M&A news from Mars, Mondelēz, Barilla

Poppi raises; Trident sold; Weber goes private; Trü Frü, Topo acquired

This week’s Dealboard has a flurry of activity as we head toward the end of the year. There’s new investment for top brands in functional soda, plus-size apparel and skincare. Plus, Mondelēz and B&G Foods are divesting well-known labels, and DSW is adding to its Owned Brands portfolio.

What brands are excelling in category management?

Who is rising during a tough time? That’s the context of this year’s Category Captains list from Progressive Grocer, which spotlights brands that are helping retailers succeed. Dole, Hershey and Hormel Foods are a few of the 19 honorees. – Progressive Grocer

When it comes to holiday returns, brands must handle with care

After the holiday rush is over, brands have to dig deep for one last push, because returns are going to happen. No one wants to lose a sale, but it’s important to strike a balance between cost savings and customer satisfaction, said Tasha Reasor of returns management platform Loop. Get it right, and loyalty could follow.

‘Kidults’ are the biggest driver of sales growth for the toy industry

Pay attention to who is buying a product, and the results can bring an unexpected new target audience to light. Adults account for one-quarter of annual toy sales, driving $9 billion in revenue, according to NPD Group. With a penchant for nostalgia and fandom (think: Star Wars, Marvel), they also tend to spend more. – CNBC

Nearshoring is moving faster than expected among small businesses

88% of small and medium-sized businesses are planning to or have already taken steps to move supply networks closer to the US in 2023, according to a new survey from Capterra. The surprising finding indicates that the supply chain chaos of the last two years could help reorient global networks around proximity.

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