New Zealand-based ethical soft drink brand, Karma Drinks, is accelerating its Australian expansion, aiming to double its business size within three years as part of a global growth strategy.

Increased promotional activity in the first quarter of FY25 did not translate to sales growth, with CEO Steve Donohue saying while the retail business was growing its market share and loyalty base, the challenge for the category “right now, is one of sales, first and foremost”.

Fonterra Co-operative Group has decided to proceed with a sale process for its global Consumer business, as well as integrated businesses Fonterra Oceania and Fonterra Sri Lanka, after exploring potential divestment options since May.

In a tough market, the release of Coopers Australian Lager in August 2023 has fuelled strong sales growth for the independent family-owned brewery, which posted a 1.5 per cent rise in total beer sales for the 2024 financial year.

Food and beverage export development agency, Incite, has released the results of its sixth annual survey of importers and distributors across the Asia Pacific Region, finding 97 per cent are actively reviewing new distribution opportunities.

Food and beverage manufacturers have done the industry proud with 16 producers, equipment and processing businesses being selected as national finalists in Austrade’s 62nd Australian Export Awards. Created in 1963 to showcase the achievements of Australian exporters, there are now 13 categories, drawing finalists from across Australia. Category winners and the 2024 Australian Exporter of the Year will be announced at an awards ceremony in Parliament House on 20 November.

The High Court of Australia has granted special leave to the Australian Taxation Office in its case against PepsiCo to appeal the Full Federal Court decision that overturned the original ruling that found the soft drink manufacturer liable for $3.6 million royalty witholding tax.

Coles 2024 Movember campaign has launched, with a portion of sales from participating products being donated to support programs and initiatives addressing mental health, prostate and testicular cancer, and suicide prevention across the country.

Rare Foods Australia is the only wild enhanced abalone fishery in the world, and recently expanded into a new challenge – taking the plunge into ocean cellaring. Keira Joyce speaks with the project's general manager, Simon Hanley, about the subsea wine development.

The winners of the 2024 Melbourne Royal Wine Awards have been announced, attracting 2300 entries from over 450 wineries across Australia.

Automation systems company, Swisslog, has appointed Joseph Kutek as its newest food and beverage sales consultant. With a strong technical background, he aims to assist the industry in choosing the right automation solutions for their purposes.

A diversified channel mix and higher domestic retail prices offsetting “significant” farmgate milk prices were highlights for Noumi in 1Q25, while the macro-economic environment and consumers’ cautious spending provided ongoing challenges. 

The first Tasmanian spirit has landed in the US market, courtesy of Three Cuts Gin. Founded by American-born entrepreneur, Justin Turner, the company’s range has debuted in California, New York, Texas, and Nevada.

Forbidden Foods says its $3.42 million acquisition of Oat Milk Goodness in September has delivered immediate results, with the health and wellness food company recording a 44 per cent increase in sales in October, as well as cost savings and a stronger outlook.

The winners of the annual Product of the Year Awards have been announced, with Coles and Woolworths homebrand items dominating, taking out 23 of the 34 categories.

Following the statement from Steve Donohue in September, saying he is stepping down from his role as CEO and managing director of Endeavour Group, the company has announced several changes to its executive leadership team.