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Tong Garden unveils fresh new looks and exciting flavours, expands into spreads

Image credit: Tong Garden Malaysia

Tong Garden has refreshed the look of its Cheezy Pizza Cashew Nuts Mixed with Almonds in Malaysia, giving it a sleek and modern makeover. The snack now boasts a spicier kick and an even more delicious taste. Additionally, other products in the range, such as Tong Garden Oven Roasted Almonds with Dried Cranberries, have also been repackaged for a fresh new appeal.

The snack company also offers the new NOI Seaweed Rice Crisps in a variety of flavours, including salted egg, tom yum, wasabi and spicy.

In an expansion into the spread category, Tong Garden has unveiled its latest Tong Garden Crunchy Almond Spread (170g) and Crunchy Macadamia Spread (160g) made with over 95% premium roasted macadamias.

Key takeaways: expand into the spread segment

 

The Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce (TICC) Launched the Campaign “European Tomato, A Red Passion” in Bangkok

28 May 2025 – This week, the Thai-Italian Chamber of Commerce (TICC), in collaboration with OI Pomodoro Centro Sud Italia, hosted the official launch of “European Tomato, A Red Passion”, a strategic EU campaign dedicated to promoting the excellence of processed European tomatoes across Southeast Asia.

“European Tomato, A Red Passion” is a targeted initiative addressing trade and consumer audiences across Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, with strategic activations concentrated in Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore City. The campaign underscores the role of EU tomatoes as a competitive and sustainable product on par with fresh tomatoes and aims to strengthen their positioning in the Southeast Asian market.

The campaign’s promotional framework will include a coordinated mix of online and offline actions, ranging from public relations and media engagement to in-store tastings, cooking shows, and digital communication across multiple social platforms (Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, TikTok).

This launch signals a significant step toward increasing awareness of the quality, traceability, safety, nutritional value, and culinary versatility of EU-processed tomatoes.

To learn more about TICC and upcoming events, visit the website: https://www.thaitch.org/

Transforming food loss into essential nutrition SIG Foundation expands “Cartons for Good” initiative to Thailand

28 May 2025 – Following the success of its pilot project in Bangladesh, the SIG Foundation is proud to announce the expansion of its flagship “Cartons for Good” initiative to Thailand. In collaboration with Ampol Food, a leading food and beverage innovator in Thailand, the project is using SIG’s filling technology to transform surplus mangoes and longkong into nutritious pudding for elderly people in need.

The “Cartons for Good” initiative addresses two critical global challenges: the alarming loss of approximately one-third1 of all the food intended for human consumption, and the persistent issue of malnutrition, which affects nearly 733 million people worldwide2. Thailand is facing a further problem: According to a report of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), published in January 2024, the earnings of 34% of seniors in Thailand were below the poverty line3 with an increasing percentage suffering from severe dental problems4. A soft and thick fruit pudding provides an easy-to-consume, nutrient-rich diet and prevents choking risks for individuals with oral health challenges.

“This partnership with Ampol Food is a milestone in the Cartons for Good journey,” said Holger Dickers, Managing Director of SIG Foundation. “For the first time, one of SIG’s customers is leveraging our technology to process surplus fruit directly in their existing facility. Together, we are reducing food loss, fighting malnutrition, and providing a sustainable, scalable model for communities in need.”

The program in Thailand aims to process approximately 15 tons of surplus fruit into mango and longkong pudding in its first year – all to be filled in 288,000 carton packs. Distributed through the extensive network of Village Health Volunteers (VHVs), the project will reach 1,000 households daily, providing vital nourishment to the elderly. After use, emptied carton packs will be collected and recycled by Eco-Friendly Thailand, a key partner specializing in beverage carton recycling, to ensure a circular approach to packaging.

The Nutri-Care mango pudding was recently named one of the Top 50 finalists in the tasteInnovation “Sustainability” category at THAIFEX-ANUGA ASIA 2025, selected from nearly 800 submissions. This annual trade show spotlights the region’s most forward-thinking food and beverage innovations. The recognition highlights the pudding’s inventive upcycling of surplus fruit, its meaningful benefits for local communities, and the scalable approach of the Cartons for Good initiative.

All partner contributions flow into the initiative as donations. This also applies to the paperboard for the packs, which is donated by Stora Enso.

“We are proud to join forces with SIG and the SIG Foundation on this impactful initiative,” said Dr. Kriangsak Theppadungporn, Managing Director at Ampol Food. “This significant collaboration brings together the expertise and capabilities of Ampol Food, SIG, and the Institute of Nutrition, Mahidol University in the fields of food innovation, packaging, and nutrition to deliver a pudding product for individuals facing malnutrition. Additionally, it supports fruit growers by transforming surplus seasonal fruits into valuable nutrition. By doing so, we are not only reducing food loss but also addressing the urgent health needs of vulnerable communities in Thailand.”

“We want to go beyond simply reducing food loss,” added Vatcharapong Ungsrisawasdi, Head of Market Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar at SIG. “This project aligns with SIG’s global commitments to improve access to nutrition and cutting food waste and to accelerate innovation on circularity for packaging. Together with our partners, our aim is to create lasting impact for people and the planet.”

New from HOTTA: convenient ginger cider vinegar shots for a quick boost

Image credit: Minimeinsights.com

New Concept Product, the Thai company behind HOTTA ginger tea, has introduced its latest product concept at THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2025. Renowned for its powdered ginger beverages, HOTTA has previously launched HOTTA Fusion, a ready-to-drink version aimed at appealing to younger consumers.

The featured product is a 50ml ginger cider vinegar shot, blending the company’s expertise in ginger with the trending ingredient cider vinegar. Designed for convenience, this shot format offers consumers a quick and effortless way to enjoy the benefits of both ingredients in a single serving. To balance the vinegar’s tartness, the company has introduced two flavour options: refreshing mint and rich Manuka honey.

Visit New Concept Product’s booth at THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2025 at Impact Challenger Hall 1 QQ-43.

Key takeaways: cider vinegar shot

ChaTraMue unveils sparkling kombucha and more at THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2025

At THAIFEX-Anuga Asia 2025, ChaTraMue, renowned for its Thai tea, unveiled its latest creation: Sparkling Kombucha Lemon Thai Tea. This marks the brand’s entry into the better-for-you kombucha segment, seamlessly blending its expertise in tea with the growing demand for gut-health-friendly beverages.

ChaTraMue embraces the matcha trend with its Nishio Matcha Green Tea, crafted from high-quality Japanese matcha. The brand also introduces a convenient 3-in-1 selection featuring Peach Tea, Cocoa, Matcha Green Tea Latte and Earl Grey Milk Tea, catering to diverse tastes.

Additionally, the new Thai Tea Powder offers both businesses and home users an easy way to incorporate authentic Thai tea into their culinary and beverage creations.

In foodservice, ChaTraMue has introduced its newest offering: a kale tea drink designed for health-conscious consumers. With kale gaining popularity as a nutrient-rich superfood, this innovative beverage aligns with the growing demand for wellness-focused drinks, providing a refreshing and wholesome option.

Check out ChaTraMue’s booth at Challenger Hall 1 No. QQ45

ChaTraMue has previously introduced Thai Tea capsules designed for Nespresso machines, allowing the brand to seamlessly integrate into consumers’ daily routines.

Key takeaways: kombucha and convenience

 

MR.DIY Celebrates 20th Anniversary with a Star-Studded Concert Celebration at Stadium Merdeka

MR.DIY is turning 20 — and they’re celebrating with the most star-studded live concert in town! To mark its 20th anniversary, MR.DIY is hosting a massive concert on Friday, 11 July 2025, at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur. It’s set to be a once-in-a-lifetime night of music, celebration, and unforgettable memories.

Starting from 31 May 2025, customers will need to spend RM40 or more at any MR.DIY outlets nationwide to stand a chance to redeem two (2) free concert tickets. They can access the form to redeem by scanning the QR code on the official posters in-store or visit their website. Quantities of tickets are limited to the first 3,000 eligible redemptions — so you’ll want to act fast before they’re gone! 

This concert will bring together a legendary lineup of artists across languages and genres. From Mandarin pop queen Penny Tai, to legendary icons Ella, Awie, and Amy Search, to vocal powerhouses like Jaclyn Victor and Shila Amzah, plus new-gen stars Lee Pei Ling and the explosive trio 3P — this is the kind of artist lineup fans can only dream of. And they’ll all be performing live, on one stage, for one night only!

But this event isn’t just about the live concert. The concert will feature a full-on festival atmosphere with dazzling laser light displays, a breathtaking fireworks show, tons of food and drinks, eye-catching photo ops for your IG feed, exciting lucky draws, and non-stop fun from the moment gates open. Every corner of Stadium Merdeka will be buzzing with energy and excitement.

For full details, visit mrdiy.com/concert2025 and be sure to follow MR.DIY on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates. 

MR.DIY 20th Anniversary Concert

Date: Friday, 11 July 2025

Time: 5:30 PM onwards

Venue: Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur
Redemption Start : 31 May 2025

#MRDIY #MRDIY20Years #MRDIYAnniversaryConcert #MRDIYConcert2025 #Shop&Redeem

lululemon’s First Store in Singapore’s West is Now Open at Jem

Four new locations—including the brand’s first store in the west—invite guests
into lululemon’s world of movement, wellness, and community.

SINGAPORE, MAY 9, 2025 — This season marks an exciting chapter for lululemon in Singapore, as the brand deepens its connection with the local community through a series of impactful retail moments. With four new stores set to open — including the travel-friendly space at Changi Airport Terminal 1 which opened this week, the brand’s first location in the west at Jem, a relocation within Marina Bay Sands, and a new store concept debuting at Ngee Ann City — lululemon continues to bring its vision of movement, mindfulness, and community to life across the island. These openings reflect lululemon’s ongoing commitment to supporting guests in every aspect of their active lifestyles, whether they’re commuting, exploring, or simply carving out space for personal well-being.

lululemon has landed at Changi Airport Terminal 1

lululemon has now landed at Changi Airport Terminal 1 departure/transit lounge, creating a space where the energy of global travel meets the serenity of personal well-being. The store’s design draws inspiration from the fluidity of movement and the precision of athletic
performance, fostering a sense of familiarity and connection.

The storefront features a playful yet sophisticated pattern of lighted tech fabric dots across dark grey metal cladding, blending contemporary design with athletic functionality. This technical motif celebrates our advanced fabric innovation and movement philosophy that translates into strength across all aspects of life. A sustainable wooden portal frames the entrance and integration of sustainable materials for in-store signages echoes our commitment to environmental responsibility.

Inside, guests are welcomed into a meticulously crafted environment that reflects lululemon’s core values. The design combines technology with natural materials, creating a space that is not only visually inviting and tactilely rich, but also rooted in sustainability, reinforcing the brand’s mindful approach to innovation.

A dedicated fitting area enhances the guest experience, integrating bamboo materials to elevate both aesthetic and sustainability standards. This thoughtful use of natural elements reflects lululemon’s global design ethos and local culture while providing an intimate shopping experience for the guests.

At this new store, shoppers can grab a piece of the Back To Life Sport Bottle in two exclusive designs. From now till 18 May, guests can enjoy a series of special perks:

  • Receive a Reset and Unwind Kit which includes a hand sanitiser, hand lotion, essential oil, and a stretch guide card, with a spend of $350 — limited to the first 30 shoppers daily, while stocks last.
  • Snap a photo in-store, tag @lululemonsoutheastasia, and receive a sticker pack, while supplies last.

lululemon opens its first store in the West at Jem on 22 May 2025

lululemon will open its first-ever store in the west of Singapore at Jem on 22 May. Spanning 3,143 square feet, this location represents a major milestone in the brand’s local journey, bringing lululemon closer to even more Singaporeans and empowering guests in the west to live their active lives with purpose.

The design of lululemon Jem blends natural textures and refined simplicity to create a calm yet energising retail experience. A palette of warm wood, soft stone, and muted grey tones is paired with clean metal accents, reflecting the brand’s balance between performance and mindfulness. With a presence that is both welcoming and empowering, the storefront reflects lululemon’s ethos — creating a gateway to a space centered on movement, wellness, and connection.

A striking centre column, adorned with warm wooden fins and a custom carpet artwork, draws inspiration from the beloved Jurong Bird Park, honouring Singapore’s natural beauty and the community spirit it embodies. Residents of the west can now enjoy convenient access to lululemon’s high-quality apparel for yoga, running, training, and everyday performance.

To celebrate this opening, join our community every Sunday in May for a lululemon run at Jem— starting at 7:30am on 11, 18, and 25 May. Lace up, show up, and run with us! Sign up here: https://t.me/+ZX9n94Jys65lNzY1

lululemon Marina Bay Sands Store Relocation on 7 June 2025

lululemon will be relocating its Marina Bay Sands store to a new location within the mall on 7 June. The store will continue to deliver lululemon’s full product offering and brand experience, ensuring guests remain supported in their active pursuits in one of Singapore’s most iconic retail destinations.

lululemon to Launch First Southeast Asia Store with Integrated Studio Concept at Ngee Ann City, Opening July 2025

lululemon is set to unveil a groundbreaking new store concept at Ngee Ann City in July 2025 — the brand’s first in Southeast Asia to feature an integrated studio concept. Located in the heart of Orchard Road, this flagship location marks a new chapter in the brand’s commitment to community, combining retail and movement in an immersive, multi-sensory environment. The studio is created in partnership with Betty, co-founder of Within, whose deep connection to the brand and focus on mental well-being brings a meaningful layer to the guest experience. Designed to spark joy through movement and reflection, the space brings lululemon’s signature product offerings and curated studio classes together, creating a seamless and convenient experience for shoppers. More details will be shared in the months ahead.

Check out lululemon’s newest stores and experience the brand’s world of movement, wellness, and community like never before. lululemon invites everyone to explore these new destinations and, above all, to embrace the brand ethos: to Live Like You Are Alive.

 

Soak Up the School Holiday Spirit at NEX with Bluey’s Beach Party this June!

From 30 May to 29 June, suit up for a sunny good time at the mall with beach-themed adventures, meet-and-greet sessions with Bluey and Bingo, colouring activities and more!

Singapore, 28 May 2025 –– “Is this for real life?!” This June, the beloved Australian Blue Heeler puppy Bluey and her sister Bingo are bringing their beachside adventures to NEX for the school holidays! From 30 May to 29 June, Bluey’s Beach Party promises a host of engaging activities and exclusive rewards to make this holiday season extra special for kids and parents alike.

From thrilling play experiences to hands-on workshops, Bluey’s Beach Party at NEX Atrium, Level 1, is the ultimate destination for a family outing. Young adventurers can leap into action on Singapore’s first and largest Bluey-themed inflatable bouncy castle, engage their creative side in workshops like windchime making and paper plate drum crafting, and enjoy daily free Bluey colouring sheets at the Atrium.

Grab Your Play Pass for Bluey’s Beach Party

Get ready for a bouncy good time! From 2 to 15 June, with a minimum spend of $50 in a single transaction, redeem a Bluey Play Pass for kids to enjoy 30 minutes of uninterrupted fun on the Bluey-themed bouncy castle with the Bluey Play Pass.

Play passes are limited to 150 redemptions daily and must be booked two hours before each session. Don’t miss this chance to let your little ones bounce into a world of Bluey-inspired excitement!

Get Hands-On with Creative Workshops and a Colouring Activity

Ignite young minds and spark their imagination with hands-on Bluey-inspired workshops* such as a Windchime Workshop, which will take place on 7 and 8 June, while a Paper Plate Drum Workshop follows on 14 and 15 June. Both workshops run from 2pm to 5pm and are open to the first 40 redemptions daily. Each redemption requires a minimum spend of $50 in a single transaction at NEX.

What’s more, kids can express their creativity with free Bluey colouring sheets, available at the Atrium. Let them bring their favourite Bluey characters to life with their own artistic touch. Colouring sheets are limited, so come early to secure one!

*Terms and conditions apply.

Meet and Greet Sessions with Bluey and Bingo

On 7 and 8 June, grab your chance to meet Bluey and Bingo at three Meet and Greet sessions at 1pm, 4pm, and 7pm. To participate, simply redeem a Photo Pass* with a $50 minimum spend in a single transaction. Each pass admits a family of up to five and is limited to 30 redemptions per session.

Photo Pass redemption is available one hour before each session at the NEX Customer Service Counter, Level 1 (near Isetan). Capture unforgettable moments with Bluey and Bingo and make this school holiday truly special.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Shop and Earn with Bluey’s Beach Bash Rewards

Shoppers are in for a treat with Bluey’s Beach Bash rewards! NEXrewards members can enjoy additional benefits, including a $10 eNEX voucher with a qualifying spend of $150 or $250*.

These exclusive offers provide more reasons to shop and play at NEX. Redemptions are limited to the first 750 per week and are credited directly to the NEXrewards app.

*Including transactions from Supermarkets, Beauty/Wellness services and Education/Enrichment stores.

Events and Promotions Summary

Date/Time

Events and Promotions

2 – 15 June

  • 11am – 12pm
  • 12pm – 1pm
  • 1pm – 2pm
  • 2pm – 3pm
  • 3pm – 4pm
  • 4pm – 5pm
  • 5pm – 6pm
  • 6pm – 7pm
  • 7pm – 8pm
  • 8pm – 9pm

Bluey’s Beach Party

Redeem a 30-minute Bluey Play Pass when you scan your

NEXrewards member QR with a minimum spend of $50 in a single transaction.

Each Bluey Play Pass admits 1 child with a height limit between 90cm and 150cm tall.

*Bluey’s Beach Party will be closed for a private event on 02 Jun 2025, 6pm to 9pm.

  • Limited to the first 150 redemptions daily.
  • Maximum 2 redemptions per NEXrewards member per day.
  • Bluey Play Pass redemption starts from 10.30am at Atrium, Level 1.
  • Booking starts 2 hours before each session. Limited to 15 participants per session.
  • Transaction is valid for one-time use only and cannot be reused for Bluey & Bingo Photo Pass and Bluey Workshops redemptions.

7 – 8 June

  • 1pm
  • 4pm
  • 7pm

Bluey & Bingo Meet & Greet

Redeem a Photo Pass when you scan your NEXrewards member QR with a minimum spend of $50 in a single transaction.

Each pass admits a family of 5 only.

  • Limited to the first 30 redemptions per session.
  • Maximum 2 redemptions per NEXrewards member per day.
  • Bluey & Bingo Photo Pass redemption is only available 1 hour before each session at NEX Customer Service Counter, Level 1 (near Isetan).
  • Transaction is valid for one-time use only and cannot be reused for Bluey Play Pass and Bluey Workshops redemptions.

7 – 8 June

2pm – 5pm

Windchime & Paper Plate Drum Workshops

Redeem a Bluey Workshop Pass when you scan your NEXrewards member QR with a minimum spend of $50 in a single transaction.

  • Limited to the first 40 redemptions per day.
  • Maximum 2 redemptions per NEXrewards member per day.
  • Workshop Pass redemption starts from 2pm at Atrium, Level 1. Strictly while stocks last.
  • Transaction is valid for one-time use only and cannot be reused for Bluey Play Pass and Bluey & Bingo Photo Pass redemptions.

2 – 15 June

11am –9pm

Bluey Colouring Activity

Grab a free Bluey colouring sheet and let your creativity run wild!

  • Get your colouring sheet at Atrium, Level 1.
  • Limited quantity colouring sheets available daily. Strictly while stocks last.

Week 1: 30 May – 5 June

Week 2: 6 – 12 June

Week 3: 13 – 19 June

Week 4: 20 – 29 June

Bluey’s Beach Bash Reward

Receive a $10 eNEXvoucher when you spend a minimum of $150/$250* and scan your NEXrewards member QR at participating stores.

*Includes transactions from Supermarkets, Beauty/Wellness Services and Education/Enrichment stores.

  • Maximum 3 combined same-day transactions. Each transaction must be $20 or more.
  • Limited to the first 750 redemptions per week. Strictly while stocks last.
  • Limited to 1 redemption per member per week.
  • eNEXvoucher will be auto-credited into your NEXrewards app Wallet.

Make sure to head down to NEX from 30 May to 29 June 2025 to have a fun-filled adventure! Visit NEX’s website and Facebook for more information about Bluey’s Beach Party at NEX.

Betagro accelerates its global expansion, showcasing innovative food portfolio and integrated solutions for food professionals worldwide, with an export growth target of 15-20%

Dr Oliver Gottschall, Chief Operating Officer, Food Business at Betagro

Bangkok – 28 May 2025 – Betagro Public Company Limited (BTG), a leading integrated food company in Thailand, is ramping up the international expansion strategy with a move to strengthen its global business network with an aim to enhance brand awareness worldwide while introducing innovative food products that cater to modern culinary trends. The company positions itself as a strategic partner by offering comprehensive product and service solutions to empower restaurant operators and deliver better food to consumers globally. 

Dr Oliver Gottschall, Chief Operating Officer, Food Business at Betagro said: This year, our export strategy is shifting towards offering integrated processed food solutions for clients in retail, hospitality, and food & beverage sectors — including hotels, restaurants, and airlines. Driving brand awareness and fostering sustainable brand growth through high-quality and safety food products will build trust among food professionals and consumers and will be instrumental in efficiently advancing our international expansion strategy.

“We continue to expand our exports in key markets such as Japan, UK, EU, and Singapore, while actively exploring new opportunities in high-potential regions beyond Asia like South Africa, and Mauritius. The overall export market is expected to grow steadily, driven by a rising global demand for fresh food and innovative food solutions. We target our export growth of 15-20% this year,” Dr Oliver said.

Meanwhile, we see significant growth potential in the domestic food market by capitalizing on emerging food trends that resonate with today’s health-conscious consumers, and leveraging our expertise in food innovation, we are able to develop a diverse product range that swiftly meets evolving consumer needs. Our local food sales delivered a robust growth of over 10% in the first quarter of this year, and we expect to build on this momentum over the next few years, he added.

As part of its expansion, Betagro is rolling out new product lines in previously untapped categories. These include:

  • La Comida, a premium ready-to-eat charcuterie brand targeting fans of European cuisine;
  • INSPIRE:D, a health-focused brand offering nutritionally balanced meals, co-developed with experts from Siriraj Vittayavijai Co., Ltd;
  • Arnie’s, a protein-rich snack brand, aimed at a new generation of health-conscious consumers; and
  • BETAGRO Professional, a brand offering high-quality raw materials in bulk packaging for the foodservice industry, alongside integrated restaurant solutions for food industry professionals.

Furthermore, the global recognition of Betagro’s products is a source of pride, showcasing their exceptional quality, taste, and innovation, backed by international certifications. Betagro’s sausage products, including Smoke Vienner Sausage, Baby Cocktail, Duo Cheese Sausage, and Pork Bacon earned gold medals, while Pork Ham and Balogna received silver medals at IFFA 2025, the world’s leading trade fair dedicated to technology for meat and alternative proteins, in Germany. In addition, Meatly’s plant-based BBQ bun wins Best Taste award from Alternative Protein Taste & Flavour Challenge at THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2025.

Betagro is also set to showcase its latest food innovations and one-stop food business solutions at Asia’s leading food & beverage trade show, THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2025. The event will run from May 27–31 at IMPACT Muang Thong Thani, featuring a full lineup of its products and services designed to meet the needs of both food business operators and consumers.

New from Sin Sing Coffee: Hi5ber blend with Fibersol-2

Sin Sing Coffee from Malaysia has introduced its latest creation, Hi5ber Coffee, featuring Fibersol-2. This energizing blend not only boosts vitality but also promotes healthy digestion. Crafted with microground coffee and pink rock salt, it is free from cholesterol and trans fat, offering coffee lovers with a functional option.

Hi5ber Coffee is available in Black White Coffee (5-in-1) and White Coffee (4-in-1).

Shopee: https://shopee.com.my/sinsingcoffee

Key takeaways: fibre-rich coffee

 

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