---
title: UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker – H1 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Food & FMCG
period: H1 2026
coverage_start: '2026-01-01'
coverage_end: '2026-06-30'
date_published: '2026-09-01'
last_updated: '2026-09-01'
organisations: 10
articles_analysed: 5636
mentions: 4350
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/data.json
summary: Nestlé had the highest average monthly share of coverage (23.4%) among 10
  manufacturers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026, ahead of Mondelez
  (15.9%) and Danone (14.1%).
---

# UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker: H1 2026 (1 January 2026–30 June 2026)

> Nestlé had the highest average monthly share of coverage (23.4%) among 10 manufacturers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026, ahead of Mondelez (15.9%) and Danone (14.1%). Premier Foods had the most favourable net tone (+74). Omniscan analysed 5,636 articles containing 4,350 mentions of the manufacturers tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1

## UK Food & FMCG ranking by share of coverage, H1 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Nestlé | 23.4% | 1,072 | 33% | 12% | 55% | −22 |
| 2 | Mondelez | 15.9% | 647 | 53% | 22% | 25% | +28 |
| 3 | Danone | 14.1% | 684 | 24% | 16% | 60% | −37 |
| 4 | Unilever | 13.6% | 602 | 22% | 64% | 14% | +8 |
| 5 | Mars | 7.7% | 316 | 58% | 18% | 24% | +34 |
| 6 | PepsiCo | 7.2% | 306 | 55% | 29% | 16% | +38 |
| 7 | Kellanova | 6.7% | 260 | 68% | 20% | 12% | +56 |
| 8 | Kraft Heinz | 5.4% | 233 | 23% | 51% | 26% | −3 |
| 9 | Premier Foods | 3.3% | 126 | 81% | 12% | 7% | +74 |
| 10 | Greencore | 2.6% | 104 | 58% | 32% | 10% | +47 |

## Monthly share of coverage, UK Food & FMCG

| Organisation | January 2026 | February 2026 | March 2026 | April 2026 | May 2026 | June 2026 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nestlé | 42.1% | 32.7% | 12.3% | 24.0% | 14.4% | 15.0% |
| Mondelez | 10.8% | 10.6% | 15.0% | 17.4% | 17.3% | 24.3% |
| Danone | 17.8% | 26.5% | 14.4% | 13.3% | 7.7% | 4.9% |
| Unilever | 1.7% | 7.3% | 28.6% | 18.8% | 12.9% | 12.6% |
| Mars | 7.8% | 3.5% | 7.5% | 8.4% | 12.9% | 6.3% |
| PepsiCo | 6.2% | 6.0% | 7.6% | 6.6% | 7.9% | 8.9% |
| Kellanova | 4.4% | 4.7% | 3.9% | 5.2% | 10.2% | 12.1% |
| Kraft Heinz | 2.7% | 6.1% | 6.1% | 4.9% | 3.8% | 8.9% |
| Premier Foods | 2.7% | 0.8% | 3.4% | 0.9% | 7.1% | 4.7% |
| Greencore | 3.8% | 1.9% | 1.2% | 0.5% | 5.8% | 2.4% |

## Manufacturers in detail

### Nestlé

**Nestlé leads year to date after recall-heavy opening**

Nestlé ranked 1st of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (23.4%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 1,072 mentions and a net tone of −22.

Its pooled share was 24.6% of tracked-company mentions, above its 23.4% average monthly share; the pooled measure weights months by cohort-mention totals, while the monthly measure gives each month equal weight, and January and February combined high shares with relatively large cohort totals. January and February were dominated by the widening infant-formula recall, including further batch withdrawals, regulatory scrutiny and reported effects on profits. Nestlé fell from first to fourth in March as its share dropped 20.4 points to 12.3%, while the agenda broadened to products, factories and sustainability. April brought an 11.7-point recovery to 24.0% and first place, alongside first-quarter trading, proposed UK job cuts and a regenerative-agriculture partnership with Soil Capital. Nestlé ranked second in May and June as product activity became more prominent, including Maggi's entry into ready meals and Nescafé's launch of canned iced lattes. June also brought the Yfood acquisition and a £28m Dalston factory investment supporting new Nescafé products. Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 42.1%, compared with 12.3% in March 2026. January 2026: Nestlé recalled SMA, BEBA and NAN infant-nutrition products over possible cereulide contamination, reported by The Independent. February 2026: share fell 9.4 points to 32.7% but Nestlé remained first; stories included a further SMA batch recall and full-year results setting out recall costs and portfolio disposals.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 42.1%, compared with 12.3% in March 2026.
- January 2026: Nestlé recalled SMA, BEBA and NAN infant-nutrition products over possible cereulide contamination, reported by The Independent.
- Cereal Partners UK, a Nestlé and General Mills joint venture, has applied to expand its Staverton cereal factory near Trowbridge. The £67m proposal would create 145 factory jobs and 45 administrative roles.
- Rowntree’s has launched Fruit Pastilles Berries and Fruit Explosion Mix ice lollies in major UK supermarkets, supported by a marketing campaign. Rowntree’s lolly value sales rose 23% to £57.3m in the year to September 2025.
- Nestlé UK & Ireland has launched a Cookie Dough KitKat range, reviving a flavour last sold in Chunky format in 2021. The products have appeared in selected stores and are due for wider UK distribution from April.
- Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages has launched Maison Perrier sparkling waters and alcohol-free mocktails in the UK through Amazon and selected WH Smith stores. The sugar-free range targets growing demand for premium adult soft drinks.

Leading themes:

- Recalls & Food Safety: 46.5% of Nestlé's coverage (theme index 3.56, net tone −99)
- Brands, Products & Marketing: 23.5% of Nestlé's coverage (theme index 0.93, net tone +82)
- ESG, Community & Sustainability: 7.4% of Nestlé's coverage (theme index 0.82, net tone +85)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 January 2026, bbc.com: [Shreddies and Cheerios firm applies to expand Trowbridge factory](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4gvgn67620o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss). Cereal Partners UK, a Nestlé and General Mills joint venture, has applied to expand its Staverton cereal factory near Trowbridge. The £67m proposal would create 145 factory jobs and 45 administrative roles.
- 22 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Rowntree's adds Fruit Pastilles Berries and Fruit Explosion lollies](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/rowntrees-adds-fruit-pastilles-berries-and-fruit-explosion-lollies/714318.article). Rowntree’s has launched Fruit Pastilles Berries and Fruit Explosion Mix ice lollies in major UK supermarkets, supported by a marketing campaign. Rowntree’s lolly value sales rose 23% to £57.3m in the year to September 2025.
- 28 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Rowntree's adds ice lolly-inspired fruity sweets range](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/rowntrees-adds-ice-lolly-inspired-fruity-sweets-range/714558.article). Nestlé-owned Rowntree's is launching Fruit Pastilles Lollies, Sour Watermelon Flavour Lollies and Mango Flavour Lollies sweets in major retailers in February. The launches extend flavours from the Rowntree's ice-lolly range into shareable confectionery.

Notable negative coverage:

- 13 February 2026, dailymail.co.uk: [Nestle ramps up baby formula production amid contamination recall](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-15557623/Nestle-ramps-baby-formula-production-amid-contamination-recall.html). Nestlé is running infant-formula production at full capacity, including around-the-clock output at five European sites, following recalls over potential cereulide contamination. Nestlé and Danone have withdrawn UK batches and stopped using the implicated third-party ingredient supplier.
- 5 February 2026, dailymail.co.uk: [UKHSA reports 36 notifications of baby formula cereulide poisoning](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-15530737/UKHSA-reports-36-notifications-baby-formula-cereulide-poisoning.html). UKHSA reported 36 clinical notifications of children with symptoms consistent with cereulide poisoning following baby-formula recalls. Nestlé recalled SMA products and Danone recalled Aptamil formula; both recalls were linked to a shared third-party ingredient supplier.
- 4 February 2026, lbc.co.uk: [Fresh batch of baby formula recalled over presence of toxin](https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/baby-formula-recalled-toxin-sma-5HjdRp9_2/). Nestlé has added SMA Advanced First Infant Milk to its recall over concerns about cereulide toxin contamination. The affected batch was distributed only in Northern Ireland, and Nestlé said no related illnesses had been confirmed.

- [Nestlé deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=nestle&view=deep-dive)
- [Nestlé PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/nestle.pdf)

### Mondelez

**Mondelez moved from third place to sustained competitive contention**

Mondelez ranked 2nd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (15.9%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 647 mentions and a net tone of +28.

It began in third place at 10.8% in January and 10.6% in February, when coverage ranged from Cadbury advertising and Easter launches to cocoa-cost pressure, weaker volumes and a Ritz recall. March brought a 4.4-point rise to 15.0% and second place amid Easter campaigns, the Cadbury &More relaunch, recycled-plastic packaging and scrutiny of shrinkflation. Share rose again to 17.4% in April, although Mondelez ranked third, as first-quarter results, sustainability partnerships and product activity shared the agenda. It moved into first place at 17.3% in May and reached 24.3% in June, with stories including Golden Dipped Twirl, UK manufacturing investment, a new finance chief, Russia operations, HFSS regulation and pack-size reductions. Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 24.3%, compared with 10.6% in February 2026. January 2026: Reuters reported Luca Zaramella's appointment to the newly created chief operating officer role. March 2026: share rose 4.4 points to 15.0% and rank improved from third to second; stories included Cadbury's Easter campaign, the Cadbury &More Biscoff relaunch and the Mega Mini Egg. June 2026: share rose 7.0 points to 24.3% and Mondelez remained first; stories included Amit Banati's appointment, the Strawberries & Creme Frappe launch and scrutiny of Russia, shrinkflation and HFSS regulation.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 24.3%, compared with 10.6% in February 2026.
- January 2026: Reuters reported Luca Zaramella's appointment to the newly created chief operating officer role.
- Mondelez has added Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff and Cadbury Creme Egg White gifting products to its Easter range. It has also refreshed packaging for its premium Ultimate shell egg tier and will support the range with advertising and in-store activity.
- Cadbury has released an advert centred on homesickness, in which a young British woman in Kuala Lumpur receives chocolate from her sister. The campaign continues Cadbury's emotionally focused "glass and a half in everyone" advertising approach.
- Reuters found false an online claim that Cadbury had removed the word Easter from its seasonal packaging. Mondelez said Cadbury has continued using Easter in its marketing and new product range.
- Cadbury World has created a 55kg Mega Mini Egg for Easter, to be displayed at its Bournville attraction. The article also cites Which? research on Easter-egg shrinkflation, including price-per-gram increases for Mars's Galaxy egg.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 40.8% of Mondelez's coverage (theme index 1.85, net tone +74)
- ESG, Community & Sustainability: 11.9% of Mondelez's coverage (theme index 1.49, net tone +83)
- Pricing & Retailer Relations: 10.8% of Mondelez's coverage (theme index 3.61, net tone −87)

Notable positive coverage:

- 9 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Cadbury adds Biscoff and White Creme Egg gifting lines for Easter](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/cadbury-adds-biscoff-and-white-creme-egg-gifting-lines-for-easter/713381.article). Mondelez has added Cadbury Dairy Milk Biscoff and Cadbury Creme Egg White gifting products to its Easter range. It has also refreshed packaging for its premium Ultimate shell egg tier and will support the range with advertising and in-store activity.
- 23 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Cadbury chocolate treat soothes homesick sister](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/comment-and-opinion/cadbury-chocolate-treat-soothes-homesick-sister/714371.article). Cadbury has released an advert centred on homesickness, in which a young British woman in Kuala Lumpur receives chocolate from her sister. The campaign continues Cadbury's emotionally focused "glass and a half in everyone" advertising approach.
- 17 March 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Cadbury revamps &More range, adding Biscoff spread chocolate bar](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/cadbury-revamps-andmore-range-adding-biscoff-spread-chocolate-bar/716543.article). Cadbury has renamed and redesigned its Dairy Milk &More range as Cadbury &More, adding a Biscoff-filled chocolate tablet. The launch will be supported by the 'Give into More' marketing campaign.

Notable negative coverage:

- 17 June 2026, bbc.co.uk: [Cadbury chocolate-owner Mondelez defends staying in Russia](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cy06d00jpn0o). Mondelez CEO Dirk Van de Put defended continuing operations in Russia, while acknowledging that the company's Russian taxes contribute to funding the war in Ukraine. The company says it halted new Russian investment and advertising while continuing to operate and invest in Ukraine.
- 19 June 2026, worcesternews.co.uk: [Cadbury boss reveals why chocolate bars are getting smaller](https://www.worcesternews.co.uk/news/national/uk-today/26211384.cadbury-boss-reveals-chocolate-bars-getting-smaller/). Mondelez CEO Dirk Van de Put said Cadbury has reduced bar sizes to retain accessible price points amid higher costs and cocoa shortages. He said the company had rejected recipe changes as a cost-saving option.
- 4 January 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Shoppers say 'country is a disgrace' after seeing price of Cadbury Mini Eggs](https://www.mirror.co.uk/lifestyle/food-drink/shoppers-say-country-disgrace-after-36494499). Shoppers complained that Cadbury Mini Eggs have become more expensive while pack weights have fallen to 74g. Mondelez said higher ingredient, energy and transport costs led it to reduce pack size.

- [Mondelez deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=mondelez&view=deep-dive)
- [Mondelez PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/mondelez.pdf)

### Danone

**Danone’s recall-led visibility shifted towards nutrition strategy**

Danone ranked 3rd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (14.1%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 684 mentions and a net tone of −37.

Its 14.1% average monthly share ranked third, reflecting the greater weight the pooled measure gives to high-volume months such as January and February. February’s share rose to 26.5% while rank stayed second; stories included the widening Aptamil and Cow & Gate recalls and Danone’s 2025 trading update. Share then fell to 14.4% and third place in March, when the proposed Huel acquisition led a shift towards strategy alongside Volvic Vitamin+ and new Alpro products. April and May took Danone from 13.3% and fourth place to 7.7% and seventh, while reporting covered first-quarter trading, rejection of the Harrogate Spring Water plant proposal, Huel competition scrutiny and planned investment in Macroom. June was the low point at 4.9% and eighth place, with a smaller mix spanning Evian’s Wimbledon activity, a deposit-return pilot and Huel’s protein ramen. Visibility peaked in February 2026 at 26.5%, compared with 4.9% in June 2026. January 2026: Danone recalled selected infant-formula batches after cereulide was found in an ingredient, reported by The Wall Street Journal. March 2026: share fell 12.1 percentage points to 14.4% and rank moved to third; the Financial Times reported Danone’s agreement to acquire Huel.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in February 2026 at 26.5%, compared with 4.9% in June 2026.
- January 2026: Danone recalled selected infant-formula batches after cereulide was found in an ingredient, reported by The Wall Street Journal.
- Danone reported 2025 like-for-like sales growth of 4.5%, with recurring operating margin rising to 13.4% and free cash flow reaching €2.8bn. It forecasts 3-5% like-for-like sales growth in 2026.
- Danone has launched Actimel Simple, a three-ingredient yoghurt drink with no added sugar, sweeteners or additives. The product will roll out across major UK supermarkets.
- Danone has acquired UK meal-replacement brand Huel for €1bn, adding a health-led and nutritionally complete proposition to its portfolio. The deal is intended to support international expansion, UK grocery distribution and Danone’s nutrition strategy.
- Danone is buying British meal-supplement business Huel for a reported €1bn, pending regulatory approval. The acquisition is intended to give Huel access to Danone's infrastructure, distribution and R&D for expansion.

Leading themes:

- Recalls & Food Safety: 53.8% of Danone's coverage (theme index 3.52, net tone −100)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 18.9% of Danone's coverage (theme index 1.04, net tone +71)
- Financial Results & Trading: 5.3% of Danone's coverage (theme index 0.68, net tone +14)

Notable positive coverage:

- 20 February 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [DANONE: 2025: Another year of strong delivery](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/danone-2025-another-strong-delivery-063000573.html). Danone reported 2025 like-for-like sales growth of 4.5%, with recurring operating margin rising to 13.4% and free cash flow reaching €2.8bn. It forecasts 3-5% like-for-like sales growth in 2026.
- 19 March 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Actimel launches Simple SKU with only three ingredients](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/actimel-launches-simple-sku-with-only-three-ingredients/716673.article). Danone has launched Actimel Simple, a three-ingredient yoghurt drink with no added sugar, sweeteners or additives. The product will roll out across major UK supermarkets.
- 23 March 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Why pricey Huel will be worth the money for new owner Danone](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/comment-and-opinion/why-pricey-huel-will-be-worth-the-money-for-new-owner-danone/716806.article). Danone has acquired UK meal-replacement brand Huel for €1bn, adding a health-led and nutritionally complete proposition to its portfolio. The deal is intended to support international expansion, UK grocery distribution and Danone’s nutrition strategy.

Notable negative coverage:

- 6 February 2026, dailymail.co.uk: [Danone recalls further batches of baby formula over toxin concerns](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-15535207/Danone-recalls-batches-baby-formula-toxin-concerns.html). Danone has recalled multiple Aptamil and Cow & Gate formula batches after possible cereulide contamination, while the FSA advised consumers not to use affected products. Nestlé has also recalled SMA products after use of the same contaminated ARA oil ingredient.
- 6 February 2026, dailymail.co.uk: [More batches of Aptamil and Cow & Gate formula recalled](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/wires/pa/article-15535223/More-batches-Aptamil-Cow--Gate-formula-recalled.html). Danone has expanded recalls of Aptamil and Cow & Gate formula over cereulide contamination in ARA oil, including products made in Ireland for export to the UK. The issue is linked to the ingredient implicated in Nestlé's SMA recall.
- 26 January 2026, lbc.co.uk: [Separate recalls of baby formula by Nestle and Danone traced to shared supplier](https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/422321e11d264405baff1809c8d89f70-5HjdRLG_2/). The FSA traced contamination affecting Nestlé SMA and Danone Aptamil infant formula to a shared ingredient supplier. Danone recalled one UK-distributed Aptamil batch over the presence of cereulide.

- [Danone deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=danone&view=deep-dive)
- [Danone PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/danone.pdf)

### Unilever

**Leadership, Strategy & M&A shaped Unilever's media profile during H1 2026**

Unilever ranked 4th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (13.6%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 602 mentions and a net tone of +8.

Its profile opened narrowly in January, when it ranked tenth and product stories included Dove’s refillable antiperspirant range, Simple’s Repair+ launch and recyclable paper packaging for Axe. February brought a rise to fourth as reporting examined its annual results, cautious 2026 outlook and post-ice-cream focus on beauty, wellbeing and personal care. The March surge to first place coincided with primary reporting on talks, negotiations and an agreement to combine the food business with McCormick, alongside a global hiring freeze. Unilever ranked second in April as coverage continued to examine that transaction, first-quarter growth, prospective restructuring costs and selective price increases. It ranked third in May, when investor challenges to the McCormick deal and sustainability safeguards appeared alongside completion of the £150m Port Sunlight upgrade. June’s third-place position combined continuing transaction scrutiny with reports of a possible Thorne bid, a creator-led marketing overhaul and activation of 35 brands around the FIFA World Cup. Visibility peaked in March 2026 at 28.6%, compared with 1.7% in January 2026. January 2026: Dove launched its first refillable antiperspirant range, reported by The Grocer. February 2026: Unilever forecast sales growth at the bottom of its range amid slowing US and European demand, reported by Reuters.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in March 2026 at 28.6%, compared with 1.7% in January 2026.
- January 2026: Dove launched its first refillable antiperspirant range, reported by The Grocer.
- Unilever delivered 3.5% underlying sales growth in 2025, led by its power brands, alongside improved gross and operating margins. The group is reshaping its portfolio towards beauty, wellbeing, personal care and premium segments.
- Unilever said 2025 net profit rose as it reshaped its portfolio and focused on higher-growth categories. The article identifies Knorr among the group's brands.
- Unilever is launching Dove's first refillable antiperspirant range, supported by a £7.5m campaign and national distribution from February. The move aims to expand the refillable deodorant segment alongside Unilever-owned Wild.
- Unilever has extended Pot Noodle into larger noodle blocks in four established flavours, aimed at convenient evening meals. The launch is supported by TV, cinema and out-of-home marketing.

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 60.5% of Unilever's coverage (theme index 5.28, net tone −1)
- Financial Results & Trading: 12.6% of Unilever's coverage (theme index 1.96, net tone +18)
- Brands, Products & Marketing: 11.6% of Unilever's coverage (theme index 0.43, net tone +73)

Notable positive coverage:

- 12 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Power brands drive growth at 'simpler, sharper' Unilever](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/power-brands-drive-growth-at-simpler-sharper-unilever/715197.article). Unilever delivered 3.5% underlying sales growth in 2025, led by its power brands, alongside improved gross and operating margins. The group is reshaping its portfolio towards beauty, wellbeing, personal care and premium segments.
- 12 February 2026, wsj.com: [Unilever Profit Rises Amid Strategic Shift](https://www.wsj.com/business/earnings/unilever-profit-rises-amid-strategic-shift-7da1ef26). Unilever said 2025 net profit rose as it reshaped its portfolio and focused on higher-growth categories. The article identifies Knorr among the group's brands.
- 12 February 2026, bloomberg.com: [Unilever Boosts Sales on Demand for Beauty Brands in US, India](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2026-02-12/unilever-boosts-sales-on-demand-for-beauty-brands-in-us-india). Unilever reported better-than-expected underlying sales growth in late 2025, supported by premium beauty and home-care demand in the US and India. Hellmann's mayonnaise is cited among the group's brands.

Notable negative coverage:

- 31 March 2026, reuters.com: [Unilever works council warns of union action if workers are not protected in McCormick deal](https://www.reuters.com/business/world-at-work/unilever-works-council-warns-union-action-if-workers-are-not-protected-mccormick-2026-03-31/). Unilever's European works council warned that a proposed food-business merger with McCormick could result in job losses and possible union action. The council said uncertainty was high among workers, including the company's food-business employees in Europe and Britain.
- 26 March 2026, reuters.com: [Unilever sued for defamation by ousted chair of Ben & Jerry's board](https://www.reuters.com/world/unilever-sued-defamation-by-ousted-chair-ben-jerrys-board-2026-03-26/). Former Ben & Jerry's independent board chair Anuradha Mittal has sued Unilever and the spun-off Magnum ice cream unit for defamation. She alleges they sought to discredit her following disputes over Ben & Jerry's social mission and Gaza-related advocacy.
- 18 March 2026, reuters.com: [Unilever shares fall on investor concerns about food business spin-off](https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/sustainable-finance-reporting/unilever-shares-fall-investor-concerns-about-food-business-spin-off-2026-03-18/). Unilever shares fell after reports it is considering a spin-off of its food business, with investors concerned about distraction and the benefits of another separation. Analysts cited tax costs, reduced scale in emerging markets and the food division's relatively low sales growth as potential challenges.

- [Unilever deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=unilever&view=deep-dive)
- [Unilever PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/unilever.pdf)

### Mars

**Mars ranked fifth as investment and innovation broadened coverage**

Mars ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (7.7%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 316 mentions and a net tone of +34.

It moved from fourth in January to eighth in February, recovered to sixth in March and fifth in April, then reached third in May. January coverage established a broad corporate agenda through Marc Carena’s appointment as global president of petcare, Tim Mooney’s UK and Ireland leadership role and investment in the Birstall petcare research hub. March’s rebound coincided with the permanent launch of M&M’s Cookie Dough, Easter retail activity and renewed scrutiny of Easter-egg shrinkflation. April combined Extra Plus gum, Hotel Chocolat’s leadership restructuring and Mars’s regenerative-cocoa project with extensive reporting on smaller Mars bars. May brought the strongest monthly position, alongside independent reporting on the £190m Slough factory modernisation and launches including Twix Hazelnut and Skittles Flavour Flip. June’s lower share coincided with Kemal Cetin’s appointment to lead digital strategy, analysis of premium confectionery and licensed Bounty protein powder. Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 12.9%, compared with 3.5% in February 2026. February 2026: share fell 4.3 points to 3.5% and rank moved from fourth to eighth; stories included Chris Sackree’s appointment as global vice-president of supply and Maltesers’ 90th-anniversary campaign. March 2026: Mars launched M&M’s Cookie Dough as a permanent UK range extension, reported by The Grocer.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 12.9%, compared with 3.5% in February 2026.
- January 2026: Mars appointed Marc Carena as global president of petcare, reported by The Grocer.
- Mars Food & Nutrition has appointed Tim Mooney as UK & Ireland general manager, replacing Nick Reade. Mars said he will support growth of Ben's Original, Dolmio and its ambient ready-meals range.
- Mars Drinks & Treats has launched a four-pack Galaxy ice cream bar in the UK, initially in Asda and later in Sainsbury's and Iceland. Mars said it sees an opportunity to extend the Galaxy brand into at-home ice cream consumption.
- Mars Food & Nutrition has appointed Chris Sackree as global VP of supply, succeeding retiring executive Dale Creaser. Both executives have held supply and factory leadership roles connected to Mars's UK operations.
- Mars Wrigley is rolling out Twix Hazelnut in UK grocery, convenience and wholesale, backed by a July consumer campaign. The company cites flavour innovation and Twix's recent growth as reasons for targeting younger shoppers.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 35.8% of Mars's coverage (theme index 1.49, net tone +88)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 14.2% of Mars's coverage (theme index 0.77, net tone +67)
- Market & Consumer Trends: 12.3% of Mars's coverage (theme index 3.28, net tone −28)

Notable positive coverage:

- 13 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Mars Food & Nutrition appoints UK&I GM as Nick Reade leaves](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/mars-food-and-nutrition-appoints-ukandi-gm-as-nick-reade-leaves/713879.article). Mars Food & Nutrition has appointed Tim Mooney as UK & Ireland general manager, succeeding Nick Reade. He will lead the business's innovation agenda for Dolmio and Ben's Original.
- 13 January 2026, foodmanufacture.co.uk: [Leadership update at Mars Food & Nutrition](https://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Article/2026/01/13/mars-food-nutrition-appoints-tim-mooney-as-general-manager-for-uk-and-ireland/). Mars Food & Nutrition has appointed Tim Mooney as UK & Ireland general manager, replacing Nick Reade. Mars said he will support growth of Ben's Original, Dolmio and its ambient ready-meals range.
- 14 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [​Mars names global president of petcare, replacing Loïc Moutault](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/mars-names-global-president-of-petcare-replacing-loic-moutault/713961.article). Mars has appointed Marc Carena as global president of its petcare business, replacing Loïc Moutault. Carena previously led Mars Snacking across Europe and other international markets.

Notable negative coverage:

- 13 April 2026, dailymail.com: [Mars accused of 'shrinkflation' as bars shrink but not prices](https://www.dailymail.com/news/article-15728697/Mars-shrinkflation-chocolate-bars-size-price-same.html). Mars has been accused of shrinkflation after reducing the size of single chocolate bars from 51g to 40g while wholesale and suggested retail prices reportedly remained unchanged.
- 20 March 2026, theguardian.com: [Shrinkflation takes a bite out of Easter eggs as shoppers pay more for less](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/mar/20/shrinkflation-takes-a-bite-out-of-easter-eggs-as-shoppers-pay-more-for-less). Which? found substantial Easter-egg shrinkflation and price-per-gram increases across Mars and Mondelez brands as cocoa costs remain elevated. Mars Wrigley said it had made carefully considered changes in response to cocoa and other cost pressures.
- 20 March 2026, standard.co.uk: [Easter egg shoppers facing shrinkflation double whammy, warns Which?](https://www.standard.co.uk/business/money/which-aldi-lidl-galaxy-b1275721.html). Mars Wrigley said changes to Galaxy, M&M's and Maltesers Easter products were necessary amid continuing cocoa-cost pressures. The comment appeared in coverage of Which?'s warning over Easter-egg shrinkflation.

- [Mars deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=mars&view=deep-dive)
- [Mars PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/mars.pdf)

### PepsiCo

**PepsiCo gains share as product coverage meets safety pressures**

PepsiCo ranked 6th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (7.2%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 306 mentions and a net tone of +38.

March brought a broader agenda, including the Walkers Hot Honey recall, Leicester solar investment and new Doritos products and partnerships. In April, share fell to 6.6% as financial reporting became more prominent, with stories examining price cuts, recovering snack volumes and investor pressure over the turnaround. Product and marketing activity regained greater prominence in May and June through World Cup promotions, ice-cream-inspired Pepsi flavours, Quaker Overnight Oats and the Doritos Loaded partnership with Gordon Ramsay. January 2026: Vue selected PepsiCo as its exclusive European soft-drinks supplier through at least 2030, reported by The Guardian. February 2026: share slipped 0.2 points to 6.0% and rank fell from fifth to sixth despite seven additional mentions; stories included the S.U.N. February 2026: PepsiCo renamed Sunbites as S.U.N. March 2026: PepsiCo committed £3.6m to rooftop solar at its Leicester distribution centre, reported by The Grocer. May 2026: Walkers, Doritos and Wotsits launched World Cup-themed products and promotions, reported by Grocery Gazette. Walkers is launching Hot Honey crisps, redesigning its packaging and running a Golden Potato on-pack prize promotion. The brand is owned by PepsiCo. Doritos is launching limited-edition Golden Sriracha tortilla chips in the UK and an F1-linked on-pack Race to Win promotion. The activity forms part of PepsiCo's wider Formula 1 marketing strategy.

Key messages:

- January 2026: Vue selected PepsiCo as its exclusive European soft-drinks supplier through at least 2030, reported by The Guardian.
- Walkers is launching Hot Honey crisps, redesigning its packaging and running a Golden Potato on-pack prize promotion. The brand is owned by PepsiCo.
- Doritos is launching limited-edition Golden Sriracha tortilla chips in the UK and an F1-linked on-pack Race to Win promotion. The activity forms part of PepsiCo's wider Formula 1 marketing strategy.
- PepsiCo UK says 59% of its snack sales now come from non-HFSS or sub-100-calorie products after reformulation and factory investment. Its UK boss urged government not to revise nutrient-profiling rules in a way that would bring reformulated products back within HFSS restrictions.
- PepsiCo UK has moved around 650 employees from Green Park to two floors at Reading's One Station Hill development. The company said the new office is intended to support collaboration and reaffirm its commitment to Reading.
- PepsiCo is recalling a specific batch of Walkers Hot Honey crisp multipacks after some packs may have contained milk-containing cheese and onion seasoning not declared on the label. The FSA issued an allergy alert and advised affected consumers not to eat the product.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 54.2% of PepsiCo's coverage (theme index 2.4, net tone +69)
- Market & Consumer Trends: 8.5% of PepsiCo's coverage (theme index 2.08, net tone +27)
- Recalls & Food Safety: 8.5% of PepsiCo's coverage (theme index 0.38, net tone −100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 9 January 2026, nationalworld.com: [Walkers crisps announces brand new flavour - and it's right on trend](https://www.nationalworld.com/lifestyle/food-and-drink/walkers-crisps-new-hot-honey-flavour-coming-in-january-5470100). Walkers is launching Hot Honey crisps, redesigning its packaging and running a Golden Potato on-pack prize promotion. The brand is owned by PepsiCo.
- 9 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Doritos rolls out Golden Sriracha tortilla chips in F1 promotion](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/doritos-rolls-out-golden-sriracha-tortilla-chips-in-f1-promotion/713779.article). Doritos is launching limited-edition Golden Sriracha tortilla chips in the UK and an F1-linked on-pack Race to Win promotion. The activity forms part of PepsiCo's wider Formula 1 marketing strategy.
- 24 January 2026, theguardian.com: [Coca-Cola sues Vue after cinema chain switches to Pepsi](https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/jan/24/coca-cola-sues-vue-after-switches-pepsi). Vue selected PepsiCo as its exclusive European soft-drinks supplier through at least 2030, replacing Coca-Cola after nearly 25 years. Coca-Cola is pursuing Vue for alleged unpaid debts linked to the previous contract.

Notable negative coverage:

- 18 March 2026, cambridge-news.co.uk: [Walkers is recalling six-packs of crisps due to 'health risk'](https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/walkers-recalling-six-packs-crisps-33595863). PepsiCo is recalling a specific batch of Walkers Hot Honey crisp multipacks after some packs may have contained milk-containing cheese and onion seasoning not declared on the label. The FSA issued an allergy alert and advised affected consumers not to eat the product.
- 27 April 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Walkers axes popular snack for the second time in four years](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/walkers-crisps-popular-snack-axed-37077748). PepsiCo-owned Walkers has stopped producing its Crinkles crisps range, two years after reintroducing it. The discontinuation has disappointed some shoppers, while the brand has also recently revived limited-edition Sensations flavours.
- 19 March 2026, express.co.uk: [Supermarket own brand crisps beat Kettle and Pipers in blind taste test](https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/food/2184252/supermarket-own-brand-crisp-taste-test). Pipers crisps ranked last in a Which? blind taste test of premium salt-and-vinegar crisps, behind supermarket own-label rivals. The brand was criticised for failing to provide sufficient salt-and-vinegar flavour intensity.

- [PepsiCo deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=pepsico&view=deep-dive)
- [PepsiCo PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/pepsico.pdf)

### Kellanova

**Kellanova’s mid-year visibility widened beyond product launches**

Kellanova ranked 7th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (6.7%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 260 mentions and a net tone of +56.

Monthly positions ranged from fourth to eighth, with the strongest competitive showing concentrated in May and June. January’s product-led agenda included Crunchy Nut Hot Honey Crunchies, the Pringles Fallout 76 promotion and independent reporting on Mars’s completed acquisition. Community activity became more prominent in February through the Morrisons free-breakfast partnership, alongside the launch of Pass the Pringles. The share fell to 3.9% and eighth place in March, when stories included the Burger King-flavoured Pringles range, breakfast-club grants and the departure of UK managing director Chris Silcock. April’s share rose to 5.2% despite lower volume, alongside reporting on 39,000 free Kellogg’s Football Camp places. May combined Pokémon cereal demand with coverage of the planned Trafford Park factory closure, as the share reached 10.2% and fifth place. Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 12.1%, compared with 3.9% in March 2026. January 2026: Mars completed its $36bn acquisition of Kellanova, examined by FoodNavigator. June 2026: share rose by 1.9 percentage points to 12.1% and rank improved to fourth; contemporaneous developments included Pringles Minis and the Jordan Pickford and John McGinn football campaign. February 2026: Kellogg’s and Morrisons expanded free breakfasts across UK school holidays, reported by The Grocer.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 12.1%, compared with 3.9% in March 2026.
- January 2026: Mars completed its $36bn acquisition of Kellanova, examined by FoodNavigator.
- Kellogg's has discontinued Frosted Wheats from its UK cereal range. Consumers expressed disappointment and said they would seek alternative or supermarket-brand products.
- Kellanova breakfast lead Jenn Carkner outlines a strategy to focus Kellogg's cereal marketing around Cornelius the Corn Flakes rooster. The company is pairing the campaign with portfolio reformulation, cereal-snacking innovation and stronger in-store execution.
- Kellanova's Kellogg's Breakfast Clubs are returning to Morrisons Cafés during the Easter holidays, providing free cereal, fruit and milk to families. The initiative is positioned as support for households facing school-holiday food-budget pressures.
- Pringles has launched its European 'Pass The Pringles' brand platform, centred on sharing the snack to encourage social connection. The campaign includes a hero film, social content, influencer activity and out-of-home advertising across 13 European countries.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 36.5% of Kellanova's coverage (theme index 1.52, net tone +80)
- ESG, Community & Sustainability: 32.7% of Kellanova's coverage (theme index 4.64, net tone +94)
- Health, HFSS & Reformulation: 12.3% of Kellanova's coverage (theme index 3.27, net tone −31)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 January 2026, bbc.co.uk: [Kellogg's release spicy version of Crunchy Nut cereal](https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/articles/cvgr4xp8v0eo). Kellogg's has launched Crunchy Nut Hot Honey Crunchies, a spicy variation of its Crunchy Nut cereal range.
- 5 January 2026, creative.salon: [Why Kellanova's Jenn Carkner put Cornelius at the heart of breakfast](https://creative.salon/articles/creative-marketers/jennifer-carkner-kellanova). Kellanova breakfast lead Jenn Carkner outlines a strategy to focus Kellogg's cereal marketing around Cornelius the Corn Flakes rooster. The company is pairing the campaign with portfolio reformulation, cereal-snacking innovation and stronger in-store execution.
- 16 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Morrisons and Kellogg's promise kids free breakfasts throughout ...](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/morrisons-and-kelloggs-promise-kids-free-breakfasts-throughout-school-holidays/715362.article). Kellanova's Kellogg's brand and Morrisons have renewed and expanded their free breakfast partnership across all UK school holidays. The initiative builds on Kellogg's long-running support for school breakfast clubs.

Notable negative coverage:

- 2 May 2026, kidderminstershuttle.co.uk: [Shoppers 'gutted' as Kellogg's cereal sold at Tesco and Sainsbury's discontinued](https://www.kidderminstershuttle.co.uk/news/national/uk-today/26074421.shoppers-gutted-kelloggs-frosted-wheats-discontinued/). Kellogg's has discontinued Frosted Wheats from its UK cereal range. Consumers expressed disappointment and said they would seek alternative or supermarket-brand products.
- 13 June 2026, telegraph.co.uk: [Bran flakes to be classed as junk food under Labour health plan](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/consumer-affairs/bran-flakes-to-be-classed-as-junk-food/). Labour's proposed health reforms could classify fibre- and vitamin-rich bran flakes as junk food because of natural sugars. Kellogg's is among manufacturers concerned that the rules could discourage consumption of healthier cereals.
- 20 June 2026, express.co.uk: [Kellogg’s closing giant UK factory by January – 360 jobs lost | UK | News](https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/2218473/kelloggs-closing-giant-uk-factory). Kellanova is closing its Trafford Park cereal factory, with 360 jobs expected to be lost. Production is being transferred to Wrexham, where the company is investing £75m in upgrades.

- [Kellanova deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=kellanova&view=deep-dive)
- [Kellanova PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/kellanova.pdf)

### Kraft Heinz

**Kraft Heinz visibility swung between strategy, innovation and trading pressure**

Kraft Heinz ranked 8th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (5.4%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 233 mentions and a net tone of −3.

Visibility opened at 2.7% and eighth place in January, when independent reporting examined Berkshire Hathaway’s potential stake sale, the planned corporate split and the completed disposal of Plasmon. February brought a rise to 6.1% and fifth place alongside extensive coverage of the decision to pause the split, redirect $600m towards growth and appoint Michael Graham to lead UK and Ireland sales. The share was also 6.1% in March but corresponded to seventh place, as portfolio questions sat alongside new pasta sauces, the Kitt Green energy project and brand partnerships. April and May brought successive falls to 4.9% and 3.8%, with the agenda moving from packaging traceability and consumer launches towards first-quarter trading and turnaround investment. June produced the period high of 8.9% and fifth place alongside reports of a three-region reorganisation, an improving innovation pipeline, the Marry Me pasta sauce and renewable electricity across European factories. Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 8.9%, compared with 2.7% in January 2026. January 2026: AP reported that Berkshire Hathaway might sell its 325 million Kraft Heinz shares. April 2026: share fell 1.2 points to 4.9% and rank moved from seventh to eighth; stories included Heinz Ranch Sauce and Kraft Heinz’s Polytag recycling-traceability pilot.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 8.9%, compared with 2.7% in January 2026.
- January 2026: AP reported that Berkshire Hathaway might sell its 325 million Kraft Heinz shares.
- Kraft Heinz has appointed Oliver Angove as managing director for Ireland, joining its UK&I leadership team. He will lead the Irish commercial strategy and focus on growth for brands including Heinz Beanz and sauces.
- Kraft Heinz-owned Lea & Perrins has partnered with Ember Snacks on a limited-edition Worcestershire sauce biltong launching in Tesco and Sainsbury's. The article also references Lea & Perrins' previous collaboration with PepsiCo's Walkers.
- JPMorgan downgraded Kraft Heinz after it paused its breakup, citing weak US volumes, market-share losses and a below-consensus 2026 outlook. Kraft Heinz intends to invest $600m in marketing, sales and R&D to support a US turnaround.
- Kraft Heinz’s new CEO Steve Cahillane has paused the planned separation of the company to focus on restoring growth in underinvested brands. The business faces falling sales, weak consumer demand and investor concern over the reversal.

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 51.9% of Kraft Heinz's coverage (theme index 3.18, net tone −18)
- Brands, Products & Marketing: 17.6% of Kraft Heinz's coverage (theme index 0.7, net tone +63)
- Financial Results & Trading: 7.7% of Kraft Heinz's coverage (theme index 1.06, net tone −56)

Notable positive coverage:

- 11 February 2026, checkout.ie: [Kraft Heinz Ireland Names Oliver Angove As Managing Director](https://www.checkout.ie/a-brands/kraft-heinz-ireland-names-oliver-angove-as-managing-director-224039). Kraft Heinz has appointed Oliver Angove as managing director for Ireland, joining its UK&I leadership team. He will lead the Irish commercial strategy and focus on growth for brands including Heinz Beanz and sauces.
- 13 February 2026, businessplus.ie: [Kraft Heinz appoints Oliver Angove to lead Irish business](https://businessplus.ie/appointed/kraft-heinz-oliver-angove/). Kraft Heinz has appointed Oliver Angove as managing director of its Irish business, within the UK & Ireland leadership team. He will oversee commercial strategy and growth for brands including Heinz and HP Sauce in Ireland.
- 24 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Kraft Heinz appoints vice president of sales for UK & Ireland](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/kraft-heinz-appoints-vice-president-of-sales-for-uk-and-ireland/715672.article). Kraft Heinz has appointed Michael Graham as vice president of sales for UK and Ireland, effective March. He will lead the commercial organisation and customer partnerships as the company seeks profitable growth.

Notable negative coverage:

- 21 January 2026, apnews.com: [Warren Buffett's successor eyes selling off Berkshire Hathaway's 325 million Kraft Heinz shares](https://apnews.com/article/kraft-heinz-berkshire-hathaway-warren-buffett-abel-f965118c42175ac5b33fe9c8500ab87a). Kraft Heinz disclosed that Berkshire Hathaway may sell its 325 million shares in the manufacturer. The report links Berkshire's potential exit to consumer movement towards own label and away from processed food, alongside the company's planned split.
- 12 February 2026, cnbc.com: [JPMorgan downgrades Kraft Heinz, says it faces limited near-term upside after breakup pause](https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/12/jpmorgan-downgrades-kraft-heinz-says-it-faces-limited-near-term-upside-after-breakup-pause.html). JPMorgan downgraded Kraft Heinz after it paused its breakup, citing weak US volumes, market-share losses and a below-consensus 2026 outlook. Kraft Heinz intends to invest $600m in marketing, sales and R&D to support a US turnaround.
- 12 February 2026, reuters.com: [New Kraft Heinz CEO's difficult choice: Split or double down](https://www.reuters.com/business/finance/new-kraft-heinz-ceos-difficult-choice-split-or-double-down-2026-02-12/). Kraft Heinz’s new CEO Steve Cahillane has paused the planned separation of the company to focus on restoring growth in underinvested brands. The business faces falling sales, weak consumer demand and investor concern over the reversal.

- [Kraft Heinz deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=kraftheinz&view=deep-dive)
- [Kraft Heinz PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/kraftheinz.pdf)

### Premier Foods

**Premier Foods’ visibility combined results, innovation and strategic change**

Premier Foods ranked 9th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (3.3%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 126 mentions and a net tone of +74.

Monthly visibility ranged from 0.8% and tenth place in February to 7.1% and eighth place in May. The May high coincided with annual-results coverage of higher trading profit, branded growth, lower debt and an increased dividend. March broadened the agenda through Matt Roberts’ appointment, reported interest in Crosta Mollica and Batchelors’ portfolio-wide rebrand. June added healthier-sales reporting, emissions-reduction investment and brand partnerships spanning Roald Dahl, Spider-Man, Paxo and OXO. Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 7.1%, compared with 0.8% in February 2026. January 2026: checkout.ie reported Premier Foods’ upper-end profit forecast following stronger festive sales. February 2026: share fell 1.9 points to 0.8% and rank moved from eighth to tenth; stories included the Monopoly on-pack promotion and Batchelors’ limited-edition noodle sandwich. March 2026: Food Manufacture reported Matt Roberts’ appointment as chief customer officer. May 2026: RTÉ reported annual trading-profit growth to £200.4m alongside increased at-home eating. June 2026: The Grocer reported Premier Foods’ voluntary publication of healthier-sales measures. Premier Foods has appointed Matt Roberts as chief customer officer and to its executive leadership team, succeeding retiring veteran Richard Martin. The company said the appointment supports its UK and international branded-growth strategy.

Key messages:

- Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 7.1%, compared with 0.8% in February 2026.
- January 2026: checkout.ie reported Premier Foods’ upper-end profit forecast following stronger festive sales.
- Premier Foods has appointed Matt Roberts as chief customer officer and to its executive leadership team, succeeding retiring veteran Richard Martin. The company said the appointment supports its UK and international branded-growth strategy.
- Premier Foods has launched Ambrosia ambient custard pouches in vanilla and chocolate, initially through selected Sainsbury’s and Morrisons stores. The non-HFSS format is aimed at on-the-go and family snacking occasions.
- Premier Foods reported 4.1% group sales growth and 5.2% branded revenue growth, alongside market-share gains in grocery and sweet treats. It expects trading profit toward the top of its £193m-£198.2m range following strong innovation and new-category sales.
- Premier Foods beat profit expectations, with trading profit up 6.7% to £200.4m and sales rising 2.5% to £1.17bn. The company credited successful new ranges and strong sweet-treats demand, while highlighting its health and nutrition positioning.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 34.9% of Premier Foods's coverage (theme index 1.42, net tone +91)
- Financial Results & Trading: 26.2% of Premier Foods's coverage (theme index 3.88, net tone +100)
- Health, HFSS & Reformulation: 13.5% of Premier Foods's coverage (theme index 3.37, net tone +24)

Notable positive coverage:

- 9 March 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Premier Foods hires chief customer officer as Richard Martin retires](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/premier-foods-hires-chief-customer-officer-as-richard-martin-retires/716204.article). Premier Foods appointed Matt Roberts as chief customer officer, succeeding Richard Martin following his retirement. Roberts will join the executive leadership team in April as the company pursues UK and international growth.
- 9 March 2026, foodmanufacture.co.uk: [Premier Foods leadership team changes](https://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Article/2026/03/09/matt-roberts-appointed-as-new-chief-customer-officer-of-premier-foods/). Premier Foods has named Matt Roberts as chief customer officer from 13 April, replacing Richard Martin upon his retirement. The manufacturer said Roberts' commercial experience will support retailer partnerships and international growth.
- 25 March 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Premier Foods pours classic Ambrosia custard into pouches](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/premier-foods-pours-classic-ambrosia-custard-into-pouches/716934.article). Premier Foods has launched Ambrosia ambient custard pouches in vanilla and chocolate, initially through selected Sainsbury’s and Morrisons stores. The non-HFSS format is aimed at on-the-go and family snacking occasions.

Notable negative coverage:

- 27 April 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Fury as Bisto CUTS size of its granule tubs but keeps £3 price the SAME in latest shrinkflation blow to shoppers](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/38948032/bisto-shrinks-tubs-price-shrinkflation/). Premier Foods has reduced Bisto sauce tub sizes from 185g to 170g as part of a relaunch, while shoppers report paying the same £3 price. The company said the range has an improved recipe and that retailers set shelf prices.
- 13 January 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Iconic Mr Kipling treat permanently AXED from supermarkets shelves as shoppers brand it 'national tragedy'](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/37900024/mr-kipling-treat-axed-supermarkets-national-tragedy/). Premier Foods has discontinued the larger Mr Kipling Bakewell Tart, saying the decision followed changing consumer demand. Cherry Bakewell Tarts and Bakewell Slices remain available, while shoppers have criticised the withdrawal.
- 29 April 2026, birminghammail.co.uk: [Bisto 'shrinkflation' after cutting size of granule tubs but price remains £3](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/money/bisto-shrinkflation-after-cutting-size-33857860). Bisto has reduced the size of its gravy-granule tubs from 185g to 170g while the cited £3 price remains unchanged. Parent Premier Foods said the relaunch included an improved recipe and that retailer pricing varies.

- [Premier Foods deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=premierfoods&view=deep-dive)
- [Premier Foods PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/premierfoods.pdf)

### Greencore

**Greencore’s profile tracked integration, trading and product-safety pressures**

Greencore ranked 10th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (2.6%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for H1 2026, with 104 mentions and a net tone of +47.

Its monthly position ranged from seventh in January to tenth in March, April and June, showing that several substantial news events did not consistently lift it above the lower end of the cohort ranking. January’s £1.2bn Bakkavor completion and first-quarter growth established acquisition, scale and integration as the initial editorial frame. The agenda broadened in February through the Myprotein food-to-go partnership, Hatfield union dispute and prospective redundancies, before March coverage centred on the King’s visit to Greencore’s food-waste programme. April produced only three contextual mentions and no captured company-focused development, while share fell to 0.5% and rank remained tenth. May’s rise to 5.8% coincided with detailed reporting on first-half growth, acquisition costs, higher debt, the reported loss and consideration of a US disposal. June coverage divided between investor scrutiny of the Bakkavor deal and operational investment, including the £900,000 Northampton nut-production facility and a 40,000 sq ft Leeds office lease. January 2026: Greencore completed its £1.2bn Bakkavor takeover after court approval and a CMA remedy, reported by The Independent. February 2026: share fell 1.9 percentage points to 1.9%, volume declined by 13 to 18 and rank moved from seventh to ninth; stories included the Myprotein food-to-go partnership and planned Hatfield picketing.

Key messages:

- January 2026: Greencore completed its £1.2bn Bakkavor takeover after court approval and a CMA remedy, reported by The Independent.
- Greencore reported first-quarter revenue growth of 5.4% to £499.8m and volume growth ahead of the market, supported by sandwiches, sushi and premium products. It has completed the Bakkavor acquisition and expects around £80m of annual merger cost synergies.
- Greencore's acquisition-related costs from buying Bakkavor contributed to an interim pre-tax loss and a near-10% share-price fall. Its market value has also declined as it integrates the acquired convenience-food producer.
- The BFAWU plans two weeks of protest action at Greencore's Hatfield distribution centre after the company rejected a union-recognition bid. The union alleges workers were not consulted and some organisers faced discrimination, which Greencore disputes.
- A former Greencore Barlby factory employee received a suspended prison sentence for repeatedly breaching a restraining order by attending the site. Greencore had erected fencing and altered some staff working patterns following the incidents.
- Greencore is consulting staff on changes to central and functional roles after its acquisition of Bakkavor. The company says the process may lead to a limited, proportionate reduction in headcount, with little or no effect on frontline operations.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 44.2% of Greencore's coverage (theme index 6.9, net tone +33)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 26.9% of Greencore's coverage (theme index 1.49, net tone +57)
- Factories, Jobs & Investment: 9.6% of Greencore's coverage (theme index 2.37, net tone +20)

Notable positive coverage:

- 16 January 2026, foodmanufacture.co.uk: [Greencore completes £1.2BN Bakkavor acquisition making it a UK market leader across five own-label categories.](https://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Article/2026/01/16/greencore-completes-12bn-bakkavor-acquisition-making-it-a-uk-market-leader-across-five-own-label-categories/). Greencore completed its £1.2bn acquisition of Bakkavor after CMA remedies, including the sale of its Bristol soups and sauces site, addressed competition concerns. The enlarged group becomes a major UK own-label convenience-food supplier across five categories.
- 16 January 2026, irishtimes.com: [Greencore seals €1.4bn takeover of British rival Bakkavor](https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/01/16/greencore-seals-14bn-takeover-of-english-peer-bakkavor/). Greencore completed its £1.2bn takeover of Bakkavor, expanding its portfolio into pizza, bread, desserts and dips. The CMA accepted the sale of Greencore's Bristol chilled-soups-and-sauces facility as a remedy for competition concerns.
- 16 January 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [Food supplier Greencore completes £1.2 billion Bakkavor takeover](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/food-supplier-greencore-completes-1-083218859.html). Greencore completed its £1.2bn acquisition of Bakkavor, forming a combined UK supermarket supplier with approximately £4bn in annual sales. The companies addressed CMA concerns over chilled-sauce competition by selling Greencore's Bristol facility to The Compleat Food Group.

Notable negative coverage:

- 19 June 2026, investorschronicle.co.uk: [Greencore & Raspberry Pi: Big director share deals](https://www.investorschronicle.co.uk/content/16798fd6-481a-467a-9c6b-d67898402cc0). Greencore's acquisition-related costs from buying Bakkavor contributed to an interim pre-tax loss and a near-10% share-price fall. Its market value has also declined as it integrates the acquired convenience-food producer.
- 27 May 2026, investorschronicle.co.uk: [Greencore digests the cost of Bakkavor buyout](https://www.investorschronicle.co.uk/content/8490d3d1-5794-4db7-adee-8354ab47de66). Greencore reported a pre-tax interim loss after transaction-related costs from its Bakkavor acquisition. The deal increased revenue but also substantially lifted net debt and leverage.
- 9 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Greencore's Hatfield site to be picketed after union snub](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/greencores-hatfield-site-to-be-picketed-after-union-snub/715065.article). The BFAWU plans two weeks of protest action at Greencore's Hatfield distribution centre after the company rejected a union-recognition bid. The union alleges workers were not consulted and some organisers faced discrimination, which Greencore disputes.

- [Greencore deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1?entity=greencore&view=deep-dive)
- [Greencore PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1/reports/greencore.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Food & FMCG editions

- [UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-07.md)
- [UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker – August 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-08.md)
- [UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker – September 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-09.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker", H1 2026 (1 January 2026–30 June 2026), published 1 September 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1