Shopify gets AI-Makeover, launches new features for free

Deals
US brands urged to sign accord as Gap Inc. commits to Pakistan worker safety
Gap Inc. signed the Pakistan Accord, a legally binding agreement for worker safety in the textile industry, receiving praise from the Workers Rights Consortium. The organization urges other major US fashion brands like Levi’s, Target, and Urban Outfitters to follow suit and sign the accord. Read More>>
GXO and HEINEKEN sign a multi-year service agreement in the U.K.
GXO Logistics continues operating its extensive warehouse and distribution network for more than 500,000 deliveries annually across the U.K., including HEINEKEN’s entire pub estate. Read More>>
Arla and ASDA agree on a new four-year deal
Arla signed a four-year dairy contract with ASDA, securing stability and supplying over three billion liters of milk, cream, cheese, and butter. The deal reinforces ASDA’s commitment to sustainability and supporting Arla’s farmer owners on their journey. Read More>>

Partnerships
PepsiCo scales HVO fuel use to save 2,650 tonnes in GHG emissions annually
PepsiCo partners with AB Texel UK to power potato transportation with hydrotreated vegetable oil, cutting 2,650 tonnes of greenhouse emissions annually. The initiative replaces diesel with low-carbon HVO across 2.6 million km of truck journeys, aiming to cover 9 million km by the end of 2023. Read More>>
Kroger and Mark Cuban join forces to spread the availability of low-cost prescription drugs
With this collaboration, Mark Cuban aims to make prescription drugs more affordable for consumers in 35 states. The partnership promises transparent pricing with a 15% markup and a USD 3 pharmacy fee, delivering significant cost savings on commonly prescribed medications. Read More>>

Merger and Acquisition
Ferrara Candy Company to acquire Dori Alimentos
The deal brings together complementary portfolios and values-driven cultures, expanding Ferrara’s reach and creating opportunities in the fast-growing Brazilian market. The transaction is expected to be finalized in Q4 2023. Read More>>

Centre Setup and Expansion
Niagara Bottling to invest USD 48 Mn in Texas
Niagara Bottling, LLC will invest USD 48 million to expand its Temple, Texas facility, creating a new logistics center. The expansion further strengthens Temple’s position as a hub for the food and beverage industry, with other notable companies. Read More>>
Campbell Soup Company invests USD 160 million in Richmond plant expansion
Campbell Soup to expand Goldfish production in Richmond by 50%, with an onsite flour mill to enhance supply reliability and reduce emissions. Production line to be operational by the end of 2024. Read More>>

Layoff
AB InBev lays off hundreds of workers
AB InBev is laying off US corporate staff, citing the need to simplify operations due to declining Bud Light sales and market share losses. Less than 2% of the workforce will be affected. Read More>>

Executive Movements
PriceSmart announces organizational changes
PriceSmart, Inc. appoints David Price as EVP & Chief Transformation Officer to enhance collaboration and agility. Wayne Sadin joins as Chief Information Officer, effective July 1, 2023. Read More>>
Kraft Heinz announces three new executives to its North America zone leadership team
Kraft Heinz appointed Helen Davis as SVP and Head of North America Operations, Rebecca Dunphey as SVP and President of Fresh, Beverages and Desserts, and Simon Laroche as SVP, President of Canada, and North America Coffee to drive sustainable growth and innovation in their transformation journey. Read More>>
Richard Dickson appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of Gap Inc.
Dickson, previously President and COO of Mattel, brings expertise in brand building and transformation. He aims to evolve Gap Inc. for a new era, building on the foundation laid by interim CEO Bobby Martin. Read More>>

Product Launch
Yonex unveils the new Percept
Yonex introduces the Percept, an upgrade to the VCORE Pro racquet line, emphasizing improved ball connection, stability, and control. It features Servo Filter, a flexible and vibration-dampening film, replacing the VDM in the handle for a connected feel. Read More>>
Shopify gets AI-Makeover, launches new features for free
Shopify introduces Shopify Magic, a suite of free AI-powered tools for ecommerce. Stand-out features include Sidekick, a ChatGPT-like commerce assistant for various tasks, Marketplace Connect for easy wholesale branding, and automatic text generation to boost writing efficiency. Read More>>

Food and Beverage Innovations

• Kraft Heinz expands its food and beverage product line with technology-driven innovations, catering to evolving consumer preferences for delightful and relevant choices. 
• The company employs data analytics to gather insights from consumer behavior, market trends, and product performance, identifying opportunities for new developments. 
• Kraft Heinz adopts 3D printing for rapid product prototyping, driving quicker innovation and customization that ensures product quality, safety, and freshness monitoring.

Crisis Management and Solutions

• Kraft Heinz prioritizes crisis management, proactively mitigating risks, safeguarding reputation, and minimizing the impact on business and stakeholders to ensure resilience during challenging times. 
• By leveraging expanded proactive risk mitigation and clear communication, Kraft Heinz strengthens its crisis management approach to protect its reputation and navigate challenges effectively. 
• The company strengthens its crisis management solution by prioritizing proactive risk mitigation strategies, ensuring effective responses to challenges, and safeguarding its reputation.

Key Funding Alert

Paulig invests in a new gluten-free food production line at its Liven factory in Catalonia, Spain
Paulig’s new 3D pellet production line, powered by renewable energy sources, will be operational in September. It will double the current capacity, producing up to 20,000 kg of pellets per day. The expansion enables Paulig to introduce gluten-free and bio alternatives, offering new pellet shapes and formulations. Read More>>

Startup Spotlight

Company – Lemon Perfect
Total Funding – USD 74.39 Mn
About: Lemon Perfect is a super-refreshing, great-tasting, and hydrating flavored lemon water with zero sugar and no artificial flavors or sweeteners. Powered by squeezed organic lemons, Lemon Perfect contains electrolytes from potassium and is packed with vitamin C, making healthy hydration more convenient, delicious, and refreshing than ever. Read More>>

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