Plum Organics this week joined Happy Family and Ella’s Kitchen as three organic baby food brands set to have new, multinational owners. Campbell Soup Co. is to buy Plum, joining Danone and Hain Celestial as three food majors that have looked to invest in the growing category in just a month.

Campbell to buy US baby food group Plum Organics
Campbell Soup Co. has swooped to buy US-based baby food firm Plum Organics, the third significant acquisition in the organic baby food sector in just three weeks. The US soup manufacturer, Danone and Hain Celestial have all struck deals this month in a growing category.

BRICs and beyond: Hard-headed Danone makes fresh China yoghurt foray
Danone is to make another attempt to tap into the booming demand for fresh dairy products in China. The French food group is teaming up with Chinese dairy giant Mengniu, the largest yoghurt producer in the country. However, the two companies’ previous attempt as a venture ended after just a year. Can Danone succeed this time? Dean Best reports.

The just-food interview: Dairy Crest CEO Mark Allen
Dairy Crest has said it has had a “transformational” year, characterised by an increased focus on its domestic business and a drive to boost efficiency. The company is now plotting a number of investments designed to grow both the top and bottom line. In a two-part just-food interview, Katy Askew spoke to CEO Mark Allen about how Dairy Crest is improving its cost base and shifting to higher margin products.

Deal or no deal: UK crisp firm Tyrrells could attract snack majors 
Private-equity firm Langholm Capital is said to be putting Tyrrells, which it has owned for five years, up for sale. Langholm refuses to comment but first-round bids are expected next month. The likes of Kellogg, Intersnack and Raisio have been put forward by industry analysts as potential suitors.

CHINA: Hershey launches first foreign brand
Hershey is to launch its first confectionery brand outside the US in its history with the roll out of Lancaster milk candies in China.

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Annoyed M&S boss Bolland brushes off questions over his position
In some areas, notably food, Marks and Spencer is performing well. However, the UK retailer attracts scrutiny like few others in the consumer sector and, today (21 May), after reporting another year of falling profits, chief executive Marc Bolland faced media questions about his future.

On the money: Greencore confident on EPS despite tough UK trading
Greencore has insisted it remains “confident” of meeting City expectations of higher earnings despite the prospect of “tough” UK trading conditions for the remainder of the year.

US: Nestle to use UTZ-certified cocoa in Crunch bars
Nestle has announced plans to source 100%-certified cocoa beans for its Nestle Crunch brand in the US.

FRANCE: Carrefour sells stake in Majid Al Futtaim JV
Carrefour has sold its stake in its venture with Dubai-based group Majid Al Futtaim – but said the franchise deal between the two companies will be expanded.

UK: Warburtons buys garlic bread firm Giles Foods
Baker Warburtons has acquired UK garlic bread producer Giles Foods for an undisclosed sum.