KFC Singapore has launched KFC Popsicle described as a “perfectly marinated chicken fillet fried to perfection and served on sticks for easy consumption.”
There are two fun flavours to choose from BBQ Cheese drizzled with smoky chipotle BBQ sauce and topped with crunchy cheese sprinkle or Mala that’s coated with mala sauce and topped with crunchy mala sprinkle.
The use of skewer can be popularised further especially in processed meat to provide convenience and hygiene when eating.
Southeast Asia’s (SEA) leading online shopping companion, iPrice Group, announced today it raised US$1.5 million from South Korea-based food tech company, Woowa Brothers. This is the second funding received by the region’s top e-commerce aggregator amidst the global pandemic as it works towards a Series C funding round.
Woowa Brothers, attracted by the huge growth potential in the SEA digital sector, has been striking start-up investments in the region since 2019. With an interest to participate in the fast-growing e-commerce sector, Woowa decided to fund iPrice given its robust performance and unique position in the industry as a preeminent e-commerce aggregator platform.
“As the SEA’s e-commerce market develops, the competition among e-commerce platforms is intensifying, and the number of sellers is increasing. We believe that iPrice’s role of helping users find the right platform and save money will continue to be vital to the region,” said Woowa Senior Investment Associate Joshua Dhong.
iPrice is on a mission to bring a greater level of transparency, convenience, and trust to consumers in SEA to help consumers save money. Instead of going through multiple marketplaces to find the best deal, users can instantly access six (6) billion offers from more than two (2) million sellers on a single platform. They can save money by comparing products, prices, sellers’ reputation, and delivery conditions all in one place.
User preferences have evolved over the last years, today they expect seamless shopping experiences through platforms they’re engaged in. “Consumers increasingly expect shopping experiences embedded in their phones – be it in various apps or even in the native camera apps for visual shopping, ” said iPrice Group Chief Executive Officer Paul Brown-Kenyon. Continuing, “we therefore built a product to bring e-commerce to those places, becoming the prime partner for leading platforms and super apps in the region.”
Currently, iPrice has successful partnerships with the likes of Home Credit (Indonesia), Thairath (Thailand), GoRewards (Philippines), Boost (Malaysia), ViSenze (Singapore), or for example SmartPay (Vietnam).
Given Woowa Brothers and Foodpanda are both part of a Germany-based online food-delivery service Delivery Hero, the door is left open for additional partnership opportunities between the two organizations and iPrice in the future although any form of partnership was not part of this investment.
With this funding in place, iPrice is working towards a Series C funding round. The Malaysian-based company will utilise this to refine further its product and accelerate the rollout of partnerships.
Tuesday 18 May 2021 – Charoen Pokphand Foods PLC (CPF) unveils “MEAT ZERO”, the meat that is made from plants and manufactured to feel, taste, and appear like real meat thanks to “PLANT-TEC” innovation. The new product, expected to appeal to health-conscious consumers, is affordable and available as ready-to-cook material and ready-to-eat menu through 7-Eleven and modern trade outlets across Thailand.
Under the goal to attain the top alternative meat brand in Asia within 2022 and the world’s top 3 within 2026, “MEAT ZERO” will simultaneously penetrate markets in Asia, Europe and the United States, taking advantage of CPF’s customer base worldwide.
Advanced innovation
As plant-based meats are gaining popularity across the globe, CPF, a leading agro-industrial and food business operator in Thailand and worldwide, has been inspired to throw huge supports on the research and development of alternative meats for more than 2 years. In collaboration with world-renowned experts from the United States, Japan and Taiwan as well as food scientists of Chulalongkorn University and Mae Fah Luang University, CPF RD Center eventually discovered the “PLANT-TEC” innovation that creates the perfect texture, taste, smell and feel of real meat.
Mr. Prasit Boondoungprasert, chief executive officer of CPF, said that the success is echoed by a sample group’s confirmation that “MEAT ZERO” delivers the texture and taste of real meat.
“MEAT ZER0″ is as tasty as real meat and consumers are barely able to tell if they are eating plants or real meats thanks to the outstanding achievement of CPF RD Center which has worked closely with the world’s leading research houses. We’re proud of this innovation and confident that our product will be warmly received by consumers in Thailand and overseas,” Mr. Prasit said.
Satisfying answer to various consumer groups
“MEAT ZER0” contains health nutritions from high fiber plant-based protein, which is good for intestine and bowel, and low cholesterol. Meanwhile, it aims to satisfy consumers who are cutting down meat consumption. As such, it is a recommended option for various consumer groups, whether they are seeking ways to stay more healthy or to reduce impacts on animals.
“Consumers have become more health-conscious. Some opt to control food intakes while others are losing weight. Some avoid meats on birthdays. Others turn to veggie food when they can, better known as flexitarians. Demand for meatless food options has consequently been skyrocketing. However, the options are pricey and quite difficult to find. “MEAT ZERO” is the answer. It is accessible in terms of pricing and marketing channels. We expect to achieve a billion-baht revenue within the next few years.”
“MEAT ZERO” is priced relatively close to real meat. It is available as ready-to-eat food, with popular menus like plant-based bologna sausage, pork burger, rice with stir-fried meat with basil and spaghetti with chopped meat. All are in the price range of Bt35-Bt45. Consumers can also buy uncooked meat products like plant-based chicken nuggets, plant-based minced pork, and plant-based crispy pork, all priced at Bt69. The items will be available at 7-Eleven, Makro, Lotus and modern trade outlets across the country. Famous actor Naphat Siangsomboon has agreed to be the first presenter of “MEAT ZERO”, who will promote the slogan of “Start now to change the world”.
Penetrate export markets, to become the world’s top 3
Vegans and flexitarians are numbered about 29% of global population. With a world-wide customer base, CPF will use it as the springboard to market “MEAT ZERO” in Asia, Europe and the United States. Asia will be first to be penetrated in 2021. The distribution in Europe and the United States, will start later on.
CPF is confident that “MEAT ZERO” will be the best-selling alternative meat brand in Asia and the top 3 in the world within 3-5 years.
“”MEAT ZER0″ will be the world’s top 3 alternative meat brand within 3-5 years. Meanwhile, CPF will pursue the path to become a full-fledged food tech company that responds to the food needs of all consumer groups,” Mr. Prasit concluded.
SHAH ALAM, 18 May 2021 – Carlsberg Brewery Malaysia Berhad (the Group) reported a net profit of RM66.5 million, an increase of 75.1% on the back of revenue growth of 12.6% to RM532.0 million for the quarter ended 31 March 2021 (Q1FY21) against the preceding quarter ended 31 December 2020 (Q4FY20). This solid quarter-on-quarter (Q-o-Q) growth was mainly driven by the Chinese New Year (CNY) sales and business recovery in both Malaysia and Singapore with the easing of COVID-19 pandemic control measures.
The Group’s profit from operations increased by 79.5% to RM83.0 million for Q1FY21 versus Q4FY20 due to higher revenues in both operations, the absence of one-off restructuring costs of RM9.9 million as well as lower marketing spend and administration expenditures.
Against the same quarter last year (Q1FY20), the Group’s revenue was lower by 9.8% whilst net profit was down 8.9%. In Q1FY21, the Movement Control Order (MCO) imposed in several states in Malaysia from 13 January to 18 February (MCO 2.0) impacted the on-trade consumption, consumer-facing promotional activities and sampling events causing weaker CNY sales. Comparatively, in 2020, with MCO 1.0 imposed from 18th March 2020, the Group managed to sell significant stock ahead of the lockdown hence the impact on its Q1FY20 performance was relatively minimal.
On the other hand, the Group’s Singapore operations improved its sales and profitability with higher CNY sales and the continued growth of premium brands in off-trade and e-commerce as the country transitioned to Phase 3 of the nation’s ‘reopening’ plans with over 1 million COVID-19 vaccine doses administered.
For the quarter under review, the Group’s profit from operations declined by 9.8% to RM83.0 million against the same quarter last year due to lower sales in Malaysia partially mitigated by higher sales in Singapore and lower operational costs.
The Malaysian operations saw a decline in revenue by 19.9% to RM356.5 million and a lower profit from operations of 16.4% to RM62.1 million for Q1FY21 versus Q1FY20 due to the aforementioned impacts of the imposition of MCO 2.0. In the same comparable period, the Singapore operations grew revenue by 21.4% to RM175.5 million whilst its profit from operations increased by 18.0% to RM20.9 million, driven by higher sales through CNY and premiumisation.
In Sri Lanka, the Group registered a lower share of profit of RM4.0 million for Q1FY21 compared to a share of profit of RM5.1 million in Q1FY20 from its associated company Lion Brewery (Ceylon) PLC (LBCP). The lower profit was due to the impairment of LBCP’s Miller brands amounting to RM2.3 million.
The Group’s earnings per share for Q1FY21 was 21.73 sen, a decline of 8.9% compared with 23.86 sen for Q1FY20.
Stefano Clini 葛利尼, MD, Carlsberg Malaysia
Managing Director Stefano Clini commented, “Our Q1FY21 performance, although a significant improvement Q-o-Q, was impacted by MCO 2.0 in Malaysia. As in 2020, our top priorities remain the health and wellbeing of our employees, supporting our customers to the best of our ability and safeguarding the financial health of the business.”
“Innovation and digitalisation continue to be key growth drivers while we remain disciplined in implementing our ‘Fund the Journey’ initiatives as we navigate through the pandemic. We launched two brands, Tuborg Strong in Singapore and Somersby Watermelon cider in Malaysia, in February and March respectively,” Clini said.
He shared: “Our premium draught stout Connor’s, was made available in cans with double-dosed nitrogen before canning to maintain its iconic smooth head and fine cascading effect when freshly poured, is a brand-new innovation in the stout category. This will enable the brand to penetrate the off-trade sector and e-commerce, which have both recorded significant growth amid pandemic movement control measures. Carlsberg Smooth Draught has been relaunched with a refreshed look and feel in packaging and with pull-off “Fresh Cap” for its bottles to keep beers fresher for longer. As of May, Carlsberg Smooth Draught is also available on tap for a better drinking experience. In addition, we also launched our first-of-its-kind Harvest Festival limited-edition cans across a two-month consumer promotion to add to the festive spirit of Sabahan and Sarawakian consumers amid the pandemic”
Expressing reservations over the outlook, Clini said, “Uncertainty remains high. This is evident with the resurgence of COVID-19 cases that led to re-imposition of lockdowns in both Malaysia and Singapore with tightened safety measures, no dining-in for on-trade sector and work-from home arrangements resumed for non-essential employees. While we are pleased of the progress of COVID-19 vaccination programs in both countries, we are cautious over the uncertainties relating to the pandemic, further government actions, and other macroeconomic developments.
Under the current circumstances where the business outlook has deteriorated following the lockdowns, the Board will continue to suspend its review of a dividend policy for 2021 until later in the year when hopefully these uncertainties will ease, and the conditions become clearer. As communicated in the Company’s 51st Annual General Meeting last month, the Board aims to prioritise business sustainability, to strike a balance of preserving cash and liquidity while still delivering shareholder value.
“We also hope that the Malaysian authorities will continue to extend support to the beer industry in combating contraband. We would like to appeal to the Government to expedite the COVID-19 immunisation plan for the manufacturing and related services as it would help to flatten the curve and support the government’s goals in achieving herd immunity,” concluded Clini.
18 MAY 2021 – Birdy 3in1 has introduced a new line of ready-made coffee beverages, “Rich Latte”, offering an optimum combination of coffee and creamy taste. Hitting screens in a new TV commercial (TVC) campaign, the new Birdy 3in1 retains the same presenter, “Bella Ranee”, enjoining everyone to enjoy the well-balanced latte coffee as a perfect way to kick-start every day.
Nowadays, healthiness is a huge trend in Thailand. Thai people are increasingly interested in healthy products, leading to the launch of lots of products with a less-sweet and less-sugary concept.
With this in mind, Ajinomoto Co., (Thailand) Ltd. developed “Birdy 3in1 Rich Latte”, a latte coffee drink with an irresistible combination of coffee and creaminess. The formula makes for a well-balanced mellow taste but with 25% less sugar compared to Birdy 3in1 Super Creamy, thereby meeting contemporary consumers’ preferences.
Last year, Birdy 3in1 Espresso with 25% less sugar was launched to a very positive reception.
Ajinomoto Co., (Thailand) Ltd. is intent on promoting “healthy living society” and being a healthy choice for consumers. The company seeks to improve quality of life in accordance with its Ajinomoto Group Creating Shared Values (ASV).
The new TVC campaign for Birdy 3in1 Rich Latte, presented by “Bella Ranee”, vibrantly introduces consumers to the well-balanced milky and creamy coffee in latte style.
New Rich Latte “Birdy 3in1” is available now at convenience stores and supermarkets nationwide.
Stay up-to-date with the latest breaks at Birdy’s Facebook fanpage ‘Birdy World’.
Halls Salt, popularly sold in Thailand, is now available in 7-Eleven outlets in Singapore. The candy comes with the perfect pairing of fruit and salt that gives you the cooling benefit and popular fruity flavour.
Halls Salt is available in two flavours Watermelon mixed with salt and Lemon lime mixed with salt.
Kalbe Farma’s baby food brand Milna has recently introduced Milna Rice Crackers as the brand enriches its product portfolio in Indonesia further. The move into rice crackers makes perfect sense for the baby cereal brand, which has earlier launched Milna Nature Puffs Organic.
Milna Rice Crackers (5x4g) are priced at IDR 14,000 and are available in three flavours – Sweet Potato Carrot, Banana Berries and Apple Orange.
We see local Indonesian baby food brands increasingly adopting an import substitution approach by locally manufacturing imported baby food products like puree, rice crackers and puffs to make them affordable to consumers.
C-vitt, the number one functional drink brand in Thailand, has recently launched a take-home pack in 1L format. The bigger sized pack is ideal to capture the growing in-home consumption.
With Thailand facing its third wave of COVID-19 pandemic where daily cases has reached the four digits, C-vitt is in good position to provide stay-at-home consumers with a beverage that helps to improve their immunity.
Q1, 2021 results
Osotspa, the owner of C-vitt, reported total beverage Q1, 2021 revenue at THB 5,801 million, remarkably grew 3.1% YoY given the highest base with no COVID-19 impact in Q1, 2020 and the new emerging phase of COVID-19 in January 2021. Domestic beverages sales delivered solid performance at THB 4,651 million (+1.3% YoY), having C-Vitt as a key driver after driving more penetration and balancing distribution channel.
Kaspersky reveals 25% increase of password stealers targeting SEA users in Q1 2021
18 May 2021
May 6 is World Password Day but every day is a good day to revisit the strength of your security codes as cybercriminals are continuously trying to gatecrash into your online accounts. This is proven by fresh data from Kaspersky.
According to the global cybersecurity and digital privacy company, it has prevented 25% more password stealers in Southeast Asia (SEA) during the first three months of the year compared to the same period in 2020.
Password stealers are a type of malware that steals account information. In essence, it is similar to a banking Trojan, but instead of intercepting or substituting entered data, it usually steals information already stored on the computer: usernames and passwords saved in the browser, cookies, and other files that happen to be on the hard drive of the infected device.
Overall, Kaspersky solutions have blocked 776,684 Trojans designed to steal accounts in Q1 2021, 155,942 more incidents compared with last year’s 620,742.
While Indonesia and Thailand registered a slight decrease, the remaining four SEA countries logged an uptick on password stealers detections. Singapore registered the highest increase at 79% followed by Malaysia at 61%.
Country
Q1 2020
Q1 2021
Indonesia
112,255
109,932
Malaysia
111,919
180,576
Philippines
45,373
55,597
Thailand
78,186
73,268
Singapore
16,706
29,875
Vietnam
256,303
327,436
No. of Trojan password stealers detected in Southeast Asia for Q1 2020 and Q1 2021
“It is known that Southeast Asia homes the most active social media users in the world. At the same time, the region is witnessing a massive digital shift at a breakneck speed. We are now a 400-million-strong online consumers, a number predicted to happen not until 2025. Hence, it is expected that cybercriminals would be very interested to take over our virtual accounts brimming with financial and confidential data,” comments Yeo Siang Tiong, General Manager for Southeast Asia.
“As we harness the power of technology and the internet, we urge everyone to strengthen their online locks regularly. Like how we improve our security systems as our houses accumulate more assets, we should also be more thorough on how we secure our online properties as we store more data in it,” adds Yeo.
Lessons from The Three Little Pigs
To show the importance of stronger passcodes and cybersecurity measures, Kaspersky reminds users of the classic tale – The Three Little Pigs. The well-known English folk tale’s seemingly simple plot explains the idea behind a brute-force attack.
The tale begins with the three pigs selecting a hardware solution to protect against cyberthreats. It appears to be some kind of Internet gateway. The first chooses a device made of straw (cheap and unreliable), the second opts for wood (more reliable, but still not great), and the third puts up a real firewall made of stones.
The wolf in the fairy tale is depicted as a fairly low-skilled hacker. His approach to the information infrastructure of each little pig is to attack it with the only tool available to him: blowing. As you surely recognize, this is analogous to brute-force hacking. In cybersecurity, brute force is usually applied to cracking passwords.
The tale shows that this technique can indeed be effective when the target doesn’t pay much attention to cybersecurity: The first two porcine huts cannot withstand the brute-force attack, and the attacker gets inside. But with the third, he encounters problems.
In other words, even storytellers two centuries ago knew that using inexpensive routers with default passwords, or practically using weak passwords in general was a recipe for disaster.
To boost your password and to secure your accounts like the third pig, Kaspersky experts provide some quick tips and tools:
Check the strength of your current passwords. Kaspersky has a free tool to help you on this
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