Latest news with #Mario's
South Wales Guardian
07-07-2025
- Business
- South Wales Guardian
Calon Wen milk co-op marks 25 years with new products
Founded in 2000 by four farmers, Carmarthenshire-based Calon Wen has grown to become one of the UK's leading organic brands, with an annual turnover of approximately £14 million. The co-operative, based at Pantyffynnon, now consists of 25 organic dairy farmer members from across Wales, collectively producing over 20 million litres of milk each year. The company's dairy product line includes the popular Calon Wen-branded milk, butter, and cheese, which are available in both independent stores and major retailers throughout England and Wales. Calon Wen unveiled its new branding at an event attended by farmer members and representatives from the dairy industry and food sector. This occasion celebrated the co-operative's achievements over the past 25 years and provided insight into the company's latest developments as well as its future plans. The new branding features bold colours and imagery of rolling green fields, presenting a fresh and clean look while retaining key elements of Calon Wen's original branding, including the iconic 'Moula the Cow', to ensure continuity as the brand evolves. Dai Miles, Calon Wen's Managing Director and a dairy farmer, stated, "As we look to the future of Calon Wen, we want our branding to reflect this evolution. We are not changing who we are; we are sharpening our focus on what truly matters—our farmers, our customers, and our planet. "The brand refresh celebrates Calon Wen's Welsh roots while showcasing our commitment to expand and innovate without compromising our organic values." The celebration also offered a sneak peek at the cooperative's latest branded product: Calon Wen Organic Dairy Ice Cream - which will be available to the public for the first time at this month's Royal Welsh Show in Llanelwedd (July 21-24). Produced by the award-winning Welsh company Mario's Ice Cream, Calon Wen Organic Dairy Ice Cream comes in three delicious flavours: Vanilla, Strawberries & Cream, and Honeycomb & Honey Swirl. Dai Miles said, 'We're delighted to add ice cream to our award-winning brand. The organic milk produced by our members is perfect for creating creamy dairy ice cream, and who better to produce it than Mario's, a company just a couple of miles down the road? 'Adding ice cream to our brand portfolio will provide our dairy farmer members with another outlet for their milk, enhancing the Calon Wen brand and strengthening our position in the organic marketplace. 'It is also fitting that visitors to the Royal Welsh Show will be among the first to sample our ice cream, which will be available at our stand located below the Main Ring grandstand.'
Business News Wales
24-06-2025
- Business
- Business News Wales
Ice Cream Producer Secures Food Safety Certification with HELIX Programme Support
A Carmarthenshire-based ice cream and frozen dessert company has secured globally recognised food safety certification following technical support delivered through the Welsh Government's HELIX Programme, previously named Project HELIX. Mario's Ice Cream, which was named food producer of the year at the Wales Food and Drink Awards 2024, has successfully secured BRCGS Start intermediate level certification. This food safety certification, which is designed for small to medium-sized businesses, will enable the company to target a greater range of customers who require the standard. Having expanded into a second factory unit in 2023, Mario's decided to begin the process of securing BRCGS Start intermediate level certification to drive further business growth. They approached ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre at Cardiff Metropolitan University in early 2024 for technical assistance through the Welsh Government funded HELIX Programme. ZERO2FIVE initially conducted a gap analysis of Mario's food safety management systems to identify the processes and paperwork that needed to be put in place to comply with BRCGS Start. An action plan was then put in place to mentor the Mario's team to implement the required changes. ZERO2FIVE supported Mario's to update a range of procedures, including traceability and recalls, site security risk assessments, new product development and good manufacturing practices. As part of the support, ZERO2FIVE also delivered a bespoke food safety culture workshop and mentoring on how to develop a food safety culture plan. Mario's successfully passed their BRCGS Start Intermediate audit in February 2025 and as a result of the support, they have safeguarded 18 jobs within the company. Riccardo Dallavalle, Director of Operations, Mario's Ice Cream, said: 'The support from ZERO2FIVE has been vital in enabling Mario's to secure BRCGS Start certification and as a result drive further business growth. We hope to take the next step to the full BRCGS Global Standard in the next few years and with the solid foundations from BRCGS Start intermediate level in place, we are well on our way.' Professor David Lloyd, Director of ZERO2FIVE Food Industry Centre, said: 'Third party food safety certification like BRCGS and SALSA is a requirement for manufacturers to win new business with many national retailers, wholesalers and foodservice companies. If your company is looking to secure one of these standards then please get in touch with us at ZERO2FIVE to discuss the Welsh Government funded support that may be available.' The HELIX Programme is delivered by four organisations across Wales and provides a range of funded technical and innovation support to Welsh food and drink companies. To find out more about the funded support available from ZERO2FIVE through the HELIX Programme, visit:
Forbes
29-04-2025
- Forbes
Best All-Inclusive Resorts In Turks & Caicos 2025
The best all-inclusive resorts in Turks & Caicos offer exceptional service, gourmet meals and free-flowing drinks all rolled up into one rate. From private island paradises to expansive, family-friendly properties, there's an all-inclusive resort for every travel style. Some offer a traditional all-inclusive model, while others feature add-on packages. Our top recommendation is Beaches Turks & Caicos, thanks to its wide range of activities for all ages. Luxury travelers will appreciate the high-end amenities at Ambergris Cay, couples can take in the sweeping ocean views at Sailrock Resort and families will enjoy the child-friendly amenities at Blue Haven Resort. Below, the best all-inclusive resorts in Turks & Caicos for 2025. Aerial view of Beaches Turks & Caicos Beaches Turks & Caicos offers plenty of perks for travelers of all ages, making it a great overall recommendation. Windsurfing, kayaking, scuba diving and more keep guests busy, but the crown jewel of the property—the 45,000 square-foot Pirates Island Waterpark—absolutely steals the show for many, featuring adrenaline-pumping slides, a splash deck and a winding lazy river for all-day thrills. Accommodations at the resort are divided into five 'villages' inspired by the Key West, France, Italy and the Caribbean; suites impress guests with refined, mahogany details, four-poster beds and patios that deliver sweeping views of the surrounding sea. All-inclusive rates extend to gourmet dining at the resort's 20 restaurants, ranging from Italian gastronomy at Mario's to freshly caught seafood at Schooners. Beach at Ambergris Cay. For an all-inclusive resort that doesn't skimp on luxury, Ambergris Caye offers stylish accommodations in a serene location. The journey to this exclusive, 1,100-acre island resort begins with a stylish private jet charter; once guests land, they can choose from oceanfront bungalows with heated pools to multi-level villas (including a massive estate that sleeps up to 20 guests). The all-inclusive rate includes all meals and premium liquors, as well as activities like beachside bonfires and picnics, yoga and fitness classes as well as a variety of non-motorized water activities. Those who love being immersed in local flora and fauna can try their hand at fishing, hiking or bird and whale watching; the sunset at Whale Watcher's Point is a not-to-be-missed highlight that's sure to dazzle onlookers. Suite at Pine Cay Resort. Seclusion is a priority at Pine Cay, a luxe private island resort located just on the edge of the world's third-largest barrier reef. Residents at the property's 12 beachfront rooms and suites are privy to two miles of private beach, ensuring ample peace and quiet under the sun. Elsewhere, personalized pampering sessions (think massages, body scrubs and more) can be had at the resort's Sand Dollar Spa, comprised of just two oceanfront treatment rooms. The property's 'Island Inclusive' rate covers a rotating menu of gourmet meals curated by chef Philipe Aubron; afternoon tea, fitness classes and other activities. For a full day of tropical festivities, join one of Pine Cay's complimentary snorkeling trips aboard a private catamaran, before winding down for the evening at a bonfire-lit barbecue after dark. Blue Haven Resort exterior. Kids under 12 stay, play and eat for free at Blue Haven Resort, making it a great value pick for families. The all-inclusive rate includes all drinks and dining at six international restaurants, plus full access to facilities at Alexandra Resort, its sister hotel. At Blue Haven, children can enjoy pickleball, snorkeling and jumping on water trampolines, while families can also kayak to explore neighboring Iguana Island. When parents want to sneak off for cocktails at the swim-up pool bar, the Fun Pals kids' program is also on-site to keep the little ones occupied with a rotating schedule of fun-filled games and arts and crafts. The breezy three-bedroom oceanfront suites, which come equipped with flat-screen TVs, fully stocked kitchens and washer and dryer units, are ideal for larger broods. Exterior of Sailrock Resort. Uniquely situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Caicos Bank, this intimate resort on the quieter island of South Caicos offers sweeping, turquoise ocean views around every corner. With meticulous but unobtrusive service and a deep connection to the community that surrounds it, the resort is an ideal romantic escape for couples, who can enjoy activities like boating excursions, guided ATV tours or mixology classes. When sunset rolls around, a private, romantic dinner on the beach is called for—just ask the concierge. All meals and select wines and liquors are included in the property's 'All Inclusive and All Luxury' Package, and the resort's honeymoon and proposal packages offer additional perks like complimentary welcome drinks and couples' massages. Aerial view of COMO Parrot Cay. COMO Parrot Cay is a favorite among A-listers—and it's easy to see why. Featuring lush residences and villas with private pools, accommodations are sleek, modern and stylishly minimalist, centering guests right in the middle of tropical seclusion. Wellness lovers will appreciate the rotating roster of visiting fitness experts, who offer private classes and dole out rejuvenating treatments; meanwhile, Asian-inspired holistic therapies soothe guests daily at the spa. Between the light-filled yoga pavilion, bike rentals, Pilates and workout classes, there's plenty offered to keep guests connected with their body and mind all throughout the premises, plus opportunities for extravagant at-sea expeditions via mangrove kayaking and private boat charters. Reserve the 'Island Inclusive Getaway Package' for full-board meals covered at the resort's two restaurants, Lotus and Terrace. The Forbes Vetted travel team has visited, researched and reported on countless hotels across the globe. Our team conducted extensive research before selecting our top contenders based on personal stays, reviews and hotel awards. I am a New Jersey-based editorial assistant working across the beauty, fashion, travel and home & kitchen categories here at Forbes Vetted. As a Caribbean descendant, I've traveled all over the islands since I was young. I graduated with bachelor's degrees in English and Psychology from Amherst College and attended the Columbia Publishing Course. In addition to Forbes Vetted, my work can also be found in Make Muse and The Common.
Axios
18-03-2025
- Health
- Axios
COVID's lasting impact: What Richmonders say five years later
It's been half a decade since Virginia had its first COVID death and prompted former Gov. Northam to ban gatherings of more than 10 people. The months that followed were filled with back-to-back uncertainties and confusion. Yes, but: When we asked last week what you do differently now that you didn't before, nearly all the responses focused on holding on to the community that came out of the pandemic. Others, like Chris B., shared they enjoy staying in more — "man, that's a stark change from years ago" — especially as clubs and bars have gotten "too expensive." A few, like Vicki W., are thankful they get to work remotely now or glad, like Lynne R., to save time via online grocery shopping and curbside pickup. Here are more responses that stuck with us: When she could go to restaurants again, Janelle M. joined two older couples for Friday night dinner at Mario's in Ashland because she "hated spending so much time at home alone." She still meets with them at least twice a month. Some, like Ceri R., say they cancel social events and wear masks while shopping when they get a cold. "I am so afraid of getting other people sick in a way I wasn't before Covid," Ceri wrote. Cynthia C. had six"fairly new" friends who met every week for BYO picnic lunches in their backyards and patios.
Yahoo
12-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Spotlight on Mario's Pizza in Owego
OWEGO, NY (WIVT/WBGH) – Tioga County's Chamber of Commerce is shining a spotlight on an Owego restaurant that's become a local staple focused on food and family. The chamber is recognizing Mario's Pizza which has been in business for over four decades. It was originally founded by Angela and Jerry Pettinato. Over the years, the family has grown, and if you're a Pettinato, it's become a tradition to work at the restaurant. Mario's offers traditional Italian cuisine, including fresh pizza, pasta, homemade sauce, meatballs, chicken parm, and your other favorites. Co-Owner, Gina Pettinato, says she was basically born and raised back in the says the biggest key to their success is creating a family-friendly space, and pouring love into every dish. 'We keep doing what we're doing. We just show up every day and try to put out the best food and the friendliest service and atmosphere that we can. When you walk in here you're part of our family honestly,' says Pettinato. Mario's is open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. They offer delivery, and catering, plus, a different specialty pizza every week. Mario's posts updates and dinner specials on its Facebook page called 'Mario's Pizza Owego.' Or, you can find a menu, and order through their website, Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
