PepsiCo, Inc. announced that Athina Kanioura has been appointed executive vice president and chief strategy and transformation officer. She will report to chairman and CEO Ramon Laguarta.

Schwan’s Consumer Brands, Inc. — a subsidiary of Schwan’s Company — will launch five new products under the Red Baron®, Freschetta®, Edwards® and Pagoda® brands by October 2020.

Vélez-Bautista was most recently chief executive officer of Mission Foods, the leading producer of fresh and authentic tortillas and other Mexican food products.

Molson Coors Beverage Company unveiled a new slate of non-alcoholic products that it intends to roll this fall as part of the company’s efforts to expand beyond the beer aisle and reach more consumers seeking better-for-you beverages.

Mars, Incorporated announced the hiring of Dr. Maria Velissariou as the new global corporate research & development (R&D) vice president and chief science officer. Dr. Velissariou joins Mars on Sept. 13 and will lead Mars' enterprise-wide approach to quality and food safety, scientific & regulatory affairs and deliver Mars' R&D strategy in partnership with its business segments.

Recent ADM OutsideVoice℠ research shows that 77% of consumers intend to make more attempts to stay healthy in the future. Food and beverage manufacturers who successfully balance consumer health concerns with affordability are most likely to win with consumers. 

The National Honey Board’s annual Queen’s Choice Awards results are in, and brands small and large took home honors as the best food and beverage products made with honey in the last year. Winning brands included Pepperidge Farm, Simple Mills, Godiva, Teakoe, Green Bee and more.

Jones Soda Co. appointed 38-year CPG and foodservice industry veteran Mark Murray as president, effective Sept. 1, 2020.

Customers can feel good knowing they are eating a clean protein option full of flavor and made with non-GMO, soy-free ingredients. The OZO foodservice line is now available in four plant-based offerings: burgers, ground, nuggets and breakfast sausage patties, catering to all dayparts.

The company’s nine operating units will replace current groups and business units, effective Jan. 1, 2021, subject to consultation where required under local laws. These changes will help eliminate duplication of resources and enhance the company’s ability to scale new products more quickly.