BFFF News
Daily food news
Two of the private-equity firms that reportedly tabled bids for frozen food giant Iglo Group are said to have not progressed to the second round of the auction.
Dairy giant Arla Foods grabbed the headlines this week with the admission 250 jobs could go at the company, with the possibility of more to come, as it looks to drive efficiency. Elsewhere, Kellogg announced a brand "refresh", although industry watchers argued the company might have to do more to drive sales. The takeover battle for frozen food giant Iglo Group gathered pace, with Thai food company CP Foods linked to the Birds Eye owner. Meanwhile, Wal-Mart Stores reported its first-quarter results and won praise from analysts.
UK dairy co-op Milk Link has reported an increase in annual underlying pre-tax profits on the back of cost cuts and higher commodity prices, which boosted sales.
Mexican bakery giant Grupo Bimbo is set to build a US$75m factory in Texas.
Asda, the UK's second-largest retailer, has reported "market-leading growth" in early weeks of 2012. Analysts say Asda's focus on price has helped the retailer gain shoppers from the likes of Tesco and Morrisons, although, if and when the economy recovers, it may need to demonstrate it can offer consumers more. Dean Best reports.
More to follow....
Slovenian retailer Mercator has appointed Toni Balazic as CEO, replacing Ziga Debeljak, who resigned in March amid disagreement with the owners of the company.
Arla Foods revealed 250 jobs could be cut as it drives efficiency and tries to keep pace with its international competitors - and admitted more could be made. The race to buy frozen food giant Iglo Group also continued to make the headlines and this week Thai food manufacturer CP Foods was linked to the business. Meanwhile, in the US, Kellogg "refreshed" its 106-year-old namesake brand, although industry watchers suggested the cereal maker might have to do more to drive sales.
UK retailer Morrisons today (18 May) confirmed it is planning to close its Rathbones bakery in Wigan next year.
Hong Kong-listed snack food group Tingyi and Japanese ham and sausage firm Prima Meat Packers is to set up a venture in China to manufacture meat products.
