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yfood Expands to 10,000 UK Stores as Smart Food Demand Soars

yfood has expanded to more than 10,000 UK retail locations, including Tesco, Boots, Co-op and Asda, as demand for nutritionally complete ready-to-drink meals continues to grow.

Ready-to-drink smart food brand yfood is celebrating a major milestone after expanding its UK retail presence to more than 10,000 points of sale nationwide.

The rapid growth reflects increasing consumer demand for convenient, nutritionally balanced meal solutions that fit into busy modern lifestyles. The brand is now available through many of the UK's leading retailers, including Boots, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Co-op, Holland & Barrett, Superdrug, Ocado, SPAR, Nisa and Asda.

One of the biggest developments has been yfood's expansion within Tesco. The brand is now stocked in more than 850 Tesco Superstores, where its range has doubled from three core flavours to six. It has also secured listings in more than 1,500 Tesco Express stores, making it easier than ever for shoppers to pick up a nutritionally complete meal while on the move.

Co-op has also expanded distribution to over 2,000 stores across the UK, while Boots has introduced eight yfood flavours nationwide. Asda shoppers can now find three of the brand's most popular products in stores across the country.

The strong retail performance behind the expansion highlights the growing popularity of the smart food category. According to the latest market data, yfood is growing at more than twice the rate of the category leader and has contributed £13.8 million in additional value to the UK's ready-to-drink smart food market over the past year.

Among its standout products is Happy Banana, which has helped drive significant growth within the banana-flavoured RTD category. The success suggests consumers are increasingly seeking products that combine convenience with balanced nutrition and enjoyable flavours.

To support its retail growth, yfood has invested heavily in in-store visibility and consumer education. Dedicated breakfast-on-the-run displays have been introduced in Tesco Express stores, while Boots locations feature educational materials designed to help shoppers better understand the smart food category.

The company has also launched its first UK PR campaign, focusing on breakfast habits during the daily commute. Research commissioned by the brand found that many commuters regularly eat on the go but are frustrated by traditional breakfast options that can be messy or inconvenient.

yfood's range of ready-to-drink meals provides 500 calories, 30g of protein, at least 8g of fibre and 26 vitamins and minerals per bottle. Designed for busy lifestyles, the products are positioned as a convenient option for breakfast, lunch, post-workout recovery or whenever time is short.

As consumer habits continue to evolve, yfood's rapid retail expansion suggests that nutritionally complete convenience foods are becoming an increasingly important part of the UK's food and drink landscape.

Happy Father's Day

 Please have a great Father's Day, no matter where you are in the world.

Why Peroni or Peroni 0.0% Makes a Great Father's Day Gift

Looking for a Father's Day gift idea? Discover why Peroni Nastro Azzurro and Peroni 0.0% are perfect for celebrating dads, grandads and father figures this Father's Day.

Father's Day is a chance to celebrate the dads, grandads and father figures who have been there through life's big moments and everyday adventures. 

While socks, mugs and novelty gifts often make an appearance, sometimes the simplest gifts are the most appreciated.

This year, why not treat your father figure to a refreshing crate of Peroni Nastro Azzurro or Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0%?

A Taste of Italy at Home

Peroni has long been associated with Italian style, quality and relaxed enjoyment. Whether it's served alongside a summer barbecue, a Father's Day lunch or simply enjoyed in the garden on a sunny afternoon, a chilled bottle can bring a touch of Mediterranean flair to the occasion.

Known for its crisp, refreshing taste and balanced flavour, Peroni has become one of Britain's favourite premium lagers. It pairs particularly well with grilled meats, pizzas, burgers and classic pub-style dishes, making it an ideal companion for a Father's Day feast.

The Perfect Choice for Every Dad

Not every dad wants an alcoholic drink, and that's where Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% comes into its own.

The alcohol-free version offers many of the same refreshing characteristics that fans enjoy, making it a great option for designated drivers, health-conscious dads or anyone looking to moderate their alcohol intake without sacrificing flavour.

As alcohol-free options continue to grow in popularity across the UK, Peroni 0.0% has earned a reputation as one of the standout choices available in supermarkets, pubs and restaurants.

Create a Father's Day Experience

Rather than simply handing over a gift, consider creating an experience around it.

You could:

Serve Peroni alongside a homemade barbecue.

Pair it with a favourite takeaway pizza.

Enjoy a Father's Day picnic in the park.

Put together an Italian-themed meal complete with pasta, antipasti and dessert.

Create a small gift hamper featuring Peroni, snacks and favourite treats.

It's often these shared moments that become the lasting memories.

A Simple Way to Say Thank You

Father's Day doesn't have to involve extravagant spending. Sometimes a thoughtful gesture, a good meal and a chance to relax together are more meaningful than any expensive present.

Whether you choose the classic Peroni Nastro Azzurro or the alcohol-free Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0%, you're giving more than a drink. You're creating an opportunity to slow down, spend time together and celebrate someone who has played an important role in your life.

And that sounds like a pretty good Father's Day to us!

Young People Step Up for Their Communities Through Set for Success Programme

A programme that combines sport, leadership and community action is helping young people build confidence, develop vital employability skills and make a positive difference in their local communities, including supporting local food banks.

The impact of the Set for Success programme was highlighted recently when Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner visited Dixons Ashton Academy to meet students taking part in the initiative.

During the visit, students showcased a social action project they had developed as part of the programme, organising a donation drive in support of a local food bank at Cedar Park. 

The project demonstrated not only their commitment to helping others but also the practical skills they have developed through the programme, including teamwork, leadership and communication.

The visit comes at a significant time. The interim Milburn Review recently warned that the number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEET) could reach 1.25 million by the early 2030s unless action is taken to address the issue.

Set for Success aims to tackle some of these challenges head-on. Funded by the Wimbledon Foundation, supported by Barclays and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust, the programme uses sport and physical activity as a platform for personal development.

Students work alongside athlete mentors, including British Paralympic wheelchair rugby player Ayaz Bhuta, while taking part in activities designed to strengthen confidence, resilience and future career aspirations.

Speaking during the visit, Angela Rayner praised the students' efforts and the positive impact the programme is having.

"It was brilliant to meet the pupils taking part in this wonderful project and hear how the sessions are helping to build their confidence and self-esteem. I am delighted they have decided to collect items for a local food bank," she said.

The programme's results are encouraging. During the 2024/25 academic year, 92% of participants reported improvements in at least one key employability skill, while 82% said they had a better understanding of how their skills could support future careers. Teachers also reported positive changes, with 77% observing improved school attendance among participating pupils.

Research conducted by Sheffield Hallam University's Sport Industry Research Centre found that every £1 invested in Set for Success generates £5.63 of social value during its first year. The study also suggests the programme makes a significant contribution to helping young people remain engaged in education, training or employment.

For food banks and community organisations, projects like the Cedar Park donation drive demonstrate another valuable outcome. Young people are not only developing skills for their own futures but are also learning the importance of giving back and supporting those facing hardship.

As concerns grow about youth disengagement across the UK, Set for Success shows how sport, mentoring and community action can work together to create brighter futures while strengthening local communities at the same time.

https://www.youthsporttrust.org

Double Dutch Scholarship Helps Women Build Long-Term Careers in Hospitality

A new group of aspiring drinks industry leaders has graduated from the latest Female Bartending Scholarship, a programme designed to help women develop the skills, confidence and industry connections needed to progress their careers in hospitality.

Founded in 2021 by twin sisters Joyce de Haas and Raissa de Haas, co-founders of premium mixer brand Double Dutch Drinks, the scholarship was created to address the ongoing leadership gap within the hospitality and drinks sectors.

Over the course of three months, participants took part in an expanded programme of virtual and in-person workshops covering drinks education, personal branding, professional development, confidence building and networking opportunities. 

Live sessions were hosted at leading industry venues including Swingers West End and 58 & Co Distillery, with the graduation ceremony taking place at the prestigious The Chancery Rosewood in London.

The programme arrives at a time when new research suggests that hospitality is increasingly viewed as a long-term career by many women working within the industry.

Research conducted by hospitality consultant and scholarship mentor Anna Sebastian found that while some women enter hospitality through a passion for food, drink and customer service, many initially join by chance. However, perceptions often change over time, with 78% of those who once viewed hospitality as a temporary job now considering it a long-term career path.

The findings also highlight some of the challenges women continue to face. Nearly four in ten respondents said a lack of mentorship had limited their career progression, while fewer than one-third felt adequately supported in their roles. 

When asked what would help them advance professionally, leadership training, career development support and greater knowledge of wine and beverages ranked highly.

For a sector built on creativity, innovation and human connection, these findings underline the importance of investing in talent and creating clear pathways for progression.

Speaking about the programme, Raissa de Haas said the scholarship was created to tackle the barriers identified by the research, including limited access to mentorship, training and support. She emphasised that the initiative goes beyond technical bartending skills, focusing instead on helping women build confidence, develop professional networks and establish sustainable careers within hospitality.

As the drinks industry continues to evolve, initiatives such as the Female Bartending Scholarship are helping to ensure that talented professionals have the opportunity to thrive, while creating a more diverse and inclusive future for bars, restaurants and hospitality businesses across the UK and beyond.

https://doubledutchdrinks.com

Love Strawberries, Love Crepes? St Michel launches new Strawberry Crêpes

Our snack times are getting a delicious new fruity twist with the arrival of the new St Michel Strawberry Crêpes. 

It's a delicious addition to the brand's beloved crêpe range, these new treats join the popular Chocolate Hazelnut and White Choco Crêpes on shelves this month, June.

Crafted in France using traditional recipes, these irresistibly soft French crêpes are filled with a vibrant and juicy strawberry jam, contain absolutely no palm oil, artificial preservatives or colourings. 

Conveniently individually wrapped in packs of six, St Michel Strawberry Crêpes are the ultimate versatile snack. They are perfectly sized for lunchboxes, as an afternoon pick me up or a quick on-the-go treat for the whole family.

The new Strawberry Crêpes are available now at Sainsbury's stores nationwide. RRP £2.10

For further information see  www.stmichel.com/uk/en  like on Facebook @stmicheluk and follow on Instagram @stmichel_uk

Choco Crêpes available at Iceland and Farm Food stores nationwide plus on Ocado.

Strawberry Crepes available at Sainsbury's stores.

- Choco Cakes range available at Tesco stores nationwide and online from Ocado.

- Range availability in store may vary by location, so do keep an eye open for them.

International Picnic Day: Delicious Ideas for the Perfect Outdoor Feast

Celebrate International Picnic Day with tasty picnic food ideas, outdoor dining inspiration and tips for creating the perfect summer picnic with family and friends.

Every year on 18 June, people around the world celebrate International Picnic Day, a simple but joyful occasion that encourages us to take our meals outside and enjoy good food in the fresh air.

In an age of busy schedules, constant notifications and meals eaten on the go, there is something wonderfully refreshing about spreading out a blanket, opening a basket of homemade treats and enjoying a leisurely meal outdoors. 

Whether it's a family gathering in a local park, a romantic lunch by a river, or a get-together with friends in the garden, a church picnic, picnics remain one of life's simplest pleasures.

How about a picnic on your back garden? Or in the conservatory or orangery should the weather take a turn to the wet and windy? 

The tradition of picnicking has a surprisingly long history. The word "picnic" is believed to have originated in France during the 17th century, where diners would bring their own food to social gatherings. 

Over time, the idea spread across Europe and became particularly popular in Britain during the Victorian era, when public parks became more accessible and outdoor leisure activities flourished.

Today, picnics are more popular than ever. They offer an affordable way to spend quality time with loved ones while enjoying the beauty of nature. 

They can also be as simple or as elaborate as you like. Some people prepare gourmet spreads with artisan cheeses, charcuterie and chilled sparkling drinks, while others are perfectly happy with sandwiches, sausage rolls and a flask of tea or coffee.

When planning a picnic, food that travels well is key. Classic choices include filled baguettes, Scotch eggs, pork pies, pasta salads, quiches and fresh fruit. Sweet treats such as brownies, flapjacks and homemade cupcakes are also ideal additions. Don't forget plenty of water, especially if you're picnicking on a warm summer day.

International Picnic Day is also a great excuse to explore local parks, nature reserves, beaches and beauty spots that you may not have visited before. Combining good food with a scenic setting can turn an ordinary lunch into a memorable experience.

As more people seek opportunities to slow down and reconnect with family and friends, the humble picnic continues to prove its enduring appeal. It requires little more than good company, tasty food and a patch of grass, yet it creates lasting memories that often outshine far more expensive outings.

This International Picnic Day, why not pack a basket, head outdoors and celebrate one of the most enjoyable ways to eat and socialise?

Father's Day Goes Digital with Free Charity eCards for Dads

A Herefordshire charity has launched a collection of free Father's Day eCards, helping families celebrate dads and father figures while supporting charitable causes.

Father's Day is all about celebrating the dads, grandads, stepfathers and father figures who have made a difference in our lives. Whether you're planning a family meal, firing up the barbecue, or raising a glass together, it's also the perfect opportunity to let Dad know just how much he means to you.

For those who can't be together in person this Father's Day, a Herefordshire-based charity initiative is offering a simple way to stay connected.

Hope Spring eCards has launched a new collection of free Father's Day digital cards designed to help people send messages of appreciation to the important father figures in their lives. The collection includes both traditional digital greetings and a range of animated Father's Day cards, all available free of charge.

The launch reflects the growing popularity of digital greetings as more people look for convenient and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional paper cards. With families often spread across different towns, cities and even countries, digital cards offer an instant way to share thoughtful messages regardless of distance.

Hope Spring eCards has built a reputation for combining modern technology with charitable giving. The platform offers a wide range of digital greetings for birthdays, anniversaries, seasonal celebrations and special occasions, helping users stay connected while raising awareness of charitable causes.

Mary Adeotan, Platform Manager at Hope Spring eCards, said the organisation wanted to make Father's Day celebrations more accessible for everyone. Mary told That's Food and Drink: "Father's Day is an important occasion for many families, and we wanted to make it easier for people to express appreciation to the father figures in their lives. By making these cards freely available, we hope to encourage more people to share thoughtful messages while also learning about the charitable work that Hope Spring supports."

The charity has also expanded its online presence through a growing collection of animated and video eCards, helping people find creative ways to celebrate special occasions.

Long-standing volunteer Joshua Ojo highlighted the positive impact that even a simple message can have. Joshua told us: "Over the years, I have seen how a simple message can make a significant difference to someone's day. Digital cards provide a practical way for people to stay in touch, particularly when distance or busy schedules make face-to-face celebrations difficult."

As Father's Day approaches, digital greetings are becoming an increasingly popular addition to family celebrations. While nothing quite replaces sharing a meal together, a heartfelt message can still bring a smile to Dad's face.

At That's Food and Drink, we're encouraging readers to make this Father's Day special, whether that's by treating Dad to his favourite restaurant, cooking his favourite meal at home, or simply letting him know how much he is appreciated.

https://www.hopespring.org.uk

Pret A Manger Faces Animal Welfare Campaign Over Chicken Welfare Commitment

Animal welfare charity Anima launches a major campaign against Pret A Manger, accusing the chain of delaying its pledge to phase out fast-growing chicken breeds.

One of the UK's best-known high street food chains has found itself at the centre of a major animal welfare campaign after campaigners accused the company of failing to honour a long-standing commitment to improve chicken welfare standards.

Animal welfare charity Anima launched a high-profile protest in central London this week, unveiling a giant mechanical "Frankenwrap" outside Pret A Manger's Oxford Circus branch. 

The eye-catching sculpture, which resembles an oversized Pret chicken wrap stuffed with a whole chicken complete with feathers, marks the start of a week-long campaign targeting multiple Pret locations across the capital.

The campaign centres on Pret's decision to delay a pledge it made in 2018 to stop using fast-growing chicken breeds in its supply chain. At the time, the company committed to transitioning to slower-growing breeds by 2026 as part of wider efforts to improve animal welfare standards.

However, according to Anima, Pret has now pushed that target back to 2032 and has yet to make any meaningful progress towards introducing slower-growing chickens into its supply chain.

Connor Jackson, Chief Executive of Anima, claims the delay has left customers believing they are supporting higher welfare practices when, in reality, the chickens used remain the same fast-growing breeds commonly supplied to major fast-food chains.

The charity argues that these breeds have been selectively bred to grow at an exceptionally rapid rate, which animal welfare groups say can lead to health and mobility issues during the birds' lives.

The London campaign is expected to be highly visible. 

Alongside the touring Frankenwrap sculpture, advertising highlighting the issue is appearing across the London Underground network, while newspaper advertisements are also planned throughout the week.

Anima says it previously attempted to engage with Pret privately but has now decided to take its concerns directly to consumers. The organisation is encouraging customers to reconsider visiting Pret until progress is made on the company's original welfare commitment.

The campaign highlights the growing importance of animal welfare in consumer food choices. Increasingly, shoppers want to know not only where their food comes from, but also how it is produced.

Whether the pressure will prompt Pret to revisit its timetable remains to be seen, but the issue serves as another reminder that food ethics and animal welfare continue to play an increasingly important role in the UK's food and drink industry.

Incidentally, Pret A Manger's own 2025 Progress Update confirms 0% adoption of slower-growing breeds in UK, US and France. The company's new plan targets 50% by 2031 and 100% by 2032, with no steps until 2031. https://assets.ctfassets.net/4zu8gvmtwqss/j2iieCUwjKdP38sRMnaJv/26788fb29e541489d7814aa4da005288/Pret_A_Manger_Better_Chicken_Commitment_Progress_Update_2025.pdf

(Images used are courtesy of Tom Woolard / Anima) 

If Pret a Manger would like a right of reply, please contact That's Food and Drink.