The news you need to know: May 2026

Welcome to PLAY, Food & Drink Business’ monthly wrap of the biggest stories shaping Australia’s food and beverage manufacturing sector. This month saw major acquisitions, executive shake-ups, industry awards, fresh questions over Australia’s research capability, and continued pressure on balance sheets across the sector. Let’s get into it.

Packaging News

Australian packaging innovation is up for global recognition at the 2026 Sustainability Awards, with Heliograf and Vert Design's compostable soy sauce fish shortlisted in the Renewables category.

Mondelez International has marked the 50th anniversary of its Scoresby confectionery factory with an $8m investment in packaging technology to support future growth and manufacturing capability.

A reusable milk keg system that has eliminated millions of plastic bottles has taken out top honours in the inaugural Unpackit Awards, while a controversial plastic-and-aluminium iced drink container has been named Australia's worst packaging.