Superquinn: owners want out

Supermarket group Superquinn has swung back into profit, after its acquisition by Irish consortium Select Retail Holdings in 2005. The company's improved situation has prompted the consortium of investors to enlist Goldman Sachs ahead of a potential sale. Although Superquinn represents a prime acquisition opportunity for the major chains, the economic climate may yet delay the sale.

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Starbucks: responding to downturn with two new measures

Starbucks is to shed 75% of its stores in Australia, following difficulty penetrating the country's coffee market, and provide free top-ups in the UK and Ireland in recognition of a consumer downturn. Although these moves could be seen to be a reversal of the company's global aims and premium image, they should allow Starbucks to provide greater value for money during tough economic conditions.

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Starbucks: a shot in the arm for Fairtrade

As part of its strategic overhaul, US coffee chain Starbucks has announced that all of its espresso-based beverages in the UK and Ireland will be fair trade by the end of 2009, ostensibly helping 100,000 farmers globally. However, the commercial value of the move is questionable as it may lead to increased prices when consumers can least afford them.

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Pub habits: giving the Irish something to celebrate

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Northern Foods: change of strategy now bearing fruit

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New food review: sweet and savory flavors head in new directions

This month's rundown of global new food launches sees sweet and savory flavors appearing in an increasing number of unexpected and unprecedented product categories. Products from savory sprinkles to double cheese ice cream and charcoal cheesecake show how manufacturers are turning to unconventional, even counterintuitive, combinations to add an extra sensory edge to their product offerings.

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New drinks review: beer breaks flavor boundaries

This month's selection of innovative new drinks products sees the launch of a variety of novel alcoholic beverages, including a wine in a pouch and beer that is designed to complement challenging food combinations. This shows the original ways in which manufacturers are attempting to gain an edge over the competition.

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KFC: cutting waste through new packaging

Fast food chain KFC has committed to serving several of its most popular meals in paper wrapping rather than cardboard boxes in its UK and Ireland stores, which it says will reduce the amount of packing used by 1,400 tonnes. The strategy will save on costs but also boost the company's eco-credentials, which is continuing to be a key battleground in 2009.

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Kerry: riding the convenience wave

Despite the impact of unfavorable exchange rates and high energy costs, global food producer Kerry Group has announced another profits increase for the first half of 2005, citing the UK's unrelenting appetite for prepared meals as a key driving factor. A continued focus on healthy and convenient products will enable Kerry to prevail over tough operating conditions going forward.

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Kerry Group: going for gold

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