Food and Drink Business Europe

Lidl GB has revealed hundreds of target locations across Great Britain where it is seeking sites for new stores. From Garthdee in Aberdeen and Aldgate in London to Ystradgynlais in Wales and Windsor in Berkshire, the latest list of locations are all detailed in the supermarket’s latest Site Requirements Brochure. Lidl is actively seeking freehold, leasehold, or long-leasehold sites in prominent locations with strong footfall and easy accessibility.

Scotch whisky production is expected to fall in the coming years, as output declines from recent peak levels. After more than two decades of sustained growth, the industry is entering a period of adjustment, with capacity having expanded faster than long-term demand. According to new statistics outlined in Commercial Spirits Intelligence No. 138 substack [1], production is forecast to decline from recent highs to levels not seen in over a decade.

Kerry, a global leader in taste and nutrition, has announced the opening of its expanded biotechnology manufacturing facility in Carrigaline, County Cork, significantly increasing its capacity to produce lactase enzymes at industrial scale. The expansion strengthens Kerry’s ability to support dairy producers worldwide as demand accelerates for lactose free and sugar reduced dairy products, enabling faster scaleup, secure supply and consistent performance at commercial volumes.

The rise of GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Mounjaro and Ozempic, combined with the rise of “on-the-go” consumption habits and the “snackification” of meals, has created a shift toward smaller portions, reduced appetite, and less frequent eating. Rising demand for portions that are still protein and fibre-rich poses its own set of formulation challenges for food manufacturers.

A groundbreaking Irish innovation is redefining what it means to live sustainably at home, offering households the opportunity to turn everyday food waste into renewable energy, reduce their carbon footprint, and eliminate reliance on traditional waste systems. Developed by Cork-based green technology company AmuGreen, MyGug is a compact, small-scale anaerobic digester designed to sit at the heart of the home.

Nestlé UK and Ireland has appointed Ben Duncan (pictured above) to its senior leadership team as Managing Director for Food UK and Ireland, effective 13 April 2026. In his new role, Ben will lead Nestlé’s food business across the UK and Ireland, overseeing a portfolio of much-loved brands including Maggi and Carnation. Ben began his career in market research before joining Purina, Nestlé’s pet care business, in 2004.

The Northern Ireland Food and Drink Association (NIFDA) has marked 30 years championing the industry as the 2026 awards delivered the highest number of entries to date. NIFDA’s most competitive awards to date celebrated the innovation, quality and drive from food and drink manufacturers across Northern Ireland, alongside 500 guests at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, presented by BBC’s Mark Simpson.

Modernising existing dairy processing equipment can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40-49%, depending on the type of line, according to a new study by Tetra Pak. Importantly, these reductions don’t necessarily require a full-line overhaul and use solutions that are currently on the market. The study also examined how improving existing equipment lines can lead to substantial cuts in emissions, product losses, and operating costs.

Aurivo Co-operative Society has announced a multi-million investment in a first of its kind wood pellet burner and boiler system at its Dairy Ingredients facility in Ballaghaderreen, marking a significant milestone in the co-operatives decarbonisation journey. The investment is co-funded by the Shared Island Sustainability Capital Grant scheme delivered by Enterprise Ireland, InterTradeIreland and Invest Northern Ireland.

The Savory Snack Products Market is witnessing significant expansion as consumers increasingly seek convenient, flavorful, and ready-to-eat food options. Savory snacks — including potato chips, popcorn, extruded snacks, nuts, and tortillas — have become a staple in modern diets due to their portability, taste variety, and accessibility through multiple retail channels.