the PLD exhibition will continue to define the future of packaging for premium and luxury beverages. Finally, Food & Consumer Pack showcases innovations in packaging from across the thriving £200bn market for everyday food, drinks, and FMCG products. Expertise from across the packaging landscape With two days already packed with networking opportunities, what else can attendees expect? London Packaging Week is not just any tradeshow – this year’s event features a programme full of presentations, panels, and interviews featuring expert speakers to shine a spotlight on some of the most important issues facing the sector. Headline speakers include Professor Bejamin Voyer, from ESCP Business School, who will share insights into the science behind consumer behaviour. From marketing trends to consumer attitudes to certain products, this presentation will help delegates better understand what drives purchasing intent. Waqas Qureshi, Editor at Packaging News, will discuss how packaging can be designed to increase its functional elements for diversity, while OPRL’s Managing Director Jude Allan will guide attendees through the future of labelling, discussing new legislation and the impact of mandatory labelling on recycling awareness. The exhibition space will also feature lively debates in the form of panel discussions unpacking some of the most important challenges facing today’s industry. Among the busy programme, delegates have the chance to see William Connolly, Senior Principal Scientist at Diageo, join a panel including Lena Danielsson, Break Through Innovation Director at Pernod Ricard, Lauren Mckenzie, Head of New Product Development at SA Designer Parfums, and Tanguy Pellen, Senior Partner at Skarbek, in an eye-opening discussion about beauty and beverage packaging trends. The panel will dive into essential strategies for driving innovation in packaging, covering the latest tools and trends available. “From previous years we know just how much attendees value the insights and knowledge to be gleaned from attending London Packaging Week, and we’re thrilled this year to have organised a programme packed with even more exciting presentations focusing on today’s hot-button issues,” said Senior Marketing Manager James Montero MacColl. “From creating more sustainable packaging solutions, to understanding exactly what makes consumers tick, there’s something for everyone at London Packaging Week 2024. “What’s more, anyone who has attended London Packaging Week events in the past will know as well as its speaker programme, this exhibition has a reputation as a fantastic place to connect, learn, and become inspired. Whether you are a packaging supplier, specifier, buyer, or designer, this event is perfect for sharing knowledge, meeting new contacts, and gaining the spark of inspiration your business may need to create the packaging industry’s next big thing.” Discover award-winning innovations The packaging industry is a hotbed of innovation, and London Packaging Week has always focused on bringing the latest and greatest new things to the fore. That’s why the fact that this year’s event will host the inaugural London Packaging Week Innovation Awards is so exciting. These awards will celebrate some of the best upcoming designs from across the sector, crowning the first ever winners and featuring all the finalists in a brand-new gallery for attendees to explore. This new exhibit sits alongside the annual Innovation Gallery, which will feature some of the most exciting packaging solutions from the last 12 months and provide a glimpse into where the industry is heading. “The London Packaging Week Innovation Awards are an amazing way to discover the upcoming talent in packaging and see first-hand the innovations that are shaping the industry’s future. This event will be a must-see for anyone who wants to get ahead of the crowd and position themselves for success,” added MacColl. With demand for tickets set to soar as the show rapidly approaches, anyone interested in attending is encouraged to register for their place today.

Farm Retail Association partners with Speciality & Fine Food Fair to unveil exciting new brand evolution

Tess Egginton
-
0
Farm Retail Association partners with Speciality & Fine Food Fair to unveil exciting new brand evolution
Speciality & Fine Food Fair, taking place on 10-11 September at Olympia London, has announced an exciting new partnership with the Farm Retail Association (FRA) to host an exclusive launch party showcasing the association’s extensive rebranding. On the afternoon of Wednesday 11 September, members of the FRA are invited to an exclusive event at the Fair where the new brand identity will be revealed. This highly anticipated unveiling will also include the announcement of the winners of the Farm Retail Awards and details about the FRA’s 2025 conference. Joining the farm retail community for the occasion will be the association’s patron, Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall. Fearnley-Whittingstall expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming event, saying, “I’m delighted to be joining the Farm Retail Association at Speciality & Fine Food Fair this September to celebrate the start of a new chapter for the association and to connect with the amazing farm retail community.” Emma Mosey, Chair of the Farm Retail Association, adds: “The UK’s food system is at a crossroads. We believe that the future of food lies in supporting local farmers and independent retailers. With our rebrand, the Farm Retail Association is committed to leading a food revolution that puts real, local food at the heart of our diets and communities.” The collaboration between Speciality & Fine Food Fair and the Farm Retail Association underscores a shared passion for celebrating and promoting excellence in the artisan food & drink industry. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant showcase of new and unique products, opportunities to forge valuable business connections, and insights into the evolving landscape of retail, hospitality, and speciality food & drink. Nicola Woods, Event Manager for Speciality & Fine Food Fair, says: “The farm retail community is closely linked to the world of speciality and fine food, and we can’t wait to welcome members of the Farm Retail Association to this year’s event. “In addition to networking with other members of the FRA community, visitors will have the opportunity to sample some of the most innovative and exciting products in the world of artisan food and keep up to date with all the latest trends in the sector.” This year’s Fair promises to be a landmark event as it celebrates its 25th anniversary, blending tradition with innovation and setting the stage for future growth and collaboration within the speciality food and farm retail sectors. Speciality & Fine Food Fair takes place on 10-11 September at Olympia London. To find out more, and to register for your complimentary trade ticket, visit specialityandfinefoodfairs.co.uk. 

Aldi to invest £3bn in British beef suppliers

Tess Egginton
-
0
Aldi to invest £3bn in British beef suppliers
Aldi, the UK’s fourth-largest supermarket, is set to invest £3 billion with British beef suppliers over the next five years, as part of its ongoing commitment to championing Great British quality and assisting UK producers. As the country’s largest retailer of British beef, Aldi hopes the investment will allow farmers to plan confidently and provide security for supply chains up and down the country. Part of this investment includes a five-year contract with its supply partner Kepak, providing a £260 million investment into their line of Aberdeen Angus beef. As well as championing authentic British produce, the deal will enhance the quality and range of beef available to customers. Julie Ashfield, Managing Director of Buying at Aldi UK, said: “As the UK’s largest British beef retailer, we’re proud of our long-term relationships with British farmers across the country. “The UK farming community plays a vital role in our food supply chains – our continued investment in British beef is in recognition of this and means we can continue to provide the best quality British products for our customers.”
1...456...74Page 5 of 74