Interim Chief Economic Adviser, Jenny Haydock stated on 8^th January that the CMA had accepted the fast-track reference request made by ABF, Hovis Group Limited and Endless LLP, having concluded that the conditions to accept a fast-track reference request had been met.

As a result, the CMA made a reference to its chair for the constitution of a group under Schedule 4 to the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013 in order that the group may investigate and report, within a period ending on 24^th June 2026, on the following questions: whether arrangements are in progress or in contemplation which, if carried into effect, will result in the creation of a relevant merger situation; and if so, whether the creation of that situation may be expected to result in a substantial lessening of competition within any market or markets in the UK for goods or services.

In a previous update made before Christmas, the CMA revealed that its deadline for announcing its decision whether to refer the merger for a phase 2 investigation was 19^th February 2026.

Responding to the CMA’s December announcement, a spokesperson for ABF said they would continue to work closely with the CMA to ensure the case is run as efficiently as possible and to “demonstrate why this transaction will help to create a more sustainable competitor that is better able to invest, innovate and deliver for customers”.

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In an update just before Christmas, the CMA revealed that its deadline for announcing its decision whether to refer the merger for a phase 2 investigation is 19^th February 2026.

“The Competition and Market Authority hereby gives notice pursuant to section 96(2A) of the Enterprise Act 2002 that the merger notice provided by Associated British Foods plc, Hovis Group Limited and Endless LLP in relation to the anticipated acquisition by ABF (via its wholly owned indirect subsidiary, ABF Grain Products Limited) of Hovis, meets the requirements of section 96(2) of the Act,” stated the announcement.

The initial period defined in section 34ZA(3) of the Act in relation to the Transaction commenced on 22^nd December 2025.

The first step of the CMA’s information-gathering process – an invitation to comment time period – concluded in early October, with the next stage including the launch of its formal investigation into the transaction.

It was announced last summer that Hovis Group would be bought over by ABF, with the proposed acquisition hailed as a “significant step towards creating a more sustainable and efficient bakery operation in the UK”.

In a statement, ABF said the acquisition would combine the production and distribution activities of the two businesses, driving significant costs synergies and efficiencies, to create a profitable UK bread business that is sustainable over the long-term.

Responding to the CMA’s December announcement, a spokesperson for ABF said: “This formal step is an important milestone and follows ABF working constructively with the CMA to outline the challenges and changes taking place in the UK’s bakery sector.

“ABF will continue to work closely with the CMA to ensure this case is run as efficiently as possible and to demonstrate why this transaction will help to create a more sustainable competitor that is better able to invest, innovate and deliver for customers.”

The post CMA begins phase one investigation into proposed ABF acquisition of Hovis first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

The first step of the CMA’s information-gathering process – an invitation to comment time period – concluded in early October, with one of the next stages being the launch its formal investigation into the transaction.

Having confirmed earlier this year they were in discussions regarding a potential transaction, it was announced during the summer that Hovis Group would be bought over by ABF.

As stated in their Interim Results Announcement back in April, Allied Bakeries faced what it called a “very challenging market”.

“We are evaluating strategic options for Allied Bakeries against this backdrop and we remain committed to increasing long-term shareholder value,” said a statement.

Subject to regulatory review by the CMA, the proposed acquisition has been hailed as a “significant step towards creating a more sustainable and efficient bakery operation in the UK”.

In a statement, ABF said the acquisition would combine the production and distribution activities of the two businesses, driving significant costs synergies and efficiencies, to create a profitable UK bread business that is sustainable over the long-term.

The post CMA probe continues into bread business ‘merger’ first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

The flavours – Sparkling Raspberry Peach, Sparkling Mango Lemonade, Sparkling Kiwi Guava, and Sparkling Strawberry Watermelon – are part of the brand’s ‘core’ line-up that have helped make CELSIUS the fastest growing energy drink brand in the U.S.2

Landing on shelves from February 2026, as consumers set New Year’s resolutions that focus on health and wellness goals, the launch is engineered to capitalise on the seasonal surge in fitness culture and maximise incrementality for retailers. The brand’s ‘core’ range features striking, clean can designs that are emblematic of the CELSIUS LIVE FIT ethos.

Garrett Quigley, President Celsius International, said: “We are excited for consumers in the UK and Ireland to experience the latest innovation from CELSIUS arriving from February.

“We believe the zero sugar, fruit-forward flavours that distinguish CELSIUS from traditional energy drinks align with consumers’ evolving needs for great taste without compromise. This innovation is designed to bring new consumers into the growing energy category, drive growth, and be a meaningful contributor to higher basket value for our retailers.”

The new CELSIUS flavours reflect the brand’s commitment to drive category growth through continued innovation with fruit-forward offerings, keeping loyal fans engaged while attracting new shoppers. They will be available across major retailers, convenience stores, and gyms and supported by sampling, activations, and high-impact POS displays.

Additionally, Sparkling Raspberry Peach and Sparkling Mango Lemonade flavours will be available as a multipack for the first time in the UK and Ireland. The introduction of multipacks offers retailers a ‘drink later’ format that enables consumers to stock up their cupboards and conveniently add CELSIUS to their daily routines.

Born in fitness, CELSIUS is a functional energy drink brand that combines bold taste and a blend of essential vitamins and caffeine without sugar or preservatives. CELSIUS supports active lifestyles with a blend of essential vitamins which contribute to the normal function of the immune system (B6, B12, C) and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue (B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, C), while helping to increase alertness and improve concentration (caffeine).

The post CELSIUS® to debut four new flavours to excite consumers in the new year first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.

With Halloween falling on a Friday this year, demand for sharing formats and individually wrapped treats for parties and trick-or-treating is expected to be higher than ever as people celebrate throughout the weekend.

As the UK’s No.1 supplier of variety bags*, Swizzels’ Halloween portfolio continues to go from strength to strength, with Scrumptious Sweets 134g, Luscious Lollies 132g, and Curious Chews 135g (all £1.25 MRSP PMP) remaining a must-stock for the Halloween season.

Packed with fan favourites such as Love Hearts, Refreshers, Drumstick Chews, Fruity Pops, Fizzers and more, each sweet is individually wrapped, making the range ideal for trick-or-treaters, family sharing, and seasonal displays. With bright, eye-catching packaging and strong shelf visibility, these packs provide retailers with a reliable way to maximise impulse purchases and drive profits throughout the Halloween period.

Thanks to its all-year-round appeal, the sweet maker’s variety bags range retains its sales potential well beyond Halloween, making it a smart investment for retailers looking to manage seasonal stock efficiently.

Swizzels’ Halloween-themed range is also set to perform well this year, featuring popular packs such as Monster Treats (440g, MRSP £4), Mummy Mix (340g, MRSP £3) and the Trick or Treat Lolly Mix (330g, MRSP £3).

For shoppers seeking bigger, great-value formats, the Swizzels Sweet Shop Favourites Tub (MRSP £5) remains a Halloween essential for retailers, offering a wide selection of individually wrapped treats that appeal to the whole family.

Clare Newton, trade and shopper marketing manager at Swizzels, said: “Halloween has become one of the biggest seasonal events and this year it falls on a Friday, meaning retailers should stock up in preparation for bigger celebrations across the weekend and expect heightened demand for sharing formats for parties and events.

“Our variety bags are an absolute staple at this time of year. They’re packed with treats to suit every taste, perfect for sharing, and ideal for trick-or-treating thanks to their individually wrapped format.

“Alongside our themed products and sharing tubs, Swizzels’ Halloween portfolio has something for everyone, helping retailers maximise seasonal sales and providing fun, affordable treats for the occasion.”

*Source: Circana, Confectionery category, Value Sales 52wks to 12/05/2024, Total Market

The post Swizzels urges retailers to stock up on Halloween range as demand continues first appeared on Neighbourhood Retailer.