NAMB conference

The National Association of Master Bakers’ Conference is returning to the De Vere Hotel, Blackpool on May 7-10, supported by California Raisins. After the AGM, there will be talks from three craft bakers, Tom and Dick Lewis of Mhor Bakery and David Smart of Greenhalgh’s, plus the installation of new president Ian Storey.

Pipers plays to Lord’s

Devon-based Pipers Farm has signed a deal potentially worth £20,000 to supply a range of bespoke pies to Lord’s Cricket Ground. Available through the ground’s public bars, the range includes Red Ruby Steak & Mushroom, Pipers Farm Lamb & Mint, Pipers Farm Chicken & Saddleback Ham and, Pumpkin, Goat’s Cheese & Spinach. The deal was struck following visits from Lord’s chefs to the farm.

Doughnut appeal

National Doughnut Week 2010 is just around the corner, so make sure you’ve registered to take part. The week runs from 8-15 May and raises money for charity The Children’s Trust, through the sale of dougnuts. Register online at www.nationaldoughnutweek.org.

Cookie campaign

Burton’s Foods has invested £1.5m in a new national television advertising campaign for its Maryland Cookies brand. The 30-second ad, launched this month, features the strapline ’Choc Full of Yumminess’.

Chilled deal for Arla

Starbucks has teamed up with dairy company Arla Foods to launch two new coffee drinks in the UK. Starbucks Discoveries chilled coffees and Starbucks Doubleshot Espresso & Milk are ready-to-drink coffee ranges which will be available in all Starbucks outlets from May. Arla Foods will make, distribute and market chilled drinks for Starbucks under licence.