Food M&A is shifting from volume to surgical, synergy driven deals, as buyers chase premium, health-oriented brands and under-used operational assets. With credit conditions easing and PE circling, 2026 could reignite consolidation – just with far sharper discipline.
Expo West 2026 signaled a high‑stakes shift as functional snacking and hydration surged, fueled by GLP‑1 consumers and a booming $342 billion natural products market. Yet a counter‑trend toward simple, indulgent “no‑function-needed” treats shows shoppers still crave joy.
Deal activity never found its footing last year, finishing at its lowest level since 2020 and well below market forecasts; however, sentiment is beginning to turn. As firms look ahead to 2026, we are seeing signs of re-engagement that could mark a pivot away from the caution that defined much of the past year.
NA beer is shifting from hype to habit as growth slows but consumer commitment deepens, driven by health minded Gen Z and demand for better flavor and clarity. The category’s future hinges on expanding drinking occasions – not replacing traditional beer.
Tariff rulings are throwing U.S. supply chains into flux, with courts, Congress, and the White House reshaping which duties stand, as well as which may be refunded. Food and beverage leaders now face a volatile import landscape that demands documentation, contract reviews, and constant vigilance.
Wyandot Snacks has built its reputation on consistency. In this on demand conversation with Formic, executives discuss how automation is being deployed not as disruption, but as a disciplined strategy to strengthen flexibility, margins, and long term competitiveness.
Alpha-Diver’s Hunter Thurman breaks down the market shift from a simple private label vs. national brand debate into a three-lane landscape.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the steady growth of U.S. manufacturing activity exhibited in the month of February.
Suzanne Cwik of Tibersoft and Eric Anderson of Conagra help break down data best practices to develop a foodservice marketing engine.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the fact the U.S. sugar industry could soon be impacted by regulatory changes connected to stricter dietary guidelines.
William Grand, NutriFusion founder & CEO, examines the growing health crisis tied to ultra-processed foods—and what it will take to fix it.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on the latest in LTOs and menu innovations for fast-food operators.
Nik Modi of RBC Capital Markets discusses the impacts of GLP-1s, price cuts, agentic commerce, and more on the food and beverage sector.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast touches on restaurants’ plans for a high-stakes Valentine’s weekend.
The latest FI Fast Break news podcast notes how AI-powered shelf intelligence is becoming grocers’ secret weapon ahead of events like Super Bowl Sunday and Valentine’s Day.
