I’m doing the reading (and the taste-testing) across the trade press, so you can skip the scrolling. And I’m serving it up in Bite Size portions. ☕🗞️
Between the reports, the trend pieces, and the endless “essential reading” landing in our inboxes each week, it’s easy to hit information overload.
That’s exactly why I’ve launched Bite Size Insights – a weekly roundup where I cut through the clutter and pull out three stories worth your attention, each one served with my “So What” – the strategic angle that matters for your food business.
Here’s what’s on the menu this week:
- The government has announced it’s dropping tariffs across a range of food imports. The news landed on Friday, so if you were switching off for the Bank Holiday weekend, you might have missed it. 🛒
- Oscar Mayer Group UK is rolling out a new range of dishes through a sporting partnership — and their approach to equality is genuinely refreshing. Hats off to Ian Toal and the team. 🏉
- One major high street super brand is taking things on the road with its very first drive-thru location. ☕ 🥐 🥪
Swipe through the carousel for the full Bite Size Insights breakdown. ⬇️
Which of these bites hits closest to home for your sector? Send an email, fill in the form or pick up the phone – I’m always happy to dig into the detail and what it means for your business.
1. Government scraps tariffs on raft of food imports
How will that impact foodservice?
The challenge is, that while government is implementing this, there will be product in transit and sitting in warehouses. Businesses need clarity on exactly what this means. Clearly the government want to “help” manage the expected food inflation, but the Iran war impacts so much more than raw material. Transport and packaging costs are increasing as well.
Communication is key with your customers, no one likes surprises, so start the conversations about potential impact ASAP.
(The Grocer – 1.5.26)
2. Oscar Mayer launches “Players World Kitchen” brand in ASDA
So what?
Oscar Mayer has teamed up with women’s rugby union players to launch a trio of ready meals in Asda. The range features, “bold flavours with nutritious ingredients”. Is this the start of more high profile collabs to help deliver positive food messaging. Bravo to Oscar Mayer for throwing down the gauntlet to help address financial inequality in women’s sport.
(The Grocer – 5.5.26)
3. Pret opens its first drive-thru site
So what?
A classic brand never stands still & Pret have launched their first drive-thru in Warrington!
The question is, what is your brand doing – are you ready for something more?
More customers, more profile, more opportunities?
Maybe you need to review your market positioning, just like Pret. Let’s talk?
(Propel – 5.5.26)
Want to know more?
It all starts with a conversation (or a DM):
Email: michelle@umamidesignforfood.co.uk
Tel: 01291 423234
Mob: 07702 780825
