The Food & Drink Innovation Network

BARBECUE SEASON STARTS IN SPRING NEW DATA REVEALS

newsdesk — Wed, 30 May 2012 08:12:12 +0000

British barbecue season no longer peaks during the traditional hot summer months of July and August but far earlier in spring, according to new research from Tesco.

The research shows Tesco that over the last five years the main sales have come before summer has even started.

Last year the highest demand of the year for barbecue foods, charcoal and related hardware came in April – which was one of the hottest ever on record – while the year before it was in mid-June.

Previous years has also seen sales peak during the spring months.

At the weekend, Tesco expected to sell two million burgers, 5.5 million sausages, eight million ice lollies, 2.5 million tubs of ice cream, three million bottles of wine, 300,000 bags of charcoal, and 100,000 disposable barbecues.

Tesco outdoor living category manager, Mike Darlington, said:

“Traditionally the British barbecue season would really take off during the summer months from June through to August but recently we have been seeing the highest sales before Spring has ended.

“Unseasonably warm weather during the last week of March this year prompted a significantly high demand for burgers, sausages and other related barbecue foods.

“And while May might have seen more than its fair share of rain shoppers are now rushing out to stock up for what looks like being a whole weekend long of barbecue fun.

“Basically if the weather is warm enough Brits will be in their gardens barbecuing and making the most of it, whatever the time of year.”

The UK’s unpredictable summers have given many food retailers a “major headache” in planning which types of fare to put out on their shelves.

Tesco now has a weather predicting system to help get the right products on the shelves for customers and save hundreds of thousands of pounds in food wastage.

SAVOURY & SWEET POPCORN BRAND ‘LORD POPPINGTON’S’ LAUNCHES IN THE UK

newsdesk — Wed, 30 May 2012 06:12:46 +0000

Savoury & Sweet, Midlands-based popcorn manufacturers, has announced the launch of its new range of popcorn.

Savoury & Sweet is set up by its founder Kurt Hilder in 2011 and with the partnership of one of the UK’s contract packers he has launched the premium range of branded popcorn called Lord Poppington’s.

The Lord Poppington’s brand comes in four flavours, ‘Sweet and Salty’ combining Golden Barbados sugar from The West Indies Sugar & Trading Company blended with Cornish Sea Salt Company salt.

The other flavours include ‘Chilli and Lime’, ‘Lightly Sea-Salted’ and ‘Four Cheeses’, a natural seasoning blend of Cheddar, Red Leicester, Camembert and Mozzarella cheeses.

The brand is based around the character of Lord Percy Poppington

The ‘Sweet and Salty’ flavour comes in 30g and 100g bag size, all the other flavours come in two sizes, 20g which is ideal for lunchboxes and a 75g bag, suitable for sharing.

The Lord Poppington’s brand is based around the character of Lord Percy Poppington who is talked about but never seen, his true identity always remaining anonymous.

Savoury & Sweet will use Lord Poppington’s Gentry characteristics on an ongoing basis in a bid to enhance the brand and the image of the premium popcorn range.

This unique approach is already creating a following online and the character will be used in many various ways to create further awareness on the product range, build the brand into other product areas and interact with customers directly.

Lord Poppington’s popcorn is available online on Amazon and in selected independent outlets with the recommended retail prices at 95p for the small packs and £1.49 for the large packs.

Savoury & Sweet are also embarking upon an extensive marketing and PR campaign to increase the awareness of the Lord Poppington’s range.

FRIJJ REVEALS THICKER SLOWER BETTER HOLOGRAM

newsdesk — Tue, 29 May 2012 14:31:53 +0000

FRijj, the Fresh Flavoured Milk brand, has unveiled a new holographic advertisement in a bid to drive consumer brand awareness and engage London’s Spitalfields market.

The new 3D holographic ad will be live until 30th April 2013 at the market, which has a footfall of 3.5million per year and is close to the London 2012 games.

The brand’s multi-media campaigns have previously featured on-pack augmented reality (Soccerettes), a facial recognition game: ‘You Lol You Lose’ and a free Incredible Pet Translator iPhone app to launch FRijj The Incredible range.

The new 3D ad features Strawberry, one of the brand’s core flavours, with a splat synonymous with FRijj and its strapline: The Thicker, The Slower, The Better.

The new ad will also include the Facebook logo, to drive further social media conversation on FRijj’s Facebook page, which has more than 276,000 fans.

Earlier this year, FRijj The Incredible Banoffee Pie flavour was launched as part of ‘FRijj The Incredible’ range, where Roary The Lion is featured alongside other quirky characters on the bottles, each with a background story and Facebook reference.

Nathan King, Marketing Director, Dairy Crest Dairies said:

“We’re always looking for fun new ways to engage consumers and drive awareness of FRijj.

“The striking new holographic display at Spitalfields is so realistic and eye-catching, consumers will not just see the ad, but they can really enjoy seeing FRijj in 3D.

“As well as boosting the brand’s profile and exciting existing FRijj fans, we hope the new ad will help encourage more new consumers”

FRijj, being the number one Fresh Flavoured Milk brand, worth £49.1m and growing 10.5% YOY, accounting for 41% value share of the Fresh Flavoured Milk category

LAMBRINI LAUNCHES MAJOR ON PACK PUSH

newsdesk — Tue, 29 May 2012 12:26:12 +0000

Halewood International, the UK’s independent drinks manufacturer, is set to a launch a major consumer on pack offer for its Lambrini brand between June and August.

The promotion will target female consumers with the aim of generating interest in the brand by offering a free False Lash Effect Mascara when purchasing a 1.5L bottle of Lambrini Original.

Lambrini has partnered with cosmetics brand Collection to give away 500 free mascaras every day on a first come first served basis.

The promotion will run on 500,000 bottles between 1st June and 1st August, and each bottle neck will include a unique code for consumers to enter at lambrini.co.uk.

The promotional bottles will be distributed through the Off Trade, including major multiples and convenience stores.

Lorna Tweed, Brand Manager for Lambrini at Halewood International, said:

“We are always looking for new ways to engage with existing and new Lambrini consumers, and anticipate this promotion will attract significant interest.

“This promotion will further drive sales of Lambrini during the summer period, which is typically a strong time of year for the brand.”

The promotion will be open to over 18’s only.

LURPAK LIGHTEST SPREADABLE BACK ON TV

newsdesk — Tue, 29 May 2012 10:19:34 +0000

Lurpak Lightest Spreadable is back on TV in June for eight weeks with its attention grabbing rainbow creative.

The visual bombardment of colour, movement, texture and song aims to take viewers through a culinary journey, celebrating a selection of foods that Lurpak Lightest Spreadable can be eaten with.

The advert aims to tackle the bland perception sometimes associated with healthier food by offering health conscious consumers a low fat product that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Lurpak hopes the advert will push sales of the new 250g format, which was recently launched in May, as well as the 500g format of Lurpak Lightest Spreadable.

Lurpak is the No.1 BSM brand in the UK and worth £272m and growing by 10.4%.

TIMMY’S PIES LAUNCHES JUBILEE PIE INTO HARVEY NICHOLS

newsdesk — Tue, 29 May 2012 06:00:08 +0000

To celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, Timmy’s Pies is creating a pie especially to celebrate the occasion.

Timmy’s Diamond Jubilee pie contains mixed Berkshire game, apricots, and spiced free-range pork in a pheasant stock and cider jelly.

And to mark the pie as a celebratory dish, it is decorated with edible gold and purple lustre.

It’s designed to fit in picnic baskets and bags so it can be enjoyed out and about over the Jubilee weekend.

Timmy’s Pies is a West London pie company that started out from the beginnings of a Chelsea market stall.

Now the brand supplies to delis, pubs and shops across London, including Harvey Nichols, Wholefoods and The Peoples’ Supermarket.

Only British, free-range meat and game go into the seasonal pies, all wrapped in a shortcrust pastry.

It was awarded a gold star in the Great Taste Awards 2011 for both the chicken, leek & tarragon and the vegetarian Homity pies.

As well as classic stalwarts such as beef & red wine and egg & bacon, the more unusual flavours include venison, stout & prune, rabbit, stuffing & beetroot and
wild boar & apple.

Timmy’s Pies came into existence in the summer of 2010, when Tim Wilkes teamed up with Ben Christopherson, a pastry lecturer and previously a chef at The Goring and Harrods, and together they decided to launch a British pie brand.

Consumers can still find Timmy’s Pies on their original market stall, every Saturday, at the Duke of York Square market.

Timmy’s Diamond Jubilee pie is available exclusively from Harvey Nichols for four weeks only from the 19th May.

It has an RRP of £4.95.

FIVEMILETOWN PURCHASES CAUSEWAY CHEESE COMPANY

newsdesk — Mon, 28 May 2012 14:01:34 +0000

Northern Irish cheesemaker Fivemiletown Creamery has bought the Causeway Cheese Company, a producer of handmade waxed Cheddars based in County Antrim.

The move was completed earlier this month but only announced last week.

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed but production of Causeway’s Cheddars will now transfer to Fivemiletown’s dairy in County Tyrone.

The family team that set up Causeway will retire, with two jobs lost.

Fivemiletown MD Mervyn McCaughey said:

“Causeway is an “ideal fit” for his company.

“Its focus on handcrafted cheese is in line with our own commitment to offer customers premium cheeses that are handcrafted from high-quality milk from local dairy farms.”

“I’m excited about selling Causeway’s products in international markets – a key focus for Fivemiletown.

“The inclusion of Causeway cheese in our portfolio will support our work to develop Northern Ireland’s international standing as a producer of innovative and high quality cheeses that are deliciously different.”

The Causeway Cheese Company is best known for producing hexagonal Cheddars, made to look like the basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway.

MARIANI BEEF JERKY LAUNCHES IN THE UK

newsdesk — Mon, 28 May 2012 12:14:49 +0000

Mariani Foods, premium Australian beef jerky brand, has announced the launch of its soft beef jerky into the UK market.

Mariani has been producing premium jerky for over 30 years and supplying into the Australian, Asian and Middle Eastern markets.

This month the company is launching into the UK market with their soft beef jerky, which is 95% fat free and unlike most of the harder jerky’s currently available.

The company has plans to extend their range into the UK over the next few months.

The introduction of soft beef jerky first is a strategic move to bring something new to the category and in doing so introducing the UK consumers about different textures and flavour jerky can offer.

Mariani soft beef jerky is made from selected free roaming grass fed cattle; the beef is hand cut to ensure the right thickness and to enhance the flavour.

The RRP for Mariani Soft Beef Jerky is £1.99 and is available nationally in Tesco and Costco stores as well as selected independent wholesalers and petrol forecourt chains.

SPAR UNVEILS LIMITED EDITION BRITISH SUMMER CUPCAKES

newsdesk — Mon, 28 May 2012 10:12:23 +0000

Spar UK is making the most of Britain’s host of summer events with the launch of a limited edition Cupcake.

To build on this sales opportunity, Spar UK is introducing Red, White and Blue Cupcakes, which claim to offer quality and value to consumers.

The Cupcakes are available in price marked packs at four for £1, with packaging featuring images of this summer’s key events and the slogan ‘Let’s celebrate’.

The recipe has been benchmarked and developed for Spar by the food development agency, FBDC.

Spar UK brand director Susan Darbyshire said:

“In their first year, Spar brand muffins brought in £1m in sales, showing the popularity of indulgent treats.

“To build on this success, Spar recently introduced an own label four pack of chocolate topped cupcakes at £1 per pack.

THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET – THE NEXT BIG TREND

newsdesk — Mon, 28 May 2012 08:04:58 +0000

It seems that as an industry we’re always on the back-foot being blamed for making people fat and shortening their lives, but here’s our chance to get on the front-foot and run with a really good way-of-eating which ticks all the health boxes and is delicious and convenient.

So why The Mediterranean Diet and why now … because our researchers tell us that The Mediterranean Diet is a perfect point where scientific understanding meets consumer needs.

And when it makes headlines like Mediterranean Diet can add 15 years to life” we know it’s something worth looking into.

Consumers already know a healthy diet means eating more salad, fruit, veg, beans, fish and white meat.

They also think they should eating less red meat, dairy and carbs … but they don’t yet realise that these life-style trends are the essence of The Mediterranean Diet.

And they also don’t know that really robust euro-science is proving that eating and drinking the Mediterranean way reduces cancer, stroke, diabetes and heart problems.

Not only that but a Mediterranean Diet is easy to follow, tastes wonderful and has a lower impact on the planet so it’s bang on trend.

So we asked the eminent Dr Simon Poole to design and chair a seminar for us. Simon is not only an acclaimed speaker and author on the subject of diet and health but he works closely with the BMA and he’s also a busy GP and in his spare time has written The Taste Of The Mediterranean “Ten Steps To A Healthier Life” which you can download by clicking here.

Simon has invited his international collaborators to speak at our seminar.

Dr Antonia Trichopoulou is joining us from The University Of Athens to give us the science directly from the source. Antonia is leading the Greek segment of EPIC which is the biggest study ever into the links between nutrition and other diseases.

Also Sara Baer-Sinnot President of Oldways is flying over from the US to brief us. Oldways is America’s leading nutrition and health NGO> Sara has been instrumental in popularising Diet Pyramids.

In addition to these international speakers, Simon has brought together retailers, researchers and case studies to create a brilliant day which will make sure we are totally inspired by this subject and able to take it back profitably into our businesses.

PLUS
Simon and his colleagues are producing a report on The Opportunity For Mediterranean Foods, and you’ll get a free copy when you come to the seminar.

AGENDA

THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET, NEW SCIENCE, NEW TRENDS.
Dr Simon Poole GP, and author of The Taste Of The Mediterranean – Ten Steps To A Healther Life.
• Why The Mediterranean Diet is set to be the next big food and drink trend.
• Consumer awareness, health communication and opportunities for innovation.
• Oils and individual components of the diet – the antioxidant story.
• The role for Public Health, Government and Industry.
• Special occasion and everyday, it’s about ingredients not recipes.

WHY THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET IS THE GOLD STANDARD.
Dr. Antonia Trichopoulou, Associate Professor of Preventive Medicine and Nutrition, University of Athens.
• The Mediterranean Diet, health and longevity.
• Busting the myths of dietary fats.
• The Mediterranean Diet and diabetes.
• The Mediterranean Diet and weight maintenance.
• A review of global research.

CONSUMER SEGMENTATION AND SENTIMENT ON MEDITERRANEAN INGREDIENTS AND EATING.
Sally Campbell, Research Director, Ipsos MORI.
• Specially commissioned research for the FDIN Mediterranean Diet Seminar which will be conducted in May 2012.
• 1000 respondents involved in the Ipsos MORI on-line social space.
• Quant data enriched by consumer engagement and sentiment.
This research alone would cost you many times the seminar price. By coming to the seminar de-brief you have access to the researchers themselves for further clarification and detail.

THE ASDA APPROACH TO SPECIALITY PRODUCT LAUNCHES.
Mehul Patel and Catherine Sordy, ASDA Category Specialists.
• Mediterranean Products getting them Right First Time.
• The rise in demand for authentic Mediterranean products.
• Being truly local – connecting with the community and meeting their shopping needs.
• A retailers view of “The Mediterranean Consumer”.
• How ASDA identifies upcoming trends and markets.

THE MEDITERRANEAN FOODS ALLIANCE – HOW ANCIENT WISDOM FEEDS MODERN IDEAS.
Sara Baer-Sinnot President of Oldways, A nonprofit food and nutrition education organisation.
• Insight into the benefits of the Pyramid and discussing the growth of the Mediterranean Foods Alliance.
• Promoting the science of diet and lifestyle.
• Dietary pyramids – visual communication.
• Engaging the public and consumers – the experience from the USA.
• The Oldways initiative – how it works.
• Oldways and the Mediterranean Food Alliance – partnership working with industry.

CAPITALISING ON THE MEDITERRANEAN DIET – FROM TREND TO REVENUE.
Sam Waterfall – Senior Partner, Healthy Marketing Team.
• Previous food trends and how you can use them to profit.
• How to position your Mediterranean Diet concept.
• How to test your Med Diet concept before you launch.
• Transparency and sustainability – when and how to use them (and when not to).
• 4 Rules for successfully commercialising a trend (3 case studies).

LOW FAT & LOW SODIUM AND CURED MEATS IN THE MED COUNTRIES.
Mandy Collins, National Accounts Manager, The Food Resource..
• What’s on sale in the Med Countries and why.
• Producing new healthy produces, some pro’s and con’s.
• Consumer’s perception: does the UK need/want “healthier” cured meats?
• Are “healthier” meats affordable for the UK?
• What about pizza toppings/ready meals – a willingness to change.

PLUS.
Plus more case studies to be confirmed.
PLUS.
• Three table team brainstormings so you can work with peers on how to take forward your new ideas.
• End of the day Q & A … a chance to pose your questions to the panel of experts.
• A chance to win a Magnum of Finest Champagne.

VENUE
Staverton Park Conference Centre, Daventry, Northants.
Directions are on the Staverton Park Website

TIMINGS.
Doors open for early birds: 8:00 am
Breakfast for all from: 8:00 am
Seminar begins: 9:00 am
Coffee/Buffet Lunch/Tea: TBC
Seminar finishes: 4:45 pm latest

PRICE.
£425 + VAT.
(Don’t let the low price fool you, we’re a non commercial best practice club and run the best attended seminars in the industry).

DISCOUNTS.
10% early bird discount if you book on before the end of April.
IN ADDITION.
20% discount for booking two places at the same time.
30% discount for booking three places.

For more information or to book a place please click here to visit the seminar page.

KENT CRISPS LAUNCHES SPITFIRE ALE FLAVOUR

newsdesk — Mon, 28 May 2012 06:34:56 +0000

Kent Crisps has revealed the latest flavour in its portfolio – Roast Beef and Spitfire Ale.

The premium ale from Shepherd Neame, Britain’s oldest brewer, was originally brewed to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

It will now feature in the first-ever meat flavour from Kent Crisps which are produced by Quex Foods, based in Birchington.

Since their launch in March 2011, more than half a million packets have been sold in hotels, pubs, cafes, restaurants, delis, independent farm and village shops and tourist attractions nationwide.

Using home-grown potatoes and hand-cooked for premium quality and texture, Kent Crisps aims to reflect the tastes and landscapes of the Garden of England.

Other flavours include a first for the crisps industry – Oyster and Vinegar, plus Great Taste Award winner Ashmore Cheese and Onion, Sea Salt and Biddenden Cider Vinegar and Sea Salt.

Angie Curwen, managing director for Quex Foods, said:

“Roast Beef and Spitfire Ale is a very welcome addition to the Kent Crisps portfolio as it’s our first meat flavour.

“Working with Britain’s oldest brewer has been fantastic and demonstrates our commitment to celebrating the best flavours and producers in the Garden of England.”

Kate Maclean, Spitfire marketing manager, said:

“Spitfire Ale is quintessentially Kentish and therefore a great match for Kent Crisps.

“The distinctive hoppy flavour really stands out and we’re pleased to team up with another premium product that shares our values for quality and provenance.”

Angie added: “We have already received great feedback and are confident the crisps will fly off the shelves.”

For more information click here to visit the website.

BARRATT CELEBRATES BEST OF BRITISH WITH NEW LAUNCH

newsdesk — Fri, 25 May 2012 14:14:33 +0000

Barratt, the kids’ singles confectionery brand, is launching a new British themed hanging pack in time for the Olympics, Queen’s Jubilee and Euro 2012.

British Mix is an assortment of fruit flavoured soft gums in bright packaging celebrating all things British.

The gums come in British themed shapes including a red telephone box, a bulldog, a tea pot, a guardsman and Big Ben.

British Mix is made using only natural colours and includes blackcurrant, strawberry, lemon, lime and grapefruit natural flavours.

Laura Burton, Barratt brand manager, said:

“The big events happening this summer present a great opportunity for us as a long-standing British confectionery manufacturer.

“The newly launched Barratt British Mix gums are very moreish, the ideal treat for patriotic consumers.

“They provide a fantastic addition to a retailer’s confectionery fixture, joining some great products in Barratt’s family bag offering”.

Barratt British Mix launched to the trade in May 2012.

The pack has an RRP of £1.35 for a 180g bag and will have year round availability.

For further information on Tangerine Confectionery, please visit www.tangerineuk.net.

TESCO RE-LAUNCHES OWN-LABEL READY MEALS

newsdesk — Fri, 25 May 2012 12:11:44 +0000

Tesco is re-launching its line-up of ready meals in the latest major change to its own-label offer.

The retailer said the multimillion-pound revamp, which features new packaging, would improve food quality, beginning with 300 Indian, Oriental and Tex-Mex lines.

Tesco also claimed diners would get 20% more meat in the revamped ready meals, which will debut on promotion at two for £5.

To support the launch a national radio and poster campaign will focus on the 20% claim.

A second phase later this year will overhaul another 700 ready meals, including some vegetarian lines.

Category buying manager David Harman said:

“This is a really big overhaul for our ready meals.

“As well as adding more meat, we’ll be using higher quality sauces, herbs, pasta and rice – all at no extra cost to customers.

“Ready meals are a massively popular part of our fresh food ranges, and we’re really pleased to be able to give our customers even more for their money.”

Tesco recently gave its pioneering Value line an overhaul, rebranding hundreds of products under the Everyday Value banner.

HIGHGROVE FINE FOODS LAUNCHES PREMIUM STOCKS AND GRAVY

newsdesk — Fri, 25 May 2012 10:30:06 +0000

Royal Wootton Bassett based Highgrove Food Distribution, has launched a new range of premium stocks and gravies under its Highgrove brand.

The new stocks and gravies are super concentrates which aims to provide taste, convenience and real value for money.

The stocks come in a chicken and beef variety and two teaspoons creates up to half a litre of stock.

Three teaspoons of the gravy concentrate creates a lump free gravy.

The full gravy range is chicken, beef and onion.

The stocks and gravies are packaged in 250g tubs and come with eight in a case with an rrp of £ 2.99 & 2.69 respectively.

They are ambient which simplifies storage and stock management.

Keith Collins, MD of Highgrove Fine Foods says of the launch said:

“With independent grocery retailers striving to increase profits and offer a point of difference for their customers, we believe the premium stocks and gravy range are a natural addition to their range.”

The Highgrove Stocks and Gravies as well as other products are available directly from Highgrove Fine Food by clicking here.

CADBURY POPCORN IS CHOC FULL OF SALES POTENTIAL

newsdesk — Fri, 25 May 2012 08:14:22 +0000

This summer, Kraft Foods is combining the increasing popularity of popcorn with it’s chocolate brand Cadbury, in a fast growing confectionery format – to bring consumers Cadbury Popcorn.

This latest addition to the Cadbury branded sharing bag portfolio will feature toffee popcorn coated in Cadbury milk chocolate.

As with other sharing bags in the brand’s portfolio, the packet will be re-closable, and the design will feature a Cadbury purple header swoosh as well as colour with the product at the centre, and the words ‘choc full of popcorn.’

The chocolate bags category is already worth £324m4 and is growing at 5.7% YOY.

Bitesize products currently account for 9.5% of standard confectionery sales.

Toffee popcorn coated in Cadbury milk chocolate.

Cadbury Bitsa Wispa, launched in March 2012, has enjoyed sales of £4.2m in its first six weeks in market.

The success of this new launch is largely thanks to the trend for ‘Big Nights In’, and the way these formats offer consumers a new way of sharing snacks with friends and family.

This new addition hopes to bring something different to the sharing range which already includes Cadbury Dairy Milk (CDM) Giant Buttons, Twirl Bites and CDM Caramel Nibbles.

Sally Barton, Brand Manager for Bitesize at Kraft Foods, said:

“Chocolate sharing bags are currently delivering considerable growth for the overall chocolate sector, with the Kraft Foods portfolio fuelling this upward trend.

“We constantly take steps to keep up-to-date with consumer tastes and ensure our sharing portfolio remains as relevant as possible.

“This is why with our latest sharing innovation we are taking increasingly popular popcorn, and adding Cadbury chocolate to create a delicious combination.”

Kraft Foods will be supporting the launch with a marketing investment which will include POS such as pre-filled units, sampling, and outdoor advertising.

NEW COVENT GARDEN UNVEILS NEW SUMMER SOUP

newsdesk — Fri, 25 May 2012 06:09:09 +0000

Soup brand New Covent Garden is catering for consumers looking to shape up for summer with its latest Soup of the Month.

June’s Soup of the Month is the newest creation developed from New Covent Garden’s ongoing social media campaign, whereby consumers are invited to submit recipes based on a specific theme.

The recipes are then voted for by other consumers online.

Submitted by consumer Melanie Booth in response to June’s ‘Shape up with Soup’ theme, ‘Summer Green Minestrone & Smoked Bacon’, soup is low in saturated fat and sugars and hopes to appeal to consumers looking to get ready for the ready for the beach.

‘Summer Green Minestrone & Smoked Bacon’, soup is low in saturated fat

Group Marketing Director Nigel Parrott said:

“June’s theme appealed for soup recipes that were healthy and low in fat but still tasty and satisfying – and Melanie’s recipe fits the bill perfectly.

“The soup will undoubtedly have great appeal at this time of year when many consumers are looking to shape up before summer, but don’t want to sacrifice delicious, exciting flavours to do so.

“In the words of Melanie herself: ‘you can still have your cake and eat it.’”

Summer Green Minestrone & Smoked Bacon is available in outers of six, with an RRP of £2.20.

New Covent Garden is continuing to engage consumers with the brand via its website, www.newcoventgardensoup.com, where in addition to submitting and voting for future Soup of the Months, they can also find recipes, tips and a blog.

CRAVENDALE LAUNCHES NEW FOOD-TO-GO PRODUCT

newsdesk — Thu, 24 May 2012 14:01:39 +0000

Cravendale is expanding into the food-to-go category for the first time this May, launching a brand new 500ml bottle into the fixture.

On shelf now, the new format represents the first time Cravendale will moveaway from the dairy fresh food fixture, with 500ml PET bottles.

The brand has growth plans and by 2016, Cravendale would like small formats to make up a significant part of Cravendale volume.

This launch aims to give Cravendale the opportunities to reach new markets for the first time as well as engaging with a new customer base.

Cravendale has also teamed up with Ginsters for the launch to offer the brand’s first meal deal.

500ml will be available to buy with a Ginsters pasty for £2.50 at Rontec Forecourts from June.

Cravendale 500ml bottles are available at an RSP of £0.75 in whole, semi-skimmed and skimmed variants and are on shelf in the food-to-go fixtures at Asda.

500ml is also available in milk fixtures across Waitrose, Shell, Esso, Rontec, Budgens and Londis and Cravendale is in discussions with other retailers regarding food to go listings.

CATHEDRAL CITY LAUNCHES NEW TWIN PACK

newsdesk — Thu, 24 May 2012 12:38:46 +0000

Cathedral City is expanding its portfolio with the introduction of Cathedral City Twin Pack, on shelf from May 2012.

Containing a 350g Cathedral City Mature and 350g Cathedral City Mature Lighter, the new sku aims to appeal to the whole family.

Cathedral City is worth £232.2m, increasing in value by 12.8% YOY and hopes to drive category growth through the introduction of NPD that meets the needs of both the retailer and the consumer.

Stimulating usage is a key strategy for Cathedral City to grow the category and encourage shopper trade up.

Jackie Wilson, Marketing Manager, Cathedral City, said:

“We know that many people use more than one type of Cheddar and will have at least two types in the fridge.

“The variety pack will enable consumers to purchase two types together and encourage them to expand their repertoire, which is important for category growth.

“The mature and mature lighter variety pack is perfect for those that want a lighter cheese for mum and a regular block for the rest of the family.”

The Prepack Cheese category is worth £2.2bn, growing 6% in value.

Everyday Block is the largest sector in this category worth more than £1bn driven by mature, and growing 5.5% in value and 0.2% in volume.

CONFECTIONERY SALES UPLIFT OVER JUBILEE WEEKEND

newsdesk — Thu, 24 May 2012 10:09:46 +0000

The Local Government Association has today confirmed receipt of 10,000 applications for Jubilee street parties, twice the number requested for last year’s Royal Wedding.

And Mars Chocolate is urging retailers to take advantage of this significant treats-based sales opportunity.

A Mars Chocolate YouGov survey shows British adults will spend £334m more over the Jubilee Bank holiday, compared to a regular weekend, on treats, food and alcohol.

Other Jubilee spending findings from the Mars Chocolate survey includes:

· Almost 1 in 7 (15%) British adults anticipate spending more on confectionery over the Jubilee bank holiday compared to a regular weekend

· More British adults say they plan to purchase additional food, drinks and snacks for celebrations during the Jubilee (25%) and the Euros (18%), than during the Olympics (14%)

· Almost one in five (18%) British adults say they are more likely to notice and purchase products labelled ‘Made in Britain’ given the British focus of the events

· Almost one in five (18%) British adults favour their local convenience stores for sweets and treat purchases for celebrations at home

Bep Dhaliwal, Trade Communications Manager, Mars Chocolate said:

“The weather is finally warming up and Jubilee celebrations are promising to be the first jewel in a crown of multiple British retail opportunities this summer.

Mars has also announced the launch of M&M’s Limited Edition Union Jack pack

“Savvy retailers will already have plans in place to take advantage of these collective celebratory opportunities.

“But it’s not too late to take advantage of the Jubilee weekend and the bumper number of applications for street parties and gatherings taking place across the UK.

“Retailers are advised to site bestselling confectionery next to the beer, wines and spirits fridge or with soft drinks or crisps to really capitalise on the occasion.”

To capitalise on this British summer, Mars has also announced the launch of M&M’s Limited Edition Union Jack pack, containing only red, white and blue peanut M&M’s.

With Union Jack branded packaging, the Limited Edition packs aim to highlight Mars’ British Heritage, as the company prepares to celebrate 80 years of manufacturing in the UK.

M&M’s® Union Jack packs are now available for a limited eight week period and the numerous other British events being held this summer.

STRONGBOW LAUNCHES PEAR CIDER TO COMPETE WITH STELLA

newsdesk — Thu, 24 May 2012 08:28:55 +0000

Pear cider is set to become a battleground for two of Britain’s biggest drinks brands.

Days after AB InBev announced it was launching a pear version of Stella Artois Cidre Strongbow is entering the same market.

The launch is expected to be officially announced next month.

Stella Artois Cidre Pear will be sold in individual 568ml bottles and six-bottle cases across retail.

Its launch has been welcomed by some of the UK’s leading cidermakers, who said it could “breathe life” into pear ciders and perries.

Pear cider was under-represented in the UK but Cidre had the potential to unlock further growth, said Westons head of marketing Ian Lewis:

“Consumers are still not as sure about pear as they are about apple.

“Cidre brought a lot of new consumers into the category, so if they can do the same job on pear, it will stimulate interest in the category.”

Aspall also welcomed investment in the category, partner Henry Chevallier Guild said:

“If pear cider broadens consumers’ experience and breathes further life into traditional perries, I’m all for it,”

Mintel global drinks analyst Jonny Forsyth said:

“AB Inbev’s success in attracting lager drinkers to Cidre had limited the harm inflicted on Magners last year, but its Cidre Pear went head to head with C&C’s offering.

”It is a threat to Magners Pear Cider in particular.

“I expect it to do very well and not necessarily cannibalise its own sales as the sweeter flavour attracts a different type of user.”

Magners said it welcomed anything that would benefit the market and bring more consumers to the category.

MALIBU LAUNCHES SUMMER CAMPAIGN WITH THE RETURN OF THE ‘MALIBUTIQUE’

newsdesk — Thu, 24 May 2012 06:18:29 +0000

This summer Malibu is amplifying its marketing activity by expanding its ‘Malibutique’ concept, joining forces with brand partners, and launching a new Facebook app.

The brand’s digital campaign is focusing on getting girls ready for a night out – and will be bringing it to key shopping areas of Cardiff, Liverpool and Birmingham from 28th June – 15th July.

The ‘Malibutique’ concept serves as a dressing room, helping consumers to get ready for a night out by sampling the latest fashion and beauty products while drinking Malibu summer cocktails.

Partner brands include ghd, Fake Bake, Models Own and heat magazine, which all resonate with Malibu’s target audience, 18-34 year old females.

The brand’s digital campaign is focusing on getting girls ready for a night out

Each brand partner will offer treatments for consumers, including personal wardrobe consultations with heat magazine’s Style team, with tips on colours, styles and key accessories to look out for over the summer months.

In addition to their involvement in ‘Malibutique’, the brands will be partnering with the Caribbean rum brand to create offers both on-line and off-line – with the first ‘gift with purchase’ already running between Malibu and Models Own in select on-trade accounts.

heat magazine will also be running a Malibu-sponsored summer mini-mag in its 29th May issue, with further style advice, drinks inspiration and competitions.

A series of Malibu advertorials will run in the main magazine over the summer.

Malibu is building on its digital strategy by launching a new Facebook application, Malibu VIP, with creative digital agency, Zone.

Available on www.facebook.com/malibuUK, the app is a gamified loyalty programme for Malibu fans and contains Malibu content including drinks recipes, games, style articles and giveaways.

Each time a Malibu fan interacts with the brand on the Malibu VIP app via the MalibuUK Facebook page (by playing a game, reading an article or participating in a giveaway offer), they receive VIP points and gain ‘status’ from Malibu Mover and Shaker, all the way to Idol and ultimately, Legend.

Some content is locked to users with low status but can be accessed by gaining more points. Examples of content include giveaways of this season’s most fashionable designer handbags.

Commenting on Malibu’s summer initiatives, Patrick Venning, Marketing Director at Pernod Ricard UK, said:

“Our Malibutique pop-up was a huge success in London, Manchester and Birmingham last year attracting over 12,000 target consumers, and we are excited to be bringing it to two new cities this summer.

“Malibutique serves as a relevant and engaging platform for us to showcase Malibu’s versatility to our target audience who love music, fashion and exploring the latest styles for their social get-togethers.

“The new Malibu VIP Facebook app will act as a platform for us to continue engaging loyal fans of the brand, whilst also exciting new target consumers with drinks inspiration and topics that they enjoy reading about and sharing.”

THAI TAPAS TREND TAKES OFF IN THE UK

newsdesk — Wed, 23 May 2012 14:07:12 +0000

The UK’s most recent and unique dining experience has become a hit on the South coast over the past three years.

Koh Thai Tapas has taken a style that, until now, has only ever been associated with Spanish cuisine, and applied the same food philosophy to Thai food, and ‘Thai Tapas’ was born.

Having opened their first restaurant in Boscombe Spa in 2009, the team behind this new culinary concept has gone on to achieve significant social and economic success.

This has led to the opening of a second branch in Bournemouth’s Soho Quarter.

The cuisine at Koh has been so well received they have been awarded the “Restaurant of the Year Award” at the Bournemouth Tourism Awards.

The style of cuisine embraces the sharing trend in a concept that involves ordering a number of Tapas-style dishes and tasting at wide array of differing flavours.

Andrew Lennox, one of the Directors of Koh Thai Tapas, said:

“So far Koh Thai Tapas has continued to fulfil our founding objectives and we are delighted with our success to date.

“We have been warmly received by our customers in Bournemouth and continue to show fantastic growth and profitability.

“We firmly believe that Koh Thai Tapas is a style of cuisine that everyone will love and we are so pleased to have invested in our 2nd restaurant in Bournemouth.

“We foresee future expansion going forward and greater involvement within the communities in which we serve.”

For more information about Koh Thai Tapas, visit www.koh-thai.co.uk.

KARYATIS SEAFOOD SALAD LAUNCHES IN TIME FOR SUMMER

newsdesk — Wed, 23 May 2012 12:09:10 +0000

Karyatis seafood salad is the latest addition to Karyatis’ range of meze products.

Morsels of shellfish and crustaceans including squid, baby octopus, cuttlefish, mussels and prawns are lightly dressed in sunflower oil with a hint of parsley and garlic.

This seafood selection has been put together to make an appetizer or entrée when served with seafood sauce and is also designed for alfresco style eating.

Serving suggestions include serving with a bowl of Marie- rose sauce for dipping or with a green salad for a light lunch.

The new seafood salad comes in a 200g jar and is available from Sainsbury’s and online at www.odysea.com.

The Food and Drink Innovation Network is hosting a seminar entitled ‘The Mediterranean Diet - The Next Big Trend” looking at the rise and rise of Mediterranean food and drink.

For more information or to book a place click here to visit the website.

SAINSBURY’S LAUNCHES NEW LIMITED EDITION HERITAGE RANGE

newsdesk — Wed, 23 May 2012 10:11:12 +0000

As the Queen marks her Diamond Jubilee, Sainsbury’s is launching 14 products inspired by the retailer’s own British heritage.

In store from the 23 May for a five week period, the Heritage range consists of jars of vintage sweets such as Liquorice Allsorts and Dolly Mixtures.

Classic conserves including Medium Cut Marmalade and Strawberry Jam and refreshments such as Cloudy Lemonade will also be in the range.

For beer drinkers there is also a Traditional Beer and Ale Selection Pack produced in Kent by the UK’s oldest Brewer, Shepard Neame, brewing on site since 1698.

Inspiration behind the red and cream Heritage packaging came from in-house archives, adopting elements of old packaging and early poster designs.

1930s store advertisement from which the Heritage logo was derived.

Classic conserves including Medium Cut Marmalade and Strawberry Jam

For more than a century, Sainsbury’s has been stocking the Red Label Tea variety and it is this product, Fairtrade Red Label Blended Tea, which has been selected as part of the Jubilee Heritage range today.

Other products in the Jubilee range includes snacks such as Elderflower Cordial, Mints and Juicy Berries, Nuts and Seeds are packaged in collectable jars.

Prices start from 61p for the Medium Cut Marmalade, to £6.99 for the Traditional Ale & Beer Selection.

All 14 products are available in 401 stores nationwide until 27 June.

The Heritage range consists of:

Medium Cut Marmalade, 61p – ‘Marmalade’ first came into existence in 1480 according to the Oxford English Dictionary, with King Henry VIII receiving a box full in 1524
Strawberry Jam, 90p
Liquorice Allsorts Jar, £4.00
Dolly Mixtures Jar, £4.00
Mint Assortments Jar, £4.00
Nut & Seed Selection Jars, £6.00
Maple Roasted Nut Selection, £6.00
Cashew and Macadamia Salt & Pepper Nuts, £6.00
Juicy Berries, Nuts & Seeds, £4.00
Strawberry and Cox’s Apple Cordial, £2.20
Sparkling Elderflower, £1.85
Elderflower Cordial, £2.20
Cloudy Lemonade, £1.85
Fairtrade Red Label Blended Tea, £1.39
Traditional Ale & Beer Selection, £6.99

MICHELLE OBAMA SUPPORTS HEALTHY MEDITERRANEAN DIET MESSAGE

newsdesk — Wed, 23 May 2012 06:11:36 +0000

On 25th May 2012, at 6.00 p.m., within the Med-Italian Diet Festival, an official document will be signed which will award the American First Lady, Mrs. Michelle Obama, with a large olive tree from Salento called “La Regina” (the Queen).

The reason for this award is the important engagement lately shown by the President’s wife to encourage American people and the children and their families, to follow a healthier lifestyle based on the main principles of the Mediterranean Diet.

Such principles defend a proper way of eating as well as an intense physical activity.

Besides the symbolic aspect of such award, all the extra virgin olive oil that the tree will yield next autumn will be sent to the Obamas at the White House.

The parties involved in the project are many, each one with their own competences.

There is the Province Council of Lecce represented by the President, Antonio Gabellone, and by the Chairman of agriculture, Francesco Pacella; there is the Chamber of Commerce of Lecce; there is the Istituto Costa of Lecce, the organizer and promoter of the project “Med-Italian Diet”; there is Coldiretti of Lecce, representing the farmers; there is the Cooperative Sant’Anna of Vernole, the producer of the oil obtained from the tree, and last but not least, Mrs. Ines Maria Antonucci, the owner of the land around the tree.

Recently the Province Council of Lecce has sent both to the First Lady Michelle Obama in Washington and to the American ambassador to Italy, Mr. David Thorne, an official message announcing such award.

It is worth remembering that the olive tree is the symbol of peace, of sustainable nutrition and wellness.

The official motivation is the following:

“Because she has conceived, launched and promoted the fitness campaign called “Let’s move”, through which a very important social service has been carried out in order to help the American families and their kids to grow up in a healthier way, achieving a lifestyle based on a diet rich in vegetables, fruit and natural products as well as based on an intense physical activity.

“This lifestyle blends well with the principles of the Mediterranean Diet, discovered in Italy by the American scientist Ancel Keys, which has lately deserved the important Unesco award as ”Intangible Heritage of Humanity”.

“Because she has given a strong example of virtuous behavior, by creating a vegetable garden full of vegetables inside the White House, which she cares personally, and because her idea has spread all over the world a message aiming at improving people’s eating habits, which should become more eco-friendly and healthier though being, at the same time, tasty and nourishing.”

The food and drink innovation network is hosting a seminar entitled ‘The Mediterranean Diet - The Next Big Trend” looking at the rise and rise of Mediterranean food and drink.

For more information or to book a place click here to visit the website.