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Tag: sweet

  • Skyrocketing Lychee Prices: A Sweet Yet Sour Tale Amid Plummeting Yields

    Skyrocketing Lychee Prices: A Sweet Yet Sour Tale Amid Plummeting Yields

    The cost of lychees has increased by 20% compared to last year due to a decline in production brought about by unfavorable weather conditions. This information comes from Manh, a lychee orchard owner in the Thanh Ha Commune, Hai Phong City, who has seen his yield decrease by 30%, even though he recently sold a ton of the fruit for VND95,000 (US$3.61) per kilogram.

    Harvest Decline

    Pham Thi Van, a fellow farmer in the region, has reported a similar experience. She has only been able to harvest a ton of fruit so far this season, which is only half of last year’s yield.

    Although prices have dropped slightly since mid-April before the harvest, they remain at their highest in years, according to Van.

    Rising Profits

    In the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak, lychees are selling between VND60,000-80,000 per kilogram at the farm gate, which is considerably higher than in previous years. An orchard owner in the province confirmed that profits have increased as traders are proactively sourcing supply and placing advance orders.

    In Ho Chi Minh City, lychees from Dak Lak are selling for VND140,000-150,000 per kilogram, while specialty egg-shaped lychees from Thanh Ha are selling for VND150,000-180,000 per kilogram. Some stores that transport lychees by air to preserve freshness are charging as much as VND210,000.

    Weather Impact

    The Hai Phong Department of Crop Production and Plant Protection has said that the city has approximately 9,350 hectares of lychee trees, with 35% currently bearing fruit. According to them, a milder winter combined with a lack of cold weather has affected the flowering and fruit set rates of the lychee trees.

    Local authorities have advised farmers to improve crop care procedures and are urging businesses to collaborate with farmers to ensure a stable supply.

    Questions & Answers

    What has caused the increase in lychee prices?
    Poor weather conditions have resulted in a decrease in lychee production, leading to a 20% increase in the cost of the fruit.

    What measures are being taken to ensure a stable supply of lychees?
    Local authorities are encouraging better crop care techniques and pushing for partnerships between farmers and businesses to maintain a steady supply.

    How has the weather impacted the yield of lychee trees?
    A milder winter and a lack of cold weather have negatively impacted the flowering and fruit set rates of the lychee trees, leading to lower yields.

  • Sweet Success: Honey Australia Buzzes into Middle East Market with Exclusive Lulu Hypermarket Partnership

    Sweet Success: Honey Australia Buzzes into Middle East Market with Exclusive Lulu Hypermarket Partnership

    The family-owned Australian brand, Honey Australia, has recently extended its reach into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) through an exclusive collaboration with the Lulu Group.

    Honey Australia’s premium products are now widely available across Lulu Hypermarket locations throughout the GCC. The launch of their partnership was celebrated with an in-store event in Qatar.

    Nick Maiolo, the co-founder of Honey Australia, expressed immense pride in this exclusive partnership with the Lulu Group for the brand’s GCC expansion. He stated, “As a family-owned enterprise that has been closely working with Australian beekeepers for several generations, it’s an honor to have our products included within Lulu’s premium Australian range, and being introduced to customers across the Middle East.”

    The regional introduction of Honey Australia is in line with the company’s participation at Gulfood, a leading food and beverage industry event. This provided the company an opportunity to connect with buyers and distribution partners to further fortify its market presence.

    Honey Australia’s expansion is not limited to the Middle East alone, as the company also has plans to extend its reach in other regions worldwide.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Honey Australia’s new partnership?
    Honey Australia has entered an exclusive partnership with the Lulu Group, helping them expand into the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

    What event marked the launch of this partnership?
    The launch of the partnership was celebrated with an in-store event in Qatar.

    What is Honey Australia’s future expansion plan?
    While they have recently expanded into the GCC, Honey Australia intends to further increase their global presence by branching out into other regions around the world.

  • Marcus Raward: Steering Noosa Chocolate Factory Towards New Commercial Heights Amid Market Challenges

    Marcus Raward: Steering Noosa Chocolate Factory Towards New Commercial Heights Amid Market Challenges

    Marcus Raward has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Noosa Chocolate Factory, marking a new era in the company’s top leadership.

    Delivering Growth Through Strategic Leadership

    Known for his commercial strategy and business growth expertise, Raward is set to steer the company through its current operational phase. His responsibilities include honoring the company’s rich heritage while readily adapting to the prevailing economic landscape.

    Raward expressed his vision for the company, stating, “The goal is to honor the roots of our brand, highlight the unique qualities that set our products apart from other chocolate and confectionery brands, while propelling the business into a stronger commercial position.”

    Addressing Market Challenges and Opportunities

    The chocolate industry is currently undergoing a transition as it rebounds from significant price volatility in the global cocoa market. Raward pointed out that the market is beginning to stabilize, a shift that has been felt by manufacturers worldwide.

    Addressing this issue, Raward commented, “Cocoa prices have posed a tough challenge for the entire sector, but now we’re seeing signs of a plateau. Simultaneously, the demand for quality chocolate continues to be robust, which opens up a real opportunity for a brand like Noosa Chocolate Factory.”

    Expansion Plans

    As part of its growth strategy, Noosa Chocolate Factory has inaugurated a new outlet at Westfield Chermside and refurbished its store at Sunshine Plaza, which is anticipated to reopen early this month.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Marcus Raward’s vision for Noosa Chocolate Factory as its new CEO?
    Raward’s vision is to honor the brand’s roots, highlight its unique product qualities, and propel the company into a stronger commercial position.

    How is the global cocoa market impacting the chocolate industry?
    Significant price volatility in the global cocoa market has posed challenges for the chocolate industry. However, signs of a stabilizing market present new opportunities for brands like Noosa Chocolate Factory.

    What are some of Noosa Chocolate Factory’s recent expansion efforts?
    As part of its growth strategy, Noosa Chocolate Factory has opened a new store at Westfield Chermside and renovated its Sunshine Plaza store.

  • Sugar-Free Sweet Sensation: Funday Debuts Exciting New Chocolate Range with Fruity Center

    Sugar-Free Sweet Sensation: Funday Debuts Exciting New Chocolate Range with Fruity Center

    Funday, known for its well-loved sugar-free confectioneries, is expanding its product line with the introduction of a new chocolate range. This launch sees the company entering the chocolate sector for the first time, continuing their commitment to create sweets that do not contain added sugar or sugar alcohols.

    Product Features

    The newly released chocolate products are manufactured in Funday’s local factory. This range offers a unique twist to traditional chocolates, featuring milk chocolate enveloping a delectable fruity, gummy center. There are four product varieties to cater to different chocolate preferences: Milk Chocolate Raspberry Bullets, White Chocolate Raspberry Bullets, Milk Chocolate Banana Bites, and Dark Chocolate Strawberry Bites.

    Funday’s founder, Daniel Kitay, expressed that the addition of chocolate to their product selection was a response to customer demand. “It has been our most requested product among consumers,” Kitay stated, “We took our time to ensure that we got it right.”

    Spreading Joy Through Chocolate

    The launch of Funday’s new chocolate range aligns with the brand’s mission to spread joy through their products. “We’re excited to finally share this new product with our fans,” said Kitay, “It’s all about adding a bit more fun and happiness with our chocolate.”

    Availability & Pricing

    The Funday Chocolates are available in convenient 50g bags, priced at $6 each. Consumers can find these new offerings in prominent retail chains such as Woolworths and Chemist Warehouse, as well as independent stores across the country.

    Questions & Answers

    What is unique about Funday’s new chocolate range?
    The unique factor of Funday’s new chocolate range is the fruity, gummy center featured in each item. Plus, they continue Funday’s tradition of creating sweets without added sugar or sugar alcohols.

    What are the different variants of Funday’s chocolate range?
    Funday’s new chocolate product line includes four variants: Milk Chocolate Raspberry Bullets, White Chocolate Raspberry Bullets, Milk Chocolate Banana Bites, and Dark Chocolate Strawberry Bites.

    Where can consumers purchase Funday’s new chocolate range?
    Funday’s new chocolate range can be purchased at Woolworths, Chemist Warehouse, and independent stores nationwide.

  • Sweet Fusion: Mondelez Unveils New Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff Blend, Takes Australia By Storm

    Sweet Fusion: Mondelez Unveils New Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff Blend, Takes Australia By Storm

    Mondelez International has recently unveiled its latest offering, Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff, in a collaborative endeavour with Lotus Bakeries. This unique product presents a delightful blend of Cadbury Dairy Milk’s creaminess and the distinct crunchiness of Lotus Biscoff’s caramelised biscuit.

    Early Success

    The novel fusion of the two popular treats has generated significant consumer interest. Indeed, the much-anticipated product’s early success has seen the shelves of stores nationwide quickly clearing of the tasty chocolate blocks. Katrina Watson, a representative from Mondelez International, attests to the impressive reception of Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff.

    Local Production

    Mondelez International is proud to produce this unique chocolate variety right in Tasmania. The company further supports local Australian businesses by sourcing the sugar used in the chocolate bars from growers in Queensland. This commitment to local suppliers underscores Mondelez’s dedication to supporting and uplifting local communities.

    Where to Buy Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff

    Fans of Cadbury and Biscoff can find the Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff block, weighing 170g, in major retail outlets. If you’re looking for a smaller indulgence, a 70g bar is also available in convenience stores across Australia.

    Questions & Answers

    What is Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff?
    Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff is a new product launched by Mondelez International. It is a mixture of Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate and Lotus Biscoff caramelised biscuit.

    Where is Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff produced?
    Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff is produced in Tasmania, Australia. The sugar used in its production is sourced from Queensland growers.

    Where can I buy Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff?
    The Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff block can be found in major retail stores, while a smaller 70g bar is available in convenience stores across Australia.

  • “M&M’s Pop-Up Store Serves Up Sweet Surprise at Australian Open With Exclusive Flavours and Interactive Fun”

    “M&M’s Pop-Up Store Serves Up Sweet Surprise at Australian Open With Exclusive Flavours and Interactive Fun”

    The renowned M&M’s pop-up store is all set to make its return to the Australian Open, starting from January 12 to February 1. This comes as a follow-up to its successful debut in the previous year’s tournament.

    What to Expect

    The pop-up store will be strategically situated in Garden Square. It will feature an alluring chocolate wall, displaying two exclusive colours specially designed for the Australian Open – pink and light blue. Additionally, a new intriguing flavour, the Crunchy Cookie, will be introduced and available for on-site tasting for the very first time.

    Interactive Activities and More

    Visitors to the pop-up store can look forward to a host of exciting activities. These include appearances by beloved M&M’s characters, Red and Yellow. Aside from this, interactive activities like table tennis activations will be set up outside the store for visitors to engage in. There will also be photo opportunities inside the store, making it a memorable experience for attendees.

    Moreover, the brand will ensure a wider presence across the precinct. This includes the M&M’s-branded tram that transports fans to and from the tournament venue, enhancing the overall fan experience.

    A Highly-Visited Attraction

    As per the brand’s information, the M&M’s pop-up store was one of the top attractions at the Australian Open last year. It garnered a high visitor count, making it a must-visit destination for this year’s tournament attendees.

    Questions & Answers

    What are the new additions to the M&M’s pop-up store at the Australian Open this year?

    This year, the store will display two Australian Open-exclusive colours – pink and light blue. Additionally, a new flavour, the Crunchy Cookie, will be introduced and available for on-site tasting for the first time.

    What interactive activities can visitors expect at the pop-up store?

    Visitors can look forward to character appearances from Red and Yellow, table tennis activations set up outside the store, and photo opportunities inside the pop-up store.

    How is the brand ensuring a wider presence at the tournament?

    The brand will ensure a wider presence by including the M&M’s-wrapped tram that transports fans to and from the tournament, enhancing the overall fan experience.

  • Magnum Ice Cream: Sweet Independence Ahead as Unilever Spinoff Approaches Amid Health Trends and Trade Challenges

    Magnum Ice Cream: Sweet Independence Ahead as Unilever Spinoff Approaches Amid Health Trends and Trade Challenges

    Unilever’s ice cream subsidiary, Magnum Ice Cream Company, is preparing for a significant spin-off worth billions next month. As it separates, the business is set to navigate various obstacles, including logistics issues and the emerging popularity of weight loss medications. The head of its supply chain, Sandeep Desai, discussed these challenges and the company’s strategies.

    Positioning as an Ice Cream-Focused Business

    Magnum Ice Cream Company is gearing up for its listing in Amsterdam on December 8th, a move that will put its sugar-rich products to the test in terms of investor interest. This comes at a time when GLP-1 weight loss drugs are shifting consumer behaviors and amidst a health campaign in the U.S. The company is presenting itself as a business centered around ice cream and is banking on the lingering appeal of ‘treat’ foods that consumers continue to desire. It includes its own Magnum ice creams and other brands like Solero, Viennetta, and Ben & Jerry’s.

    Desai stated, “We are focused on ice cream and ice cream only.” He mentioned the company-wide mindset of finding ways to produce and sell more ice cream, arguing that this provides a unique level of focus.

    Addressing the Impact of Weight-Loss Drugs

    Magnum recognizes the potential impact of GLP-1 drugs on its business but remains optimistic about the long-term demand for its products. Desai acknowledged the importance of the weight-loss drug trend but emphasized that ice cream remains a sought-after indulgence.

    In an effort to adapt, the company is introducing products that emphasize hydration and protein. Jamie Farrell, the head of the company for UK and Ireland, highlighted the lower-sugar options and smaller portions that Magnum has already introduced. When asked about the rising popularity of weight-loss drugs, Farrell stated, “We see it as a challenge. Can we create… more new products that move with the times?”

    Overcoming the Impact of Tariffs

    The company has invested 50 million pounds ($66 million) in its Gloucester factory in West England, as part of a 350-380 million euro ($403-438 million) plan to overhaul its supply chain as it separates from Unilever. This investment is projected to increase capacity by 50% from 2023 levels by 2027, with the factory currently churning out 600 million ice creams annually.

    The singular focus on ice cream increases Magnum’s exposure to price fluctuations in cacao bean and sugar but also offers an opportunity to tailor its commodities hedging and risk management strategies. Although trade restriction could disrupt its supply chain and escalate costs, Desai mentioned that local production in the U.S. has largely protected the company from the impact of U.S. tariffs on imports.

    Questions & Answers

    How is Magnum Ice Cream Company positioning itself in the market?
    Magnum is positioning itself as a business solely focused on ice cream, relying on the enduring appeal of indulgent treats.

    How is Magnum responding to the rising popularity of weight-loss drugs?
    Magnum recognizes the challenge but remains optimistic about long-term product demand. Adaptation strategies include the introduction of products more focused on hydration and protein, as well as lower-sugar options and smaller portions.

    How is Magnum handling the impact of trade tariffs?
    Despite potential disruptions to its supply chain and increased costs due to trade restrictions, local production in the U.S. has largely mitigated the impact of these tariffs, according to Sandeep Desai.

  • South Korean Cafe Giant ‘A Twosome Place’ Readies for Sweet US Debut

    South Korean Cafe Giant ‘A Twosome Place’ Readies for Sweet US Debut

    Renowned South Korean café chain, A Twosome Place, is gearing up to launch its first company-owned branch in the United States in the coming year. This move signifies a re-energized push for international expansion, following the café’s exit from the Chinese market three years prior.

    Global Expansion Strategy

    While the exact location and timeline for the U.S. launch have not yet been disclosed, it is clear that this move is part of A Twosome Place’s comprehensive strategy to disseminate Korean-style café culture worldwide.

    A Twosome Place, established in 2002, currently operates over 1700 outlets across South Korea, and is recognized for its exceptional dessert offerings. The chain embarked on franchising in 2008 and was later purchased by The Carlyle Group in 2021.

    Domestic Developments

    On the domestic front, A Twosome Place is introducing the ‘Twosome 2.0’ concept: a high-end store design that is being implemented in key districts of Seoul. There are plans already underway to propagate this concept nationally, while infusing new elements into pre-existing stores.

    The café chain retreated from the Chinese market after shuttering over 40 outlets in 2022, which came as a result of a sustained period of lackluster sales in the region.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the significance of A Twosome Place’s expansion into the U.S.?
    The planned move to open a branch in the U.S. is part of A Twosome Place’s wider strategy to introduce Korean-style café culture to international markets.

    What is ‘Twosome 2.0’, the concept A Twosome Place is implementing domestically?
    ‘Twosome 2.0’ is a new store design concept that provides a premium aesthetic. The company plans to implement this design across their stores in South Korea.

    Why did A Twosome Place withdraw from the Chinese market?
    A Twosome Place withdrew from China after experiencing several years of slow sales, leading to the closure of more than 40 stores in 2022.

  • Drop By Dough: Thailand’s Doughnut Sensation Makes Sweet International Debut in Hong Kong

    Drop By Dough: Thailand’s Doughnut Sensation Makes Sweet International Debut in Hong Kong

    Drop By Dough, a renowned doughnut brand from Thailand, has launched its first international outlet in Hong Kong.

    Store Design and Location

    Situated in Central Hong Kong, the shop’s interior combines terracotta tiles and wooden furniture to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The founders aim to provide a haven of relaxation where customers can momentarily escape the frenetic pace of the city while indulging in freshly made doughnuts and coffee.

    Origins of Drop By Dough

    Drop By Dough was established in Bangkok in December 2019 by Narongrit Sritalanon and Chalermphol Akkarapinyokul. The brand was born out of their mutual love for visiting doughnut shops during their travels.

    Expansion to Hong Kong

    Arnold Lau, associate director-general of investment promotion at InvestHK, commented that Drop By Dough’s decision to choose Hong Kong as their first international location further cements the city’s status as a leading hub for global retailers. He also expressed InvestHK’s eagerness to support Drop By Dough’s development and success.

    Product Offering

    Drop By Dough takes pride in crafting their doughnuts every day using a blend of international and native ingredients. Their signature varieties include Raspberry Rose, Classic Vanilla, Nutella Hazelnut, and Kyoto Matcha & Red Bean.

    Special flavors unique to the Hong Kong branch include Pistachioooooo – a doughnut filled with pistachio custard and topped with roasted pistachios – and Mango Kati, which features a distinctive Thai flavor profile.

    Questions & Answers

    Where is Drop By Dough’s first international outlet located?
    The first international outlet of Drop By Dough is located in Central Hong Kong.

    Who are the founders of Drop By Dough?
    Drop By Dough was founded by Narongrit Sritalanon and Chalermphol Akkarapinyokul.

    What unique flavors does the Hong Kong branch of Drop By Dough offer?
    The Hong Kong branch of Drop By Dough offers exclusive flavors such as Pistachioooooo and Mango Kati.

  • End of Sweet Saga: Twelve Cupcakes in Singapore Declares Liquidation, Shuts Down 20 Stores Unexpectedly

    End of Sweet Saga: Twelve Cupcakes in Singapore Declares Liquidation, Shuts Down 20 Stores Unexpectedly

    Once a beloved destination for dessert lovers, Singapore’s bakery cafe chain, Twelve Cupcakes, has entered a temporary state of liquidation. This unfortunate circumstance has led to the immediate closure of all its 20 establishments and the termination of approximately 80 employees.

    The announcement, made on October 29, marks the end of a 14-year-long chapter in Singapore’s thriving food and beverage industry. The company expressed regret over the current predicament and offered a sincere apology. “We are deeply sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. We appreciate the unwavering support and partnership we have received over the years,” the brand conveyed in its statement.

    Twelve Cupcakes’ employees, many of whom are represented by the Food, Drinks, and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), were taken by surprise by the abrupt closure. The company had been unionised since 2021, so the sudden shutdown without prior notice was met with shock and disappointment.

    The union criticized the company’s decision, describing it as “irresponsible and unacceptable.” Currently, it is extending support to the affected staff in dealing with wage and retrenchment claims.

    Twelve Cupcakes was founded in 2011 by popular celebrities Daniel Ong and Jaime Teo. The bakery cafe chain experienced a period of swift growth and was acquired in 2016 by the Dhunseri Group, an Indian conglomerate. The acquisition, which was worth S$2.5 million (US$1.9 million), was a strategic move aimed at expanding the brand’s presence across Asia.

    Questions & Answers

    **What led to the closure of Twelve Cupcakes?**
    Twelve Cupcakes has entered a temporary state of liquidation, which forced the company to close all its 20 locations and terminate about 80 employees.

    **How did the staff react to the sudden closure?**
    The staff, most of whom are represented by the Food, Drinks, and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU), were shocked and disappointed by the abrupt closure, as there was no prior warning.

    **What does the Dhunseri Group’s acquisition of Twelve Cupcakes signify?**
    The Dhunseri Group, an Indian conglomerate, acquired Twelve Cupcakes in 2016 for S$2.5 million (US$1.9 million). This was a strategic move aimed at expanding the bakery cafe chain’s presence across Asia.

  • Lychee Production Set to Soar by 30% This Year: A Sweet Harvest Ahead!

    Lychee Production Set to Soar by 30% This Year: A Sweet Harvest Ahead!

    Favorable weather conditions and effective disease management have significantly boosted lychee production in Vietnam, a fact that’s exciting for enthusiasts and exporters alike. The total yield is expected to reach impressive figures, with the northern province of Bac Giang leading the way at around 165,000 tonnes. Other contributors include Hai Duong with 60,000 tonnes, Hung Yen and Lang Son each producing 22,000 tonnes, and Dak Lak in the Central Highlands offering another 21,000 tonnes.

    Timing is Everything

    Harvest time is a brief but crucial window, divided into two phases: the early harvest from May 20 to June 10, followed by the main crop from June 10 to July 25. Those looking to capitalize on the lychee’s short harvest must prepare adequately to ensure smooth processing and consumption, according to local agricultural authorities.

    Aiming for Quality Control

    Production management is being taken seriously, with 469 production unit codes issued across nearly 19,400 hectares and 55 packaging facilities approved for exports to markets like China, Australia, Thailand, Japan, and the U.S. These facilities are under constant oversight, having successfully registered for the upcoming 2025 crop year.

    Global Readiness

    The Department of Plant Production and Protection has engaged proactively with international plant quarantine agencies since early April. Their efforts focus on ensuring that all documentation is in order while also inspecting lychee processing facilities, which include three irradiation and three fumigation plants. These establishments have received the green light from foreign authorities for the 2025 crop, positioning them to facilitate export.

    In a particularly noteworthy development, Japan has decided to allow Vietnam to supervise the processing of lychee shipments starting with the 2025 crop, eliminating the need for Japanese experts to oversee the entire farming process. This new approach promises to save time and costs for both growers and exporters—a win-win scenario!

    In readiness for the upcoming season, quarantine units and food safety testing laboratories are gearing up to collect and examine samples, ensuring that all regulations are met. Quarantine officers are expected to be active in local areas from June 1 through the end of the harvest season.

    Domestic vs. Export Market

    About 60% of lychee production is anticipated to be consumed domestically, while the remaining 40% will be earmarked for export. Despite Vietnam’s lychees reaching over 20 countries worldwide, a staggering 90% of the export volume still heads to the Chinese market.

    As the excitement builds for this year’s harvest, one can’t help but wonder: what unique lychee recipes will emerge from this abundance?

    Questions & Answers

    What are the major provinces producing lychee in Vietnam?
    The major producing provinces include Bac Giang, Hai Duong, Hung Yen, Lang Son, and Dak Lak.

    When does the lychee harvest season occur?
    The harvest is split into two phases: early fruits are harvested from May 20 to June 10, and the main crop follows from June 10 to July 25.

    How much of the lychee production is expected to be exported?
    Approximately 40% of the lychee output is planned for export, while the remaining 60% will be consumed domestically.

  • Krispy Kreme creates Lotus Biscoff biscuit-inspired doughnuts

    Krispy Kreme creates Lotus Biscoff biscuit-inspired doughnuts

    Airline travel might be a little unpredictable right now, but there’s one thing you can always count on: Krispy Kreme to serve up delicious doughnuts. Even if you’re not flying this month, you can still enjoy one of your favorite airplane treats at your local doughnut shop.

    We’re not talking about stale pretzels or a bag of peanuts, we’re talking about sweet and caramelly Biscoff cookies. Starting January 9, Krispy Kreme is adding three new Biscoff-flavored doughnuts.

    Krispy Kreme and Lotus Biscoff are partnering to create the first-of-its-kind cookie butter-flavored doughnut collection, which will be available for a limited time at participating Krispy Kremes nationwide. The collection includes a Biscoff Iced Dougnut, Biscoff Cookie Butter Cheesecake Doughnut, and Biscoff Cookie Butter Kreme Filled Doughnut.

    The Biscoff Iced Doughnut is an Original Glazed doughnut dunked in Biscoff Cookie Butter icing. The Biscoff Cookie Butter Cheesecake Doughnut is an Original Glazed doughnut dunked in Biscoff Cookie Butter icing and finished with a swirl of cream cheese buttercream and Biscoff crumble. The Biscoff Cookie Butter Kreme Filled Doughnut is a doughnut filled with Biscoff Cookie Butter Kreme, dunked in Biscoff Cookie Butter icing, and finished with dark chocolate icing and Biscoff crumble.

    To add to this first-class experience, any customer who purchases a Krispy Kreme Biscoff doughnut will receive a free package of Biscoff cookies just like you would on a flight, while supplies last.

    Most of the time these limited-run menus are only available at Krispy Kreme stores, but the Biscoff collection will also hit retailer shelves. If you don’t have a Krispy Kreme near you, you can find the six-pack Biscoff collection at Walmart, Kroger, Food Lion, Publix, Stater Brothers, Wakefern, and more stores. To see if the collection is available at your local grocery store, you can visit Krispy Kreme’s site.

  • Arnott’s buys Kiwi biscuit maker 180 Degrees

    Arnott’s buys Kiwi biscuit maker 180 Degrees

    Arnott’s has bought New Zealand artisan biscuit maker 180 Degrees to add to its stable of sweet and savory crackers.

    The FMCG company bought the business from private equity investor KKR, for an undisclosed sum.

    Founded in 2001 by Frank Lawton, his partner Jill Seton, and Nigel Cranston, 180 Degrees has steadily built a distribution network across New Zealand and into Australia, where its products are stocked by Coles.

    Seton told the National Business Review the business was founded on passion and grew into a premium business. She said Arnott’s shared the founders’ appreciation for legacy and would continue to build the brand.

    Seton and Lawton describe themselves as “massive foodies” who used to travel the world as a butler and chef duo.

    “After years of experiencing the best of international food we settled back into New Zealand life,” she explains on the company’s website. “Our passion for entertainment and good food inspired us to make a beautiful selection of crackers and biscuits to be enjoyed on all social occasions.”

  • London’s Duck & Waffle opens in Hong Kong

    London’s Duck & Waffle opens in Hong Kong

    The Duck & Waffle restaurant will officially land in Hong Kong this September at IFC mall.

    Its first destination outside of London, the new venue is designed to welcome guests throughout the day and into the late hours of the night with a large open space and kitchen combined with an “island” bar.

    The restaurant was designed by architecture and interior design firm CetraRuddy.

    The Duck & Waffle’s menu is designed for sharing and offers a take on British cuisine with broad European and American influences. Its signature eponymous dish has sold more than 1 million servings.

  • The Cheesecake Factory to open at Sands Cotai Central, Macau

    The Cheesecake Factory to open at Sands Cotai Central, Macau

    American upscale casual-dining restaurant The Cheesecake Factory in Macau is set to open in Sands Cotai Central.

    The more than 8500sqft restaurant, which will be operated by a subsidiary of Maxim’s Caterers Limited, will offer fresh from-scratch dishes and more than 30 cheesecakes and specialty desserts from the US.

    The venue is sized to accommodate more than 220 guests and is decorated with hand-painted wall murals and artistic lighting features, keeping a consistent look with The Cheesecake Factory restaurants all over the world.

    The Cheesecake Factory in Macau will also feature a Macao-only limited-edition dish with Macao culinary characteristics: Portuguese Chicken, a portion of a half roasted chicken with coconut curry and peanut sauces and crispy potatoes.

    The opening of The Cheesecake Factory in Macau follows launches regionally in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing.