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Tag: ketchup

  • Heinz and Heineken Unveil Limited-Edition Combo: Beer Meets Ketchup in Epic 150-Year Brand Collaboration

    Heinz and Heineken Unveil Limited-Edition Combo: Beer Meets Ketchup in Epic 150-Year Brand Collaboration

    Iconic brands Heinz and Heineken have teamed up to release a unique, limited-edition six-pack that combines their popular ketchup and beer products. This creative collaboration is not introducing a new consumption trend, but rather capitalizes on an already established pattern of consumer behaviour.

    Long-standing Consumer Habits Inspire Collaboration

    The pairing of these two beloved products acknowledges how they are often consumed together at various social settings. Be it a casual gathering, a sporting event, a barbecue, or simply during a burger meal, the consumption of Heinz ketchup and Heineken beer is a common occurrence.

    Dana Katz, Director of Integrated Communications at Heineken, stated that this brand pairing has been 150 years in the making. She emphasized that instead of creating a novel habit, this collaboration is a testament to what consumers have been doing for decades.

    The unique concept behind the partnership, according to Katz, emerged from an already existing link between the two brands. She mentioned that the idea didn’t feel like a new creation, but more of a discovery of something which had been hidden in plain sight, going even as far as the similarity in the brand names.

    Rolling Out in Select International Markets

    The exclusive Heinz x Heineken six-pack is set to hit the shelves in a number of selected international markets. These include the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Canada.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the unique selling proposition of the Heinz x Heineken six-pack?
    The unique selling point of this product is it combines two popular items that are often consumed together, Heinz ketchup and Heineken beer, into one convenient pack.

    Where will the Heinz x Heineken pack be available?
    The pack will be available in selected international markets, including the UK, Ireland, and Canada.

    What inspired the collaboration between Heinz and Heineken?
    The concept emerged from an already existing link between the two brands, recognizing that their products are often consumed together in various social settings.

  • Kraft Heinz Q3: Dipping Sales, Savory Split in 2026 & the Crunch for Iconic Brands

    Kraft Heinz Q3: Dipping Sales, Savory Split in 2026 & the Crunch for Iconic Brands

    Food industry behemoth Kraft Heinz reported a disappointing third quarter with lower than anticipated results. The company attributes the underperformance to persistent cost pressures and diminishing consumer demand, which have compelled a downward revision of its forecast for fiscal year 2025.

    Kraft Heinz, the name behind iconic products like Heinz Ketchup and Kraft Mac & Cheese, recorded global net sales of US$6.24 billion. This represents a decline of 2.3% from the corresponding quarter in the previous year, with organic sales dipping by 2.5%.

    The company’s adjusted operating income fell by 16.9% to US$1.1 billion, marking a significant decrease of nearly 19% from the same period last year.

    CEO’s Statement

    According to Kraft Heinz’s CEO, Carlos Abrams-Rivera, the company’s third quarter performance reflects a slight improvement in their top-line performance compared to the first half of the year.

    Despite this, North America, the company’s largest market, continues to experience challenges as customers scale back on their spending on pantry essentials.

    In this region, the net sales declined by 3.8%, a consequence of a 4.2-point decrease in volume and mix. Contrarily, net sales in international developed markets saw an increase of 1.6%, and emerging markets, including those in Western and Eastern parts, as well as Asia, experienced growth of 3.8%.

    Challenges and Market Positioning

    Daniel Binns, Global CEO of brand consultancy firm Elmwood, highlighted the company’s struggle with volume declines across its famous brands. According to him, the prime challenge lies in maintaining a premium positioning while staying relevant to shifting consumer needs.

    Binns emphasized that legacy brands need to assert their value in visible and relevant ways, be it through innovation, revitalized storytelling, or superior consumer experiences.

    “I believe consumers need to perceive brands as ‘meaningfully different’ to accept premium pricing. Simply being ‘reassuringly expensive’ no longer suffices,” Binns asserted.

    Future Plans

    Going forward, Kraft Heinz confirmed its plan to divide into two publicly traded companies during the latter half of the next year.

    The first entity, Global Taste Elevation Co, will encompass Heinz, Philadelphia, and Kraft Mac & Cheese. The second, North American Grocery Co, will include a curated portfolio of North American staples with three billion-dollar brands – Oscar Mayer, Kraft Singles, and Lunchables.

    Abrams-Rivera expressed confidence that this separation would allow each business to better concentrate resources, improve execution, reduce complexity, and foster further efficiencies.

    Binns advanced the view that Kraft Heinz’s planned division could enable the portfolios to follow distinct strategies. The core challenge, however, is that heritage brands must evolve thoughtfully, engaging consumers while maintaining their price premium through real benefits and authentic differentiation rather than merely relying on nostalgia.

    Questions & Answers

    What were the Q3 results for Kraft Heinz?
    The company reported lower than expected results, with global net sales of US$6.24 billion, marking a decline of 2.3% from the same period last year.

    What is Kraft Heinz’s plan for the future?
    Kraft Heinz plans to split into two publicly traded companies during the second half of the coming year.

    What challenges does Kraft Heinz face?
    The key challenge for Kraft Heinz is to maintain the premium positioning of their heritage brands while staying relevant to shifting consumer needs. This involves portraying their brands as ‘meaningfully different’ to justify premium pricing.

  • Kraft Heinz Announces Strategic Split Into Two Independent Companies

    Kraft Heinz Announces Strategic Split Into Two Independent Companies

    The Kraft Heinz Company recently announced its comprehensive strategy to divide its current operations into two independent companies. This decision is aimed at enhancing functionality and reducing operational complexity.

    The Plan for Separation

    The company’s board has given its approval for this plan, which will result in the formation of two separate, publicly traded entities through a tax-free spin-off.

    The first of these entities will be Global Taste Elevation Co. This company will focus on spices and shelf-stable meals, boasting net sales of approximately US$15.4 billion and an adjusted EBITDA of $4 billion in the previous year. Its brand portfolio will include well-known names like Heinz, Philadelphia, and Kraft Mac & Cheese. Notably, sauces, spreads, and seasonings will make up 75% of its sales.

    The second entity, North American Grocery Co, will have net sales of $10.4 billion and an EBITDA of $2.3 billion. This firm will oversee brands such as Oscar Mayer, Kraft Singles, and Lunchables.

    Expected Outcomes

    The division is expected to grant each new company greater strategic and operational focus. This will allow them to allocate resources appropriately, streamline operations, and distribute capital based on their individual strategies.

    Miguel Patricio, the board’s executive chair for Kraft Heinz, noted that while their brands are celebrated and iconic, the current structural complexity impedes effective capital allocation and prioritization of initiatives. The split into two companies will enable the unlocking of each brand’s potential, driving improved performance and long-term shareholder value.

    Carlos Abrams-Rivera will maintain his leadership role at Kraft Heinz during the separation, transitioning to become the CEO of North American Grocery Co once the process is complete. Meanwhile, the board is collaborating with an executive search firm to find suitable CEO candidates for Global Taste Elevation Co.

    Kraft Heinz has no plans to relocate its current headquarters. The board has also created a Separation Committee, led by Vice-Chair John Cahill, to supervise the spin-off’s execution.

    The company expects to finalize the separation by the second half of next year. It also anticipates dis-synergies of up to $300 million, with clear opportunities to offset a significant portion of these in the near term.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the two new companies that will be formed from the Kraft Heinz split?
    The two new companies will be Global Taste Elevation Co and North American Grocery Co, each specializing in different areas of the food industry.

    Who will lead North American Grocery Co?
    Carlos Abrams-Rivera, who currently leads Kraft Heinz, will become the CEO of North American Grocery Co once the separation is complete.

    When is the split expected to be finalized?
    The separation is expected to conclude by the second half of next year.

  • Heinz And Smoothie King Launch Groundbreaking Tomato Ketchup-based Smoothie In Select Us Markets

    Heinz And Smoothie King Launch Groundbreaking Tomato Ketchup-based Smoothie In Select Us Markets

    In an unexpected partnership, famed condiment producer Heinz and beverage giant Smoothie King have come together to introduce a pioneering concept in the beverage industry – a smoothie that is based on ketchup. Drawing inspiration from the viral internet conundrum, ‘If tomatoes are a fruit, can ketchup be seen as a smoothie?’, this unique, limited-edition creation has been christened the Heinz Tomato Ketchup Smoothie.

    A Savoury-Sweet Blend

    This one-of-a-kind smoothie is a blend of Heinz Simply Tomato Ketchup and typical fruit smoothie components like acai sorbet, apple juice, strawberries, and raspberries. The collaboration has resulted in an intriguingly tangy yet sweet beverage that has been described by both companies as an ideal “refreshing summer sip.”

    The Vice President of R&D and product marketing at Smoothie King, Lori Primavera, spoke about the process of creating this innovative smoothie. She said, “After several months of thorough R&D, testing and tasting, we have successfully developed a savoury-sweet blend that honours the versatility of the tomato. Our constant commitment to nutritious ingredients and our Clean Blends promise is evident in every recipe we create, and this daring new blend is no exception!”

    Availability

    The groundbreaking Heinz Tomato Ketchup Smoothie will be available at selected Smoothie King outlets in five US markets. These include Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Miami, and the Greater New York/New Jersey area. Priced at US$5.70, this unique beverage will be on sale as long as stocks last.

    Earlier this year, Heinz had also collaborated with the Philippine milk tea chain Macao Imperial Tea to create ReMix, an innovative blend of tea and condiments.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the Heinz Tomato Ketchup Smoothie?
    The Heinz Tomato Ketchup Smoothie is a unique, limited-edition beverage developed in collaboration between Heinz and Smoothie King. It blends Heinz Simply Tomato Ketchup with classic fruit smoothie ingredients.

    Where can I purchase the Heinz Tomato Ketchup Smoothie?
    The smoothie will be available at select Smoothie King locations across five US markets: Atlanta, Chicago, Denver, Miami, and the Greater New York/New Jersey area.

    What is the price of the Heinz Tomato Ketchup Smoothie?
    The Heinz Tomato Ketchup Smoothie is priced at US$5.70 and will be available while supplies last.

  • Lakanto launches no-sugar-added BBQ Sauce & Tomato Ketchup

    Lakanto launches no-sugar-added BBQ Sauce & Tomato Ketchup

    Monkfruit sweetener brand Lakanto Australia has launched the No Sugar Added Tomato Ketchup and BBQ Sauce, offering a healthier alternative.

    According to the company, the sauces are naturally sweetened with Lakanto’s monkfruit sweetener, feature no artificial colours or tastes, and are low in carbs, making them suitable for individuals following keto, low-carb, or diabetic diets.

    “We’re excited and really proud to offer these delicious, healthier alternatives to classic condiments,” said Leon McIndoe, GM of Lakanto Australia.

    “With our BBQ Sauce and Ketchup, we’re continuing our mission to help people ‘Live a Responsibly Sweet Life’ – making it easier to enjoy flavourful meals without compromising on their health goals.”

    The Lakanto Sweet and Spicy BBQ Sauce and Lakanto Tomato Ketchup are available with an RRP of $12.95

    Last year, Lakanto re-launched its caramel and chocolate toppings derived from monkfruit, which naturally adds sweetness.

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  • Heinz launches pickle-flavoured ketchup in Australia

    Heinz launches pickle-flavoured ketchup in Australia

    Heinz is making a twist on its classic tomato sauce by introducing a new pickle-flavoured ketchup in Australia.

    The new flavour blends ketchup with dill pickle for a flexible sauce, which the company ensures “to thrill both pickle fans and ketchup lovers nationwide”.

    The new Heinz Pickle Flavoured Ketchup is already available in Coles stores and will be available countrywide at Woolworths and Metcash on October 14 with an RRP of $5.00.

    Last month, Heinz introduced two new mayo flavours – Cheesy Garlic Bread Aioli and Margherita Pizza Mayonnaise – which it describes as “criminally tasty”.

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  • Heinz to test paper-based ketchup bottle for worldwide launch

    Heinz to test paper-based ketchup bottle for worldwide launch

    Pulpex, a packaging technology company co-founded by Diageo, has quickly grown in prominence with several CPGs working with the upstart. PepsiCo, which debuted a prototype of the world’s first fully recyclable paper bottle last year, and Unilever have committed to using Pulpex’s technology in their packaging as founding partners of a consortium of companies.

    For Kraft Heinz, the new bottle type will help in its broader sustainable packaging ambitions. The manufacturer of Velveeta cheese and Oscar Mayer cold cuts has pledged to make all of its packaging globally recyclable, reusable or compostable by 2025. It also is aiming to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

    A big reason why companies are investing money to improve their packaging is not only to be altruistic but also because consumers are responding through their purchases.

    More than two-thirds of consumers consider it important that the products they buy are in recyclable packaging, according to Trivium Packaging’s 2021 Global Buying Green Report. The report also found 54% take sustainable packaging into consideration when selecting a product.

    It’s a big reason why General Mills’ Nature Valley Crunchy granola bars, for example, moved to fully recyclable plastic wrappers starting last year and PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division introduced a compostable bag for its Off The Eaten Path brand.

    Coca-Cola has introduced bottles made from 100% recycled plastic material, Mars Wrigley has partnered with Danimer Scientific to create biodegradable wrappers for Skittles and Danone’s Evian bottled water brand has unveiled a new recycled plastic (rPET) prototype bottle using technology from Loop Industries. The Evian bottles will first appear at a commercial scale in South Korea in 2022 before debuting elsewhere in the future.

    In many cases, companies are testing out new sustainable technologies before determining whether to roll them out more broadly — a key step to ironing out any glitches and making production cost-effective. Kraft Heinz said it will test the prototype to assess performance before trying it with consumers and then eventually bringing the bottle to market.

    The fact that easily recognizable brands such as Heinz are embracing paper-based packaging adds significant momentum behind the shift.

    “The scope for paper-based packaging is huge, and when global household names like Heinz embrace this type of innovative technology, it’s good news for everyone — consumers and the planet,” said Pulpex CEO Scott Winston.

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  • Kraft Heinz gives away bulk ketchup to Melbourne small businesses

    Kraft Heinz gives away bulk ketchup to Melbourne small businesses

    Food and beverage company Kraft-Heinz is giving away 12-liter cartons of Heinz Tomato Ketchup to small business owners in Melbourne, including burger restaurants and other quick-service restaurants.

    As restrictions ease across Victoria, the company says it wants to help business owners affected by Covid-19 lockdowns get back on their feet with complimentary product deliveries. 

    “We know that the Melbourne restaurant industry has been hit hard by the latest lockdowns, with small, independent businesses particularly impacted,” said Marisa Jones, head of marketing foodservice ANZ at Kraft Heinz.

    “Whether you’re a burger bar, cafe owner or run another quick-service restaurant, we want to provide our foodservice community with an offer of assistance,” she said. 

    Eligible businesses are those located in the Melbourne metropolitan area, of 30 employees or less, privately owned and not part of a franchise group. The offer will be limited to one carton per business, who do not have to be an existing customer of Kraft Heinz.

    Business owners can apply for this offer from Kraft Heinz here until June 30 or until supplies last. Each delivery will consist of a carton of Heinz Tomato Ketchup containing three 4-litre bottles.