The World Coffee Innovation Awards are back for 2024, and the FoodBev Awards team is thrilled to introduce the next of its esteemed panel of judges! Meet Nicole Battefeld-Montgomery, new to the judging panel this year. Read on to find out what Nicole will be looking out for this year... As a four-time German Coffee Champion and a World Coffee Competition coach, I’m thrilled to be part of the upcoming awards, where we’ll celebrate the best and most innovative developments in our industry. With over a decade in speciality coffee and nearly two decades in hospitality, I’m particularly excited to explore the entries across several categories that reflect my passion and expertise. In the 'Best Product' categories, I’ll be focusing on new product developments, especially in milk alternatives, as they are transforming the coffee experience for many. I'm eager to see advancements in barista tools and equipment and manual coffee machines that push the boundaries of craft and precision. I am also particularly interested in the incorporation of modern software in traditional coffee-making hardware. For the 'Best Innovation' awards, I’ll be looking for groundbreaking ideas in brewing and roasting innovations that enhance both quality and sustainability. Packaging and technology advancements, particularly in water filtration, are also crucial areas where I expect to see significant contributions that address environmental challenges. In the 'Best Business' category, my focus will be on sustainable and ethical initiatives. As the industry moves towards more responsible practices, it’s essential to recognise businesses that are leading the way in these areas. Start-ups that are introducing innovative solutions and sustainable models are of particular interest to me, as they represent the future of coffee. I’m looking forward to reviewing entries that demonstrate creativity, sustainability, and a commitment to excellence in coffee. Descriptions that clearly outline these aspects, along with high-quality photos, will be key to catching my attention. Learn more about FoodBev's awards and our 2024 World Coffee Innovation Awards by visiting the FoodBev Awards website.

Seven & I, the parent company of convenience store giant 7-Eleven, confirmed yesterday (19 August) that it has received a preliminary takeover offer from Canada's Alimentation Couche-Tard (ACT). According to Reuters, the proposal is to buy the entire company, according to two sources familiar with the matter, and the bid, if successful, would be the largest-ever buyout of a Japanese firm from an overseas company. In a statement, Seven & I said: “The board of directors of the company [Seven & I] has formed a special committee of the board of directors, comprised solely of independent outside directors, led by Stephen Hayes Dacus, as chairperson of the board of directors, to review the proposal...the special committee intends to conduct a prompt, careful and comprehensive review of the proposal, the company’s [Seven & I's] stand-alone plans and other alternatives for enhancing corporate value, after which a response will be made to ACT.” While the outcome of the bid is unknown, news of it sent shares of Seven & I surging by around 23% in Tokyo, valuing the company at around JPY 5.6 trillion (approx. $37.92 billion). 7-Eleven is said to be the ‘world’s largest’ convenience store chain with approximately 83,485 locations in 17 countries. ACT, which operates Circle-K convenience stores, is valued at around $58 billion and operates over 16,700 convenience stores in 29 countries and territories. Seven & I's statement concluded: “Neither the board of directors nor the special committee has made any determination at this time to either accept or reject the proposal from ACT, to enter into discussions with ACT or to pursue any alternative transaction”. Top image: ©7-Eleven #7Eleven #CircleK #SevenandI #AlimentationCoucheTard #Canada #Japan

Ready-to-eat bakery brand Café Valley has expanded its partnership with Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP), with the launch of new mini cupcake flavours inspired by two of the company’s beverage brands. The new cupcakes, in 7Up and Crush Orange flavours, were crafted to tap into increasing demand for innovative flavours and convenient dessert options. The 7Up mini cupcakes capture the drink’s original lemon-lime flavour in the sponge and are topped with creamy vanilla icing and finished with a dusting of crystal sprinkles in the brand’s signature yellow and green colours. Crush Orange Flavored Soda mini cupcakes offer an orange soda-flavoured cake, topped with orange-coloured icing and orange crystal sprinkles. Brian Owens, CEO of Café Valley, said: “Since their debut in the spring of 2023, Café Valley's line of mini cupcakes has seen remarkable success, reflecting the excitement for bite-sized, sweet treats. With a strong partnership already established with Keurig Dr Pepper, introducing mini cupcakes is a joyful addition to our existing soda-flavoured baked goods.” This is not 7Up's first foray into the food sector. In June, the soft drink brand unveiled an exclusive three-piece barbecue condiment range in the UK , developed in partnership with Twisted. The collection draws inspiration from 7Up’s lemon and lime flavours and includes a ‘Zesty Mayonnaise’, ‘Zingy Hot Sauce’ and ranch-style ‘Tangy Salad Dressing’. Similarly, last week, beverage giant Coca-Cola teamed up with Mondelēz International-owned brand Oreo  to introduce two limited-edition products in Canada: the Oreo x Coca-Cola Sandwich Cookie and Coca-Cola x Oreo Zero Sugar. The mini cupcakes are expected to enhance the brand's market presence and are available to purchase in select US retailers now. #CaféValley #KeurigDrPepper #7Up #US

Palantir Technologies, a provider of AI systems, and Wendy’s Quality Supply Chain Co-op (QSCC) have announced a new partnership aimed at advancing digital transformation and AI integration within QSCC's operations. The partnership will upgrade QSCC’s supply chain network through AI-driven automation and create a connected ecosystem of Wendy’s suppliers, distributors and restaurants. The digital transformation is expected to deliver cost savings and operational efficiencies, benefiting all Wendy’s operators. QSCC, which is said to be the second-largest purchasing cooperative in the quick-service restaurant sector, supports over 6,400 Wendy’s locations in the US and Canada. Initially, QSCC will use Palantir’s AIP to enhance decision-making speed and scale. The platform will integrate various data sources into a single common operating picture, allowing users to make informed decisions and develop custom applications. In the second phase, QSCC will use Palantir AIP for supply chain management and waste reduction, including Dynamic Inventory Management, Variance and Gain Information for Restaurants and Demand Deviation Analysis. Palantir’s software will apply advanced AI to optimise operations, improve data security and enhance efficiency across the supply chain. Pete Suerken, QSCC president and CEO, said: “Together with Palantir, we’re unlocking the inherent power of the supply chain ecosystem to drive new and compelling sales and operating efficiencies that will provide Wendy’s with a distinctive edge in the industry. The sophisticated and nimble AI-powered planning and fulfilment system we’re developing will serve as the cornerstone for our state-of-the-art interconnected network.” Ted Mabrey, head of global commercial at Palantir, added: “We’re proud to partner with Wendy’s QSCC and support the co-op’s digital transformation for the benefit of restaurant operators, suppliers and distributors alike. Our AI operating system powers many of America’s most important companies, giving them a technology-driven competitive advantage and we are excited to continue to grow in the QSR sector with this iconic brand and an ambitious vision.” #PalantirTechnologies #Wendys

Chopstix, the UK’s largest Asian-inspired quick service restaurant (QSR) brand, is taking its first step into retail with the introduction of its new ‘Wok Pot’ cooking sauce range, now available in over 500 Iceland and Food Warehouse stores nationwide. This launch, developed in collaboration with AAK Foods and Brandship, allows consumers to recreate signature flavours from the beloved QSR brand in their own kitchens. The ‘Wok Pots’ come in two popular variants: Sweet & Sour and Teriyaki. Priced at £2 per box, the Sweet & Sour sauce offers a delightful balance of tangy and sweet notes, while the Teriyaki sauce provides a rich, savoury taste, catering to fans of Chinese cuisine. Elio Elia, head of product at Chopstix, said: "We’re delighted to bring this range of cooking sauces to supermarket aisles across the country, giving Chopstix fans an opportunity to recreate our much-loved dishes at home." He added: "Launching in retail is a crucial step in our ambition to expand the Chopstix brand and its signature flavours to even more people in the UK". Founded in 2002 by Sam Elia and Menashe Sadik, Chopstix has rapidly expanded, currently operating over 150 QSR sites across the UK. The introduction of the ‘Wok Pots’ is expected to enhance brand awareness and drive sales as the company continues its growth trajectory. #Chopstix #QSR #AKKFoods #cookingsauces #foodservice #retail

Flow Beverage Corp has announced the introduction of a new line of mineral spring sparkling water. Available in 300ml aluminium bottles, the sparkling water will be available in four flavours: original, blackberry + hibiscus, lemon + ginger and cucumber + mint. The beverage is free from sugar and calories, catering to the growing demand for health-conscious options. Flow's founder and CEO, Nicholas Reichenbach, said: “This launch represents the next step in our evolution, enhancing our product portfolio with a sustainable and innovative offering that caters to the growing demand for premium, health-conscious beverages". He continued: "Our new aluminium bottles not only deliver a high-end design experience but also support our ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility as the highest-scoring B Corporation in the water industry, as they are made from 70% recycled aluminium, use 30% less aluminium than competing formats and require 60% less energy to produce than traditional cans and bottles, thus reducing carbon emissions. This ties into Flow’s overall commitment to operating carbon neutral and reducing emissions across our supply chain.” In addition, the company said that the launch also signifies an expansion of Flow’s co-packing business, with the installation of a new production line that will allow the company to pack its aluminium bottles and offer co-packing services for other brands. This new product line will debut in Canada in October, with a US launch planned for the months that follow. #FlowBeverage #Canada #water

Smeg has launched its new BCC13 bean-to-cup espresso machine with automatic frothing. Smeg BCC13 offers a built-in coffee grinder and a one-touch system for preparing ten different coffee drinks, including milk-based options and hot water. It features a dual thermoblock heating system for fast brewing, a 47oz removable water tank and a 5.3oz bean container. The machine, available in matte white and matte black, is set to arrive at premium retailers by the end of the month. #Smeg #espressomachine

UK coffee retailer Roasting Plant Coffee has completed a £7.9 million ($10 million) oversubscribed funding round. The investment will drive the company's growth and innovation, including enhancements to its Javabot Coffee System and the opening of new stores in the US and UK. The funding comprised 40% from existing shareholders and 60% from family offices. This capital will be used to refine the Javabot system, which roasts and brews coffee on-site, and to expand Roasting Plant’s retail footprint in Washington DC, New York, Chicago and London over the next 18 months. Roasting Plant Coffee operates 15 roastery cafes across the US and UK. The company's proprietary Javabot system is developed and manufactured at its RP Labs facility in the US. According to the company, the Javabot coffee system is distinctive for its in-store micro-batch roasting. Roasting Plant Coffee's CEO, Jamie Robertson, said: "We are thrilled to have secured this significant investment which will help us take Roasting Plant Coffee to the next level in the US and UK. Our mission is to provide the freshest coffee possible, roasted and brewed to order by the cup, and this funding will allow us to share our Just-Roasted passion with more coffee lovers.” #RoastingPlantCoffee #UK #US

Coca-Cola has teamed up with Mondelēz International-owned brand Oreo to introduce two limited-edition products in Canada: the Oreo x Coca-Cola Sandwich Cookie and Coca-Cola x Oreo Zero Sugar. The Oreo x Coca-Cola Sandwich Cookie features a red and black design with one chocolate Coca-Cola-flavoured Oreo wafer on one side and a red Golden Oreo wafer on the other. The cookies are filled with a creamy filling and popping candy, aiming to recreate the experience of drinking Coca-Cola. Meanwhile, the Coca-Cola x Oreo Zero Sugar offers the classic taste of Coca-Cola with hints of Oreo flavour, providing a unique beverage experience. Solange Grimard, senior marketing manager for Canada at The Coca-Cola Company, said: "The collaboration between Oreo and Coca-Cola is the perfect expression of the playfulness of Oreo and the real magic at the core of the Coca-Cola brand – and we couldn't be prouder to bring these new products and unexpected moments of connection to our Canadian fans." Sarah Au, marketing director of cookies at Mondelēz Canada, added: "We are constantly working to excite our Canadian consumers with unique launches and surprising experiences. This time, we're taking it a step further by celebrating the newfound bestie bond that Oreo and Coca-Cola share, bringing a twist on two classics to our fanbases across the country." Both products will be available in grocery and convenience stores across Canada starting next month. #CocaCola   #Oreo   #Canada

Starbucks has announced the appointment of Brian Niccol as its new chairman and CEO, effective 9 September 2024. Niccol, currently serving as the CEO of Mexican restaurant chain Chipotle, will take over the leadership from Laxman Narasimhan, who has stepped down from his role as CEO and board member with immediate effect. Until Niccol assumes his position, Rachel Ruggeri, Starbucks' chief financial officer, will serve as interim CEO. Meanwhile, Mellody Hobson, the current board chair, will transition to the role of lead independent director. Niccol has led Chipotle since 2018, following a successful career in the food and beverage industry. His previous leadership roles include CEO of Taco Bell from 2015 to 2018 and president of Yum! Brands from 2013 to 2015. Hobson said: “We are thrilled to welcome Brian to Starbucks...Brian is a culture carrier who brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of driving innovation and growth. Like all of us at Starbucks, he understands that a remarkable customer experience is rooted in an exceptional partner experience. Our board believes he will be a transformative leader for our company, our people and everyone we serve around the world.” Niccol commented: “I am excited to join Starbucks and grateful for the opportunity to help steward this incredible company, alongside hundreds of thousands of devoted partners. I have long-admired Starbucks' iconic brand, unique culture and commitment to enhancing human connections around the globe." He continued: "As I embark upon this journey, I am energised by the tremendous potential to drive growth and further enhance the Starbucks experience for our customers and partners, while staying true to our mission and values”. Hobson added: “On behalf of the board, I want to sincerely thank Laxman for his contributions to Starbucks, and his dedication to our people and brand. In the face of some challenging headwinds, Laxman has been laser-focused on improving the business to meet the needs of our customers and partners. We all wish him the very best and know he will do great things in the future.” #Starbucks #CEO

National Beverage has announced the launch of a new flavour for its LaCroix Sparkling Water line: Strawberry Peach. This latest addition combines the flavours of strawberries and peaches, promising a fresh and sweet taste experience. National Beverage's spokesperson said: "Just imagine the joy of biting into both a juicy strawberry and a delectable peach – at the same time. This appetising combination delivers a fresh, fragrant and sweet taste." "LaCroix aspires to delight our loyal consumers with uniquely delicious taste and eye-catching packaging. Nothing brings us greater ‘bliss’ than delivering joy and good health throughout America with incomparable flavour and creative innovation." LaCroix Strawberry Peach will initially launch at select US retailers and will soon be available nationwide. #NationalBeverage #LaCroix #sparklingwater #US

JDE Peet’s announced that Luc Vandevelde stepped down as interim CEO and chairman of the board yesterday (12 August) due to "unforeseen matters". Vandevelde was initially announced as interim chief executive and chair in March and took up the position in April , replacing former CEO Fabien Simon. Peter Harf, JAB Holding Company's managing partner and chairman, will take over as interim chairman of the board immediately. Meanwhile, Scott Gray, chief financial officer of JDE Peet’s, will also assume the role of interim CEO. Vandevelde will join JAB as a senior advisor focused on the FMCG sector. In April, JDE Peet’s began searching for a permanent CEO, considering both internal and external candidates. This process is nearly complete, and the company plans to update the market later this year. Harf said: “On behalf of the board, I want to thank Luc for his tenure with JDE Peet’s, from lead independent director at the time of our listing to chairman and interim CEO. Although he can no longer dedicate the time necessary for an executive role at JDE Peet’s, we are pleased that Luc will advise JAB on its FMCG investments with the time he does have available." "JAB has strong conviction in the long-term growth prospects of JDE Peet’s, and we are fully committed to our investment in the world’s leading pure-play coffee and tea company.” #JDEPeets #CEO