Greencore for sale?

Britain’s biggest sandwich manufacturer Greencore has announced a takeover approach by a mystery bidder. The Dublin-based firm issued a statement on 25 October after share prices soared by 10%. Rival Irish food company Kerry Group has been named as one of the potential bidders, as have unknown foreign organisations.

Maple Leaf on the up

Maple Leaf Bakery UK has reported improved financial results for the third quarter of 2011, with profit up 3% to more than £80m ($129.2m). Part of Canada Bread’s Frozen Bakery division, the firm said sales volumes had increased in its UK operations due to its ongoing growth in bagel sales.

Frozen pizzas grow

Frozen pizza sales are growing in both value and volume as the frozen sector sees a third quarter of growth, according to the British Frozen Food Federation. The value of frozen food was up 3.6% (Kantar Worldpanel data to w/e 4 September 2011) on this time last year.

Starbucks’ new line

Starbucks has launched a new range of bread-free lunch options in a bid to broaden its food offering, while meeting consumer demand. The Bistro Boxes all come in at under 500 calories and include chicken and rice noodle, cured ham hock and cheese and oatcake.