Category: Blogs

  • Hottest Celebrity Drink Releases

    Hottest Celebrity Drink Releases

    It seems as though every celebrity now has their own branded beverage, and it’s making a splash in the drinks industry. From musicians to actors, many drinks companies are now celeb-backed or owned.

    In this blog, we have searched through (and tested) some of the top celebrity drink additions, so you don’t have to! Take a look at our top choices below…

    Wine and Prosecco

    Cameron Diaz | Avaline

    Cameron Diaz launched Avaline in the middle of the pandemic. It’s a clean white wine blend, made from organic Spanish grapes. Now with four other wines, rosé, red, and sparkling, it’s been a huge success. 

    Brad & Angie | Miraval

    Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie released their first bottle in 2013 after purchasing a French chateau named Miraval. Jolie sold her part in 2021, but Pitt is closely involved in the latest venuture, Champagne.

    Delevingne | Della Vite

    Sisters Chloe, Poppy and Cara Delevingne created Della Vite as a joint venture. A high quality sustainably produced and vegan prosecco. A balance of wild berry and tart rhubarb, with a long, fresh finish and creamy texture.

    Kylie Minogue | Provence Rose

    Kylie’s own wine brand launched in 2020, hitting huge success, now containing a range of nine wines. The rosé has become the top-selling wine in the UK category.

    Tequila

    Kendall Jenner | 818

    818 was released in 2021 and actually named after the models post code. Just before release they also anonymously won a bunch of major tasting awards, including Best Reposado Tequila and Best Añejo Tequila.

    The Rock | Teremana Tequila

    Dwayne Johnson released his Teremana Tequila, which went on to win Gold for its Reposado expression and a Master medal for its Blanco. Suited best to margarita-makingwith a rich, smooth flavour after being simmered in artisan copper stills.

    Other Spirits

    Emma Watson | Renais

    Emma Watson and her brother Alex Watson have just released a new gin, inspired by childhood trips to their family’s vineyard. 

    Renais’ base spirit is made with ‘up-cycled’ grapes and has made use of solar-powered stills at the distillery, and biodegradable mushroom packaging, to keep sustainability at the forefront of the brand.

    Ryan Reynolds | Aviation

    Reynolds’ endorsed Aviation in 2018 and became Co-Owner and Brand Ambassador.

    “I’ve tried every gin on the planet and Aviation is, hands down, the best. Also, I don’t recommend trying every gin on the planet. Stick with this one.” – Ryan Reynolds

    Jay Z | D'usse

    Jay-Z sold a bottle of his cognac for an incredible 52,500 dollars. Of course, that’s not the normal price of a bottle, this one was just signed.

    The cognac is naturally aged for a minimum of four years, with powerful woody notes, alongside cinnamon and floral touches.

    If you’re looking for your next role in the drinks industry, take a look at our current vacancies now!

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  • Coronation Food and Drink Launches

    Coronation Food and Drink Launches

    It’s King Charles’ Coronation this Saturday, and any royal event is the perfect excuse to grab some snacks. Many brands have already released themed hampers, and limited edition products.

    Read on for our favourite picks of the 2023 Coronation Food and Drinks Launches.

    Coronation

    Whittard Regal Blend

    Fancy a Coronation cuppa? Whittard’s regal blend is available now; it’s a rich loose leaf black tea blended with Madagascan vanilla and red, white, and blue petals.

    £9.50 Whittard

    Coronation Colin

    It’s a spin on the classic Colin The Caterpillar, and it wouldn’t be a special occasion without one! He’s adorned in his very own golden crown, making him the perfect addition to your afternoon tea or a street party celebrations.

    £10 M&S 

    Colin the Caterpillar
    Coronation Sausages

    HECK Coronation Chicken Sausages

    Many people are choosing to have a BBQ this bank holiday weekend, and there’s a huge selection of street parties to attend! HECK has created a new Coronation Chicken recipe to honour the occasion, and it’s completely gluten-free as well!

    £2.50 Ocado

    Bakewell Tart Popcorn

    Joe and Seph’s have combined the classic British treat, a Bakewell Tart, with the perfect celebratory snack, popcorn. It’s an ideal sweet trat to enjoy while watching the Coronation!

    £4 Joe and Seph’s

    Popcorn
    Buckingham Palace gin

    Buckingham Palace Dry Gin

    A gin made with hand-picked botanicals from the gardens at Buckingham Palace, indluding hawthorn berries and lemon verbena. It doesn’t get more fitting than this!.

    £40 Master of Malt

    TipTree Coronation Mayonnaise

    Make some cute Coronation sandwiches, dip your crisps or make a potato salad for this weekend with this limited edition mayo.

    £2.99 TipTree

    Coronatin Mayo
    Coronation crisps

    Sensations Regal Crisps

    Walkers Sensations have released two limited-edition flavours just in time for this weekend. If you’ve ever wanted roast lamb without the cooking, try their Regal Lamb and Mint crisps. Or, if you’d prefer a ‘better’ version of a prawn cocktail crisp, get your hands on their King Prawn Cocktail flavour too.

    £2 each Tesco

    Coronation Ale

    Crack open a cold bottle of ale to celebrate this weekend. This deep, rich ale with toasty notes is brewed in Dorset using British noble Sovereign and Endeavour hops.

    £2.50 Sainbury’s

    Coronation Ale
    Coronation Gin

    Whitley Neill Coronation Gin

    G&T is a classic bank holiday drink, so why not try a special limited edition themed gin this weekend.

    £30 The Drop Store

    Tyrrells Coronation Chicken Crisps

    With a cute Coronation-themed design, Tyrrell’s coronation chicken crisps have made a return!

    £2.75 Waitrose

    Coronation Chicken Crisps

    Here at New Chapter, we work with plenty of the brands on this list and many more.
    If you’re looking for your next role in the FMCG industry, take a look at our current vacancies now!

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  • Top Brands Helping to Combat Food Waste

    National Stop Food Waste Day

    Food waste is a major problem in the UK, with an estimated 9.5 million tonnes of food being thrown away each year. It’s crazy to think that around a third of the food produced on Earth goes to waste — either it gets thrown away or goes bad!

    Today is National Food Waste Day and we have compiled a list of brands that are doing their part to help tackle this issue.

    Too Good To Go is an app that was launched in 2016. The app connects customers with restaurants and supermarkets, who have surplus food at the end of the day. It helps businesses make extra sales, turning that wastage into leftover produce. This app helps stop food wastage and helps consumers save money too, on cheaper meals. 

    Rubies in the Rubble are a condiment brand that uses ingredients that would otherwise go to waste – not because they taste any different, but often because they’re the wrong shape, size or colour. 

    Their ketchups and relishes are made with fresh fruit & veg, directly from farms. As well as their mayo being made with aquafaba, which is a plant-based alternative to eggs.

    Larger companies are also making efforts to reduce their environmental impact, with Tesco committing to reducing food waste by 50% by 2023. They have implemented initiatives such as selling ‘wonky’ produce at discounted prices and donating their surplus to local food charities.

    So far Tesco has reduced overall food waste in their operations by 45% since 2016/17. Just 0.35% of the food handled across the Group in 2021/22 ended up as waste.

    Of course organisations such as food banks also play a critical role in reducing wastage and helping those in need. The largest food bank network in the UK is The Trussell Trust.

    They provide emergency food and support to people in crisis. In addition to distributing food to those in need, the organization also works to reduce food waste by partnering with local businesses to collect surplus food and redistribute it to those who need it most.

    What opportunities do you have available in the FMCG industry?

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  • How to: become an FMCG National Account...

    How to become an FMCG National Account Manager

    Do you want a career change, or have you always wanted to be a national account manager?
    We have compiled a guide with answers to popular questions from our top FMCG consultants, Arbrie Hoxha and Rachael Carver. 

    What is a national account manager and what do they do?

    An FMCG national account manager (NAM) is a responsible for managing the relationship between the company and its major accounts such as large supermarket chains.

    They ensure sales targets are met and to develop strategies that help maintain and grow business relationships.

    What qualifications do you need to become a NAM?

    Most National Account Managers have a degree in business, marketing, or a related field. The most essential thing is having experience in sales and account management. Arbrie shares with you her 5 top skills she looks for in a NAM…

    Strong experience managing a P&L and accurate forecasting.  

    Strong experience creating joint business plans and negotiating and implementing CPI’s (cost price increases).

    Examples of delivering tangible results. How have you unlocked opportunities, saved the business money or driven profitability.

    Experience of being customer facing as your role will involve communicating and influencing retailers.

    Mix of experience in account management and winning new business.

    What are the key responsibilities of an FMCG National Account Manager?

    The key responsibilities of a National Account Manager include developing and maintaining relationships with key accounts, negotiating sales and promotions, managing budgets and sales forecasts, and analyzing market trends and data.

    What are the biggest trends in the FMCG industry?

    Becoming a B corp and a focus on sustainability is huge at the moment.

    There is a big push from retailers to drive value to the customer- for example Tesco are doing Aldi price match so FMCG clients are having to show that they are also aligned with driving value. Own label is flying versus branded, particularly as customers are trying to save pennies.

    What skills are required to be an FMCG National Account Manager?

    To be an effective FMCG National Account Manager, you need strong communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills. You should also have a good understanding of the FMCG industry and be able to analyze data and identify trends.

    How much does an FMCG National Account Manager earn?

    You can have a look at jobs on our website or use our FMCG Salary Survey to find more. Make sure to sign up to our mailing list to get the first release of the 2023 edition.

    What are the most common NAM interview questions?

    Our Director – Consumer, Rachael Carver, says it is crucial to prepare answers to these three questions…

    What opportunities do you have available now?

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  • Best Easter Treats 2023

    Top 2023 Easter Treats

    As Easter approaches quickly, we’re seeing a variety of new and egg-citing easter treats within the FMCG industry. 

    Our New Chapter FMCG Recruitment team wants to share their favourites with you, whether they’re classic choices or fun new flavours. Take a look at their top picks now!

    Malteaser Bunnies

    Indulge in the smooth milk chocolate with a delicious malt centre and crunchy honeycomb pieces. Treat yourself to an early Easter with one of these, or buy the mini version to add into your favourite easter bakes.

    50p Sainsbury’s

    White Chocolate Easter Egg

    This white chocolate Easter egg is a cracking take on a classic favourite. Featuring a playful ‘splat’ design and made with all-natural colorings.

    £11 HotelChocolat

    Lindt Bunny

    Hop into Easter with this classic gold bunny, the most popular choice among our FMCG consultants! Made with the finest Swiss chocolate, wrapped in gold foil, and tied with a red ribbon and gold bell.

    £2.75 Lindt

    Buttermilk Vegan Easter Egg

    Salted Caramel, Honeycomb Blast, Zingy Orange and many more, all powered by plants. Dairy, palm oil and gluten free, there is no excuse not to share!

    £5 Sainsburys

    Mr Prempy's

    Enjoy an organic, vegan-filled egg this Easter. With 74% raw dark ethically-sourced chocolate, coconut blossom and hazlenut ganache, it makes for a delicious treat adn it’s always great to support smaller companies!

    £9 Mr Prempy’s 

    More on the market

    With plenty on the market, make sure to jazz up your Easter with these tasty snacks…

    Interested in our FMCG Jobs?

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  • Achieve Workplace Happiness

    Workplace happiness’… what is it?

    For some people, the meaning is clear, but studies show that not everyone is lucky enough to experience it. In fact, studies have revealed that 1 in 3 UK employees lack workplace happiness.

    Does this apply to you? Does every day feel like Monday? If so, what can you do to beat this unlucky fortune?

    Boosting your mood is the simplest way to feel happier at work, which is proven to improve focus and productivity and reduce stress, lowering the risk of permanent damage to the body.

    Following on from our blog last week about knowing when you’re ready to move jobs, we wanted to offer some tips on how to tweak your workday habits, to help you find happiness in your current role before taking that new opportunity! 

    Workplace Happiness

    1. Positivity

    Try to smile more! Doing so will allow others to perceive you as approachable and kind. When you smile, your brain releases tiny molecules called neuropeptides to help fight off stress. This positivity will not only increase motivation but also create happier workplace relationships.

    We have included a guide on 13 ways to instantly be a more positive person…

    2. Get Active

    Get active in your lunch break. In the wise words of Elle Woods, “exercise gives you endorphins, endorphins make you happy“.

    So, use your lunch break to get some exercise. Even a steady stroll will do. Taking breaks at work is important to prevent burnout, so make sure you reward your hard work with a break to feel refreshed, re-energised and ready to put your all into your role.

    3. Happy Foods

    Foods high in vitamin D have anti-depressant effects, especially mushrooms. Dark chocolate too, is known for its positive effects- it raises endorphins to boost mood. Coffee has been linked to energy and kindness, so make sure you don’t skip your morning brew- it might help you achieve workplace happiness!

    Workplace Happiness
    Workplace Happiness
    Workplace Happiness

    4. Personalise

    … your workspace. Photos, calendars, cards, even your desktop background, are all good ways of making your workspace truly ‘yours’. A fun work mug would work too, so that you to feel at home, at work!

    5. Organisation

    Organisation is a key skill to have in the workplace. Planning out daily tasks enables you to know exactly what your day will encounter and provides some clear direction. Arriving ready to start the day, reduces stress and allows you to start your tasks as soon as you arrive. So, use this to get the most out of your day… and discover a happier work-you.

    6. Development

    Opportunity for promotion and career-based development will surely keep you challenged and motivated towards achieving your goals. If you have tried all these strategies and still feel unhappy, then perhaps it may be time to consider new career opportunities…

    If you feel this way, contact one of our constultants below to arrange a call. Or take a look at our recent blog, ‘Are you Ready for a New Job?’

     Explore our current live vacancies or speak to our consultants below.

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  • Mother’s Day Gift Guide

    Ultimate Mother's Day Gift Guide

    This Sunday is Mother’s Day, so it’s time to celebrate the wonderful mums in our lives. Choosing the perfect gift can be quite a task, but we have curated a list of gift ideas that cater to all, from sentimental keepsakes to indulgent treats.

    Whether you’re shopping for your mum, grandma, or any other amazing maternal figure, our list of ideas can help you show them your appreciation. So go ahead and surprise them with one of these lovely presents!

    1. Best for the Cocktail Lover

    If your mum loves a good cocktail but doesn’t want to go through the hassle of making them herself. Why not spoil her with some high-quality pre-mixed cocktails, that she can enjoy from the comfort of her own home.
    Choose six cocktails from Edmunds Cocktails for £29.95!

    2. Best for the Avid Gardener

    Consider buying her a seed subscription that will send native British wildflower seeds every month, along with a personalised note, fact cards about the included seeds, and a seed box.
    Buy now from Not on the Highstreet for £36.99!

    3. Best for the Breakfast In Bed

    Treat her to an all-indulgent Mother’s Day Breakfast Box, complete with smoked salmon, sourdough bread, and accompanying breakfast tea or coffee, and most importantly a glass of signature Brut Reserve Champagne. All the breakfast goodies you could possibly need for the perfect start to Mother’s Day.
    Buy now from Fortnum & Mason for £125!

    4. Best for the Wannabe Wine Taster

    If your mum enjoys a good glass of wine at the end of the day, why not spoil her with a luxury wine tasting gift box!
    Buy now from Virgin Wines for £35.99!

    5. Best for the Chocolate Obsessed

    A gift thats always a safe bet, is chocolate. With so many delicious choices available, you could even gift a personalised chocolate bar this Mother’s Day.
    Buy now from Hotel Chocolat for £29.50

     

    6. Best for the Cold Feet

    Does she always feel the cold? Get her a portable, rechargable hand or foot warmer, so she can stay warm in all weathers.
    Buy now from Amazon for £20.99!

    7. Best for the Sleeping Beauty

    Help her look and feel fabulous by gifting a gorgeous satin sleeping mask to get those beauty hours in. After all, nothing beats a good night’s sleep!
    Buy now from Blissy for £32!

    8. Best for the Sweet Tooth

    Consider surprising her with a lovely cream tea hamper that includes scones, clotted cream, jam, tea, and biscuits – everything she needs for a perfect afternoon at home. Alternatively, you could reserve a luxury afternoon tea at one of your favourite hotels or cafes.
    Buy now from Hampers for £25!

    9. Best for the Sentimental Mum

    Of the many sentimental gift ideas out there, we believe this personalised birth flower frame is undeniably the cutest. With each family members birth flower hand-painted, it’s a thoughtful and unique gift!
    Buy now from Callie for £25!

    10. Best for the Bookaholic

    Not only can you buy some of the books she’s been itching to read, but you can also throw in a cute magnetic cat bookmark! It’s the perfect little bonus gift that’ll keep her from damaging or losing her page.
    Buy a set of four from Rex London for £2.95!

    Thank you for taking the time to read our blog, we hope it can help you out in time for this weekend!

    If you are looking for a job within the FMCG industry!

    Check out our website to search our live job vacancies now!

    Or

    Get in touch for a chat so we can learn about you and what you want out of your career.
    ☎️ 0845 200 741
    📧 info@newchapter.co.uk

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  • Our Top Pancake Picks

    Our Top Pancake Picks

    Pancake Day provides the perfect excuse to enjoy pancakes for breakfast, lunch, and even dinner!

    With a vast variety of pancake toppings available, everyone can find one that suits their taste. You can stick to traditional options like lemon and sugar or explore more adventurous choices to take your pancakes to the next level.

    Our consultants have shared their favourite toppings with you, so you can elevate your pancake game this year.

    Berry Compote

    Berry compote is a delicious and easy option for those who enjoy fruity pancakes.

    To make it, simply combine frozen berries, sugar, and water in a pan and cook on low heat until the mixture thickens into a sauce. Then, pour onto your pancakes and feel free to add lots of fresh berries.

    Senior consultant Lauren Milner recommends taking it up a notch by adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream, especially with cherry compote.

    Nutella

    Nutella is a favourite among many here at New Chapter. Our Associate Consultant, Katie O’Leary, suggests adding strawberries to take this option to the next level.

    Or, instead of just spreading nutella on your pancakes, you can stuff chocolate spread inside.
    Top with whipped cream for the ultimate chocolate dessert.

    Maple Syrup and Bacon

    For those who enjoy the combination of sweet and salty. Cook some streaky bacon until crispy, crumple on top of your pancakes and cover with maple syrup. This American-style dish is perfect for brunch or lunch.

    If you’d prefer to keep it simple, Head of Consumer, Rachael Carver opts for a drizzle of maple syrup!

    Lemon and Sugar

    This traditional option was the top choice among our consultants. Just squeeze some fresh lemon juice and sprinkle some caster sugar, its really just as simple as that.

    If you’d like to try an alternative to this classic combination, switch out the lemons for oranges and let us know what you think!

    Chocolate Chips

    If you want to keep it simple, Recruitment Consultant Harry Toole suggests substituting chocolate spread for chocolate chips and adding some bananas to the mix.

    Simply sprinkle the chips over your pancakes and top with sliced bananas. To finish, if you’d like to step it up add a drizzle of maple syrup.

    Are you interested in jobs in within the FMCG industry?

    Here at New Chapter we have a selection of amazing consultants who spend each day helping individuals start new chapters within many sectors.

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  • Romantic Valentines Cocktails

    Valentines Cocktail Recipes

    Are you looking for a cheap but romantic cocktail experience this Valentine’s DaySet the mood for your dinner for two or galantine’s girls’ night with one (or more) of these delicious valentines cocktails. Even after Dry January, you can still enjoy the alcohol-free lifestyle by substituting the booze for your favourite no-and-low alternatives.

    Have a browse and let us know which ones you fall in love with!

    Rose Water Gin Cocktail

    This refreshing drink is simple to make and perfect to begin the evening. With a light and refreshing taste, it’s sure to impress that special someone.

    Love Bellini

    For those looking to start the day with a little buzz, a Bellini can’t be beat. With it’s refreshing flavours and fruity taste, it’s the ideal drink for a morning of romance.

    Arguably the easiest cocktail on this list, it can be made with any fruit combination. However, sticking to the love theme, strawberries and raspberries were definitley our top choice for valentines cocktails.

    Pretty Pink Martini

    The pretty pink martini is a classic; it’s simple to make and perfect for your Galentine’s Day party. Garnish with marshmellows or strawberries cut into hearts for an extra touch.

    Strawberry Daiquiri

    An easy-to-make but well-loved Valentine’s Day cocktail. With only four simple ingredients, this is the perfect drink to kickstart your romantic evening.

    Love Shake

    Boozy milkshakes have been a Valentine’s Day favourite for years, but they are also super easy to make!

    Bailey’s has many variations of their classic Irish cream liqueur, so why not try strawberries & cream or red velvet in your own shake?

    Here at New Chapter we have many roles across the drinks industry. With experienced consultants across FMCG, Retail and more, contact us today to discuss further!

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  • FMCG Drinks Trends in 2023

    2023 Drinks Trends

    It’s the start of a new year and most importantly, the beginning of fresh drinks trends. Many factors will affect the consumption of alcohol, and although we can never predict the future… we can have fun trying!

    So dive into our predictions for the top trends this year with our Divisional Manager – Drinks, Emma Forster. With no and low alternatives and canned cocktails taking over, consumers will continue to be mindful during the cost of living crisis.

    Drinks Trends
    Drinks Trends
    Drinks Trends
    More predictions include
    Rise of Tequila

    Tequila became a go-to drink for many last year as celebrities promoted their own tequila brands such as Kendall Jenner’s, 818. With the growing appeal of margaritas, quality tequila is one to watch in 2023.

    Drinks Trends
    TikTok Takeover

    Of course TikTok, the most popular socical media platform in 2023, will keep getting bigger. Now it has become a source of world news, trends and much more. With a massive influence on the drinks industry, it’s the place to find new cocktail recipes and new product releases.

    So to sum-up, drinks trends are constantly evolving. Driven by changing consumer tastes, preferences, and lifestyles. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in health and wellness. This has lead to an increased demand for low or no-alcohol beverages, as well as plant-based options. The rise of the craft movement has also influenced drinks trends. Many consumers now seek unique, artisanal offerings that showcase quality ingredients and innovative combinations. 

    Additionally, sustainability and environmental consciousness are becoming more important to consumers. This results in a shift towards eco-friendly packaging and production methods. Finally, technology is also playing a role in drinks trends. The use of augmented reality and other digital experiences to enhance the consumer experience along with social media.

    We have many roles available in the drinks industry, either browse our website vacancies or contact us on info@newchapter.co.uk

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