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BUSINESS From Print to Infrastructure Labelling, Coding & Marking Industrial forces reshaping the ready meals market Ready Meals How Fluid Handling Is Being Re-Engineered for 2026 Pumps & Fluids march 2026 • Issue 28 flavourings & colouring flavourings & colouring foodandbeverage.business09 04 10 16 24 labelling, coding & marking 28 ready meals CONTENTS 12 pumps & fluids FOOD AND BEVERAGE BUSINESS MAGAZINE 3 Editorial: editorial-ukeurope@foodandbeverage.business Sales: sales@foodandbeverage.business Finance & Admin: accounts@foodandbeverage.business Design: studio@foodandbeverage.business Where you see a QR code, it will take you to a longer version of that printed piece. News Everything that has been going on in the Food & Beverage sector this month CIMCORP Celebrating 50 Year Anniversary import & export This month’s trade picture for the UK’s food and beverage sector is shaped by continued tariff uncertainty in the U.S., ongoing regulatory challenges with the European Union, and the push to diversify into new markets. Pumps & Fluids For many years, pumps were treated as background equipment in food and beverage manufacturing — essential, but rarely strategic. In 2026, that perception has changed. Fluid handling systems are now central to how manufacturers manage compliance, efficiency, reformulation, and operational resilience. colours & flavours For much of the past decade, the shift away from artificial colours and flavourings was framed as a consumer- driven trend, shaped by clean labels, recognisable ingredients and marketing transparency. By 2026, that framing no longer holds. sieves & separators For many years, sieving and separation have been described as the unsung heroes of food processing – essential, reliable, and rarely revisited once installed. In 2026, that characterisation no longer holds. These systems are now sitting at the centre of regulatory compliance, allergen control, sustainability performance and production resilience, forcing manufacturers to re-evaluate equipment that in some cases has not been fundamentally reviewed for more than a decade. labelling, coding & marking For much of the last decade, innovation in food labelling centred on content. Cleaner ingredient lists, clearer allergen declarations and improved nutritional visibility dominated the agenda, alongside growing expectations around transparency and brand storytelling. As the industry moves forward, that focus is no longer sufficient. Ready MEals For much of the past decade, the ready meals sector has been defined by speed, scale and convenience. Yet as 2025 unfolds, the category is undergoing a far deeper transformation—one driven not by lifestyle change alone, but by healthcare intervention, regula- tory pressure and industrial economics events guide Everything that has been going on in the Food & Beverage sector this month 20 24 28 12 324 FOOD AND BEVERAGE BUSINESS MAGAZINE Doubled Packaging for Doubled Pie Production A leading British pie producer has doubled its packaging capacity to match a major increase in output, installing three additional shrink-wrapping lines from Yorkshire Packaging Systems (YPS) alongside the three already in operation. Each system combines a side-feed sleeve wrapper with a heat Key Technology, a member of Duravant’s Food Sorting and Handling Group, has launched its next-generation automatic defect removal system for potato strips – ADR® X – at Interpack (Hall 6 / B73). Designed for wet potato processing, ADR systems identify defects and precisely trim only affected areas, helping processors increase yield and profitability. ADR X builds on Key’s proven technology with enhanced multi-spectral sensing, advanced LED lighting and strobing to detect challenging defects such as green discoloration. Multiple wavelength imaging improves separation between product and background, supporting accurate trimming. A true-colour interface ensures intuitive operation. The redesigned hygienic architecture eliminates activity above the product stream, reduces flat surfaces and integrates clean-in-place functionality. Recipe-driven conveying, independent drives for the conveyor and cutter-wheel, and faster belt replacement improve flexibility and uptime. ADR X can replace existing ADR 5 systems with minimal layout changes and is available as a plug-and-play solution. KEY TECHNOLOGY INTRODUCES NEW ADR® X FOR POTATO STRIPS NEWS More job reductions are anticipated at Ireland’s ABP Food Group as consultations commence with employees at its Waterford facility. ABP Food Group announced in a statement that it is evaluating approximately 230 potential redundancies at the Waterford cutting and deboning operation. However, the abattoir on the same site remains unaffected by these cuts and will continue to receive cattle for slaughter. The company attributed the workforce downsizing to “reduced livestock supply and increasing costs in Ireland.” While ABP did not disclose the remaining number of employees at the Waterford facility when queried, the company indicated it would provide no further comments until consultations are completed. To sustain efficiency and competitiveness, ABP plans to utilize its other facilities. A spokesperson stated, “We understand the impact this announcement may have on our colleagues and their families. We are committed to engaging constructively with our employees during this period of consultation.” Increased Job Uncertainty at ABP Food Group Amid Ongoing Meat Industry Challenges shrink tunnel, providing high-speed automated wrapping and rapid changeovers across multiple pack formats. The company also introduced new boxing lines positioned ahead of the shrink-wrapping stage to streamline throughput. Having previously worked with YPS, the manufacturer returned to the supplier for the expansion. “This customer already understood the level of engineering support we provide,” said YPS Sales Manager Jacques-Pierre Macchi. “They trusted us to get the new lines running quickly and to provide reliable long-term support.” Alongside the machinery installation, YPS reviewed the packaging materials in use and recommended replacing the existing 50-micron virgin film with a thinner, value-engineered alternative. “The new film reduces overall plastic usage and allows the shrink tunnel to run at a lower temperature,” explained Macchi. “It is also a recyclable mono- material containing recycled content, helping the producer manage its EPR responsibilities.”FOOD AND BEVERAGE BUSINESS MAGAZINE 5 Kraft Heinz Temporarily Halts Plans for Company Split Kraft Heinz has decided to pause its plans for a split into two distinct entities. Instead, the company is now prioritizing strategies to revitalize its growth in the competitive food and beverage industry. In September, Kraft Heinz, known for its brands like Heinz ketchup and Maxwell House coffee, had communicated its intent to develop two separate businesses. This was aimed at sharpening both strategic and operational focus, allowing for improved performance. However, on February 11, newly appointed CEO Steve Cahillane stated that the plans would be put on hold. Recently transitioning from his role at Kellanova, Cahillane noted, “Since joining the company, I have seen that the opportunity is larger than expected and that many of our challenges are fixable and within our control.” WAM Saudi concludes historic edition, marked by High-Level Global Participation and strategic MoU Signings The World Advanced Manufacturing & Logistics (WAM) Saudi Summit & Expo 2026, officially concluded after three days of high-impact sessions, strategic collaborations and innovative showcases, highlighting the Kingdom’s ongoing industrial transformation led by the Saudi Vision 2030 agenda. Organised by KAOUN International in strategic partnership with the Saudi Authority for Industrial Cities and Technology Zones (MODON), the exhibition convened international industry professionals from over 45 nations, offering exclusive networking opportunities, building partnerships, and committing to execution in this defining moment for the global industry. Alex Nicholl, Vice-President, Kaoun International, stated: “What makes this year’s edition distinctive is that we have brought the entire ecosystem together. Beyond visitors, we have attracted serious buyers – both international and predominantly from Saudi Arabia, reflecting the Kingdom’s position as one of the most dynamic and rapidly accelerating industrial markets globally.” ADAPA’S SKIN FILMS SHOWCASE PREMIUM PRODUCT QUALITY Amid rising inflation and shifting nutritional preferences, consumers are increasingly making intentional food purchasing decisions, prioritizing clear product quality at the point of sale. In this context, packaging is essential: it not only safeguards the product but also conveys premium quality through its design and tactile experience. adapa’s SkinFreshTop portfolio sets advanced benchmarks, especially for premium cuts of meat. The ultra-transparent skin films ensure optimal product visibility, preserve freshness, and aid meat processors in showcasing quality—thereby positioning them effectively within the premium market segment. NEWSBakers Basco Marks 20 Years of Protecting the UK’s Bakery Supply Chain Bakers Basco, the national membership scheme established by the UK’s leading plant bakers to manage and protect industry- standard bread baskets and dollies, is celebrating its 20th anniversary marking two decades of innovation, collaboration and commitment to safeguarding the bakery supply chain. Founded by Allied Bakeries, Fine Lady Bakeries, Frank Roberts & Sons, Hovis and Warburtons, Bakers Basco was created to provide a unified, industry-wide solution to the growing challenge of equipment misuse, loss and theft. Twenty years on, the organisation plays a critical role in ensuring the efficient delivery of bread and morning goods across the UK, while supporting sustainability and circular-economy goals. Over the past two decades, Bakers Basco has consistently invested in technology, awareness campaigns and frontline recovery operations to protect millions of reusable plastic bread baskets and dollies that remain essential to daily grocery logistics. Early adoption of GPS tracking technology, followed by next-generation 4G tracking and alarm systems, enabled the organisation to locate and recover missing equipment more efficiently than ever before. RDM Group Unveils Vincicoat PLUS: Enhanced Strength and Reduced Packaging Footprint Automated packaging specialists Yorkshire Packaging Systems (YPS) will be exhibiting at the Packing Innovations and Sustainable Supply Chain event at the NEC on February 11th and 12th. The company supplies both equipment and materials and has a wealth of experience in supplying the food production industry, throughout its almost 50 years in business. The company has a large and growing range of food contact approved materials and can advise on the optimal material for specific food applications. Recent projects where food producers have gained production benefits by partnering with YPS have included: • A premium cheese producer achieving increased production through their peak production period. • A dairy investing in additional shrink-wrapping capacity following a large renovation due to significant business growth. • A herb supplier who gained all the benefits of automation within a small footprint, following the supply of a compact line. • Consistent wrapping of irregular-shaped seafood products. • Gains in speed and flexibility achieved for a baked goods supplier. • Improvements in pallet load containment for a dairy’s milk range. The YPS Team will be based at stand S100. The global appetite for fish and seafood products is on the rise. Consumers across various regions increasingly prioritize healthy and sustainable diets, making seafood a top choice due to its nutritional benefits and versatile culinary applications. As demand escalates, manufacturers face mounting pressure to ensure freshness, safety, and sustainability, which underscores the importance of modern packaging solutions. This is a key reason why SEALPAC will return to the Seafood Expo 2026 in Barcelona. At stand 3LL200, SEALPAC’s packaging specialists from Germany will showcase innovative solutions tailored for the global seafood industry, including the acclaimed FlatSkin® concept on a SEALPAC M-Flex traysealer. NEWS 6 FOOD AND BEVERAGE BUSINESS MAGAZINEFOOD AND BEVERAGE BUSINESS MAGAZINE 7 NEWS IFE and IFE Manufacturing 2026 to tackle AI, the power of representation, and the future of food & drink IFE and IFE Manufacturing have unveiled their 2026 seminar programmes, bringing together leading voices from across the food and drink industry to explore the ideas, insights and innovations shaping the sector’s future. Taking place at Excel London from 30 March to 01 April 2026 as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, both shows are united by the theme ‘Feeding the Future’, reflecting the changing behaviours, priorities and pressures influencing food and drink product development, manufacturing and routes to market. At IFE, content will be anchored by the Future Food Stage, sponsored by Brambles Digital, which will explore the consumer, cultural and commercial trends shaping tomorrow’s food and drink landscape. Sessions will examine topics including sustainability, representation, sourcing, health and flavour, alongside the role of insight and storytelling in driving product success. The Brewdog board has enlisted London-based financial consultants AlixPartners to oversee the sale process, potentially leading to the division of the firm. Founded by James Watt and Martin Dickie in 2007, Brewdog has established itself as one of the UK’s top-selling beer brands and claims to be the largest craft beer producer in Europe. According to Sky News, a swift timeline for indicative offers has been set, which may result in Brewdog’s 220,000 individual shareholders—who invested an average of £400 through the ‘Equity for Punks’ initiative—seeing minimal returns. The company released a statement emphasizing, “As with many businesses operating in a challenging economic climate and facing sustained macro headwinds, we regularly review our options with a focus on the long-term strength and sustainability of the company.” “Following a year of decisive action in 2025, which saw a focus on costs and operating efficiencies, we have appointed AlixPartners to support a structured and competitive process to evaluate the next phase of investment for the business.” BREWDOG SEEKS ADVISERS TO FIND BUYER FOLLOWING A CHALLENGING 2025. More than 11,000 logistics, warehousing and supply chain professionals are expected to attend IntraLogisteX 2026 when it returns to the NEC Birmingham on 18-19 March 2026. Now in its 11th year, the event has firmly established itself as the UK’s flagship exhibition for intralogistics, warehouse technology and end-to-end supply chain innovation IntraLogisteX has evolved beyond a traditional warehousing event. The 2026 edition will bring together more than 300 exhibiting brands and four co-located shows, creating a comprehensive platform that reflects the scale, complexity and technology-driven transformation of modern supply chains. INTRALOGISTEX 2026: THE UK’S LARGEST AND LEADING SHOWCASE OF INTRALOGISTICS INNOVATIONYOUR NEXT CONTRACT IS HELD IN THESE HANDS BUSINESS She isn’t scrolling. She isn’t skipping a pre-roll ad. She’s the Director of Operations for a national food group, and for the next 15 minutes, she is doing one thing: reading. She’s reading about AI, processing, manufacturing, and supply chain innovations that will shape her budget for the next financial year. She’s reading foodandbeverage.business In a world of digital noise, we deliver what marketing budgets crave: genuine, focused engagement with the people who make the critical purchasing decisions. Direct Access Reach the C-Suite, Directors, and Senior Managers who are actively seeking solutions sales@foodandbeverage.business foodandbeverage.business Unrivalled Credibility Position your brand within content that our readers trust and rely on to make critical business decisions. Guaranteed Visibility Your message placed in a premium, uncluttered environment - whether in print or online - ensuring the right audience sees When you advertise with us, you aren’t just buying space. You’re buying: Print, online, or email — foodandbeverage.business is where industry leaders engage, make decisions, and open doors to new opportunities Stop Wasting Your Budget. Start Reaching BuyersFOOD AND BEVERAGE BUSINESS MAGAZINE 9 LOGISTICS REWE, one of Germany’s lead- ing grocery retailers, has auto- mated its fresh food operations at its Oranienburg logistics cen- tre in partnership with intralo- gistics specialist Cimcorp. The new automated fulfilment facility manages the rapid, error-free distribution of fruit and vegetables to more than 370 supermarkets and 580 stores across the greater Berlin region. Designed to increase reliability, efficiency and workplace wellbeing, the system modernises a critical link in REWE’s supply chain. “In fresh food logistics, every minute counts and every delivery is critical,” says Matthias Menzel, General Manager at REWE’s Oranienburg Logistics Centre. “Missing the delivery window means significant financial loss. We invested in automation to achieve real-time control, reliability and the capacity to serve Berlin and surrounding areas.” Reliable, transparent operations The site handles around 29,000 units daily using Cimcorp’s automated order-picking solution, controlled by its Warehouse Control System (WCS). The software oversees inbound barcode scanning, depalletising, inventory handling, picking, labelling and shipping while maintaining high transparency, safety and uptime. User dashboards and error-management tools give operators full system visibility, enabling rapid intervention when required. FIFO and FEFO stock rotation principles are applied, while workload balancing and ergonomic stacking protect product quality and employee safety. Every crate and pallet is uniquely identified and tracked throughout the process, ensuring full traceability. Redundancy has also been built into the operation. Dual robot cells and transfer cars allow continuous operation even during rare equipment disruptions. “Our customers expect increasing reliability every year,” Menzel explains. “As stores learn they can trust our REWE and Cimcorp automate fresh supply chain for Berlin supermarkets and stores deliveries, it improves not just logistics but the in-store customer experience. We’re no longer dependent on overtime — staff are motivated to work with modern technology.” Improving working conditions Labour shortages and physically demanding warehouse tasks were key drivers behind the project. According to REWE, heavy lifting in fruit and vegetable handling has become increasingly difficult to staff. “Automation removes daily strain from our teams,” says Menzel. “Employees can now focus on safer, more rewarding work. It helps solve labour challenges while creating a modern workplace with less physical strain.” A long-term partnership Cimcorp emphasises that collaboration and adaptability were central to the project. “Together we created a solution that integrates seamlessly into REWE’s operations and is supported by continuous service and training,” says Riku Puska, Sales Manager at Cimcorp Group. The Oranienburg facility now serves as a flagship site in REWE’s logistics transformation, supporting consistent fresh food availability in one of Europe’s busiest retail markets. www.cimcorp.com Matthias Menzel, General Manager at REWE’s Oranienburg Logistics CentreNext >