General Beverage Co Ltd, a leading Thai drinks maker, has clarified on its if溢福 brand‘s Chinese Weibo account that it does not produce or sell any alcoholic beverages in China. While the company did not explicitly state the reason for the announcement, it appears that a Chinese company has launched alcoholic drinks using the “IF” brand.
Image credit: Minimeinsights.com
The IF branded alcoholic drink (Coconut Fresh Wine, Lemon Fresh Wine, and Cherry Fresh Wine) utilises a logo similar to General Beverage’s IF brand, potentially causing consumer confusion. In China, General Beverage sells only juices, tea drinks, oat milk and foods under the if溢福 brand.
The festive lineup introduces revitalising coffee capsules, indulgent recipes, and auspicious accessories to honour traditions
KUALA LUMPUR, 9 JAN 2025 – Nespresso welcomes the Lunar New Year (LNY) with Unforgettable Taste for New Beginnings, a campaign that draws inspiration from the artistry of the traditional lucky knot and the symbolism of the Year of the Wood Snake. The lucky knot takes centre stage in the campaign’s imagery and collection designs, symbolising wisdom, connection, and renewal. From intricate motifs woven into refined visuals to exquisitely crafted coffee recipes and thoughtfully designed accessories, the collection embodies the season’s spirit of prosperity and new beginnings with Nespresso’s signature sophistication.
At the heart of the collection is a new limited-edition Vertuo Ginseng Delight, a smooth yet invigorating coffee crafted to awaken the senses and embodies vitality. This double espresso blend is enhanced with the gentle sweetness of caramel and the delicate complexity of ginseng extract, offering a revitalising and versatile character. Perfect for moments of quiet reflection or joyful reunions, this hero coffee captures the spirit of the LNY with its balance of flavour and symbolism.
Discover the Ginseng Delight in the Vertuo Discovery Assortment (RM260.50), a 6-sleeve selection featuring Altissio, Colombia, Melozio, Peanut & Roasted Sesame Flavour and Almond Croissant Flavour coffees, offering a variety of flavours to suit every palate. For those using Original machines, the 8-sleeve Original Discovery Assortment (RM239) features Arpeggio, Napoli, Volluto, Shanghai Lungo, Istanbul Espresso, Venezia, and festive blends like Peanut & Roasted Sesame Flavour and Almond Croissant Flavour. These curated packs promise a diverse and indulgent coffee experience, perfect for gatherings and gifting this LNY.
The LNY collection also features a selection of accessories and rewards infused with cultural charm and thoughtful design. Vibrant LNY red packets adorned with the Nespresso snake lucky knot motif, alongside the limited-edition LNY Lume Gran Lungo Mugs (RM128) and LNY Foldable Tote Bag (available as a gift with purchase), add a touch of elegance and practicality to the festivities.
For a truly elevated coffee ritual, Nespresso offers two exclusive gifting boxes. The Original LNY Gifting Box (RM186) includes the limited-edition mug set, a Cappuccino Kit featuring a cocoa shaker and stencil set, red packets, and two beloved blends: Shanghai Lungo and Napoli. For coffee enthusiasts using Vertuo machines, the Vertuo LNY Gifting Box (RM210.50) features the limited-edition mug set, the Cappuccino Kit with a cocoa shaker and stencil set, red packets, the Ginseng Delight, and Melozio coffees. These curated sets beautifully combine tradition, style, and exceptional flavours, making them ideal for gifting or enhancing personal celebrations.
Complete your festive coffee experience with exclusive machine offers. The sleek Essenza Mini & Aeroccino 3 Milk Frother Bundle and the vibrant Vertuo Pop Spicy Red machine combine design and functionality for café-quality brewing at home. Priced at 28% off, these offers and so much more are available for a limited time, making this the perfect moment to start a new coffee ritual and celebrate the richness of LNY with Nespresso.
Celebrate with Indulgent Recipes
The Unforgettable Taste for New Beginnings campaign brings curated coffee blends to life with exclusive recipes that marry modern flavours and traditional symbolism.
Spring Garden
Spring Garden, with its caramel macchiato base, showcases the floral and fruity elegance of Ginseng Delight. Infused with milk, rose petals, and dried cranberries, this recipe reflects the themes of renewal and prosperity central to Lunar New Year celebrations.
Double Vigor
Double Vigour combines bright citrus notes from orange and apple with the smooth, full-bodied character of Vertuo’s Stormio Go. Enhanced by the sweetness of longan honey, this vibrant recipe symbolises peace, success, and sweetness for the year ahead. In Mandarin, the word for apple, “ping guo” (蘋), is a homophone for “ping” (平), meaning peace and safety, while “chéng” (橙), the word for orange, mirrors “chéng” (成), symbolising success. Each recipe is easy to recreate at home and is available at nespresso.com/lunar-new-year.
The Nespresso’s Unforgettable Taste for New Beginnings Collection launches online and in Nespresso boutiques from 8 Jan 2025 and will be available for a limited time.
For more information, please visit http://www.nespresso.com/my, or follow our social media pages on Instagram @nespresso, and Facebook @Nespresso.my. Our toll-free Customer Careline at 1800 80 7001 also operates every day from 08:00 to 22:00.
Brand ambassadors at the Rolls of Gold and Fortune photo booth, showcasing the range of Julie’s Love Letters and free gifts up for grabs.
Join this Chinese New Year roadshow at Sunway Velocity from now until 12 January, exciting activities and gifts awaits!
Kuala Lumpur, 9 January 2025 – Julie’s annual Chinese New Year roadshow slithers back for its third year, celebrating the Year of the Snake with festive joy and cheer! The five-day roadshow called the Love and Joy Carnival will take place from 8 to 12 January at V Boulevard, Sunway Velocity Mall. Running from 10am to 10pm, it offers visitors plenty of time to shop for Chinese New Year treats and get a head start on their festive preparations.
The not to be missed the limited edition Love Letters Mocha exclusively created for this Chinese New Year celebration!
Highlighting the carnival is the new Julie’s Love Letters flavour—the limited-edition Mocha, created exclusively for this festive season. The Love Letters Mocha perfectly blends the taste of roasted coffee beans with rich velvety chocolate combined with the crunchy wafer roll. This is a treat you would want to savour and share with family and friends!
“Love Letters have always been more than just a festive snack—they hold a special place in the hearts of many, symbolising warmth, togetherness, and cherished memories during Chinese New Year. At Julie’s Biscuits, we are proud to continue this tradition with our Love and Joy Carnival, a celebration designed to bring families closer while embracing the joy of the season. This year, we are thrilled to unveil our limited-edition Love Letters Mocha, offering a delightful twist on a classic favourite. It’s our hope that this event becomes a memorable way for families to connect, relive fond moments, and share the love and joy of these iconic treats with the next generation,” shares Tzy Horng Sai, Director of Julie’s Biscuits.
Visitors at the Love and Joy Carnival can look forward to a host of fun-filled activities designed to create lasting memories for all. Multiple photo booths including the Huat Air Balloons booth, featuring colourful hot air balloons and the Rolls of Gold and Fortune booth, showcasing a gold ingot, symbolising prosperity is available for picture-perfect moments with loved ones. Families with young children can enjoy getting creative at the free colouring booth, while everyone can join in the excitement of a friendly game of tic-tac-toe.
Exciting gifts with purchases await, only at Julies Love & Joy Carnival.
For those hoping to purchase some Julie’s goodies are in for a treat as the brand has prepared exclusive gifts with purchases, available only at the event. Shoppers can get their hands on the stylish multipurpose Huat-Huat Porter, perfect for gifting, shopping, storage, or even as a pet carrier. For every RM100 spent at the event, shoppers will receive one bag. Additionally, those who purchase four tubs of Love Letters in any flavour will receive the Julie’s Fortune Glassware, perfect for storing leftover food during the celebrations.
In the spirit of celebration, Julie’s is also giving away plenty of other gifts to anyone who makes at least one purchase at the event. Customers get to take home freebies like Love Letters samples and exclusively designed angpao packets. To top it all off, shoppers will also receive a special bookmark inscribed with blessings to welcome a prosperous and joyful Chinese New Year.
Alongside the iconic Love Letters Wafer Roll, visitors at the roadshow can discover the brand’s Love Letters Wafer Cubes in irresistible Chocolate Hazelnut and Peanut Butter flavours. These bite-sized delights come in convenient resealable zipper bags, making them perfect for sharing with guests or enjoying on the go.
So, what are you waiting for? Kickstart your festive planning, grab exciting deals at the carnival, and bring your family and friends along for the fun! The Julie’s Love Letters range also includes the three classic flavours such as chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla. All the Love Letters flavours including the Love Letters Mocha are available for purchase online from Julie’s official flagship store on Shopee and Lazada.
For in-store purchases, visit your nearest neighbourhood convenience stores or hypermarkets. To get continuous updates on Julie’s latest promotions, contests, and activities, visit our website or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/JuliesBiscuits and Instagram at www.instagram.com/juliesbiscuits.
Hosted in Thailand, the epicentre of Asia’s booming HoReCa sector – this year’s trade show unveils world-class innovations to tackle global challenges for sustainable growth.
Highlights include:
THAIFEX – HOREC Asia 2025 is expected to receive 20,000+ trade visitors and host up to 500 top buyers from Asia for dealmaking in Southeast Asia
Thailand is a regional powerhouse and strategic hub for hospitality with a market size that is projected to grow from 1.4 billion USD to 1.9 billion USD by 2029
THAIFEX – HOREC Xperiential Zone will preview product innovations that are transforming Southeast Asia’s landscape, alongside live workshops and culinary demonstrations for trade visitors
9 January 2025, Bangkok, Thailand — THAIFEX – HOREC Asia 2025, one of the most influential hotel, restaurant and catering (HoReCa) gatherings in Southeast Asia, is set to take place from 5 – 7 March 2025 at IMPACT, Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, Thailand. Organised by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, Thailand, the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and Koelnmesse, the event will bring the region’s biggest players to showcase the latest innovations shaping the future of the industry.
Forging Partnerships & Dealmaking
The event will feature 400+ brands from over 23 countries and regions, drawing 20,000+ global trade visitors. It’s a prime platform for networking with industry leaders, emerging players and key decision-makers. Visitors can also access industry conferences comprising of panel discussions by global thought-leaders at the THAIFEX – HOREC Academy, and join networking opportunities through a specially-invited buyers programme, set to host up to 500 top buyers for dealmaking in Southeast Asia.
The programme has seen promising results from the inaugural THAIFEX – HOREC Asia last year which attracted the largest congregation of more than 390 buyers invited from 24 countries and regions, with the total trade value estimated to be more than 100 million USD.
Asia: The New Epicentre of Global Growth
By 2040, Asia is expected to account for over 50% of the world’s GDP[1], with Thailand emerging as a major contributor to regional trade with its unique strategic advantages. Within the HoReCa sector, Thailand is a regional powerhouse and strategic hub with a market size that is projected to grow from 1.4 billion USD in 2024 to 1.9 billion USD by 2029[2]. Across markets in Southeast Asia, the Average Daily Rates (ADRs) in hotels are soaring over 20 percent above pre-pandemic levels[3], driven by a revival in leisure tourism.
“Our deep understanding of the HoReCa landscape allows us to create experiences that not only reflect industry trends but also drive meaningful business outcomes. Thailand, as a strategic location within Southeast Asia, offers an expansive domestic market coupled with cost competitiveness and sustained high growth potential, making it an ideal destination for a world-class trade show and gateway for businesses to leverage Thailand’s position as a regional leader in hospitality,” said Mathias Kuepper, Managing Director and VP Asia-Pacific at Koelnmesse.
Unveiling Global Trends at THAIFEX – HOREC Asia 2025
Themed ‘’Shaping the Future of HoReCa’’, THAIFEX – HOREC Asia 2025 will address the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing the industry today such as:
Sustainability: As sustainability rides high on the forefront of global priorities, the tradeshow will spotlight eco-friendly solutions, including resource-efficient innovations, sustainable sourcing, and zero-waste initiatives for hotels, restaurants, and catering businesses.
Digital experiences: The rise of AI, IoT, and automation is reshaping the hotels, restaurants and catering sectors. Attendees will experience cutting-edge technologies that enhance operational efficiency, personalised customer experiences, and create competitive advantages.
Live workshops and other supporting programmes at THAIFEX – HOREC Asia 2025
The THAIFEX – HOREC Xperiential Zone will take centre stage, showcasing some of the most innovative and groundbreaking solutions that will be previewed for the first time, and visitors can sign up for a guided tour consisting of live workshops and culinary demonstrations.
The trade show will also feature other supporting programmes and awards like the THAIFEX – HOREC Innovation Awards, ASEAN Barista Team Championship and Thailand Ultimate Housekeeping Challenge. Visitors will experience a trade show like no other, where exhibitors are segmented clearly into six trend topics across nine HoReCa segments, Bakery & Ice-cream, Café and Bar, Cleaning and Laundry, Dining, Furnishing, Kitchen, Services, Tech and Wellness over 27,000 square metres.
Media professionals across Southeast Asia are invited to explore and share compelling stories about the transformative trends shaping Asia’s HoReCa landscape. For media accreditation, please visit: https://forms.gle/3SPDXtcquhBnyw896
Spritzer Malaysia reminds Malaysians to “Speak from the Heart” and express ourselves as we embrace tradition this festive season
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, Jan 6, 2025 – (ACN Newswire) – This Chinese New Year, Spritzer invites Malaysians to cherish heartfelt moments for a refreshing experience this festive season through its heartwarming campaign that brings families and friends closer together. As we usher in the Year of the Snake, Malaysia’s leading mineral water brand, Spritzer is excited to present its Chinese New Year (CNY) 2025 campaign that highlights the importance of open-hearted conversations, combining tradition with a modern touch while bringing loved ones closer together.
At the heart of the campaign is Spritzer’s touching short film, “Speak from the Heart”, a tale reminding us to express ourselves with sincerity, respect and understanding, starring actors and brand ambassadors, Koe Yeet and Jaspers Lai with special appearances by Yagood and Jobroseph. This latest campaign is yet another reflection of Spritzer’s values which are deeply ingrained into its commitment to creating positive impact in society and doing good for humanity.
A Film to Inspire – “Speak from the Heart”
The film tells a story familiar to many young Malaysians, about a young man named Jasper who is approaching his 30s and feeling the pressure from his family to settle down. With the Chinese New Year festive season approaching and his anxiety rising, Jasper enlists a hairstylist played by Koe Yeet to pretend to be his girlfriend for the day. With her humour, quick wit, and ability to hear the inner thoughts of others, Koe Yeet helps Jasper navigate conversations with his nosy aunt turning a potentially stressful situation into a memorable and light-hearted experience.
“Speak from the Heart” channels the true spirit of the Year of the Snake, by reminding us to tap into wisdom, charm, intuition and elegance to glide through the complexities of life and relationships with our loved ones. Check out Spritzer’s short film, “Speak from the Heart”, which is available on the Spritzer Group’s YouTube channel today!
Festive Gifts & Memorable Moments with Spritzer
Spreading the festive cheer, Spritzer is offering exclusive gifts with purchases of its high-quality beverage products to add to the excitement of the season. Customers who buy RM38 worth of Spritzer products will receive a free Spritzer CNY Ceramic Bowl, while those who spend RM18 will get a free Spritzer CNY Retro Mug. These special edition items are sure to add a touch of tradition to your festive get-togethers.
Spritzer’s Natural Mineral Water is also available with a special edition CNY bottle label to add to the festive excitement. Rich in silica to promote healthy skin, hair and nails, it is perfect for staying hydrated throughout the celebrations. In addition, Spritzer Sparkling, available in original and lemon flavours, makes for a refreshing beverage on its own. Spritzer Sparkling contains no sweeteners or calories, and is perfect for pairing with food, gifting to loved ones, and serving at gatherings.
From inspiring short films to exclusive gifts, Spritzer’s CNY 2025 heartwarming campaign is designed to fill your festive season with cheer and positivity. Don’t miss out on the chance to embrace heartfelt traditions while enjoying the refreshing benefits of Spritzer’s beverages this Chinese New Year.
Spritzer’s “Speak from the Heart” short film is available on the Spritzer Group YouTube channel. For more details about Spritzer’s Chinese New Year campaign, please visit our website at https://www.spritzer.com.my/.
URC (Thailand) Co., Ltd. has released its latest Jack ‘n Jill Roller Coaster in Takoyaki Wasabi flavour. The new flavour offers a taste of Japan in every bite. The snack combines the savoury taste of takoyaki with the spicy kick of wasabi.
The company has also launched Roller Coaster Ring Spicy Korean Ramen flavour. These crispy, ring-shaped potato chips offer a bold and spicy Korean taste perfect for those who love a little heat.
Bibigo has released ramyun (Wootteo Edition) in both Spicy Tteokbokki ️and Cheese Tteokbokki flavours, now available at 7-Eleven nationwide in Thailand. Wootteo is a character part of the Jin’s “The Astronaut” promotions. The two instant noodles are Korean-style stir-fried ramyun.
Additionally, Bibigo has launched new authentic Korean ramyun in five flavours Spicy Tteokbokki, Cheese Tteokbokki, Korean Chicken, Korean Smoked Chicken and Kimchi. They are now available at 7-Eleven and Lotus’s (Hypermarket and Go Fresh). These Korean ramyun noodles are certified halal. We first reported on these instant noodles when they first appeared at MIHAS 2024 in September 2024.
Thailand’s Xongdur Thai Organic Food has launched three new granola bars. The new FoodFitt Chewy Granola Bar comprises three flavours: Maple Honey Toast, Acai & Blueberry Waffle and Chocolate Orange. The indulgent chewy granola bars offer 3g of protein per bar to help supplement protein intake.
A monumental step forward! Justin Lim, CEO of Stream Empire Holdings (left) and Jeong Soo Won, CJ Foodville’s Region Head of Southeast Asia (right) celebrate the signing of a Master Franchise Agreement, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Tous les Jours.
8 January 2025, Sunway: CJ Foodville, a global leader in the food and beverage sector, has officially announced a landmark partnership with Malaysia’s SEH Food, a part of Stream Empire Holdings to expand Tous les Jours, a renowned French-Korean inspired bakery-café, to the Malaysian market. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in both companies’ journeys, with the first Malaysian outlet set to open at Sunway Pyramid by Q2 2025.
Tous les Jours literally means “every day” in French, and it has developed into a reputable neighbourhood bakery specialising in French-Korean inspired baked goods, handcrafted beverages, and bold, flavourful coffee and espresso made with the finest ingredients.
With over 1,300 stores in Korea and 550 global outlets in countries including the United States, Canada, China, Mongolia, and ASEAN countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Singapore. The brand’s commitment to premium ingredients and freshly baked goods promises an exceptional bakery-café experience for Malaysian consumers.
Malaysia has been identified as a strategic market for Tous les Jours, thanks to its burgeoning interest in premium bakery culture and strong affinity for Korean brands. Leveraging its halal-certified manufacturing facilities in Indonesia, Tous les Jours is well-positioned to cater to Malaysia’s halal food market. The flagship outlet at Sunway Pyramid will serve as the cornerstone for the brand’s growth in Malaysia, aiming to position Tous les Jours as the country’s premier bakery-café.
SEH Food, a part of Stream Empire Holdings, has been appointed as the master franchisee for Tous les Jours in Malaysia. The company is already well-known for its diverse portfolio of international brands across industries such as fashion, beauty, and food. The company’s expertise includes managing names like New Era, Quiksilver, Roxy, ByWishtrend and more. This partnership marks its ambitious entry into the F&B sector, with plans for regional expansion in the future.
“This partnership with CJ Foodville to bring Tous les Jours to Malaysia represents a bold new chapter for Stream Empire Holdings,” said Justin Lim, CEO of Stream Empire Holdings. “Diversifying into the F&B sector allows us to leverage our expertise in retail and e-commerce while meeting the growing demand for unique and premium dining experiences. Tous les Jours’ innovative blend of French and Korean flavours aligns perfectly with our mission to introduce world-class brands to Malaysian consumers.”
Jeong Soo Won, Region Head of Southeast Asia of CJ Foodville, added, “At CJ Foodville, we are dedicated to expanding the global reach of Tous les Jours by delivering our unique French-Korean inspired bakery experience to more communities worldwide. Malaysia, with its vibrant culinary landscape and strong interest in premium bakery-cafés, is a key market for us. This partnership with Stream Empire Holdings marks a significant milestone in our journey to share the joy of freshly baked goods with Southeast Asia.”
The partnership is expected to significantly contribute to Malaysia’s economy and regional F&B landscape. It will drive investments in retail spaces, create job opportunities, and develop robust supply chain networks. By combining CJ Foodville’s global expertise with Stream Empire Holdings’ extensive retail and e-commerce experience, Tous les Jours is set to achieve sustainable growth in Malaysia.
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