Last week ended as it started: with a household brand caught up in the horsemeat contamination scandal. On Monday, Nestle said it had pulled Buitoni products in Spain and Italy after positive tests and, on Friday, Birds Eye said it had recalled ready meals across Europe after similar results. Over in the US, leading executives from some of the largest packaged food companies were at CAGNY to discuss their prospects for the year ahead.

Birds Eye latest brand embroiled in horsemeat saga
Birds Eye has become the latest household brand caught up in the horsemeat contamination, following Findus and, this week, Nestle’s Buitoni.

Food giants present at CAGNY investor conference
A key date in the US industry calendar, leading executives were in Florida to discuss the outlook for their businesses – and the sector as a whole – with Wall Street analysts. Click for the latest from companies including General Mills, Kellogg and Mondelez International.

On the money: Danone CEO: We must change European business
Danone chief Franck Riboud has today (19 February) insisted the company has to change the way it does business in Europe, where the Activia firm plans to cut 900 jobs.

On the money: Premier looks to further savings, not disposal to drive growth
Premier Foods plc has said it will not actively look to divest any more brands and will instead seek further cost savings in order to accelerate investment in the business.

On the money: Price strategy paying off, insists Asda
Asda CEO Andy Clarke has insisted the retailer’s moves to lower prices on “essential” products are working despite sales slowing in the last three months of its financial year.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Comment: Wise Aryzta boosts European retail business – at last
It’s been a while coming but Switzerland-based bakery giant ARYZTA has moved to boost its business with Europe’s retailers – as consumers increasingly turn away from artisan bakers and to supermarkets for their bread and croissants.

SPAIN: Ebro to take Riso Scotti products into new markets
Ebro Foods plans to launch the products of Italian rice producer Riso Scotti, in which it has bought a 25% stake, into new markets, including the US.

Interview: Italian cake firm Bauli sets out stall after Bistefani buy
Italian cake maker Bauli last week expanded its portfolio to include the brands of local baker and confectioner Bistefani. Michelle Russell spoke with Bauli co-founder Michele Bauli to find out what plans the company has for its newly-acquired brands and its strategy for expansion.

CHINA: 7-Eleven to expand in south-west China
Japan-owned convenience store chain 7-Eleven is to expand in south-west China, starting in regional centres Chongqing and Chengdu.

US: Tyson acquires tortilla maker Don Julio
US meat giant Tyson Foods has acquired local tortilla, salty snack and pretzel maker Don Julio Foods.