The FMT Blog
Opinion, analysis and musings from the FMT editorial team and expert guest writers about the food processing and manufacturing sector.
Shopper confidence highest in 5 years
According to the latest Shopper Confidence Index from IGD, shopper confidence has risen to its highest level in the last five years, driven by the further easing of lockdown restrictions, a sharp decline in Covid-19 cases and the rapid rollout of the vaccination programme.
Bain Capital acquires Valeo Foods
Bain Capital Private Equity, a global private investment firm, has signed a definitive agreement with CapVest to acquire Valeo Foods Group, a leading pan European food business, including brands such as Kettle, Rowse and Jacobs.
BRCGS to work with online retailer HelloFresh
The newly upgraded BRCGS Global Standard for Storage and Distribution will be adopted by HelloFresh, a leading meal kit company. The new version of the Standard, which was launched in November 2020, has been expanded to include e-commerce operations and aims to ensure...
UK food and drink exports to Brazil rose by 46% in first quarter of 2021
Data released by Apex-Brasil’s Q1 Europe Trade Monitor reveals that demand for British products increased dramatically at the start of the year, while the UK’s demand for Brazilian coffee also rose.
AAK and Vista Processed Foods partner to develop plant-based products
Speciality oils and fats company AAK has announced a new partnership with Vista Processed Foods, part of the global OSI Group, to create plant-based meat alternatives for the Indian market.
IGD launches guide to help businesses maximise food surplus redistribution
A new guide has been released by the Institute of Grocery Distribution (IGD) to encourage manufacturers to take urgent action on the amount of surplus food being redistributed.
New online course aims to help food sector embrace Industry 4.0
Food industry professionals are invited to sign up for a three-day course about how digitalisation could help to modernise their processes.
Dr Ruth Hussey appointed as FSA interim chair for further two months
Following her appointment as the interim chair of the Food Standards Agency (FSA) earlier this year, Dr Ruth Hussey CB OBE DL will continue in the post until 30th June 2021
150 new jobs created by 2 Sisters Food Group
2 Sisters Food Group’s prepared meals factory, RF Brookes in Rogerstone, South Wales is creating 150 new jobs in a major boost to the region as the business eases its way out of lockdown.
Food sector deals make a strong start in 2021
Deal activity in the food and beverage sector reached its highest quarterly level since 2017 in Q1 of 2021, according to Grant Thornton UK LLP’s latest Food and Beverage Insights report.