QuattroR, a private equity firm, has acquired a 50% interest in the esteemed Italian coffee conglomerate, the Massimo Zanetti Beverage (MZB) Group, renowned for its global presence across more than 110 markets and operating 20 coffee roasteries around the world. The specifics of the financial transaction remain undisclosed but entail a substantial capital boost for the MZB Group. This group is the custodian of over 40 coffee and tea labels, including distinguished names like Segafredo Zanetti, Boncafé, and Chock Full o’Nuts. Despite its roots in Italy, the brand’s international sales now represent in excess of 90% of its revenue. Boasting…
Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a seasoned journalist and editor with a deep passion for the culinary arts. With over two decades of experience in the world of food writing, Sam has become a distinguished voice in the industry, renowned for his insightful reviews, engaging storytelling, and unwavering commitment to highlighting the finest in gastronomy. As the Editor-in-Chief of Feast Magazine, he leads a dynamic team dedicated to exploring the diverse and ever-evolving culinary landscape. Sam's journey into food journalism began with a childhood fascination for cooking, inspired by his grandmother's kitchen where he first learned the magic of blending flavors and crafting delicious meals. This early love for food led him to pursue a degree in Journalism from the University of Leeds, where he honed his skills in writing and developed a keen eye for detail. Throughout his career, Sam has traveled extensively, tasting and documenting cuisines from around the world. His articles are known for their rich, vivid descriptions and his ability to convey the cultural contexts of the dishes he explores. Whether it's a hidden gem in a bustling city or a traditional dish in a remote village, Sam's work brings the reader right to the heart of the culinary experience. Under Sam's leadership, Feast Magazine has flourished, earning accolades for its in-depth features, exclusive interviews with top chefs, and comprehensive guides to the best dining spots. His editorial vision emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and authenticity in the culinary world, ensuring that the magazine not only entertains but also educates and inspires its readers. Beyond his professional achievements, Sam is an advocate for food education and sustainable practices. He frequently participates in panels, workshops, and community events, sharing his expertise and fostering a greater appreciation for the art of cooking and the importance of ethical food consumption. In his free time, Sam enjoys experimenting with new recipes, exploring local farmers' markets, and hosting dinner parties for friends and family. His personal blog, where he shares his culinary adventures and recipes, has a loyal following, further cementing his status as a trusted authority in the world of food. Sam Allcock's dedication to his craft and his genuine love for all things culinary make him a pivotal figure in food journalism, continuously inspiring and delighting food enthusiasts around the globe.
Good Group Australia, the entity behind the Botswana Butchery brand and the Asian dining concept White & Wong, has initiated voluntary administration proceedings. The fate of three Botswana Butchery establishments in Sydney, Melbourne, and Canberra – each launched in February 2024 – is presently uncertain. These venues continue to operate as usual. The predicament for the related dining experiences, White + Wong’s and Wong Baby, is considerably more severe, with operations at all sites coming to a halt. Appointed administrators from BDO Australia, Andrew Sallway and Duncan Clubb, have embarked on what they term an “urgent assessment” of the firm’s…
Kendall-Jackson has entered into a groundbreaking agreement with the National Basketball Association (NBA) to become the esteemed league’s first official wine partner. This partnership is deeply rooted in the love for basketball by the brand’s founder, Jess Jackson, and his friendship with NBA icon Nate Thurmond, a legacy that has been cherished and continued by subsequent generations of his family. Initiated during the pandemic, the collaboration saw Kendall-Jackson engaging the NBA community with their esteemed wines, including their flagship Chardonnay and selections from Napa Valley, Willamette Valley, and internationally from Bordeaux, Tuscany, and Australia. This initiative even featured a wine…
With agave costs taking a nosedive, is the tequila market on the cusp of a surge in higher-quality offerings at more affordable prices? The cost of agave, which saw a steep increase less than two years ago, is now on a sharp decline. In Mexico, the price peaked at an unprecedented MXP32/kg just 18 months prior but had dropped to MXP5/kg by February 2024. According to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, the agave price’s volatility follows a long-standing cycle, typically spanning 10-15 years from one peak or trough to the next. The most recent low in prices was recorded during 2007-10,…
Hennessy is setting out to refresh its brand image with its latest advertising campaign, starring British-Nigerian actor Damson Idris and American singer, actress, and model Teyana Taylor. This week, Hennessy revealed its ‘Made for More’ campaign, spotlighting the duo in a collection of five short films directed by Andreas Nilsson, complemented by imagery captured by fashion photographer Micaiah Carter. Aiming to reach a younger cohort of consumers, the renowned Cognac house, one of the ‘big four’, is endeavouring to transform how the brand is perceived, as highlighted in a press release from the Cognac maker. The campaign’s short films showcase…
Majestic has effectively finalised its strategic purchase of Vagabond Wines, marking a significant expansion by adding nine wine bars to its portfolio and securing over 170 jobs. The acquisition is set to fuel the long-term growth and expansion of Vagabond, aligning with Majestic’s strategic objectives to broaden its customer base, appeal to a younger segment of wine enthusiasts, and enhance its business-to-business operations. Majestic, Britain’s premier wine retail specialist, has announced the acquisition of Vagabond Wines from administration, safeguarding the future of nine wine bars and ensuring job security for 171 Vagabond employees. This move comes after Vagabond faced challenges,…
When comparing the caloric content of beer and wine, one finds that both beverages contain calories that contribute to one’s daily nutritional intake. Beer, typically brewed from barley, hops, yeast, and water, comes in various styles, each with distinct calorie counts influenced by its alcoholic strength, measured as a percentage by volume (ABV). A pint of 5% strength beer may contain up to 222 kilocalories, which reflects the common serving size for beer. Wine, on the other hand, made from fermented grapes, can range in calorie content depending on the type and the ABV. A standard 175ml glass of 12%…