New drinks review: water additives get convenient

In this month's review of beverage launches, the innovation potential of bottled water is being explored by drinks manufacturers. A striking "divided" bottle with separate compartments for water and flavoring has been launched in Russia, while concentrate powders have been reimagined as an on-the-go item, and spring water designed specifically for making baby food has hit shelves in Europe.

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New personal care products review: soap sees black future

This month's look at the latest innovative launches in the personal care industry highlights developments in the bar soap segment. One manufacturer sees potential in a locally sourced mineral that is touted to have deodorizing benefits as well as imparting an unusual color, while another is taking a page from the food and drink sector with its focus on fresh fruit and vegetable ingredients.

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P&G: one step closer to becoming a zero-waste company

As part of its long-term environmental vision, P&G has announced that its manufacturing facility in Auburn, Maine, is the company's ninth global site to achieve zero-waste-to-landfill status to date. However, P&G's move towards becoming a zero-waste company is unlikely to resonate among consumers, given the equally ambitious environmental targets frequently set by rival FMCG companies.

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New drinks review: a prickly kind of vodka hits the market

Some more unusual flavored drinks have been noted by Productscan this month, ranging from a coffee flavored cider, to cactus flavored vodka. While such new and innovative flavorings could gain the interest of the consumer, the trend for health products has shown no sign of abating, with a new tea product recently launched that offers some very specific health claims.

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MOL/Agip: forecourts to profit from poor health

Changes in legislation regarding the sale of over-the-counter medicines in Hungary have led two of the country's fuel retailers to announce plans to begin selling non-prescription drugs. With the Hungarian over-the-counter medicines market forecast to see an average annual increase of 5% between 2005 and 2009, Agip and MOL are certain to experience healthy profits from this venture.

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Lekkerland: wholesale gains in Europe's forecourt shops

Lukoil has recently chosen Lekkerland as the wholesaler to its shops in Hungary. Selecting a supplier is an increasingly important decision for forecourt retailers as they seek to maximize shop profitability through a combination of wholesale and direct supply contracts. With a string of major oil retailers in its customer portfolio, Lekkerland is a popular choice.

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Foie gras: forcing a feeding rethink

The EU has given France and Hungary a 15-year grace period to find alternative methods to fatten geese for foie gras. Any subsequent ban on traditional force feeding would meet with strong opposition from both Hungarian farmers and French consumers.

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Personal hygiene: bath and shower products lead growth in Hungary

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