Manufacturer

Chris Hobson, vice president, Global Business Technologies at VF Corporation, writes about the companys latest complex technology project Acadia. With more than 30 brands, 63,000 associates, 1,500 retail stores and $12.4 billion in revenue, VF is highly diversified across brands, products, distribution channels and geographies. Here, the company creates one comprehensive technology platform that powers its back-end processes for all eight of its outdoor and action sports brands.

CGT Editor Alarice Rajagopal gives you a sneak peek into the trends and topics discussed in this month's issue.

Barry Callebaut integrates 65,000 cocoa farmers in Cte dIvoire and will include more across the world, for a stronger supply chain.

For Hershey, the program helped the giant candy brand stay relevant to the millennial consumer; For Uber, the partnership helped increase brand recognition and awareness.

After market research reveals a wealth of opportunity for healthier alternatives, Talking Rain brand, Sparkling Ice, expands into the UK and Ireland.

Once Anheuser-Busch InBev seals its 79 billion pound takeover of rival brewer SABMiller, it could find itself party to other smaller deals, involving Castel Group, Coca-Cola and Anadolu Efes.

Modern and minimalist trends, organic and made-in-the-U.S.A. label prominence, and taking specialty to an even higher level prevailed at the Chicago pet show.

The intended goal for CPG manufacturers is to maximize demand and minimize out-of-stocks.