---
title: UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-ytd
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Food & FMCG
period: 2026 year to date
coverage_start: '2026-01-01'
coverage_end: '2026-09-30'
date_published: '2026-10-05'
last_updated: '2026-10-05'
organisations: 10
articles_analysed: 7906
mentions: 5871
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-ytd/data.json
summary: Nestlé had the highest average monthly share of coverage (21.0%) among 10
  manufacturers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead
  of Mondelez (15.8%) and Unilever (14.4%).
---

# UK food & FMCG media reputation tracker: 2026 year to date (1 January 2026–30 September 2026)

> Nestlé had the highest average monthly share of coverage (21.0%) among 10 manufacturers in UK earned media from 1 January 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead of Mondelez (15.8%) and Unilever (14.4%). Premier Foods had the most favourable net tone (+75). Omniscan analysed 7,906 articles containing 5,871 mentions of the manufacturers tracked.

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

## UK Food & FMCG ranking by share of coverage, 2026 year to date

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Nestlé | 21.0% | 1,318 | 38% | 15% | 47% | −9 |
| 2 | Mondelez | 15.8% | 880 | 57% | 22% | 21% | +35 |
| 3 | Unilever | 14.4% | 836 | 27% | 58% | 15% | +12 |
| 4 | Danone | 12.6% | 827 | 32% | 17% | 51% | −19 |
| 5 | Mars | 8.7% | 481 | 59% | 16% | 25% | +34 |
| 5 | PepsiCo | 8.7% | 486 | 52% | 27% | 21% | +31 |
| 7 | Kellanova | 7.0% | 377 | 71% | 16% | 13% | +58 |
| 8 | Kraft Heinz | 5.6% | 321 | 32% | 46% | 22% | +9 |
| 9 | Premier Foods | 3.3% | 180 | 81% | 14% | 5% | +75 |
| 10 | Greencore | 3.0% | 165 | 56% | 26% | 18% | +38 |

## Monthly share of coverage, UK Food & FMCG

| Organisation | January 2026 | February 2026 | March 2026 | April 2026 | May 2026 | June 2026 | July 2026 | August 2026 | September 2026 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Nestlé | 42.2% | 33.4% | 12.4% | 23.9% | 14.6% | 15.3% | 17.3% | 14.3% | 15.7% |
| Mondelez | 10.6% | 10.7% | 14.9% | 17.3% | 17.2% | 24.1% | 13.5% | 16.3% | 17.5% |
| Unilever | 1.6% | 6.8% | 27.7% | 19.4% | 12.9% | 12.8% | 16.0% | 16.9% | 15.2% |
| Danone | 17.8% | 26.8% | 14.6% | 13.2% | 7.3% | 4.8% | 10.3% | 11.6% | 6.5% |
| Mars | 8.0% | 3.2% | 7.8% | 8.5% | 13.1% | 6.1% | 11.7% | 11.0% | 8.7% |
| PepsiCo | 6.5% | 6.1% | 7.9% | 6.1% | 8.2% | 9.2% | 8.7% | 10.2% | 15.4% |
| Kellanova | 4.2% | 4.4% | 4.0% | 5.3% | 10.5% | 12.3% | 9.5% | 5.9% | 6.7% |
| Kraft Heinz | 2.7% | 5.8% | 6.4% | 4.8% | 3.7% | 8.4% | 3.0% | 7.9% | 7.9% |
| Premier Foods | 2.7% | 0.8% | 3.4% | 1.0% | 6.9% | 4.8% | 4.0% | 2.0% | 4.3% |
| Greencore | 3.7% | 1.9% | 1.1% | 0.5% | 5.6% | 2.3% | 5.9% | 3.9% | 2.2% |

## Manufacturers in detail

### Nestlé

**Recall crisis gave way to portfolio and product renewal**

Nestlé ranked 1st of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (21.0%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 1,318 mentions and a net tone of −9.

Nestlé led the manufacturer benchmark over the nine months, with 22.4% of pooled tracked-company mentions and a 21.0% average monthly share, ranking first on both measures. The higher pooled figure reflected its particularly large share and volume in January and February, when the infant-formula recall dominated coverage. Visibility then fell sharply in March, when Nestlé ranked fourth with 12.4%, as the mix broadened to products, factories and sustainability initiatives. Nestlé returned to first place at 23.9% in April, alongside first-quarter trading coverage, proposed UK job cuts, a regenerative-agriculture partnership and a new UK and Ireland food-business leader. Product development became more prominent in May and June through Maggi's entry into ready meals, Nescafé's chilled coffees and confectionery-inspired drinks, and Purina's Gourmet Perle relaunch. June also brought the acquisition of the remaining stake in Yfood and a £28m investment in the Dalston coffee factory. Nestlé regained first place in July at 17.3%, when the planned Peranel water joint venture, the approved Staverton factory expansion and new confectionery ranges featured in reporting. August's 14.3% share and third-place rank coincided with functional cereals, Maggi ramen, the use of coffee grounds as factory fuel and a new UK waters managing director. The company moved to second at 15.7% in September, with reporting spanning its Christmas confectionery range, supplier-cost inflation, the European Pizza Group transaction and water-stewardship work. Across the period, Nestlé's profile shifted from exceptional recall-led visibility towards a broader combination of portfolio restructuring, manufacturing decisions, product launches and sustainability programmes.

Key messages:

- Nestlé accounted for 22.4% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #1-#4 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Recalls & Food Safety and Brands, Products & Marketing.
- Visibility peaked in January 2026 at 42.2%, compared with 12.4% in March 2026.
- January 2026: Nestlé recalled selected SMA infant and follow-on formula batches over potential cereulide contamination, reported by Sky News.

Leading themes:

- Recalls & Food Safety: 37.7% of Nestlé's coverage (theme index 3.41, net tone −99)
- Brands, Products & Marketing: 26.6% of Nestlé's coverage (theme index 1.02, net tone +78)
- ESG, Community & Sustainability: 9.3% of Nestlé's coverage (theme index 0.92, net tone +85)

Notable positive coverage:

- 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.
- 4 February 2026, thesun.ie: [KitKat brings back ‘irresistible’ axed flavour – and it's already on shelves](https://www.thesun.ie/money/16488763/kitkat-irresistible-flavour-discontinued-home-bargains/). 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.

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.
- 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 recalled an additional Northern Ireland batch of SMA infant formula over potential cereulide contamination linked to an ARA oil ingredient. Danone’s Aptamil was also affected by contamination from the same third-party supplier.
- 30 January 2026, lbc.co.uk: [Food safety watchdog confirms presence of toxin in baby formula](https://www.lbc.co.uk/article/baby-formula-toxin-food-safety-watchdog-5HjdRdB_2/). The FSA is tracing products using contaminated ARA oil after Nestlé recalled multiple SMA infant-formula products over cereulide. Danone also recalled an Aptamil batch sourced through the same third-party ingredient supplier.

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

### Mondelez

**Cadbury innovation and corporate change define Mondelez’s year to date**

Mondelez ranked 2nd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (15.8%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 880 mentions and a net tone of +35.

Mondelez ranked second across January to September, with 880 mentions, a 15.0% pooled share of tracked-company mentions and a 15.8% average monthly share. The higher monthly average reflects equal weighting of each month, while the pooled measure gives more influence to months with more tracked-company mentions. Mondelez began in third place at 10.6% in January and 10.7% in February, before reaching second at 14.9% in March. Early coverage ranged from Luca Zaramella’s appointment as chief operating officer and revised UK animal-testing standards to weak consumer demand, high cocoa costs and the Ritz recall. March and April brought stronger shares alongside Cadbury’s Easter activity, the 55kg Mega Mini Egg, the Cadbury &More relaunch and first-quarter results. Mondelez moved into first place in May at 17.2%, when stories included Golden Dipped Twirl, its stated £2.3bn UK economic contribution and sustainability reporting. Its share then reached 24.1% in June, the highest measured level, as coverage encompassed summer product launches, Amit Banati’s appointment as chief financial officer, shrinkflation, UK regulation and continued operations in Russia. July brought a fall to 13.5% and third place, despite extensive reporting on second-quarter results and new seasonal products. The company recovered to second at 16.3% in August, when festive launches, football partnerships, premiumisation and Grenade’s US expansion widened the agenda. It returned to first at 17.5% in September as product innovation sat alongside packaging changes, investment plans and the transfer of the Harmony wheat scheme to independent governance.

Key messages:

- Mondelez accounted for 15% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #1-#3 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Brands, Products & Marketing and ESG, Community & Sustainability.
- Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 24.1%, compared with 10.6% in January 2026.
- January 2026: Mondelez appointed Luca Zaramella to the newly created chief operating officer role, reported by Reuters.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 42.4% of Mondelez's coverage (theme index 1.82, net tone +76)
- ESG, Community & Sustainability: 12.3% of Mondelez's coverage (theme index 1.28, net tone +85)
- Financial Results & Trading: 10.6% of Mondelez's coverage (theme index 1.24, net tone +38)

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:

- 6 July 2026, kidderminstershuttle.co.uk: [Cadbury confirms it has shrunk 2 popular products in move dubbed a 'last resort'](https://www.kidderminstershuttle.co.uk/news/26255417.cadbury-confirms-shrunk-heroes-roses-tubs/). Cadbury has reduced the weight of its Heroes and Roses tubs from 550g to 475g while prices remain broadly unchanged, citing higher supply-chain input costs. The article also notes new Cadbury Dairy Milk Grab & Go bars and a limited-edition flavour launch.
- 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.
- 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.

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

### Unilever

**Food separation reshaped Unilever’s media profile**

Unilever ranked 3rd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (14.4%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 836 mentions and a net tone of +12.

From January to September, Unilever recorded 836 mentions and a 14.2% pooled share of tracked-company mentions, ranking third on the displayed pooled share. Its 14.4% average monthly share ranked third because this measure weights every month equally, while pooled share reflects all mentions across the window. Its position varied substantially, from tenth place with 1.6% in January to first place in March and August. March accounted for 257 mentions and a 27.7% share, alongside extensive reporting on the proposed combination of Unilever’s food business with McCormick. April’s share fell 8.3 percentage points to 19.4%, although Unilever ranked second as reporting examined the strategic shift towards beauty and personal care, first-quarter trading and prospective price rises. It ranked fourth in May and third in June, when food-deal scrutiny was joined by the £150m Port Sunlight upgrade, World Cup activity and reports of a possible bid for Thorne. July brought a 3.3-point rise to 16.0% and second place; stories included Unilever’s strongest quarterly volume growth in more than a decade and further questions about the McCormick transaction. In August, volume declined by 18 but share rose by 0.9 points to 16.9%, putting Unilever first as coverage encompassed corporate simplification, the proposed Colman’s sale and a Simple product recall. September’s share was 15.2% and its rank was fourth, with the McCormick deal facing a formal UK competition inquiry and criticism over worker protections. Across the period, the profile broadened from product launches and annual results into a sustained account of portfolio restructuring, operational investment, marketing change, regulatory scrutiny and execution risk.

Key messages:

- Unilever accounted for 14.2% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #1-#10 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Leadership, Strategy & M&A and Financial Results & Trading.
- Visibility peaked in March 2026 at 27.7%, compared with 1.6% in January 2026.
- January 2026: Dove launched its first refillable antiperspirant range with a £7.5m campaign — The Grocer.

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 51.6% of Unilever's coverage (theme index 4.91, net tone −4)
- Financial Results & Trading: 16.4% of Unilever's coverage (theme index 2.17, net tone +45)
- Brands, Products & Marketing: 11.7% of Unilever's coverage (theme index 0.41, net tone +74)

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.
- 16 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Unilever adds first Dove lines to whole-body deodorant offer](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/unilever-adds-first-dove-lines-to-whole-body-deodorant-offer/715353.article). Unilever has launched 21 whole-body deodorant lines under Dove, Dove Men+Care, Sure and Lynx in the UK. The rollout will be supported by a £5.5m social-first campaign.
- 16 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Pot Noodle takes popular flavours into noodle blocks](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/pot-noodle-takes-popular-flavours-into-noodle-blocks/715355.article). 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.

Notable negative coverage:

- 16 September 2026, reuters.com: [EXCLUSIVE: Unilever won't discuss blanket two-year global worker guarantee in McCormick deal, IUF says](https://www.reuters.com/world/unilever-wont-discuss-blanket-two-year-global-worker-guarantee-mccormick-deal-2026-09-16/). Unilever is unwilling to discuss extending a two-year employment guarantee under its planned McCormick food-business merger to workers globally, according to the IUF. The union alleges unequal treatment of workers outside Europe.
- 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.

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

### Danone

**From formula recall to Huel and health transparency**

Danone ranked 4th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (12.6%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 827 mentions and a net tone of −19.

Danone recorded 827 mentions from January to September, representing 14.1% of tracked-company mentions on a pooled basis and placing it fourth on the displayed pooled share. Its average monthly share was lower at 12.6%, ranking fourth, because this measure weighted each month equally rather than giving greater weight to the high-volume opening months. Formula safety defined that opening: Danone was second in January with 17.8% and again in February with 26.8% as recalls extended across Aptamil and Cow & Gate products. The agenda broadened sharply in March, when Danone agreed to acquire Huel and introduced Volvic Vitamin+, Alpro Matcha and Alpro Meal to Go, while its share fell to 14.6% and third place. April combined first-quarter trading, bottled-water investment and opposition to the proposed Harrogate Spring Water plant expansion, with share at 13.2% and fourth place. Visibility was weakest in May and June, despite developments including plans for a medical-nutrition facility at Macroom, Volvic's Marcus Rashford partnership and Evian activity around Wimbledon. July brought a recovery to 10.3% and fifth place alongside first-half results, formula-volume recovery and the competition inquiry into the Huel transaction. August's 11.6% share and fourth place coincided with the CMA clearing the Huel acquisition, which became the month's principal subject. By September, share had fallen to 6.5% and eighth place as coverage centred on Danone's voluntary UK nutrition disclosure, support for mandatory healthy-food reporting and Activia and Alpro launches. Across the period, the profile moved from concentrated recall reporting towards a wider combination of functional nutrition, corporate performance, regulation, investment and portfolio health.

Key messages:

- Danone accounted for 14.1% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #2-#8 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Recalls & Food Safety and Leadership, Strategy & M&A.
- Visibility peaked in February 2026 at 26.8%, compared with 4.8% in June 2026.
- January 2026: LBC reported that Danone's Aptamil recall and Nestlé's SMA recall were traced to a shared ingredient supplier.

Leading themes:

- Recalls & Food Safety: 44.4% of Danone's coverage (theme index 3.53, net tone −100)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 20.7% of Danone's coverage (theme index 1.32, net tone +75)
- Financial Results & Trading: 7.4% of Danone's coverage (theme index 0.81, net tone +41)

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). The Grocer argues that Danone’s agreement to acquire Huel for a reported €1bn (£865m) fits its health-led strategy and offers scope for international growth. The analysis discusses the price and strategic rationale; completion remained subject to regulatory approval.

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

### Mars

**Mars visibility paired Slough investment with recurring shrinkflation scrutiny**

Mars ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (8.7%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 481 mentions and a net tone of +34.

Mars recorded 481 mentions from January to September, placing joint fifth with PepsiCo on the displayed 8.7% average monthly share and sixth on an 8.2% pooled share of tracked-company mentions. The higher average monthly figure gives equal weight to each month, whereas the pooled measure reflects differing total volumes of tracked-company mentions across the window. Mars opened in fourth place in January, when appointments including Marc Carena as global president of petcare accompanied launches such as the Galaxy ice cream multipack and investment in the Birstall petcare innovation hub. Its share then fell from 8.0% to 3.2% in February, despite articles on Chris Sackree's supply leadership appointment, Maltesers' 90th-anniversary campaign and the TogetherCocoa initiative. March brought a recovery to 7.8%, with M&M's Cookie Dough, Whiskas' renovated range and Easter activity appearing alongside scrutiny of confectionery shrinkflation. In April, share rose to 8.5% as Extra Plus gum and Hotel Chocolat's leadership restructuring sat beside sustained criticism of Mars Bar size and pricing. May was the period high at 13.1% and third place; contemporaneous stories included the £190m Slough factory programme, Twix Hazelnut and Skittles Flavour Flip. Share subsequently fell to 6.1% in June, when coverage included Kemal Cetin's digital appointment, Mars's premiumisation strategy involving Hotel Chocolat and licensed Bounty protein powder. July's rebound to 11.7% brought the Shubh Mint supply programme, Dolmio Active and new Christmas lines into the same news agenda as an ASA ruling on an M&M's advert. August and September remained above the period's February and June lows, while the mix moved from renewed Mars Bar shrinkflation coverage towards Impact Fund grants, cocoa resilience, food technology and HFSS-compliant product reformulation.

Key messages:

- Mars accounted for 8.2% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #3-#8 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Brands, Products & Marketing and Pricing & Retailer Relations.
- Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 13.1%, compared with 3.2% in February 2026.
- January 2026: The Grocer reported Marc Carena's appointment as global president of Mars Petcare.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 34.1% of Mars's coverage (theme index 1.34, net tone +88)
- Pricing & Retailer Relations: 13.5% of Mars's coverage (theme index 3.83, net tone −91)
- Market & Consumer Trends: 11.9% of Mars's coverage (theme index 2.93, net tone −12)

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:

- 12 August 2026, people.com: [Woman’s Discovery of 35-Year-Old Mars Bar Has People Stunned by How Much Candy Bars Have Shrunk](https://people.com/woman-discovers-mars-bar-from-1991-while-cleaning-out-elderly-woman-s-apartment-goes-viral-12058343). A viral comparison between a 1991 Mars Bar and the current product has reignited discussion of shrinkflation. Mars cited consumer demand, manufacturing costs, supply-chain pressures and cocoa prices as factors behind changes to bar sizes and formats.
- 13 April 2026, dailymail.co.uk: [Mars accused of 'shrinkflation' as bars shrink but not prices](https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15728697/Mars-shrinkflation-chocolate-bars-size-price-same.html). Mars Wrigley has been accused of shrinkflation after the Mars bar's single-bar weight reportedly fell from 51g to 40g while wholesale and suggested pricing remained unchanged. The company said its pack-format changes support supply consistency, affordability and more products below 200 calories per serving.
- 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). Which? warned that Easter chocolate shoppers face higher prices and smaller products amid cocoa supply pressures. Mars Wrigley said cost inflation had required carefully considered changes while retailers set final prices.

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

### PepsiCo

**PepsiCo’s snack reset broadens as September visibility accelerates**

PepsiCo ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (8.7%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 486 mentions and a net tone of +31.

Across January to September, PepsiCo recorded 486 mentions and 8.3% of tracked-company mentions, placing fifth on the pooled measure. Its 8.7% average monthly share placed it joint fifth with Mars on the displayed measure; pooled share counts all mentions across the period, while the monthly average gives each month equal weight. PepsiCo began in fifth place, with share at 6.5% in January and 6.1% in February, as coverage ranged from the Walkers rebrand and healthier-snacking claims to the S.U.N. repositioning and planned snack-price reductions. March share rose to 7.9%, still fifth, alongside reporting on the Walkers Hot Honey recall, Leicester solar investment and new Doritos products and partnerships. Share then fell to 6.1% and rank to sixth in April, when first-quarter results coverage examined price cuts, recovering North American snack volumes and investor pressure over the turnaround. May and June brought a recovery to 8.2% and 9.2%, with product and campaign reporting spanning ice-cream-inspired Pepsi flavours, World Cup activations, Quaker Overnight Oats and Doritos Loaded. PepsiCo slipped to seventh in July at 8.7%, while coverage combined the Doritos Chilli Heatwave allergen recall with nutrition strategy, women’s-health research and the summer Pepsi campaign. Share rose to 10.2% and rank to sixth in August, when the Silverstone partnership, Walkers Wavy Cut launch and sustainability progress appeared alongside continuing recall coverage and scrutiny of North American performance. September marked the clearest competitive advance, with share reaching 15.4% and rank rising to third. That month’s agenda broadened across Doritos Protein, the Wow better-for-you range, the KFC-Doritos collaboration, festive snacking, agricultural resilience and PepsiCo’s first corporate portfolio campaign.

Key messages:

- PepsiCo accounted for 8.3% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #3-#7 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Brands, Products & Marketing and Recalls & Food Safety.
- Visibility peaked in September 2026 at 15.4%, compared with 6.1% in February 2026.
- January 2026: Vue selected PepsiCo as its exclusive European soft-drinks supplier through at least 2030, reported by The Guardian.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 51.2% of PepsiCo's coverage (theme index 2.14, net tone +72)
- Recalls & Food Safety: 13.0% of PepsiCo's coverage (theme index 0.74, net tone −100)
- Health, HFSS & Reformulation: 8.0% of PepsiCo's coverage (theme index 1.77, net tone −21)

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.
- 26 January 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [PepsiCo boss urges government not to change HFSS goalposts](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/pepsico-boss-urges-government-not-to-change-hfss-goalposts/714416.article). 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.

Notable negative coverage:

- 18 July 2026, chroniclelive.co.uk: [Popular crisps pulled from shelves with warning to watch for diarrhoea](https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/uk-news/popular-crisps-pulled-shelves-warning-34311841). PepsiCo is recalling a specified batch of Doritos Chilli Heatwave after some packs may have contained Tangy Cheese product with undeclared milk. The FSA warned the mislabelling presents a risk to consumers with milk allergies or intolerances.
- 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.
- 24 August 2026, express.co.uk: [I tried supermarket cheese and onion crisps -- winner is better than Walkers](https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/food/2241707/best-cheese-onion-crisps-walkers-review). A supermarket taste test judged Walkers Oven Baked cheese-and-onion crisps poorly, citing a powdery texture and aftertaste. The article also notes the product's 50% less-fat positioning.

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

### Kellanova

**Kellanova’s launches gave way to factory and sourcing stories**

Kellanova ranked 7th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (7.0%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 377 mentions and a net tone of +58.

Kellanova recorded 377 mentions from January to September, representing 6.4% of tracked-company mentions on a pooled basis and 7.0% by average monthly share, ranking seventh under both measures. It began in sixth place with 4.2% in January before slipping to eighth with 4.0% in March. Early coverage combined Mars’s completed $36bn acquisition of Kellanova with the Pringles Fallout 76 promotion, Rice Krispies Squares seasonal innovation and the Pass the Pringles platform. Community programmes became more prominent through the Morrisons breakfast partnership and Kellogg’s Football Camps, while the Pringles and Burger King collaboration sustained the product agenda. Kellanova then moved from seventh place and 5.3% in April to fifth and 10.5% in May, before reaching fourth place and 12.3% in June. Stories during those stronger months included the limited-edition Pokémon cereal, the approaching Trafford Park closure, Burger King-inspired Pringles activity and football promotions across Pringles and Cheez-It. July volume edged up to 60, but share fell to 9.5% and rank to sixth as total tracked-company mentions increased; coverage included Pringles Minis, caramelised-biscuit Crunchy Nut and non-HFSS Bluey snack bars. August brought the period’s lowest volume, 29, and an eighth-place rank, with the Big Scottish Breakfast and free holiday breakfasts outweighing a much smaller product-launch presence. September recovered to 6.7% and seventh place as coverage broadened across the Trafford Park production shutdown, regenerative wheat sourcing, Pringles factory technology and seasonal flavour launches. Across the window, Kellanova’s profile moved from brand partnerships and product launches towards a broader account encompassing community programmes, reformulation, manufacturing change and supply-chain investment. Its strongest competitive position was therefore accompanied by a varied news agenda rather than a single recurring campaign.

Key messages:

- Kellanova accounted for 6.4% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #4-#8 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on ESG, Community & Sustainability and Brands, Products & Marketing.
- Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 12.3%, compared with 4% in March 2026.
- January 2026: coverage of Mars’s December 2025 completion of its $36bn acquisition of Kellanova and its implications for global snacking — FoodNavigator.

Leading themes:

- ESG, Community & Sustainability: 37.9% of Kellanova's coverage (theme index 4.71, net tone +95)
- Brands, Products & Marketing: 32.6% of Kellanova's coverage (theme index 1.27, net tone +83)
- Health, HFSS & Reformulation: 13.0% of Kellanova's coverage (theme index 3.05, net tone −35)

Notable positive coverage:

- 16 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Morrisons and Kellogg’s promise kids free breakfasts throughout school holidays](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.
- 27 February 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Imperilled Pringles pair play up power of sharing](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/comment-and-opinion/imperilled-pringles-pair-play-up-power-of-sharing/715849.article). Pringles has launched a sharing-focused "Pass the Pringles" campaign featuring a window cleaner dangling from a skyscraper. The activity will include social films, TikTok challenges and out-of-home advertising.
- 25 March 2026, thegrocer.co.uk: [Pringles and Burger King team up for limited-edition crisps](https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/news/pringles-and-burger-king-team-up-for-limited-edition-crisps/716951.article). Pringles will launch limited-edition Burger King Bacon Double Cheese XL and Chicken Royale flavours from April to September through wholesale, convenience and major UK grocery channels. Both products are described as non-HFSS and are supported by an on-pack restaurant voucher promotion.

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.
- 15 September 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Full list of 21 foods & drinks being completely banned in schools across England](https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/40385029/schools-ban-foods-drinks-list/). New English school-food standards would restrict sugary cereals, confectionery, deep-fried foods and certain additives, while requiring schools to publish menus and food policies. Coco Pops and Frosties are cited as examples of cereals affected by the rules.
- 4 September 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Kellogg's axes 'all-time favourite' breakfast cereal after 35 years as shoppers beg for its return](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/40271807/kelloggs-axes-cereal-shoppers-beg-return/). Kellogg's has permanently discontinued Raisin Wheats in the UK, citing the need to evolve its cereal range for changing consumer tastes. Shoppers expressed disappointment, while Nestlé's alternative product was criticised by some consumers.

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

### Kraft Heinz

**From break-up pause to brand reinvestment at Kraft Heinz**

Kraft Heinz ranked 8th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (5.6%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 321 mentions and a net tone of +9.

Kraft Heinz recorded 321 mentions from January to September, placing eighth by both its 5.6% average monthly share and 5.5% pooled share of tracked-company mentions. Its monthly position ranged from sixth to tenth, with the strongest share of 8.4% recorded in June. The central editorial arc shifted from uncertainty over the proposed corporate split and Berkshire Hathaway’s stake towards operational restructuring, increased investment and product-led activity. January coverage examined Berkshire’s potential disposal of its 27.5% holding, the planned demerger and the completed €124.3m sale of Plasmon. February’s rise to 5.8% coincided with Steve Cahillane pausing the split, committing $600m to marketing, sales and R&D, and appointing Michael Graham to lead UK and Ireland sales. The agenda broadened in March and April through Heinz product launches, the Kitt Green energy-efficiency project, the Polytag recycling pilot and campaigns involving HP Sauce and Everton. May’s lower 3.7% share accompanied reporting on first-quarter performance and the investment-led turnaround, alongside launches for professional kitchens and independent chefs. June’s high point included the reorganisation into three global regions, the Marry Me pasta sauce launch and the move to renewable electricity across European factories. July then fell to 3.0% as reporting featured weaker Heinz UK sales, own-label competition and the change in egg sourcing for Seriously Good Mayonnaise. August and September recovered to 7.9%, with stories spanning the Love Lid, improved annual forecasts, Europe’s role as an innovation testing ground, Chilli Bite Ketchup and the appointment of Lucy Hovey as UK and Ireland CFO. Across the period, strategic and financial scrutiny remained important, but the later profile carried a greater concentration of brand investment, innovation and marketing activity.

Key messages:

- Kraft Heinz accounted for 5.5% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #6-#10 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Leadership, Strategy & M&A and Brands, Products & Marketing.
- Visibility peaked in June 2026 at 8.4%, compared with 2.7% in January 2026.
- January 2026: Reuters reported that Kraft Heinz shares reached a near six-year low after Berkshire Hathaway indicated it might sell its 27.5% stake.

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 39.9% of Kraft Heinz's coverage (theme index 2.66, net tone −13)
- Brands, Products & Marketing: 24.6% of Kraft Heinz's coverage (theme index 0.94, net tone +67)
- Financial Results & Trading: 10.6% of Kraft Heinz's coverage (theme index 1.21, net tone −35)

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.
- 21 August 2026, theguardian.com: [Quarter of branded baby foods in UK still have too much sugar, analysis finds](https://www.theguardian.com/society/2026/aug/21/baby-foods-uk-too-much-sugar). An analysis found that 58% of 224 branded UK baby-food products breached at least one voluntary government guideline on sugar, salt, labelling or marketing. Heinz and Danone-owned Cow & Gate products were among those cited as breaching sugar or salt guidance.
- 26 July 2026, metro.co.uk: [Supermarket own-brand baked beans crowned UK's best -- and better than Heinz](https://metro.co.uk/2026/07/26/supermarket-own-brand-baked-beans-crowned-uks-best-better-heinz-29215524/). Which? taste testing found Aldi and Lidl own-label baked beans narrowly outperformed Heinz on flavour while costing substantially less. Heinz ranked second and was identified as the most expensive option tested.

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

### Premier Foods

**Results, innovation and health reporting shaped Premier Foods’ January–September profile**

Premier Foods ranked 9th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (3.3%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 180 mentions and a net tone of +75.

Premier Foods ranked ninth by both average monthly share and pooled share, accounting for 3.1% of tracked-company mentions across January to September and averaging 3.3% per month. Its monthly position remained within a narrow range of joint eighth to tenth, although its share varied from 0.8% in February to 6.9% in May. January coverage centred on strong festive trading, an improved profit outlook and branded growth, alongside the Angel Delight Bubble Jelly extension. After a product-led February, March broadened the agenda through Matt Roberts’ appointment as chief customer officer, the £3.5m Batchelors rebrand, Ambrosia custard pouches and reports of a possible Crosta Mollica bid. April’s lower 1.0% share coincided with reporting on smaller Bisto tubs at an unchanged cited price and the launch of Angel Delight’s Cake Shop range. Premier Foods reached eighth place in May as annual results showed trading profit up 6.7% to £200.4m, supported by further reporting on Mr Kipling innovation, recent acquisitions and lower debt. June shifted attention towards healthier-food sales reporting, emissions-reduction investment and brand partnerships spanning Roald Dahl, Spider-Man, Paxo and OXO. July combined first-quarter branded sales growth of 4% with Alex Whitehouse’s Grocer Cup recognition and new Loyd Grossman meal kits. August returned to a predominantly product-and-marketing agenda, while September’s recovery to 4.3% included Mr Kipling Mini Cake Bites and a cluster of investment-focused assessments of branded momentum. Across the window, the profile rested on recurring financial evidence supplemented by product extensions, portfolio marketing, leadership, nutrition reporting and manufacturing investment.

Key messages:

- Premier Foods accounted for 3.1% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #8-#10 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Brands, Products & Marketing and Financial Results & Trading.
- Visibility peaked in May 2026 at 6.9%, compared with 0.8% in February 2026.
- January 2026: Premier Foods forecast profit at the upper end of expectations after festive sales growth — Checkout.

Leading themes:

- Brands, Products & Marketing: 32.8% of Premier Foods's coverage (theme index 1.26, net tone +92)
- Financial Results & Trading: 28.3% of Premier Foods's coverage (theme index 3.45, net tone +88)
- Health, HFSS & Reformulation: 13.9% of Premier Foods's coverage (theme index 3.06, net tone +44)

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 vanilla and chocolate custard pouches in selected Sainsbury’s stores, with selected Morrisons stores due to follow from 27 April. The non-HFSS format targets 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/). Bisto customers criticised a reduction in sauce-granule tub size from 185g to 170g while the price remained £3. Premier Foods said the products were reformulated and that retailers set final 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 reduced its gravy-granule tub size from 185g to 170g while the cited price remained £3. Parent company Premier Foods said the range had an improved recipe and retailer prices vary.

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

### Greencore

**From Bakkavor integration to recall and retailer reset**

Greencore ranked 10th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (3.0%) in the UK Food & FMCG benchmark for 2026 year to date, with 165 mentions and a net tone of +38.

Across January to September, Greencore recorded 165 mentions, a 2.8% pooled share of tracked-company mentions and a 3.0% average monthly share, ranking tenth on both measures. Its strongest competitive position came in January, when a 3.7% share placed it seventh amid completion of the £1.2bn Bakkavor acquisition and first-quarter growth. Visibility then narrowed to 1.9% in February, although coverage broadened into the Myprotein food-to-go partnership, workforce issues and apprenticeships. March centred on the King’s visit to Greencore’s Warrington site and its donation of one million meals through the Coronation Food Project, while share declined to 1.1%. The three April articles were contextual mentions in wider sector coverage, rather than reports of a development at Greencore, as share reached 0.5%. May brought a recovery to 5.6%, as first-half reporting juxtaposed revenue and adjusted-profit growth with acquisition costs, higher debt, a reported loss and consideration of a US disposal. June combined financial analysis with physical investment, including the £900,000 Northampton nut-production facility and new Leeds office space, while share fell from 5.6% to 2.3%. July produced both the highest volume, 37 mentions, and the highest share, 5.9%, with an improved eighth-place rank alongside upgraded profit guidance, market-beating volume growth and early Bakkavor synergies. August’s 3.9% share was entirely associated with the recall of three Asda and Morrisons pasta products over possible Listeria contamination. September closed at 2.2% and tenth place, with coverage spanning commentary on the enlarged group’s execution and trading expectations, alongside revised Co-op Wholesale food-to-go terms. The resulting profile moved from transaction-led scale and integration through products, community activity and investment to financial delivery, food safety and retailer relationships.

Key messages:

- Greencore accounted for 2.8% of tracked-company mentions; its monthly rank was #7-#10 among 10.
- Coverage concentrated on Financial Results & Trading and Leadership, Strategy & M&A.
- Visibility peaked in July 2026 at 5.9%, compared with 0.5% in April 2026.
- January 2026: Greencore completed its £1.2bn Bakkavor takeover after court approval and a CMA remedy, reported by The Independent.

Leading themes:

- Financial Results & Trading: 43.6% of Greencore's coverage (theme index 5.58, net tone +56)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 18.2% of Greencore's coverage (theme index 1.12, net tone +53)
- Recalls & Food Safety: 12.1% of Greencore's coverage (theme index 0.71, net tone −100)

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:

- 10 August 2026, examinerlive.co.uk: [Asda and Morrisons pasta salads recalled over link to meningitis](https://www.examinerlive.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/asda-morrisons-pasta-salads-recalled-34430652). Greencore has recalled three Asda and Morrisons pasta salads over possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The FSA warned consumers not to eat the affected products because listeria can cause serious illness including meningitis.
- 8 August 2026, metro.co.uk: [Urgent recall of pasta salads sold at Asda and Morrisons over listeria fears](https://metro.co.uk/2026/08/08/supermarkets-urgently-recall-pasta-salads-do-not-eat-warning-listeria-fears-29329210/). Greencore has recalled three pasta salad products sold by Asda and Morrisons over possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The FSA advised consumers not to eat the affected products and to return them for refunds.
- 8 August 2026, independent.co.uk: [Pasta salads sold at Asda and Morrisons recalled over listeria fears](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/pasta-recall-listeria-asda-morrisons-supermarket-b3029725.html). Greencore recalled three Asda and Morrisons pasta products because of potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The FSA advised customers not to consume the affected items.

- [Greencore deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-ytd?entity=greencore&view=deep-dive)
- [Greencore PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-ytd/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 – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-h1.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", 2026 year to date (1 January 2026–30 September 2026), published 5 October 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-food-fmcg-2026-ytd