Natural Balance Foods is expanding its nakd brand this April, with the addition of two ranges joining its popular portfolio of wheat, gluten, dairy free and vegan snack bars.
A first for the brand, nakd Protein Bars will be on shelf this spring to meet demands for functional health products, and target on-the-go occasions, while nakd Big Bars will roll out to target those shoppers looking for a larger snack to help re-fuel whilst on the move.
Protein variants added £25m to the UK snack bar market in 2022 and this is only expected to grow, by an estimated 6.2 per cent between 2022 and 2028. Nakd Protein Bars not only provide an unprocessed protein offering that is HFSS compliant, but they are also the only raw protein bars in the fast-growing segment.
With 56 per cent of consumers influenced by product ingredients, the protein bars offer the same great taste consumers know and love, with the added benefit of protein. Available in single bars and multipack format, shoppers will be able to choose from three tempting flavours: Cocoa Hazelnut, Peanut Butter and Caramel.
"The functional health market is booming and it’s a sector that’s becoming increasingly important to shoppers, so it’s vital we meet consumer demand for tasty, yet healthy, snacks," Jo Agnew, marketing director at Natural Balance Foods, commenteed.
"40 per cent of consumers now want to structure their diets to help improve their mood, with protein content ranking high as a reason to purchase.The nakd portfolio contributes towards one of your five a day, appealing to health-conscious shoppers, and by expanding the range we’re offering retailers the chance to grow sales with even more choice from a recognisable brand.
"We’re also aiming to support category growth by attracting new shoppers with an additional benefit of protein on offer when enjoying a nakd bar."
As one of the leading brands in the better for you bars category, and with healthy snacking continuing to grow at 8.3 per cent, nakd is ideally placed to shake up snacking through tasty innovation.The second addition to its portfolio, nakd Big Bars, is set to help keep shoppers fuller for longer and will unlock increased opportunities at front of store locations, particularly within meal deals.
Available in the brand’s two best-selling flavours; Cocoa Orange and Blueberry Muffin, nakd Big Bars will be 45g, 10g more than the standard size.
Agnew continued: "With good portion size now being an important decider for choosing snacks, and bigger bar sizes driving single snack bar growth, now is the right time to increase the size of some of our bars. Our nakd Big Bars will help fuel the on the go occasion while delivering a fulfilling snack."
Both launches will be supported by nationwide social, digital and shopper activations to keep them front of mind for shoppers. Nakd Protein Bars will be available in single and multipack (3x45g) formats with an MRSP of £1.25 and £3.00 respectively. Nakd Big Bars will be available as individual bars with an MRSP of £1.25; with all packaging for both additions created with fully recyclable film.
E-liquid producer Riot Labs has launched what it calls a “supercharged” collection of new flavours for 2025.
The launch comes at a crucial moment for the vape sector, with the impending disposables ban on 1 June set to push vapers towards pods and refillable devices to help them continue their quit smoking journey.
Ben Johnson, chief executive and founder of Riot Labs, said flavour availability in the vape sector is a “massive opportunity” to support vapers who use disposables to transition to other products.
The Riot X flavour range has been developed in Riot Labs’ lab and features 12 maximum intensity flavours, which the producer claims will deliver the purest, punchiest hit of flavour on the market.
“Amid increased government regulation on the sector, we must not forget the hundreds of thousands of adult smokers who use vaping, proven to be the most effective quitting tool, as part of their quitting journey,” Johnson commented.
“In a pivotal year, choice of flavour plays a crucial role in smokers turning to vaping to help them kick the habit and it’s the perfect moment to launch Riot X to help consumers who will inevitably need to move to pods or refillables to maintain their quitting efforts.”
According to Riot Labs, its team of expert flavourists has spent years perfecting the blends of each e-liquid, testing thousands of variations to make something truly unique.
Unlike many e-liquids that simply increase sweetness — masking individual notes — Riot X offers maximum intensity with maximum clarity, allowing every layer of the flavour profile to shine through.
“It’s all about balance. Flavours are made up of different molecules, and some fade faster than others. By carefully fine-tuning these elements, we’ve created a multi-layered flavour experience that evolves with every puff. Each vape delivers a bold, true-to-name taste that feels fresh and exciting from start to finish,” Johnson explained.
“This level of flavour precision takes time, dedication, and an obsession with getting it just right—and we wouldn’t have it any other way. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve created, and we can’t wait for you to try it for yourself.”
In partnership with Riot Labs’ retailer network, a recent poll of 2,000 customers revealed 82 per cent would go back to cigarettes if vape flavours were limited to tobacco and menthol.
In a separate study, looking at the impact of flavoured vapes on smoking cessation, researchers found fruity or sweet flavoured vapes significantly helped reduce smoking amongst adults - with those using flavoured vapes 55 per cent more likely to give up in three months.
Available online and in retailers nationwide, the 12-strong range will include maximum intensity flavours: Blackcurrant & Passionfruit, Cherry Ice, Strawberry & Melon Chew, Sour Pineapple Razz, Blueberry & Peach Fizz, Orange & Raspberry Ice, Blueberry Sour Strawberry, Morello Cherry & Banana, Grape & Strawberry, Cola Ice, Sweet Mint and Dark Fruits.
Nicotine strengths of 5mg, 10mg and 20mg will be available starting from an RRP of £3.99.
Confectionery wholesaler Hancocks is set to launch new licences within the popular PEZ dispenser range.
The new licences offers retailers the chance to link up with new film launches, and maximise sales through offering popular character-driven confectionery which is sure to grab attention in stores.
Among the launches are the brand new Stitch PEZ dispensers, celebrating the upcoming Lilo & Stitch movie which is set to land in cinemas in May 2025.
Lilo & Stitch is the fastest growing Disney franchise, recently creating a viral superbowl moment with a pitch takeover trailer!
wholesale PEZ dispensers
The range offers three dispensers, two Stitch characters and one Angel dispenser.
Other spring PEZ launches include a refresh of the popular Hello Kitty licence, and a brand new Minecraft launch.
Hello Kitty celebrated her 50th birthday in 2024 and remains a beloved character, known worldwide for her presence in kids' series, comics, video games, theme parks, and various product lines.
Minecraft is the best selling video game of all time and is set to launch a live action movie in April 2025.
The PEZ range is popular among children because the refillable sweet dispensers have toy-like qualities, making them both fun and highly collectible.
”Gaining the license for Stitch allows us to expand our PEZ range, offering customers even more beloved sweet dispensers," said Kathryn Hague, Head of Marketing at Hancocks. "These fun collectibles go beyond just sweets, making them perfect for fans to cherish and display.
“Refreshing our existing lines is equally as exciting, with new designs on the way, both loyal PEZ collectors and newcomers will have fresh options to enjoy.”
Confectionery wholesaler Hancocks has launched a brand new Knockout Novelty Deal, offering retailers unmissable savings on a wide range of novelty treats.
The new novelty multi-buy deal offers retailers a chance to save 50p per case when buying ten or more across best-selling novelty brands Crazy Candy Factory, Kidsmania and Sweet Bandit.
With this deal, the more you buy, the more you save, giving retailers the opportunity to increase their purchase quantities whilst making big savings. For example, retailers purchasing 10 cases will save £5, 15 cases will save £7.50, and 20 cases £10.
Novelty is an important category for independent retailers to stock as it appeals to younger customers and helps drive sales through impulse purchases.
Retro novelty products such as popping candy or sherbet lollipops are also great for attracting nostalgia buyers who want to revisit their childhood favourites.
Hancocks is the industry leader in the novelty confectionery category, stocking a vast variety of exciting formats and flavours, from flashing lollipops and fast food-themed candy to sour gels and toy-shaped treats.
wholesale confectionery bulk buy savings
Whilst classic sweets continue to remain popular, kids are always seeking out novelty treats that are more exciting and have a play element to them.
It’s important for retailers to keep refreshing their novelty ranges with NPD lines like the new Crazy Candy Factory Paint Dripz - an all blue variation of the best-selling Paint Splash range.
It’s worth considering re-stocking around every six months to stay up to date with new novelty ranges and ensure that every time a customer looks at the shelf, it feels as though they’ve spotted something new.
Novelty products are great impulse options because they provide great value for young customers who want to use their pocket money to treat themselves. The RRPs for the products included in the novelty deal vary from 30p up to £1.49, so there is something to suit every customer.
The Knockout Novelty Deal is live from 17 February and will be an ongoing offer available on the Hancocks website and in all of the Hancocks stores across the country.
Some of the best-selling products from the Kidsmania range include Sour Flush, Whacky Monkey and Flip Phone lollipops, as well as mini cola-flavoured dextrose candy Pooplets and the Quick Blast sour spray.
Popular novelty products from Crazy Candy Factory include Jelly Bean and Mini Gum Ball Machine, Gummy Noodles and Edible Money.
Sweet Bandit stocks customer favourites such as the Wicked Dipper candy ring lollipop with sherbet dip, Ooze Tube candy syrup and Soda Razzle fizzy candy sweets.
“We’re extremely excited to welcome retailers to make the most of the Knockout Novelty Deal in our stores or online, in order to drive sales and get maximum return on investment," said Kathryn Hague, the Head of Marketing at Hancocks.
“This is a deal you can’t miss, with super savings starting from purchasing just ten cases of novelty confectionery from the popular Crazy Candy Factory, Kidsmania or Sweet Bandit ranges.
“At Hancocks, we take great pride in being the industry leader when it comes to novelty confectionery, and we’re dedicated to continuing expanding those ranges and launching NPD products to keep our novelty category fresh and interesting.
“The Knockout Deal is perfect for retailers who want to keep adding new and exciting products to their novelty displays to make them stand out and attract new customers.”
As disposable vapes are set to be banned from June 1, will nicotine pouches become the newest alternative nicotine product for consumers? Here, Markus Lindblad, a nicotine pouch expert from Northerner, explains:
“Over the last number of years, there has been strong growth in the nicotine pouch sector in the UK. A recent study by King’s College London found that pouch use in the UK doubled between 2020 and 2024. It looks like the new legislation on disposable vapes could accelerate this growth. After the ban, some disposable vape users may return to smoking, and some may quit nicotine products, but many will seek alternatives and pouches could be a good option.
“Pouches are well positioned to replace disposable vapes for several reasons. Firstly, they are low cost and convenient, similar to disposable vapes. In addition, pouches are very discreet and can be enjoyed indoors or in areas where smoking or vaping is already prohibited such as on public transport or in public buildings.
“In fact, for UK pouch users, the main benefit of pouches is their discretion which is highly valued by 66 per cent of users. 64 per cent say pouches feel more healthy than other nicotine products and 40 per cent say the main benefit is lower cost.
“Pouches can be a great way to help kick a dangerous habit. The most common reason for people to start using nicotine pouches is the user’s ambition to quit smoking. Nearly six out of ten users of nicotine pouches (56 per cent) in the UK say they started to help them to quit smoking.
“In addition to the Disposables Ban, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill will also mean significant changes for the industry overall. There will be an extension of vape free zones around public buildings such as schools and hospitals. Pouches are smoke-free products and so can still be used in vape free zones. We think many people will begin to switch to pouches as more and more vape free zones are enforced.
“Nicotine pouch customers value choice. As a retailer, you should keep an eye on trends and the latest products on the market. Retailers must also be responsible. For example, consider the packaging - does it look like it was designed with a youth audience in mind? If so, you should steer clear and stock alternatives. Similarly, with so called ‘ultra- strength pouches’ which have very high nicotine content, we recommend not stocking these and stick with pouches that meet the industry standards of a maximum of 20mg nicotine per pouch. Customers want high quality and safe products. If you can, have your products tested independently, if not, do in-depth research before stocking the shelves.”
“For retailers, the key focus should be education. Consumers that are new to pouches will need to get accurate information about the products, how to use them, and how to pick a pouch that suits their lifestyle. As retailers, we have a responsibility to educate our customers to help them to understand pouches. This process should start now.
Confectionery wholesaler Hancocks has launched a brand new Knockout Novelty Deal, offering retailers savings on a wide range of novelty treats.
The new novelty multi-buy deal offers retailers a chance to save 50p per case when buying ten or more across best-selling novelty brands Crazy Candy Factory, Kidsmania and Sweet Bandit.
With this deal, the more you buy, the more you save, giving retailers the opportunity to increase their purchase quantities whilst making big savings. For example, retailers purchasing 10 cases will save £5, 15 cases will save £7.50, and 20 cases £10.
Novelty is an important category for independent retailers to stock as it appeals to younger customers and helps drive sales through impulse purchases.
Retro novelty products such aspopping candy or sherbet lollipops are also great for attracting nostalgia buyers who want to revisit their childhood favourites.
Hancocks is the industry leader in the novelty confectionery category, stocking a vast variety of exciting formats and flavours, from flashing lollipops and fast food-themed candy to sour gels and toy-shaped treats.
Whilst classic sweets continue to remain popular, kids are always seeking out novelty treats that are more exciting and have a play element to them.
It’s important for retailers to keep refreshing their novelty ranges with NPD lines like the new Crazy Candy Factory Paint Dripz - an all blue variation of the best-selling Paint Splash range.
Best-selling bulk candy deals for retailers
It’s worth considering re-stocking around every six months to stay up to date with new novelty ranges and ensure that every time a customer looks at the shelf, it feels as though they’ve spotted something new.
Novelty products are great impulse options because they provide great value for young customers who want to use their pocket money to treat themselves. The RRPs for the products included in the novelty deal vary from 30p up to £1.49, so there is something to suit every customer.
The Knockout Novelty Deal is live from 17 February and will be an ongoing offer available on the Hancocks website and in all of the Hancocks stores across the country.
Some of the best-selling products from the Kidsmania range include Sour Flush, Whacky Monkey and Flip Phone lollipops, as well as mini cola-flavoured dextrose candy Pooplets and the Quick Blast sour spray.
Popular novelty products from Crazy Candy Factory include Jelly Bean and Mini Gum Ball Machine, Gummy Noodles and Edible Money.
Sweet Bandit stocks customer favourites such as the Wicked Dipper candy ring lollipop with sherbet dip, Ooze Tube candy syrup and Soda Razzle fizzy candy sweets.
“We’re extremely excited to welcome retailers to make the most of the Knockout Novelty Deal in our stores or online, in order to drive sales and get maximum return on investment," said Kathryn Hague, the Head of Marketing at Hancocks.
“This is a deal you can’t miss, with super savings starting from purchasing just ten cases of novelty confectionery from the popular Crazy Candy Factory, Kidsmania or Sweet Bandit ranges.
“At Hancocks, we take great pride in being the industry leader when it comes to novelty confectionery, and we’re dedicated to continuing expanding those ranges and launching NPD products to keep our novelty category fresh and interesting.
“The Knockout Deal is perfect for retailers who want to keep adding new and exciting products to their novelty displays to make them stand out and attract new customers.”