By Deborah Cassell Editor Confection & Snack Retailing casselld@bnpmedia.comgetting fresh: Something to talk aboutThe season finale of MTV’s “Taking the Stage,” a critically acclaimed reality show that follows the lives

Stuggart, Germany-based Bosch Packaging Technology, a leading supplier of holistic systems in the world of packaging and process technology, has changed the name of several of its subsidiaries.

Jean-Marc Rotsaert, formerly with Campbell’s, has joined AAK USA as president.

Dutch-based Duyvis Wiener has developed a machine that combines the characteristics  of a sheer stress device with that of a very efficient film evaporator.

Dozens of industry professionals indulged on chocolate baked goods and candy during the grand opening of Puratos Innovation Center in Kenosha, Wis., last month.

According to Mintel’s Global New Products Database, the number of new product launches in the United States food and drink categories dropped 51% in the first quarter of 2009 compared with the first quarter of 2008.

The Warrell Corp., which sells candy under the Pennsylvania Dutch Candies and Katherine Beecher brands, has acquired the assets of York, Pa.-based Classic Caramel Co.

Mars, Inc., including its five business groups – chocolate, pet care, Wrigley, food and drinks – has partnered with eco-friendly company TerraCycle to reduce its waste.

After closing five Ethel’s Chocolate Lounge locations last summer, Mars Retail Group will close five more in the Chicago area by the end of this month.

As of Feb. 16, 2009, Erika Kuehner joined Spangler Candy’s marketing team as brand manager. Her responsibilities include managing the Circus Peanuts and Saf-T-Pops brands, while also working in the areas of marketing research, strategy and the company’s giveaway distribution channel.