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You’re reading a free preview of The Newsroom 📰 ✅ Get full access to The Newsroom — your personalised F&B feed with curated insights, company updates, and announcements. + access to the full app collection from FNBX 👉 Join for Free 👋 Log in Subscribe to weekly updates Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit The Newsroom Energy Drinks Energy Drinks November 10, 2025 Gorgie Unveils Limited-Edition ‘Cranberry Party Pop’ Energy Drink for the Holiday Season Described as a “refreshing and festive” twist on the brand’s signature functional beverages, Cranberry Party Pop delivers 150mg of caffeine from green tea, plus biotin, B vitamins and L-theanine Energy Drinks October 19, 2025 Nutrabolt Launches C4 Ultimate Energy x Godzilla Beverage This limited-edition energy drink, featuring a bold Sour Blue Razzilla flavour, will debut on November 3, coinciding with Godzilla Day, marking a strategic move to capture the attention of both energy drink aficionados and fans of the legendary film franchise. Energy Drinks June 25, 2025 Red Bull Expands Sugar-Free Range with New Lilac Edition in the UK Red Bull Sugarfree Lilac Edition, a new grapefruit and blossom-flavoured variant developed in response to strong consumer interest in lighter, flavour-forward functional beverages. Legal April 16, 2025 Monster Beverage Secures Appeals Court Win in $311M False Advertising Case Against Bang Energy Monster Beverage Corporation has successfully defended its $311 million legal victory against Bang Energy and its founder Jack Owoc, after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld a previous trial court ruling this week. Energy Drinks February 27, 2025 Red Bull expands Editions range with launch of Summer Edition White Peach Red Bull is expanding its portfolio of flavoured energy drinks with the launch of Summer Edition White Peach, rolling out from 2 March across multiple UK retail channels. Energy Drinks November 26, 2024 Red Bull expands sugar-free portfolio with launch of Red Bull Zero Red Bull has unveiled Red Bull Zero, a zero-sugar, zero-calorie version of its flagship Red Bull Original energy drink, designed to deliver the same flavour and functionality as the classic variant. Energy Drinks September 18, 2024 Monster expands juice line with Rio Carnival-inspired energy drink New ‘Rio Punch’ flavour joins Juice Monster range, celebrating Brazil’s vibrant fruit culture First PREV 1 Page 1 NEXT Last

$1.4 billion beverage company taps Ricky Khetarpaul to lead financial strategy as brand prepares for energy drink market entry $1.4 billion beverage company taps Ricky Khetarpaul to lead financial strategy as brand prepares for energy drink market entry Liquid Death, the Los Angeles-based beverage company known for its distinctive skull-branded canned water, has appointed Ricky Khetarpaul as its new Chief Financial Officer. The appointment comes as the $1.4 billion company prepares for significant expansion into new beverage categories, including the competitive energy drink market. Strategic Leadership Addition Khetarpaul brings extensive beverage industry experience to his new role, having previously served as CFO of Health-Ade, the kombucha and gut-health beverage brand. His career includes senior finance positions at major food and beverage companies, including over eight years at PepsiCo where he led reporting, forecasting, and planning for a $5 billion beverage portfolio. "It's a truly healthy beverage platform with a proven track record as an innovator across categories," Khetarpaul said of his decision to join Liquid Death. "I've been a big fan of Liquid Death." The new CFO also held the position of North America CFO for Lavazza and leadership roles at Sabra Dipping Co. and Walgreens Boots Alliance, providing him with diverse experience across the consumer packaged goods sector. Impressive Growth Trajectory Founded in 2017 by CEO Mike Cessario, Liquid Death has achieved remarkable growth since its market launch in 2019. The company reported scanned sales exceeding $300 million in 2024 and has maintained a 380% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) since launch. The brand's success stems from its unique positioning in the beverage market, offering water, sparkling water, and iced tea with fruit juice in distinctive tallboy cans featuring edgy, skeleton-stamped branding. Despite the alcohol-adjacent packaging, all products are non-alcoholic. Recent expansion efforts include a new distribution partnership with Big Geyser in New York, demonstrating the company's commitment to broadening its market reach. Targeting Gen Z and Millennial Consumers Liquid Death's marketing strategy has proven particularly effective with younger demographics, with Gen Z and millennials comprising over 70% of the brand's customer base. This aligns with broader industry trends, as recent NCSolutions survey data indicates that half of Gen Z consumers choose to be alcohol-free, with 43% believing their generation drives the "sober curious" movement. The company's social media presence reflects this focus, with 14.5 million followers across TikTok and Instagram platforms. CEO Cessario, a former marketing executive, credits the brand's entertainment-first, social media-centric approach for its strong consumer appeal. Financial Strategy and Growth Vision Khetarpaul emphasized his growth-oriented approach to the CFO role, stating: "I view the CFO role as a growth driver, not just a traditional controller. Liquid Death's marketing converts brand awareness into sales; the company is very metrics-driven. We measure marketing investments both strategically and in terms of ROI, which is music to any CFO's ears." His experience in sales and marketing at PepsiCo before transitioning to finance positions him well to support Liquid Death's continued expansion strategy. Energy Drink Market Entry Planned Looking ahead, Liquid Death plans to enter the $23 billion energy drink market in 2026 with Liquid Death Sparkling Energy. The product will differentiate itself by using natural caffeine from coffee beans rather than synthetic sources, maintaining the brand's commitment to natural ingredients. However, the energy drink segment presents significant competitive challenges, with established players like Red Bull and Monster dominating market share. Khetarpaul's role will be crucial in developing the financial strategy to compete effectively in this space. The company has also demonstrated innovation through strategic partnerships, recently launching a limited-edition Fruity Pebbles sparkling water called "Cereal Criminal" exclusively on Amazon. Industry Impact and Future Outlook Khetarpaul identified consumer loyalty as the primary challenge facing CPG brands today. "Even bigger brands I've worked with have struggled," he noted. "But in just a few years, Liquid Death has built one of the biggest fan bases in the beverage industry." As CFO, Khetarpaul will play a key leadership role in helping Liquid Death achieve CEO Cessario's vision of becoming "the next true multi-category beverage brand." Khetarpaul replaces Karim Sadik-Khan, who served as CFO from June 2024 and has since moved to the CFO position at Spindrift. With a loyal consumer base, strong financial performance, and experienced leadership team, Liquid Death appears well-positioned to continue its disruptive impact on the beverage industry across multiple categories. The Newsroom People Liquid Death Appoints PepsiCo Veteran as CFO to Drive Multi-Category Expansion News October 13, 2025 People Water Beverage Related news People SIG Group appoints Mikko Keto as new CEO People Walmart Names John Furner as Next President & CEO, Succeeding Doug McMillon in 2026 People Hochdorf Appoints Former Danone Executive Sandro Tichelli as CEO People Nichols Appoints Matthew Rothwell as CFO and Company Secretary

The partnership, described by Heineken Studio as a celebration of “brewing innovation, artistic vision, and quality experiences,” aims to capture the spirit of social gatherings and the laid-back conviviality of the South of France. Heineken Studio , the brewer’s creative innovation hub, has unveiled a limited-edition beer created in collaboration with French designer Axel Chay , blending brewing craftsmanship with artistic design inspired by Chay’s hometown of Marseille . The partnership, described by Heineken Studio as a celebration of “brewing innovation, artistic vision, and quality experiences,” aims to capture the spirit of social gatherings and the laid-back conviviality of the South of France. Working alongside Heineken’s master brewer Willem van Waesberghe , Chay helped craft a seasoned lager featuring subtle notes of peach and pineapple , paired with a touch of Camargue salt —a nod to the coastal heritage of Marseille. The result is a refreshing take on Heineken’s classic flavour profile, infused with regional character and personal storytelling. The collaboration also extends to design, with Chay creating a custom can and a matching “social set” that includes a tray, coaster, and glassware. The aesthetic draws from Chay’s distinctive Mediterranean style, merging modern art influences with Heineken’s iconic branding. “Our creative partnership began with an exploration of Axel’s base of Marseille and his vision for the beer,” said Willem van Waesberghe , Heineken’s master brewer. “Our goal was to craft something that harmonised the crisp, refreshing character of Heineken with flavours that held a deep, personal meaning.” The Axel Chay x Heineken edition will launch in France on 17 November , available online, at select venues nationwide, and through a pop-up store in Marseille from 14–15 November . The collaboration reflects Heineken Studio’s broader strategy of bridging design, culture, and innovation —positioning the brand at the intersection of creativity and modern consumer experiences. Featured in this news Alcohol Heineken The Newsroom Beverage Heineken Partners with Designer Axel Chay on Limited-Edition Marseille-Inspired Beer News November 13, 2025 Beverage Alcohol Packaging Marketing Related news Legal Thailand’s New Alcohol Law Sparks Backlash from Tourism & Nightlife Sectors Coffee & Tea Oatly Launches ‘Baristamatic’: New Oat Drink Designed for Automated Coffee Machines People Nichols Appoints Matthew Rothwell as CFO and Company Secretary People Tropicana Brands Group Appoints Paul Chibe as CEO to Lead Next Phase of Growth

The appointment represents a strategic move to strengthen the company's leadership as it seeks to expand its market presence in the growing functional foods sector. Jemapete, who has been a strategic investor in Glucose Health since 2017, brings extensive financial services expertise and a deep understanding of the company's mission and market potential. Functional food and beverage company appoints seasoned investor with three decades of Wall Street experience to drive strategic growth initiatives Glucose Health, Inc. (OTC: GLUC), a specialized functional food and beverage company focused on addressing obesity and diabetes through innovative products, has announced the appointment of Christopher J. Jemapete to its Board of Directors, effective October 29, 2025. The appointment represents a strategic move to strengthen the company's leadership as it seeks to expand its market presence in the growing functional foods sector. Jemapete, who has been a strategic investor in Glucose Health since 2017, brings extensive financial services expertise and a deep understanding of the company's mission and market potential. Extensive Financial Services Background Jemapete's appointment leverages his impressive 30-year career in financial services and securities, including senior positions at some of Wall Street's most prominent firms. His experience spans roles at E.F. Hutton, Shearson Lehman Brothers, and Fidelity Investments, before concluding his corporate career at ALPS Distributors, Inc. in Denver, Colorado, where he worked until his retirement in 2010. Since retirement, Jemapete has focused on identifying and supporting investment opportunities in the micro-cap equity sector, developing specialized expertise in capital formation, financing structures, and strategic growth execution for emerging companies. Proven Commitment to Company Growth As one of Glucose Health's earliest strategic investors, Jemapete has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the company's mission. He has participated in every private placement offering since 2019, playing a crucial role in raising over $2 million in capital to support the company's development and market expansion. The company's flagship products, GLUCODOWN® and FIBER UP®, have already established a strong retail distribution network through major partners including Amazon and two of the largest brick-and-mortar pharmacy chains in the United States. Strategic Vision for Growth Commenting on his appointment and the company's future direction, Jemapete emphasized the importance of adequate capitalization in executing Glucose Health's strategic business plan. "The Company has already established a robust retail distribution network for its flagship products through major partners," he stated. "Our focus moving forward must be to build upon this foundation to drive meaningful revenue growth and enhance shareholder value." His strategic priorities align with the growing market demand for functional foods and beverages that address specific health concerns, particularly in the diabetes and obesity management sectors. The appointment comes at a time when the functional foods and beverages market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness. Companies like Glucose Health, which develop products specifically targeting health conditions such as diabetes and obesity, are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. Jemapete's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Fairfield University and certification as a Certified Financial Planner from Adelphi University, providing him with both the marketing insight and financial acumen necessary to guide the company's strategic development. The strengthening of Glucose Health's board with Jemapete's appointment signals the company's commitment to professional governance and strategic growth as it continues to develop and market functional food and beverage solutions for health-conscious consumers. The Newsroom People Glucose Health Strengthens Board with Financial Services Veteran Christopher J. Jemapete News October 29, 2025 People Confectionery Health & Nutrition Ingredients Related news People SIG Group appoints Mikko Keto as new CEO People Walmart Names John Furner as Next President & CEO, Succeeding Doug McMillon in 2026 People Hochdorf Appoints Former Danone Executive Sandro Tichelli as CEO People Nichols Appoints Matthew Rothwell as CFO and Company Secretary

You’re reading a free preview of The Newsroom 📰 ✅ Get full access to The Newsroom — your personalised F&B feed with curated insights, company updates, and announcements. + access to the full app collection from FNBX 👉 Join for Free 👋 Log in Subscribe to weekly updates Email* Yes, subscribe me to your newsletter. Submit The Newsroom Foodservice Foodservice November 13, 2025 Scholarship America donates 200 meals to D.C. students after gala postponed by travel disruptions Following widespread air travel cancellations that forced the postponement of its annual Partner Convening and Irving Innovation Awards, Scholarship America redirected all catered food from the events to help local college students in need. Foodservice November 13, 2025 Chartwells launches “Crafted by Chartwells” to scale student-driven dining concepts nationwide Chartwells Higher Education has launched Crafted by Chartwells, an innovation platform that transforms student feedback into scalable, customizable dining concepts across college and university campuses. Coffee & Tea November 13, 2025 Oatly Launches ‘Baristamatic’: New Oat Drink Designed for Automated Coffee Machines Oatly has unveiled Oatly Baristamatic, a new oat drink specifically developed for use in automated coffee machines, expanding the brand’s footprint in the fast-growing out-of-home beverage sector. Coffee & Tea October 29, 2025 Starbucks Japan Launches 2025 Holiday Menu with Strawberry & Joyful Medley Tea Frappuccino Starbucks Japan has unveiled its comprehensive 2025 holiday beverage lineup, launching four days ahead of Halloween with the introduction of the Strawberry & Joyful Medley Tea Frappuccino and complementary seasonal offerings. Coffee & Tea October 29, 2025 Starbucks Unveils Limited-Edition Halloween-Themed Abracadabra Frappuccino The innovative drink will be available from October 27 through November 2, 2025, bringing a touch of seasonal magic to the coffee chain's beverage portfolio. Foodservice October 27, 2025 Ascent Hospitality Management Appoints Industry Veteran Paul Damico as CEO Ascent Hospitality Management, the parent company of restaurant brands Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co., has appointed Paul Damico as chief executive officer, effective immediately. The appointment positions the company for its next phase of growth and modernization under the leadership of a seasoned industry executive. Coffee & Tea October 27, 2025 Delta Air Lines and Starbucks Launch Innovative 'In-Air Coffeehouse' Experience Delta Air Lines and Starbucks have announced a groundbreaking collaboration with the launch of "The In-Air Coffeehouse," a unique experiential marketing initiative that combines air travel with immersive coffee education. Foodservice October 25, 2025 FC Barcelona Launches Global Restaurant Chain 'Can Barça' in Strategic F&B Expansion Barcelona, Spain - In a significant diversification move, FC Barcelona has announced a strategic partnership with Novadial Corporate to launch 'Can Barça,' a global restaurant chain that will blend the club's iconic brand with food and beverage operations across international markets. First PREV 1 Page 1 NEXT Last

the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council officially launched its Sustainability Certification at the INC headquarters in Reus, during the research event, NUTS 2025. The launch marks a milestone for the industry, introducing the first-ever sustainability certification designed exclusively for the global nut and dried fruit sector. On October 13, 2025, the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council officially launched its Sustainability Certification at the INC headquarters in Reus, during the research event, NUTS 2025. The launch marks a milestone for the industry, introducing the first-ever sustainability certification designed exclusively for the global nut and dried fruit sector. INC Executive Director Goretti Guasch commented, "For the nut and dried fruit industry and the INC, sustainability is a strategic priority. While many existing certifications include sustainability components, none have been tailored to address the unique characteristics and challenges of this industry. This certification has been created by the industry, for the industry." While the industry has already made significant strides in sustainability, this certification highlights those achievements and drives even greater progress. It enables companies worldwide to stand out in a sustainability-driven marketplace, offering tailored criteria that reflect the unique roles across the value chain. The INC Sustainability Certification provides companies with a clear framework to prioritize actions, align with best practices, and meet verified sustainability standards across environmental, social, and governance dimensions. Present at the launch, INC Executive Committee members highlighted the certification's impact across the global supply chain. Growers, often multigenerational family operations, have long practiced methods that protect soil, water, air, and biodiversity forming the foundation for sustainable production. The certification builds on these practices by implementing governance standards that ensure fair treatment of employees and suppliers, extending sustainability from the farm to consumer. Market demand is also rising for sustainable products, with large markets such as China driving transformative change. Lastly, they added that the Certification supports both small and large companies with practical guidance covering areas from carbon footprint reduction and Zero Waste initiatives to responsible agricultural inputs. Ashok Krishen, INC Chairman, concluded: "In today's world, sustainability is not a 'nice to have' — it is the right thing to do. We are proud to pioneer and advance sustainable practices, ensuring our industry continues to grow responsibly and sustainably into the future." The Newsroom Safety & Quaility INC Launches Sustainability Certification Specifically for the Nut and Dried Fruit Industry News October 12, 2025 Safety & Quaility Food Related news Water Dutch Water Tech Startup Hulo Secures €2.3M to Scale AI-Powered Leak Detection Legal Texas Enacts New Law Mandating Warning Labels on Foods with Banned Additives

MGP Ingredients, a leading brand owner and contract distiller, has announced two significant executive appointments as part of its strategic growth agenda. The company has named Matias Bentel as Chief Marketing Officer and Chris Wiseman as Senior Vice President of Operations, strengthening its leadership team with seasoned industry professionals. Kansas-based spirits company brings in former Brown-Forman executive as Chief Marketing Officer and manufacturing veteran as Senior VP of Operations MGP Ingredients, a leading brand owner and contract distiller, has announced two significant executive appointments as part of its strategic growth agenda. The company has named Matias Bentel as Chief Marketing Officer and Chris Wiseman as Senior Vice President of Operations, strengthening its leadership team with seasoned industry professionals. Former Brown-Forman Executive Joins as CMO Matias Bentel brings nearly two decades of beverage industry experience to his new role at MGP Ingredients. Most recently serving as Chief Brands Officer at Brown-Forman, Bentel spent 17 years with the Louisville-based spirits company, including leadership positions as Market General Manager in Mexico and five years in the chief brands officer role. Prior to his tenure at Brown-Forman, Bentel gained international experience working for Diageo in Brazil from 2005 to 2007, providing him with a comprehensive understanding of global spirits markets. Operations Leadership Reinforced Complementing the marketing leadership appointment, MGP has also recruited Chris Wiseman as Senior Vice President of Operations. Wiseman transitions from his role as Manufacturing Vice President at Schwan's Company, a US food manufacturer. Notably, Schwan's is also the previous employer of MGP's current CEO, Julie Francis, who assumed leadership in July 2025. Strategic Growth Focus "We are excited to welcome Matias and Chris to MGP," said CEO Julie Francis. "Matias brings decades of marketing experience in the alcohol beverage industry and a proven ability to build and grow brands. Chris has a strong track record of driving operational efficiency, building high-performing teams and improving reliability that delivers consistent results." Francis emphasized that these appointments reflect MGP's continued commitment to building a robust leadership team capable of supporting the company's strategic growth objectives while strengthening operational execution. About MGP Ingredients MGP Ingredients operates a diverse portfolio of premium spirits brands through its Luxco unit, including Penelope, Rebel, Remus, and Yellowstone bourbons, as well as El Mayor tequila. The company maintains production facilities across three locations: distilleries in Indiana and Kentucky, and a tequila distillery in Arandas, Mexico. These strategic appointments position MGP Ingredients to capitalize on growth opportunities in the competitive spirits market while maintaining its reputation for quality and operational excellence. Image from MGP Ingredients The Newsroom People MGP Ingredients Strengthens Leadership Team with Key Executive Appointments News November 4, 2025 People Business & Finance Beverage Alcohol Ingredients Related news People SIG Group appoints Mikko Keto as new CEO People Walmart Names John Furner as Next President & CEO, Succeeding Doug McMillon in 2026 People Hochdorf Appoints Former Danone Executive Sandro Tichelli as CEO People Nichols Appoints Matthew Rothwell as CFO and Company Secretary

New ‘Rio Punch’ flavour joins Juice Monster range, celebrating Brazil’s vibrant fruit culture New ‘Rio Punch’ flavour joins Juice Monster range, celebrating Brazil’s vibrant fruit culture Monster Energy has expanded its Juice Monster portfolio with the launch of Juice Monster Rio Punch in the US, a new limited-edition flavour inspired by the colour, rhythm and energy of Rio de Janeiro’s world-famous Carnival. The new variant blends tropical Brazilian fruit flavours with a subtle hint of spice, combined with Monster’s signature energy blend. According to the company, the formulation captures the spirit of Brazilian celebration while delivering the functional energy consumers expect from the brand. “With its combination of lively fruit flavours and energising boost, this drink captures the essence of Carnival, transporting you straight to the heart of Rio,” said Dan McHugh, chief marketing officer at Monster Energy. “Rio Punch gives you the energy to party from the shores of Copacabana Beach to the top of Sugarloaf Mountain.” The launch strengthens Monster’s juice-based energy offering, which includes Juice Monster Mango Loco, Pacific Punch, and Aussie Style Lemonade—a line positioned to attract consumers seeking fruit-forward, flavour-led energy options. In addition to the US release, Monster has been broadening its functional beverage portfolio globally, with recent UK launches including a green tea-based energy drink and ‘Cosmic Peach’, a new addition to its Nitro range. The company said the new innovation underscores its commitment to flavour diversity and lifestyle-driven brand positioning, tapping into consumer demand for energy drinks with authentic fruit flavour profiles and international inspiration. The Newsroom Energy Drinks Monster expands juice line with Rio Carnival-inspired energy drink News September 18, 2024 Flavours & Colours Energy Drinks New Products Beverage Related news Dairy Magnum Ice Cream Company launches glow-in-the-dark Hydro:ICE ahead of Unilever demerger Fresh Produce Co-op Launches Mojito-Flavoured Grapes in Fresh Produce Aisle Soft drinks Pepsi expands zero sugar range with Strawberries ‘N’ Cream and Cream Soda flavours New Products McCormick Unveils Limited-Edition Holiday Finishing Sugars for Festive Baking and Beverages

Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Jerry Greenfield has resigned from the ice cream company after 47 years, amid an ongoing dispute between its founders and the brand’s parent group, Unilever. Jerry Greenfield, co-founder of iconic ice cream brand Ben & Jerry’s, has announced his resignation after 47 years with the company, highlighting ongoing tensions between the brand’s founders and its parent company, Unilever. The announcement was shared via an open letter on social media platform X by Greenfield’s co-founder, Ben Cohen, on 17 September 2025. Greenfield and Cohen founded Ben & Jerry’s in 1978 and sold the company to Unilever in 2000 for $326 million. At the time of the sale, the co-founders negotiated a unique merger agreement designed to protect the company’s social mission and maintain operational independence within the larger corporate structure. In his resignation letter, Greenfield stated that this independence has eroded, calling his departure “one of the hardest and most painful decisions” of his career. “For more than 20 years under Unilever’s ownership, Ben & Jerry’s stood up for peace, justice, and human rights—not as abstract principles but in response to real-world events,” Greenfield wrote. “This independence existed in no small part because of the merger agreement Ben and I negotiated, which enshrined our social mission and values in the company’s governance structure in perpetuity.” The relationship between the co-founders and Unilever has grown increasingly strained in recent years, with Greenfield and Cohen alleging that the conglomerate has curtailed the brand’s ability to take political and social stances. In March 2025, they publicly accused Unilever of removing Ben & Jerry’s CEO David Stever due to his commitment to the company’s social mission. Tensions have intensified following Unilever’s formation of the Magnum Ice Cream Company, part of a strategic spin-off of its ice cream business. Earlier this month, Greenfield and Cohen urged the Magnum board to allow Ben & Jerry’s to maintain operational independence. “We no longer believe that Ben & Jerry’s can thrive as part of a conglomerate that fails to support its founding mission,” they wrote. “The strength of Ben & Jerry’s lies in the authenticity of its values and its voice, whether in opposing crimes against humanity, supporting marriage equality, or demanding climate justice.” Greenfield’s departure underscores the broader challenges faced by mission-driven brands operating under large corporate ownership. The move raises questions about how global F&B conglomerates can balance commercial priorities with the values and social missions of their acquired brands—an issue increasingly relevant in a market where consumers increasingly favor purpose-led companies. The Newsroom Dairy Ben & Jerry’s Co-Founder Jerry Greenfield Resigns After 47 Years Amid Tensions with Unilever September 17, 2025 Legal Business & Finance Dairy Related news Legal Trump Removes Tariffs on Key Food & Beverage Imports Including Coffee, Cocoa and Beef Legal Thailand’s New Alcohol Law Sparks Backlash from Tourism & Nightlife Sectors Legal Greencore-Bakkavor £1.2 Billion Merger Faces UK Antitrust Scrutiny Over Market Concentration Concerns Dairy Unilever Appoints Jochanan Senf as Ben & Jerry’s CEO Amid Governance Tensions

Netherlands-based company targets international expansion with innovative software-as-a-service platform for water utilities Netherlands-based company targets international expansion with innovative software-as-a-service platform for water utilities Hulo, a Netherlands-based water technology company specializing in AI-driven leak detection systems, has successfully raised €2.3 million in seed funding to accelerate its international growth strategy. The funding round positions the company to address one of the most pressing challenges facing global water infrastructure: the significant loss of treated water through aging network systems. Investment Details and Strategic Backing The seed round was led by VP Capital and Lumo Labs, with additional participation from Vanagon, Rabobank, the FOM, and the Netherlands Enabling Water Technology fund (NEW). This diverse investor base reflects the growing recognition of water technology as a critical sector for both environmental sustainability and commercial opportunity. "Water scarcity is emerging as one of the world's most pressing environmental constraints, with around 30% of treated water lost globally, often through aging water network infrastructure," explained Erica van Eeghen, senior manager ventures at VP Capital. "Hulo's ability to detect leaks early, using advanced AI rather than expensive sensors, is exactly the kind of lean, scalable innovation that fits our investment lens." Technology Innovation and Market Approach Hulo's software-as-a-service (SaaS) platform represents a significant advancement in water network management, utilizing pressure and flow data from existing utility systems to detect, localize, and prioritize leaks and other anomalies. The system combines artificial intelligence with physics-based models to analyze network behavior dynamically, offering utilities actionable insights without requiring additional hardware infrastructure or district metered areas (DMAs). This hardware-agnostic approach differentiates Hulo from traditional leak detection methods that often depend on physical inspections or hydraulic modeling. By drawing directly from real-time operational data and learning from network flow and pressure changes, the platform can integrate seamlessly into existing utility operations. Industry Context and Market Opportunity The global water management sector faces increasing pressure from aging infrastructure, climate change, and growing demand. Traditional approaches to leak detection have proven inadequate for addressing the scale of water loss, creating a significant market opportunity for innovative technology solutions. Hulo's emergence from Wetsus, the European Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Water Technology in Leeuwarden, demonstrates the strength of the Netherlands' water management ecosystem and its capacity for technological innovation in this critical sector. Expansion Strategy and Future Development The funding will enable Hulo to accelerate deployments across Europe, the UK, and Latin America while expanding its capabilities in AI, network analytics, cybersecurity, and customer success. This international expansion strategy reflects the global nature of water infrastructure challenges and the scalability of the company's technology platform. "The future of water infrastructure requires that digital innovation integrates with the operational reality of today's networks," noted Robbert Lodewijks, co-founder of Hulo. "We're building solutions that are both powerful and practical – enabling water utilities to take action without overhauling their systems." Industry Impact and Sustainability The investment in Hulo represents broader industry recognition of the critical role that technology plays in addressing water sustainability challenges. With approximately 30% of treated water lost globally through infrastructure inefficiencies, AI-driven solutions like Hulo's platform offer the potential for significant environmental and economic impact. The company's focus on practical, implementable solutions that work within existing infrastructure constraints positions it well to capture market share in the growing water technology sector while contributing to global sustainability goals. The Newsroom Water Dutch Water Tech Startup Hulo Secures €2.3M to Scale AI-Powered Leak Detection News October 22, 2025 Safety & Quaility Water Business & Finance Technology Related news Safety & Quaility INC Launches Sustainability Certification Specifically for the Nut and Dried Fruit Industry Legal Texas Enacts New Law Mandating Warning Labels on Foods with Banned Additives

Backed by the private equity investor Elysian Capital since 2021, Wholebake aims to position itself as the UK's most "capable and flexible bar" manufacturer through this significant investment. Multi-million-pound investment in new Wrexham facility positions company as UK's most capable and flexible bar manufacturer Backed by the private equity investor Elysian Capital since 2021, Wholebake aims to position itself as the UK's most "capable and flexible bar" manufacturer through this significant investment. Strategic Facility Expansion This latest development marks Wholebake's third site—a purpose-built food-grade factory converted from a warehouse. It complements the company's existing operations in Corwen and Wrexham. With the Corwen facility's capacity fully utilized, the multi-million-pound investment in Wrexham enhances production capabilities. This expansion streamlines logistics, providing vital support for long-term growth among leading brands and retailers within the healthy snacking sector. Advanced Production Capabilities The new facility features dedicated production zones that allow for efficient workflows, robust allergen management, and the flexibility to adapt as market demand changes. As a result, the site promises increased production capacity, faster turnaround times, and enhanced support for innovation through Wholebake's "state-of-the-art" product development kitchen. Additionally, expanded onsite warehousing enables Wholebake to stock more ingredients and packaging. This reduces dependency on third-party storage, thereby improving overall supply chain efficiency. Regional Employment and Development Wholebake has stated that establishing a second facility in Wrexham strengthens its position as a preferred employer in the region. Furthermore, the company plans to invest in training and multi-skilling as it rolls out new high-speed production lines, thus creating valuable development opportunities for employees. Chairman Robin Williams remarked: "Expanding into this new facility is a transformational step for Wholebake. It gives us the headroom to grow with our customers, bring innov a tive new products to market and deliver even more efficiently at scale. Our immediate focus is continuity, retaining our existing equipment and product ranges, but we now have the platform to invest, innovate and expand in the years ahead." This strategic expansion demonstrates Wholebake's commitment to meeting the growing demand for healthy snacking options while maintaining operational excellence and supporting regional economic development. Image from Wholebake The Newsroom Snacking Wholebake Expands Operations as a Leading Healthy Snack Bar Manufacturer News October 29, 2025 Facilities Snacking Manufacturing Food Related news Packaging Ball Corporation invests $60m to expand aluminium can production in India Facilities Angel Yeast Launches 11,000-Ton Yeast Protein Production Line in China Facilities Tetra Pak Opens New Powder Development Centre in France to Support Innovation in Protein and Functional Nutrition Facilities Sidel Strengthens West African Footprint with New Office in Lagos, Nigeria

Monster Beverage Corporation has successfully defended its $311 million legal victory against Bang Energy and its founder Jack Owoc, after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld a previous trial court ruling this week. Monster Beverage Corporation has successfully defended its $311 million legal victory against Bang Energy and its founder Jack Owoc, after the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit upheld a previous trial court ruling this week. The decision marks the final chapter in a high-profile legal battle that has reshaped the energy drinks landscape. The appeal, brought by Owoc and Vital Pharmaceuticals (Bang Energy's parent company), challenged the exclusion of certain evidence during the original California federal trial—namely, claims that Monster had engaged in its own alleged misleading marketing and competitive tactics. The Ninth Circuit rejected these arguments, affirming that the original jury decision was properly reached and supported by sufficient evidence. Monster originally filed suit in 2018, accusing Bang Energy of engaging in false advertising by promoting its product as containing "Super Creatine" and claiming it could deliver medical benefits, including treating neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. A jury sided with Monster in 2022, finding the claims misleading and awarding $293 million in damages—an amount that later grew to over $311 million with legal costs and interest. A California court also permanently barred Bang from marketing its drinks using the “Super Creatine” label. The case gained further commercial significance when Monster acquired the bankrupt Bang Energy business in 2023 for $362 million, following the damages award. The acquisition effectively consolidated Monster’s position in the highly competitive U.S. energy drinks category. Commenting on the appeals court ruling, Monster’s legal counsel Allison Libeu of Hueston Hennigan stated the decision “recognizes that the trial court’s rulings were plainly correct and that the jury’s unanimous verdict in favor of Monster is amply supported.” Owoc’s legal team has said they are currently reviewing the opinion and considering next steps. Case reference: Monster Energy Co v. Vital Pharmaceuticals Inc d/b/a VPX Sports, 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, No. 23-55451. The Newsroom Legal Monster Beverage Secures Appeals Court Win in $311M False Advertising Case Against Bang Energy News April 16, 2025 Legal Energy Drinks Beverage Soft drinks Related news Legal Trump Removes Tariffs on Key Food & Beverage Imports Including Coffee, Cocoa and Beef Legal Thailand’s New Alcohol Law Sparks Backlash from Tourism & Nightlife Sectors Legal Greencore-Bakkavor £1.2 Billion Merger Faces UK Antitrust Scrutiny Over Market Concentration Concerns Dairy Ben & Jerry’s Co-Founder Jerry Greenfield Resigns After 47 Years Amid Tensions with Unilever