Topic
food industry
Manufacturing Lindt Easter chocolate sales drop 7.5% by volume after 11.8% price hike triggers demand slump
Swiss chocolate maker Lindt reported a 0.9% revenue decline and a 7.5% drop in chocolate volume sold in the first half of 2026, after implementing an 11.8% groupwide price increase. The company partially reversed the price hike and boosted marketing in some regions to recover volume. Sales fell most sharply in Europe, particularly in the UK, Germany, and Switzerland, while North America, Australia, China, and Japan saw growth.
Manufacturing Growing wellness: How consumer demand for natural sweeteners is driving innovation in food manufacturing
Consumer demand for natural, clean-label sweeteners is driving innovation in food and beverage manufacturing. The global natural sweeteners market, valued at approximately $24.7 billion in 2023, is projected to reach $45.1 billion by 2033, with Asia-Pacific leading growth. Monk fruit is emerging as a key ingredient, supported by technological advancements in precision fermentation and blending techniques that improve taste and mouthfeel.
Technology Cyberattack on Refrigerated Warehouse Disrupts Glico, KFC Japan, and Sushi Deliveries
A cyberattack on Japan's largest refrigerated warehouse operator, Nichirei, has disrupted supplies for Ezaki Glico, KFC Japan, and Kura Sushi. The incident highlights critical vulnerabilities in food supply chain technology and logistics networks.
Commodities How Consumer Buying Behaviour Is Reshaping the Indian Edible Oil Industry
India's edible oil industry is undergoing a transformation driven by more alert consumers who compare prices and check unit rates. The government has standardised pack sizes to fixed volumes, eliminating confusing odd-sized packs. The market, at 25 million tonnes in 2024, is projected to reach 28.2 million tonnes by 2033, with household consumers accounting for 64% of consumption.
Business Yum! Brands to Sell Pizza Hut Chain for $2.7 Billion in Two-Part Deal
Yum! Brands announced the sale of its struggling Pizza Hut chain for $2.7bn. Private equity firm LongRange Capital will acquire the brand outside mainland China for $1.5bn, while Yum China Holdings will buy the mainland China operations for $1.2bn. The transactions are expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, as Yum! Brands focuses on its remaining core brands KFC and Taco Bell.
Commodities Bitter Season for Kashmir Honey: Output Plunges on Erratic Weather
Erratic weather in Kashmir has caused a sharp decline in honey production this season, reversing a 75% increase over the past three years. Beekeepers report yields down by 70% or more, with premium acacia honey particularly affected. The decline highlights the sector's vulnerability to climate variability despite recent policy support.
Business Innocent Fresh Foods Expands to 40-50 New Cities
Innocent Fresh Foods Pvt Ltd, based in Pune, is set to expand its market presence into 40-50 additional cities, focusing on tier-2 and tier-3 markets. The company aims to leverage traditional food categories and rural expertise to build national brands.
Commodities Post-Harvest Management: Key to Food Safety and Market Stability
Post-harvest management is crucial for maintaining food safety and market stability. Effective storage and transportation practices can significantly reduce food losses and enhance economic returns.
Manufacturing Turning Waste into Taste: Ancient Techniques in Modern Food Processing
Innovative companies like Fermtech and MOA Foodtech are using ancient fermentation techniques to transform food waste into valuable products. This sustainable approach not only reduces waste but also creates new flavors and economic opportunities.
Commodities Cod Prices Surge Amid Supply Challenges and Consumer Loyalty
Cod prices have surged to unprecedented levels due to fishing quotas and geopolitical tensions, forcing UK fish and chip shops to diversify their offerings. Despite the price hike, consumer loyalty to cod remains strong.
Manufacturing Fortified Rice Brands Launched to Boost Nutrition in UP
Three new fortified rice brands were launched in Uttar Pradesh, aiming to address micronutrient deficiencies. The initiative, supported by TechnoServe, highlights the role of local millers in improving nutrition.
Commodities India's Agriculture Sector Faces Climate Challenges
India's agriculture sector is under pressure to adapt to climate impacts, with extreme weather and groundwater stress threatening food supply chains. A coalition led by the Climate Group aims to enhance resilience and sustainability.
Business Sri Narasu’s Coffee Targets ₹1,000 Crore Revenue with Regional Expansion
Sri Narasu’s Coffee aims for ₹1,000 crore revenue in five years, expanding into Karnataka, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. The company plans to leverage its strong presence in Tamil Nadu and focus on online channels and instant coffee products.