BEYOND THE AISLES - YOUR TRUSTED INDUSTRY VOICE SINCE 1923
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Gulfood 2026: A Global Lens on Grocery’s Next Moves
As the January issue of SupermarketNews looks ahead to the year taking shape, attention across the grocery and FMCG sector is increasingly turning offshore. With no major local exhibitions on the 2026 calendar, the usual domestic touchpoints for product discovery and market comparison are absent. That absence is sharpening focus on Gulfood, where excitement is already building well ahead of the show opening its doors. For supermarket buyers, category teams and suppliers, Gulfood is not simply filling a gap left by the local circuit. It is offering a different, and in many ways broader, perspective. The show brings together manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, packaging specialists and brand owners from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Americas. That breadth matters in a year where pressure points are shared globally. Cost control, margin resilience, supply continuity and value perception are shaping
decisions everywhere, not just in Australasia.
What is driving anticipation this year is the sense that exhibitors are arriving with intent. Innovation is being framed less around novelty and more around commercial realism. Products are being positioned with clearer price architecture, tighter pack formats and propositions that acknowledge cautious consumer spending. For grocery retailers, this aligns closely with the realities of ranging decisions at home. The products that perform well in volatile, multimarket environments are often the ones best suited to supermarket shelves.
With no local exhibitions to anchor category thinking, offshore shows like Gulfood take on added importance. They allow buyers to benchmark local assortments against global activity, to identify where trends are converging and where genuine differentiation still exists. Protein formats, frozen and ambient convenience, functional benefits with
continued sophistication of private label are all expected to feature strongly.
There is also a strategic layer. Many suppliers at Gulfood are designing products with export readiness and scalability in mind. For retailers, engaging early with these suppliers can open conversations around exclusive lines, differentiated ranges or longer-term partnerships that extend beyond transactional buying.
The January issue looks to Gulfood not as a trend forecast, but as a signal. In a year where the local exhibition circuit is quiet, the offshore view becomes more valuable. Gulfood provides that forward-looking context, helping the grocery sector anticipate where pressure, opportunity and innovation are likely to emerge next. n
ATTENTION GROCERY SUPPLIERS
The Food and Grocery Council is an industry association for grocery suppliers providing members networking, events, industry information and strong advocacy. Contact us for information on the benefits of membership: raewyn.bleakley@fgc.org.nz
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Tania Walters | Publisher
Retail Technology Solutions That Reduce Stock Loss and Improve Customer Experience
Radford is revolutionising stock loss prevention and customer guidance for Australian and New Zealand retailers and grocers through IoT-powered solutions, secure entrance and exit gates, and capacity-boosting checkouts.
Since its establishment in 2000, Radford has delivered innovative retail solutions that help Australian & New Zealand retailers protect their profits and reduce stock loss. We combine the best hardware with innovative software to create loss-prevention solutions that significantly reduce retail shrinkage.
United Fresh – 2026 Fresh Produce Trend Report
As we look ahead to 2026, fresh produce is no longer defined solely by what is grown, sold, or consumed but by how it fits into people’s lives, values and identities.
Supplier Cost Increase During NovemberDecember
An increase of 2.4 percent in supplier costs during the November and December period has been revealed in new industry data by Infometrics.
Kai Co Opens Its Doors
Kai Co has opened its first supermarket in Christchurch, presenting itself as a locally owned alternative focused on pricing clarity, supplier fairness and a more stripped-back approach to grocery retail.
Nestlé Recalls Select Batches of ALFAMINO Infant Formula
Nestlé Australia Ltd has announced the recall of select batches of ALFAMINO infant formula as a precautionary measure due to the potential presence of cereulide.
In its most recent edition, EuroShop 2023 welcomed more than 81,000 trade visitors from around the world over five days, reinforcing its position as the industry’s most important international event.
Taking place from 22–26 February 2026 at Messe Düsseldorf, EuroShop also marks its 60th anniversary, celebrating six decades of retail innovation across grocery, pharmacy, health and beauty, and specialty retail.
The 2026 edition places a strong emphasis on practical, outcome-driven solutions that address real-world retail challenges.
To help visitors navigate the scale and breadth of the show, Radford Retail will host guided stand tours throughout EuroShop 2026, offering a curated way
to experience key solutions, technologies and design thinking on display. Radford Retail will be present alongside global retail solutions provider ITAB Group, whose stand has become a consistent destination for retailers seeking integrated insights across store design, technology and operations.
To support attendance, complimentary EuroShop 2026 tickets are available to interested readers.
Register here:
https://forms.office.com/r/mLy0UCv40E
Following strong individual showings at EuroShop 2023, ITAB and HMY — now operating as one — return with a unified presence spanning retail design, interiors, lighting, services and technology.
ITAB enters EuroShop 2026 with strong momentum after winning Gold in the EuroShop People’s Choice Award in 2023 for the most immersive and forwardthinking stand, as voted by show visitors.
That award-winning stand welcomed more than 28,000 visitors and set a new benchmark for engagement, storytelling and practical innovation.
Throughout the show, ITAB and Radford Retail will host guided stand tours Register here:
https://forms.office.com/r/mLy0UCv40E, along with lunch and networking sessions, creating opportunities for meaningful conversations with peers and global industry experts around retail technology, store design and future trends.
Grocery
With consumer expectations continuing to rise, ITAB will showcase smarter grocery store investments that balance cost, service and experience.
Visitors can explore checkout and self-checkout solutions, security gates, customer service desks, efficient displays and replenishment systems — all supported by digital tools powered by ITAB’s OnRed platform.
Pharmacy
Convenience, trust and efficiency sit at the heart of modern pharmacy retail. ITAB’s pharmacy solutions focus on protecting products while creating seamless consumer journeys, with layouts and fixtures designed to reduce friction, improve service and deliver measurable ROI.
Appointment booking and workflow solutions will also be on show.
Health & Beauty
As Health & Beauty retailers face increasing online competition, ITAB will demonstrate how physical stores can continue to inspire through thoughtful design, sustainable materials and smart display solutions.
Product display walls, central displays and mid-floor innovations will be showcased to highlight how in-store experience can drive engagement and sales.
Claim your free passes today.
onthecover
Rehydrate The Right Way
In a category long dominated by sugar-heavy drinks and artificial formulations, TE-LEDOZ has positioned itself as a smarter, everyday hydration option for modern Kiwis.
Designed for people balancing work, movement and busy daily routines, TE-LEDOZ has targeted consumers who want to feel energised and hydrated throughout the day, without crashes, excessive sugar, or unnecessary additives.
The brand has leaned into on-the-go lifestyles and “better choice” shoppers who value taste, clean ingredients and convenience over hype or extreme performance claims. Naturally sweetened with apple juice alongside stevia and free from artificial colours and no nasty preservatives, the range delivers flavour without compromise, making it suitable for both adults and kids.
The brand was created by the Simich
family, who were frustrated with the sugarloaded hydration options dominating supermarket shelves. As an active Kiwi family, they wanted a cleaner, safer alternative that could keep up with busy lives and everyday adventures.
That family-first approach has continued to shape the brand today, with values centred on honesty, integrity and perseverance. Transparency around ingredients and formulation is core to the TE-LEDOZ proposition, helping build trust with increasingly label-savvy consumers.
Positioned as the “giant slayers of hydration”, TE-LEDOZ has aimed to redefine the electrolyte category in New Zealand by proving that better hydration
doesn’t require excessive sugar or synthetic additives. Instead, it has focused on real ingredients, natural flavours and broad everyday appeal.
As shoppers continue to prioritise wellbeing without sacrificing taste, TELEDOZ has carved out space as a natural hydration option that fits seamlessly into real life, one bottle at a time.
TE-LEDOZ has started its rollout in Foodstuffs stores from the 12th of January 2026. The range includes four flavour profiles designed to resonate across age groups and occasions: Tropical, Blue, Citrus and Grape.
For more information, visit www.teledoz.co.nz or email info@teledoz.co.nz. n
info@teledoz.co.nz
LO CAL
GOLD PRO TURBO STAIN REMOVER POWDER
Vanish
Vanish Gold Pro Turbo formula contains an innovative Accelerator System that helps to remove the toughest of stains even in 30 minutes!
Whether food, starch, greasy or outdoor stains, our accelerator system, combined with our trusted Oxi Action formula, boosts performance to help lift and break down tough stains from your most loved clothes.
NEW COMBINATIONS TO THE CHILLER
Dairyworks
Shoppers are increasingly seeking snacks that feel fun, satisfying and a little different. Dairyworks is tapping into this with its new Sweet & Savoury Snack Pack, a collaboration designed to shake up chilled snacking. Each pack combines Dairyworks Tasty Cheese Slices with Griffin’s Snax Crackers and one of Griffin’s iconic Kiwi biscuits, delivering an appealing mix of flavours and textures in one convenient format. Perfect for lunchboxes, work fridges and on-the-go moments, the range offers a simple sweetand-savoury balance that feels both indulgent and easy.
The formula is safe for everyday fabrics (cotton and polycotton) and free from chlorine bleach, while also providing a deep clean.
The product also contains Colour Protect Technology, which aids in preventing colour transfer* and helps your clothes remain bright. It also removes odours on cotton through soaking, leaving your clothes smelling fresh.
* Which may occur in a hot wash (60°C)
Available in two flavour combinations, Squiggles Bites or Toffee Pops Bites, the new Sweet & Savoury Snack Packs launch nationwide from 20 October across New World, PAK’nSAVE and Four Square.
To order the range contact the Dairyworks Team –info@dairyworks.co.nz
LIMITED EDITION KICKIN’ PERI PERI Pringles
Introducing the new limited-edition product from Pringles® – Kickin’ Peri Peri Flavour 118g!
Tangy and savoury notes with just the right amount of spice, to give the right flavour kick in every crunch!
Pringles Kickin' Peri Peri Flavour stacked potato chips are the ideal party snack to enjoy with your friends, family or colleagues. Available now for a limited time only, so don’t miss out.
LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE IN LITTLE CITY
Little City Kombucha
100% New Zealand-made, owned and supported, Little City’s premium craft kombucha is crafted locally in Wellington with authentic small-batch heritage and artisanal brewing expertise. Live, unpasteurised cultures ensure real probiotic value and with less than three percent sugar, this kombucha delivers functional
gut health benefits without excessive sweetness, always chilled for consumer confidence and repeat sales. For orders and further information, reach out to your Alliance Marketing representative or call 09 280 2926. www.littlecitykombucha.co.nz | www.alliancemarketing.co.nz
CARAMELISED ONION HUMMUS 380G
Lisa's
Proudly Kiwi-made since 1994, Lisa’s continues to lead the way as New Zealand’s original and most-loved hummus brand.
Now, their top-selling flavour is available in a new 380g Caramelised Onion Hummus, perfect for sharing, entertaining, and everyday dipping.
Sweet, caramelised onion meets Lisa’s signature creamy hummus in a larger format designed for families and flavour fans alike.
Building on the popularity of the existing 380g range, this new addition gives Kiwis even more of the taste they can’t get enough of - delicious, reliable, and proudly local.
Sources: IRI scan, NZ Grocery 52 weeks to 28/12/2025
COCA-COLA EXPANDS ALCOHOL
RTD CATEGORY THIS SUMMER
Coca-Cola x Jack Daniel's
Coca-Cola Oceania, along with its bottling partner CocaCola Europacific Partners, has launched two ready-to-drink heavyweights into New Zealand this month.
Jack Daniel’s and Coca-Cola will be New Zealand’s very first alcoholic ready-to-drink made with Coca-Cola.
Inspired by a shared heritage of craftsmanship that spans more than a century, both brands were born in the late 1800s, Jack Daniel’s in Lynchburg, Tennessee, and Coca-Cola in Atlanta and today, ‘Jack & Coke’ is one of the most popular bar calls in New Zealand and around the world.
SHIFT INTO HIGH GEAR WITH KITKAT X F1
KitKat
KitKat, the official chocolate bar of Formula 1, has shifted into high gear with the launch of a world-first innovation.
To celebrate the partnership, KitKat has crafted a unique chocolate masterpiece in the shape of an F1 car, the first of its kind globally, alongside exciting fan activations at the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix from the 6th to the 8th of March 2026.
Made with smooth milk chocolate and packed with crispy cereal and signature wafer pieces, this limited-edition treat will hit shelves in major New Zealand retailers from January 2026.
Available in 29g, the KitKat F1 Chocolate Car is set to delight F1 fans and chocolate lovers alike. But the excitement doesn’t stop there.
The KitKat x Formula 1 partnership goes beyond trackside branding, delivering immersive experiences for fans worldwide. From exclusive merchandise, in-store activations, a consumer promotion, limited-edition products, and Netflix’s Formula 1: Drive to Survive ad placements, KitKat has bringing the thrill of F1 closer than ever.
spotlightlocal
Heart Of Rural Maniototo
Four Square Maniototo’s owner-operator, Morgan Thompson, took over the store in August 2025 and hasn’t experienced any major disruptions yet.
“It’s been an awesome experience so far. Every day brings something new and a fresh challenge. The staff have been incredibly welcoming and supportive, which has made the transition a breeze,” said Thompson.
“I’ve really enjoyed getting to know both the staff and our fantastic customers. Every store is different, so it’s been great learning how Four Square Maniototo operates and identifying a few projects we can work on together.”
Thompson added that Maniototo was fortunate to avoid many of the severe
weather events that affected the South Island and many FSSI stores last year. The store’s primary deliveries came from over an hour away, and winter weather conditions can certainly affect whether they arrive on time or at all.
At the same time, he mentioned that things had gotten better heading into summer.
Thompson has enjoyed settling into a rural community as the Ranfurly and wider Maniototo locals have been incredibly welcoming and supportive. He described it as ‘the kind of place where everyone knows everyone’, and added that they took great pride in calling Maniototo home.
“It’s a beautiful part of the world, and the slower pace of life has been a welcome change from the city's hustle and bustle. Additionally, the former owners, Martin and Michelle, set an excellent standard with their strong connection to the community, and I’ve been very fortunate that the community has welcomed me and continued to support the store.”
He has found it gratifying to observe customers catching up with each other in-store, as it showed how much the store has become a local hub, and he also loved building relationships with local groups and organisations and helping wherever he could.
The store supports many local organisations across the Maniototo, including local schools, the food bank, sports clubs, the volunteer fire brigade, and the local radio station.
“It’s a real privilege to support the groups that make the Maniototo such a special place.”
At the store, Thompson has also introduced a suggestion box and added over 100 new products based on customer feedback, all of which have been well received.
“It’s been humbling to see that level of engagement and support from our customers and community,” he said.
The most growth and innovation in the store has been in the ‘protein and health’, ‘food to go’, and ‘frozen’ categories.
To meet the rising demand, the store has continued to expand its product selection and introduced new, on-trend options that cater to customers’ evolving preferences.
The largest egg supplier is Parkside Farm, located just 25 minutes up the road in the Ida Valley.
“Yohann and his team do a fantastic job and take great care of us; we use their eggs in our café and also sell them in the shop.”
A key difference Thompson noticed between what rural customers and city shoppers value most is the larger shops and larger baskets.
He highlighted that, because many customers live on farms, they tend to shop less frequently and buy in bulk, and added that it was great to see how well connected the team is with customers and how consistently they go above and beyond to ensure everyone is well looked after. n
Gulfood’s Big Deal Hub Accelerates Global Food Trade
With two weeks to go, Gulfood’s Big Deal Hub is already driving pre-show meetings, negotiations and contracts across six continents.
As global food trade faces mounting pressure to move faster, smarter and with greater certainty, Gulfood 2026 is once again setting the pace for how business gets done.
With just two weeks to go, momentum is rapidly building around Gulfood’s Big Deal Hub, the show’s dedicated, dealmaking platform designed to connect serious buyers and sellers before the exhibition doors even open.
Companies joining the Big Deal Hub now are gaining a critical advantage: early visibility, priority introductions and firstmover positioning with some of the world’s most influential food buyers and suppliers.
Where the Industry’s Decision-Makers Are Already Doing Business
The Big Deal Hub has attracted an exceptional calibre of participants, with over 90 percent of registered users holding C-suite or senior decision-making roles, spanning six continents and every major segment of the food value chain.
Active on the platform are importers, distributors, wholesalers, manufacturers, retailers and food-tech companies, including leading names such as Al Aswaq Al Watania Hypermarkets, Bertram Foods, Britannia International, Cybera
Capital, Eco Sourcing Hub, Latino Trading Imports, Panamex Groupe, Presidente Supermarket, Seacor International LLC, Yalla Food International and Yamene Meat Products, among many others.
A New Standard for Global Food Trade
The Big Deal Hub reflects Gulfood’s wider evolution into a connected, intelligent food economy, one that prioritises efficiency, foresight and tangible commercial outcomes. By bringing the world’s most serious buyers and sellers together ahead of the show, Gulfood is redefining what it means to do business at scale.
Unlike traditional networking tools, the Big Deal Hub is purpose-built for commercial readiness. The platform allows buyers and suppliers to:
• Identify aligned partners by category, geography and deal size
• Schedule meetings in advance of the show
• Begin negotiations early
• Enter Gulfood with pipelines warmed and contracts already in motion
Gulfood 2026 takes place from the 26th to the 30th of January across the Dubai World Trade Centre and the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. n
Discipline First, Scale Second
“Gulfood is where serious conversations about global growth happen. It’s not about hype; it’s about building something that lasts.” At Gulfood 2026, Dante’s by Enis Baçova will present what Baçova described as “the next evolution of premium food brands, where craftsmanship is protected by systems, not compromised by scale.”
Baçova, internationally recognised as one of the world’s leading contemporary pizzamakers and formally trained with an MBA, has, through Dante’s, represented a rare convergence of artisan credibility and strategic business execution.
“I come from the world of craft, but I think like an operator and a strategist. That combination is what allows us to grow without losing who we are,” said Baçova.
“This balance has enabled Dante’s to move beyond the traditional limitations of chefled concepts and into a structured, globally
scalable platform.”
The centrepiece of Dante’s presence at Gulfood is Baçova’s Method™, a proprietary dough and fermentation system developed to solve one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: scaling quality without compromising authenticity.
“The biggest risk in food expansion is inconsistency. Baçova’s Method was built to remove that risk by engineering repeatability into the heart of the process,” he said.
The method applies precise temperature ignition, controlled fermentation sequencing, and structure-first dough development to
deliver consistent results across climates, markets, and labour conditions.
“If a system works only in one city, it’s not a system; it’s a coincidence. Our goal was to make excellence reproducible anywhere. This directly reflects current consumer expectations for authenticity and quality while also meeting investor demands for repeatability, stable margins, and operational control.”
According to Baçova, Gulfood sits at the intersection of global food culture, innovation, and capital, making it a natural platform for Dante’s next phase of growth.
The GCC’s appreciation for premium hospitality, combined with a long-term investment mindset, aligned closely with the brand’s philosophy. Baçova added that visitors should leave with a clear understanding that Dante’s is not a trend-driven restaurant concept, but a system-led brand.
“We’re not scaling a personality. We’re scaling a method, a culture, and a standard.”
International recognition, including multiple placements in the World’s Top
50 Pizzerias and Top 10 Asia-Pacific, has already validated the product. Gulfood is where that recognition is translated into scalable infrastructure and long-term partnerships.
The following two to three years offer significant opportunities for premium casual dining brands that can deliver authenticity at scale, as Baçova highlighted that consumers have increasingly rejected generic chains, while still expecting reliability and consistency.
“People want soul, but markets demand structure. The brands that win will be the ones that can offer both.”
The key challenge remains execution: maintaining quality across multiple locations without dependence on individual talent. Baçova’s Method can address this by embedding craftsmanship directly into the process.
“When excellence lives in the system, not in one person, that’s when real scale becomes possible.”
At Gulfood 2026, Dante’s by Enis Baçova is actively seeking strategic investors, family offices, sovereign-aligned capital, and regional operating partners across the GCC.
The expansion strategy begins with a Dubai flagship, followed by selective rollouts into key Gulf markets.
“We believe in flagship-led growth. Discipline first, scale second and never the other way around.”
Growth will be brand-protected, methoddriven, and anchored in operational excellence rather than speed.
Dante’s by Enis Baçova stands at the intersection of culture, science, and capital.
Led by a founder who pairs global culinary recognition with formal business education, the brand offers a rare proposition: artisan excellence engineered for scale.
“Craft alone doesn’t scale. But when craft is engineered into process, it becomes infrastructure,” he concluded.
Gulfood 2026 marks the moment when quality becomes a system and a global one. n
Red Meat Leads Wellness
According to Daniel Carson, founder of Miti, consumers globally have moved beyond simple protein counts, demanding in-depth information on nutrient density, bioavailability, and whole-food nutrition.
Mīti responds directly to that shift by using pasture-raised young beef combined with natural ingredients to deliver iron, B12, amino acids, and energy in forms the body actually uses, without isolates or ultra-processing.
“It’s a response to a clear trend: people want food that works harder for their health, while still aligning with sustainability, provenance, and trust,” said Carson.
At Gulfood 2026, Carson has aimed to showcase Mīti as a nutrient-dense wellness platform, not just a meat snack. He mentioned that it was the right platform because it sat at the intersection of global scale, emerging markets, and institutional food systems.
Many of the regions represented at
Gulfood have been grappling with the same paradox: rising obesity alongside persistent micronutrient deficiency. Red meat is uniquely positioned to help address that, but only if it’s delivered in formats that fit modern lifestyles and wellness frameworks.
Carson said that the most significant opportunity would be the emergence of wellness-led meat as a distinct category. Governments, health systems, and consumers have increasingly focused on nutrient outcomes rather than just calories or macros, creating space for meat, particularly young beef, to be positioned as a functional food that supports cognition, energy, and muscle health.
At the same time, the challenge was that this required new value chains, not just new products. It meant rethinking
animal sourcing, combining ingredients, and how nutrition can be measured and communicated.
“That’s harder than incremental innovation, but it’s where the real long-term value sits.”
He also hoped visitors would learn that red meat doesn’t need defending; it needs reframing, and that when used thoughtfully, it can be one of the most effective wholefood nutrition tools.
Carson highlighted that Australasia is uniquely positioned to lead in this space, combining trusted farming systems with the ability to create scalable, natural, nutrientdense foods.
Being selected into the MLA Gulfood Innovation Challenge has reinforced that momentum, and he looked forward to representing New Zealand on a global stage. n
Daniel Carson Founder Mīti
Keep Tomatoes Out of the Cold: Why Storage and Handling Matter
Tomatoes are always a popular produce item and retailers can help customers get the best from them by reinforcing one key message – tomatoes belong on the bench, not in the fridge.
While stores already display them at ambient temperature, many shoppers pop them straight into the chiller once they get home and that’s where their flavour fades. Chilling dulls their natural sweetness, alters texture and flattens the vibrant taste that makes tomatoes one of summer’s bestloved fruit.
Stored at room temperature and out of direct sunlight, tomatoes can stay fresh and full of flavour for up to 10 days. That’s a useful tip for produce teams to share with customers looking to reduce food waste and enjoy better quality at home. “Keep them out of the fridge, and keep their flavour alive,” says Dr Carolyn Lister, Principal Scientist at Plant & Food Research and Trustee for the 5+ A Day Charitable Trust. New Zealand’s tomato industry features a strong mix of regional expertise and advanced growing systems. Production is concentrated in Auckland, the central North Island, Nelson and Christchurch, where controlled environments deliver reliable yields and consistent quality all year round. Medium to large-scale operations dominate the market,
with growers managing precise irrigation, temperature and light to meet demand from both retail and foodservice industries.
Growers cater to a broad range of consumer preferences. Standard round loose tomatoes remain a supermarket staple. Specialty lines such as vine-ripened, on-the-vine, cherry and plum tomatoes have surged in popularity over the past decade, reflecting strong demand for flavour, convenience and visual appeal.
Retail presentation continues to shift toward pre-packed and snacking format, allowing shoppers to see the fruit easily while showcasing brand and variety information. For retailers, effective presentation and clear labelling play a key role in driving purchase decisions, particularly as shoppers increasingly look for freshness and convenience.
Beyond taste and appearance, Dr Lister says tomatoes are nutritionally dense. “They’re low in calories, high in vitamin C, a source of vitamin B6 and potassium. Lycopene, the natural pigment that gives tomatoes their red hue, is also a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health, prostate
health and overall wellbeing.”
With strong consumer recognition, yearround supply and broad appeal across all age groups, tomatoes remain one of the most reliable performers in the produce aisle. Supporting shoppers with simple storage advice and continuing to showcase a wide range of varieties will keep this category fresh – and its flavour at its best.
Manuka Takes Over The Middle East
At Gulfood 2026, Te Ihi Wellness will showcase a premium manuka honey range, including varieties with UMF 5, UMF 10, UMF 15, and UMF 20.
“Gulfood is the region’s flagship food and beverage trade expo and attracts regional Gulf buyers, trading distributors, and local retailers,” said Karyn Creagh, Market Development Manager.
“This expansive F&B distributor audience is a means to expand distribution portfolios and to market new, global, and unique brands in specific categories.”
For Te Ihi, Gulfood 2026 will offer a strong business opportunity to market premium Mānuka honey in the continued growth categories of health and wellness and better-for-you, building brand awareness and trust for UMF-certified mānuka honey.
By exhibiting at Gulfood, Te Ihi Wellness can tell a unique story about its honey, from the remote and unspoilt East Cape of New Zealand, to the Gulf Region, showcasing its premium product, long-term supply, and partnership with Gulf distributors. Through its expansion in the Middle Eastern market over the next few years, Te Ihi will accelerate its growth and capitalise on this phenomenal opportunity, specifically in the immunity and digestive categories.
The brand aims to market the benefits of Te Ihi honey through premium distributors and e-commerce channels, focusing on volume markets in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and to support continued education, usage, and longer-term NPD for the Te Ihi product range. n
Dubai Makes History
as Gulfood Takes Over Two Mega
Venues
Dubai makes global exhibition history as Gulfood becomes the first show ever to operate simultaneously across two mega venues, the iconic Dubai World Trade Centre and the all-new, expanded Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai.
In a single record-breaking year, Gulfood delivers an unprecedented 100 percent expansion, selling out over 280,000 square metres of event space at both venues and becoming the inaugural global event to unveil the USD 2.7 billion upgraded Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City.
This landmark milestone cements Dubai’s position as the world’s leading hub for mega-scale business events and redefines the future of global food and beverage trade at phenomenal scale.
“This is a world-record moment for Gulfood, Dubai and the global food and beverage industry. In a single year, we have achieved 100 percent growth, delivering the world’s largest annual F&B event across two mega venues simultaneously, a first
in global exhibition history,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President, Dubai World Trade Centre, CEO, KAOUN International Organiser of GULFOOD.
“This milestone goes beyond scale to impact, redefining how giga-scale events are designed, delivered and experienced, and proving such ambition is fully achievable and transformative. By doubling business volumes and opportunities overnight, Gulfood and Dubai now stand as the indisputable nexus of the new global food trade.”
Expansion That Unlocks Greater Sourcing Power
As the global food and beverage market accelerates to USD 11.37 trillion by 20301 and the Middle East emerges as the world’s fastest-growing consumption and redistribution hub, Gulfood brings global supply and demand together in a fiveday trading window, uniting over 8,500 exhibitors showcasing 1.5 million products from 195 countries.
The 2026 edition records 40 percent first-time exhibitors, alongside the largest national participation to date from major producing markets including India, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and the USA.
New countries include Luxembourg, Maldives, Rwanda, Slovakia, Sweden and Uganda, further expanding Gulfood’s global trade footprint and unlocking new growth gateways.
Two Mega Venues, One Integrated Trade Ecosystem
For the first time, Gulfood extends into Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai, anchoring the World Food and expanded Rice, Pulses & Grains sectors within Dubai’s future growth corridor and reinforcing the city’s role as a global hub for trade, logistics and food redistribution.
Within this core commodities landscape, India has been confirmed as the Official Country Partner for Gulfood 2026, represented by the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), and will deliver its largest-ever presence at the Event, with 600+ exhibitors, including leading brands such as Amul and Rasna.
“We are excited to be part of Gulfood 2026 as the Partner Country, particularly as the show enters a new chapter with the expansion to Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City,” said Abishek Dev, Chairman, APEDA.
“As Partner Country, we are committed to strengthening India’s presence in global markets, and Gulfood continues to play a vital role in accelerating our agri-export growth story.”
The amplification of Gulfood’s reach extends to the launch of three major new sectors at Dubai Exhibition Centre: Gulfood Fresh, Gulfood Logistics and Gulfood Grocery Trade, reflecting the growing importance of perishables, cold-chain efficiency and resilient global supply chains, with confirmed participation from leaders such as DP World, Maersk, MSC, FRESH DEL MONTE, NRTC and Unifrutti.
"Maersk is proud to exhibit at Gulfood 2026 for the first time, engaging with partners across IMEA and Europe to strengthen supply chains from farm to fork,” said Mohammed Hamdan, UAE Area Head of Sales, Maersk.
“We’ll showcase strategies to build resilient, adaptive networks that ensure business continuity, alongside localised logistics solutions; from cold chain expertise to integrated supply chain management, designed for today’s complex environment."
At Dubai World Trade Centre, Gulfood will host Beverages, Dairy, Fats & Oils, Meat & Poultry, Power Brands and Seafood.
Dubai World Trade Centre anchors Gulfood Startups, featuring over 250 visionaries, investors and unicorns from over 30 countries, reflecting accelerating investment and deal activity across food-tech, agri-tech and next-generation food systems.
“Our participation at Gulfood is strategic and reflects MBRF’s leadership in Halal food production and global supply,” said Fabio Mariano, VP Halal Markets, MBRF.
“Gulfood provides a unique opportunity to strengthen partnerships with our valued clients around the world while reinforcing our commitment to quality, safety and innovation in the industry.”
Rolodex of C-Suite Buyers From Every Corner of The Globe
Gulfood 2026 will activate The Big Deal Hub, its flagship business-first buyer–seller business-first connections programme, connecting buyers and exhibitors across the full food value chain.
Confirmed participants, including Cybera Capital, Panamex Groupe and Presidente Supermarket, will engage through targeted procurement mandates and structured matchmaking to drive high-value deals. n
The Kraft Heinz Company Names Steve Cahillane As CEO
The Kraft Heinz Company has announced that Steve Cahillane will be its CEO, effective January 2026.
Food Industry Unlocks New Revenue Streams
The integration of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and blockchain is redefining how food is created, preserved, and distributed
Value for money is the most important factor for families when choosing where to buy their groceries
From first chairlift rides without panic to tackling black diamonds, ski culture has its own “unofficial” rites of passage.
How Gen Z Influences Food Production
Currently, Gen Z has emerged as a key demographic driving awareness and advocacy for sustainable food production and its impact.
Empowering SmallScale Farmers With Agri-Tech Solutions
Agri-tech refers to the idea of leveraging innovative technologies to transform agriculture.
Universities Advance Middle East’s Agenda For Food Innovation
If You Could See the Next Wave of Agri-Food Disruption Before It Reshapes the Market, Would You Take That Opportunity?
GUL F OOD
MICROWAVE POPBOX
4700BC Gourmet Snacks
4700BC Microwave Popbox is popcorn made smarter, simpler, and way more fun. Designed as a ready-to-microwave pack that doubles up as your popcorn bowl, Popbox lets you enjoy fresh, hot popcorn anywhere without needing extra utensils or cleanup. Just pop the box in the microwave and snack straight from it.
VEGAN BEVERAGE COCOGURT
Nawon Food and Beverage Company Limited
Vegan Cocogurt Drink is a vegan beverage made entirely from naturally fermented coconut milk, offering a pleasantly tangy, creamy, and refreshing taste. The natural fermentation produces a smooth texture and a delicate coconut flavor that is neither cloying nor overpowering, making it easy to drink.
HANDY RICE STICK POUCH
Origins Food Industries SDN BHD
Natufoodies Rice Stick, now in a handy zipper pouch! Carefully formulated with no added salt or sugar, our rice sticks offer a delicious and wholesome option for your baby’s snacking needs. Packed with essential calcium to support strong bones and teeth, it’s a nutritious choice you can trust. With its convenient zipper pouch, snack time becomes hassle-free wherever you go. Treat your baby to the goodness of Natufoodies Rice Stick today!
DURIAN PEANUT BAR REAL FRUIT & NUTS
Somyawee Co., Ltd
Coconut, Black Sesame Coconut, Durian and Ginger A delightful fusion of REAL FRUITS and wholesome peanuts crafted without flour, preservatives or artificial colors. Each bar is a burst of natural flavor and goodness. Perfect Anytime, Anywhere: Fruits Peanut Bar is a convenient choice. Each bar is individually wrapped, making it easy to enjoy wherever you are.
FRUIT JUICE WITH CARRAGEENAN AND NATA DE COCO
World Foods International Co., Ltd
J-MIX Fruit Juice with Nata de Coco brings fun to every sip! Made with refreshing fruit juice, naturally smooth carrageenan, and delicious chewy nata de coco cubes, this drink delivers both flavor and texture kids and families love. With bright characters and vibrant fruit flavors, J-MIX is the perfect on-the-go treat for daily refreshment.
100 % TUNISIAN EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
Daoud Grove
Daoud Grove embodies the essence of Mediterranean luxury. Crafted with passion in Tunisia, each drop of our extra virgin olive oil reflects purity, tradition, and excellence. From handpicked olives to elegant packaging, Daoud Grove represents a refined sensory experience for those who value authenticity and superior quality.
CHICKEN BREAST CHIPS
JAYEON GONGYU
Chicken Breast Chips are a high-protein snack made with chicken breast, designed for convenient protein intake. Each pack contains 24g of protein, providing approximately 44% of the recommended daily intake. While preserving the clean, natural flavor of chicken breast, the chips deliver a light and crispy texture that anyone can enjoy without feeling heavy. They are baked, not fried, to reduce excess oil, resulting in a clean and mild taste that minimizes the heaviness often associated with protein snacks.
GOOD FRANCE CHEEZY SAUCE
Soreal ME&NA
Cheezy sauce has the flavor of different types of cheeses, find the perfect blend of cheese sauce taste that you will love. It goes perfectly with Fried Chicken, Meat and a dipping to many appetizers.
Whole Foods Market Daily Shop in Hoboken, New Jersey
Whole Foods Market opened the fifth location of its smaller-format store concept, Whole Foods Market Daily Shop, in Hoboken, NJ. The 4,851-square-foot store features more than 350 local items from the Northeast, each meeting Whole Foods Market’s rigorous quality standards.
“Opening our first store in Hoboken is an exciting milestone, and we’re grateful for the warm welcome from the neighbourhood,” said Victor Luciano, Store Team Leader for Whole Foods Market Daily Shop.
“We look forward to providing the community with great service, grocery essentials that meet our high quality standards and quick grab-and-go meals to make their lives easier.”
On opening morning, customers were treated to complimentary samples from local suppliers Abe’s and Nguyen Coffee Supply, and the first 300 customers in line also received a limited-edition tote bag.
As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local communities, Whole Foods Market contributed in-kind product to support the work of Table to Table. Whole Foods Market will also donate to local nonprofits The Hoboken Shelter and Hoboken Community Centre.
A future Whole Foods Market Daily Shop location is opening in Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighbourhood in early 2026. n
Break Your Summer Roadie At Z
Kiwi summers mean epic road trips, even if some of us have already started back at work.
Whether you’re headed off to see friends, family or the stunning scenery that makes New Zealand so special, Z Energy (Z) is proud to be a part of the journey.
And while great ‘summer roadies’ are a beloved part of Kiwi culture, they can often be long, hot and tiring. Being wellrested and hydrated is critical for drivers to stay alert, pay attention, and drive in the conditions.
Tired drivers make more mistakes, which is why taking regular breaks or splitting driving responsibilities can make a big difference in preventing accidents. With over 150 sites
across the country, people can always find a place to pull in, stretch their legs, and refresh before hitting the road again.
When customers stop at Z, they can grab a cold drink, a barista-made coffee, or a bite to eat to keep themselves refreshed and focused. Z has also refreshed its brand-new Shaken Range of chilled drinks, created with local legends Barker’s of Geraldine.
The collection features some delicious flavour combos to suit all taste buds, including: Raspberry, Rosehip & Coconut, Feijoa & Lime Iced Tea, and Raspberry & Rhubarb Refresher.
These drinks are now available at Z Energy service stations across New Zealand, perfect for your summer road trips. n
This Summer 7-Eleven Brings Convenience To The Mornington Peninsula
7-Eleven has expanded access to convenient food and beverage options across the Mornington Peninsula with the launch of three seasonal pop-ups in Mornington, Rye and Sorrento.
As one of Victoria’s most popular summer destinations, the Peninsula has experienced significant increases in visitor numbers, and 7-Eleven’s existing stores trade at extremely high volumes during the holiday period.
The Summer Pop Up sites will help meet this demand by offering customers easier access to the products they love, right where
they are. Each pop-up will offer a curated selection of classic 7-Eleven favourites, including slurpees, cold drinks, sweet treats, fresh food, on-the-go snacks, ice cream, and summer essentials, providing a quick, convenient option for beachgoers, holidaymakers, and locals.
The three high-traffic sites mean many customers will be able to grab what they need this summer without having to commute out of their way.
“As Australia’s most convenient neighbourhood store, we want to make sure our products and services are accessible wherever our customers are.
The Mornington Peninsula is absolutely booming over summer, and these Summer Pop Ups bring more choice and convenience to the community during its busiest months,” said Marc Costabile, Chief Operations Officer.
“Whether you’re grabbing your early morning coffee, stocking up on drinks and snacks for a day at the beach, or cooling down with a Slurpee, 7-Eleven has you covered in our new pop-up locations."
The Summer Pop Ups are part of 7-Eleven’s ongoing focus on exploring new formats and expanding access to its offerings in high-demand locations.
Throughout 2026 and beyond, 7-Eleven will continue to trial flexible models in different formats that complement its traditional store network and respond to seasonal and local needs. n
Clearance Sought For The Merger Of NPD & Gull
The Commerce Commission has received a clearance application from Astra Energy Group Limited to acquire all of the shares in GNZ Holdco Limited (including its subsidiaries, Gull) and all of the shares in NPD Group Investments Limited (including its subsidiaries, NPD).
NPD and Gull are both independent, low-cost operators supplying fuel predominantly, but not exclusively, via unstaffed sites in New Zealand.
NPD is a retail-only operator supplying fuel from sites predominantly in the South Island (with a smaller number of sites in the North Island).
Gull is a fuel importer and retailer
supplying fuel from sites predominantly in the North Island (with a smaller number of sites in the South Island). Gull also owns and operates a bulk import and storage terminal at Mount Maunganui.
The Commerce Commission has published a statement of preliminary issues regarding the application. The statement outlined the key competition issues the Commission considers in deciding whether to grant clearance for the proposed acquisition.
The Commission has invited interested parties to provide comments on the likely competitive effects of the proposed acquisition. Any submissions should be received by the close of business on the 3rd
of February 2026.
The Commission is currently scheduled to make a decision on the application by the 16th of March 2026.
However, this date may be extended with the agreement of the applicants if the material before the Commission at that time does not allow it to be satisfied that the proposed acquisition will not have, or would not be likely to have, the effect of substantially lessening competition in a market in New Zealand.
The Statement of Preliminary Issues and a public version of the application can be found on the Commission's website, in the case register.
