This week on Australian FMCG sector, consumers have seen interesting headlines once again with business news.
Supermarket giant’s fuel deal deadline is in the horizon; UK’s largest supermarket merger got a greenlight; Soft drinks global giant announced new chief; Another soft drinks business unveiled new dairy investment; Convenience store chain revealed future plans and confectionery giant’s latest chocolate arrived in Australia.
Woolworths’ $1.8bn fuel deal deadline approaches
Australian supermarket Woolworths has announced it may consider other options with the sale of its fuel division. The deadline is coming soon for the grocery’s deal with the petrol giant BP to sell its service station network for $1.8 billion. Woolworths Group chief Brad Banducci revealed it has a sunset clause that expires “towards the middle of the year”. He said it could extend its agreement with BP if both parties agree, or look to pursue other offers that might be more amenable to the competition watchdog.
Sainsbury’s acquired Walmart’s Asda for £13 billion
British biggest supermarkets Sainsbury’s and Asda have agreed to a £13 billion merger. The Conversation said the latest move brings together the two largest player in the grocery market which would mark a significant shift for UK’s supermarket industry. It will create a market capitalisation of nearly £20 billion. It came after Tesco’s £4 billion takeover of Booker in March 2018. Big news for the country’s FMCG sector!
PepsiCo ANZ’s new CEO
Soft drinks manufacturer PepsiCo ANZ has appointed Danny Celoni as its new CEO for Pepsi Australia and New Zealand. Adel Garas, president, PepsiCo Asia Pacific said “Celoni brings to the role a deep understanding of our customers and the Australian and New Zealand retail environments.” PepsiCo said he will takeover the snacks and beverages portfolios, including local brands Smith’s, Red Rock Deli and Bluebird and international brands Pepsi, Gatorade and Doritos.
Coca-Cola Amatil revealed new $165m dairy investment
Soft drinks company Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA) has invested in Barista Bros as it opened a new ‘state-of-the-art’ dairy line at the manufacturing plant in Richlands, which is part of its $165m investment. CCA introduced its new Barista Bros – Café Creations drink range with three, treat sized flavours, Toffee Almond Pana Cotta, Butterscotch Brownie and Dark Chocolate Fudge.
7-Eleven’s unveiled its future plans
Convenience store chain 7-Eleven has revealed its plan to invest in innovation to ensure the network of franchised and corporate stores stays ahead of the game. CEO Angus McKay told Inside Franchise Business “we’re investing in becoming better retailers. We want people to have a business that’s healthy and makes money.” He said innovations are part of the DNA now at 7-Eleven.
KitKat Chocolatory’s Ruby chocolate landed Down Under
KitKat Chocolatory’s Ruby chocolate has finally arrived in Australia. Confectionery giant said it is the world’s only new chocolate variety to be revealed in 80 years. KitKat Chocolatory head chocolatier, Connie Yuen, said Ruby represents an exceptional discovery in the sweet world and will only be available at KitKat Chocolatory. We’re excited to try it out!
Another wrap up on FMCG’s big headlines this week. Enjoy the weekend!
