Greggs has reported a strong performance in the first 19 weeks of 2023, progressing a strategic growth plan against a challenging macroeconomic backdrop. Like-for-like (LFL) sales in company-managed shops grew by 17.1%, in part reflecting the impact of Omicron in the first nine weeks of 2022. LFL sales growth in the 10 weeks to 13 May has averaged 15.7%, and the expectation is for this figure to continue to normalise, as Greggs annualise against the actions taken in 2022 to mitigate against inflation.

Brakes has taken the next step in plans to harness natural energy across its estate, with a solar array at the company’s Aylesford depot, following a successful installation at its Harlow depot last year.

As the first half of 2023 concludes, food to go (FTG) data and statistics paint a mixed picture, but one thing is very clear – consumer confidence remains weak.

Made for Drink have taken a refreshing new approach to the traditional cheese and onion crisp, having been tasked by English Heritage to deliver a gastronomic spin.

The UK’s leading smoky cheese has won its third award in two years. Applewood has taken out the silver award for the Smoked Cheese class at this year’s Virtual Cheese Awards. This success follows hot on the heels of Applewood winning Bronze in the Smoky Flavour Cheese category at the ICDA and Bronze in the Blended – Smoked Category of the British Cheese Awards.

Asda embarked on a strategic project to create their first sustainability trial store, and Avery Berkel, a long-standing partner and leading provider of retail scales, was a natural choice for collaboration.

AM Labels Limited is an award-winning supplier of complete labelling solutions, including manufacturing and warehouse automation, robotics, barcoding and RFID systems. Longstanding relationships with leading printer manufacturers – such as Epson, Afinia and OKI – have given AM Labels a strong understanding of the current climate.

Celebration Packaging has introduced a new range of double-wall hot drink cups made from sustainable bamboo fibre, under its long-established EnviroWare® brand.

Amcor, a global leader in developing and producing responsible packaging solutions, has expanded its AmFiber™ Performance Paper range in Europe, to include heat seal sachets for dry culinary and beverage applications, such as instant coffee, drink powders, spices, seasonings and dried soups.

Colpac, the award-winning packaging designer and manufacturer, has launched a new website. Combining seamless user experience, improved functionality and a striking, image-led design, it features an innovative packaging selector to simplify and support the decision-making process for customers.

Continuing our focus on Extended Producer Responsibility, chief strategy officer at Ecoveritas, Andrew McCaffery, offers some sage advice.

Leading premium Indian food brand Geeta’s, whose range of Indian chutneys, pastes and marinades includes the UK’s number one mango chutney*, has expanded its range of foodservice chutneys for the out-of-home sector.

When it comes to flavour in sandwiches and other food to go, that little bit extra is all important to keep taste buds tantalised – and there’s no better than BBQ when it comes to temptation.

A leading manufacturer of foodservice pre-mixes, Middleton Foods has extended its range of Mini Pots, with the addition of two new glazes – Double Smoke and Jamaican Jerk. There are now 15 varieties of culinary glaze, offering caterers a comprehensive choice of seasonings, inspired by some of the world’s most popular cuisines.

Pioneers of the anti-food waste movement, Rubies in the Rubble, has launched a £500k crowdfunding campaign to take its condiments made from surplus ingredients to the next stage, offering investors the chance to be part of a leading UK sustainable food brand.

They’re a key accompaniment for sandwiches, food to go and so much more. But why aren’t condiments and sauces made with more wholesome ingredients?

It’s part one of our exclusive lunch! preview – two days you will not want to miss.

Acai brand, Sambazon, is expanding its açaí bowl distribution within the QSR channel, having partnered with Joe & The Juice’s UK estate. The collaboration will see Sambazon supply over 50+ Joe & The Juice outlets, as the business looks to strengthen its out-of-home presence.

According to independent research, 65% of foodservice diners want rustic looking chips and are willing to pay a premium for it*. So, chefs, caterers and operators can now upgrade their offering to Aviko’s new SuperCrunch Pure & Rustic, the chip that combines a homemade feel with the taste and crunch of a ‘proper’ chip.

Divine, the chocolate maker co-owned by cocoa farmers, has launched a Smooth Dark Chocolate Fruit and Nut sharing bar as its first new product for 2023, to mark the confectioner’s 25th anniversary.