Nestle, the Swiss multinational food and beverage giant, has appointed Pablo Isla as its new chairman, effective October 1, 2023. Isla, renowned for his transformative leadership at Inditex, the parent company of Zara, brings a wealth of expertise in logistics, e-commerce, and consumer trends to Nestle. His appointment comes at a critical juncture for the company, which has seen its shares underperform, losing 33% of their value over the past three years, while competitors like Unilever and Danone have thrived. Isla’s track record of driving rapid global expansion and integrating digital and physical retail channels at Inditex positions him as a catalyst for Nestle’s much-needed revitalization. Nestle’s recent struggles include declining sales and profits, compounded by the abrupt dismissal of former CEO Laurent Freixe. Investors are optimistic that Isla, alongside newly appointed CEO Philipp Navratil, will spearhead a digital transformation, leveraging artificial intelligence to optimize supply chains and enhance sales. Isla’s leadership style, described as hands-on and collaborative, is expected to foster innovation and rapid change within the company. His experience in mentoring and guiding executives will also be invaluable in supporting Navratil’s transition into the CEO role. With Nestle’s e-commerce sales already accounting for 20.2% of total revenue, Isla’s appointment signals a renewed focus on digital growth and operational efficiency, aiming to reclaim the company’s competitive edge in the global market.
标签： Europe
欧洲
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Starmer, Trump to discuss foreign affairs, investment after pomp-filled royal welcome
U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer convened at Chequers, the Prime Minister’s country residence, on September 18, 2025, to solidify a landmark £150 billion ($205 billion) U.S. investment package in the UK. The deal, spanning technology, energy, and life sciences, aims to rejuvenate the historic ‘special relationship’ between the two nations. This meeting, part of Trump’s second state visit to the UK, shifted focus from domestic political challenges to global affairs, following a day of ceremonial events with King Charles III. Despite the celebratory tone, underlying tensions over Ukraine, Israel, and sensitive domestic issues loomed. Starmer, facing domestic pressures, sought to leverage the visit to bolster his international standing. Trump, meanwhile, emphasized the value of U.S.-UK ties, praising Britain’s historical contributions to global values. The leaders also addressed contentious topics, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Israel’s actions in Gaza, which could strain discussions. While Starmer secured significant U.S. investments, hopes for reduced steel and aluminium tariffs were dashed. The visit underscored both cooperation and friction in the U.S.-UK alliance.
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EU set to miss UN climate deadline amid internal divisions
In a significant development, European Union climate ministers are poised to confirm on Thursday that the bloc will fail to meet a global deadline for setting new emissions reduction targets. This delay stems from internal disagreements among EU governments, casting a shadow over the EU’s leadership in global climate action. The missed deadline could undermine the bloc’s credibility as it prepares to join other major powers at the United Nations General Assembly next week, where updated climate plans are expected to be presented ahead of the COP30 climate talks in November. While major emitters like China are anticipated to meet the deadline, and Australia has already announced its target, the EU’s internal discord highlights the challenges of aligning ambitious climate goals with economic and geopolitical realities. EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra defended the bloc’s efforts, stating, “If you zoom out, you can find that we continue to be amongst the absolutely most ambitious on the global stage.” However, the EU’s inability to agree on new targets for 2035 and 2040 has sparked criticism. Germany, France, and Poland have called for further discussions on the 2040 goal at an October summit, delaying progress on both targets. As a temporary measure, EU ministers will attempt to draft a “statement of intent” outlining their climate ambitions. A draft of this statement, previously reported by Reuters, suggests the EU aims to reduce emissions by 66.3% to 72.5% by 2035. Despite the setback, the bloc remains committed to finalizing its 2035 target before COP30. Finnish Climate Minister Sari Multala emphasized, “It is hard for us to require the others, our international partners, to do the same if we don’t deliver ourselves.” The EU’s traditional role as a climate leader is under strain due to rising concerns over the costs of climate measures and competing priorities such as defense and industrial spending. Divisions among member states are further exacerbated by differing views on the European Commission’s proposal to cut net greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by 2040. While countries like Spain and Denmark advocate for stronger climate action, citing extreme weather events and energy security, others like the Czech Republic and Italy oppose the ambitious targets, citing potential harm to industries. This internal conflict underscores the complexities of balancing environmental goals with economic and political pressures in a rapidly changing world.
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Exclusive: Turkey’s surprise Air Europa deal came down to one key thing: control
In a surprising move, Turkish Airlines has successfully acquired a significant stake in Spanish carrier Air Europa, outmaneuvering European rivals Lufthansa and Air France-KLM. The deal, valued at 300 million euros for a 25-27% stake, was finalized due to Turkish Airlines’ willingness to share control with Air Europa’s Hidalgo family owners, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. This marks a rare instance of a non-European airline investing in a European carrier, particularly given EU regulations that restrict majority ownership by non-EU entities. The agreement underscores Turkish Airlines’ strategic focus on expanding its presence in Iberia and Latin America, leveraging Air Europa’s established routes. While Lufthansa and Air France-KLM sought a path to majority control, their demands were incompatible with the Hidalgo family’s preference for maintaining influence. Analysts note that the deal is less about financial gain and more about geopolitical and connectivity advantages, positioning Turkish Airlines to strengthen its hub-and-spoke network. The Turkish government’s support further bolsters the airline’s strategic ambitions, with Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu highlighting the alignment with Turkey’s broader global connectivity strategy. Despite the complexities of minority stakes, Turkish Airlines’ financial stability and political backing mitigate potential risks, ensuring the deal’s viability.
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French unions strike against austerity, pressuring Macron
France witnessed widespread protests on Thursday as teachers, train drivers, pharmacists, and hospital staff joined forces in a nationwide strike against impending budget cuts and unpopular pension reforms. The demonstrations, organized by major labor unions including CGT and Sud Rail, saw thousands gather in Paris and other cities, with high school students blocking school entrances and workers rallying against austerity measures. The protests were part of a broader ‘day of expression of railway anger,’ following months of strikes and a failed attempt to halt pension reforms earlier in the year. In Paris, metro services were severely disrupted, and regional trains faced significant delays, while high-speed TGV lines remained operational. The Interior Ministry estimated that up to 800,000 people participated in the strikes and protests, with unions condemning the government’s ‘brutal’ and ‘unfair’ fiscal plans. President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu are under mounting pressure to address France’s budget deficit, which exceeded the EU’s 3% ceiling last year. Lecornu, who relies on cross-party support to pass legislation, faces challenges in garnering parliamentary backing for the 2026 budget. The protests also impacted nuclear production, with workers at EDF reducing power output at the Flamanville 1 reactor. Pharmacists, angered by recent business changes, joined the strike, with 98% of pharmacies potentially closing for the day, according to the USPO union. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau warned of potential clashes, deploying 80,000 police officers, riot units, drones, and armored vehicles to maintain order. The strike even delayed plans to move the historic Bayeux Tapestry, a 70-meter-long masterpiece depicting the Norman invasion of England in 1066, which is set to be loaned to Britain. The protests underscore growing discontent with Macron’s administration and its handling of public finances, as workers demand increased investment in public services and higher taxes on the wealthy.
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Roche to acquire liver drug developer 89bio for up to $3.5 billion
In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the liver disease treatment market, Swiss pharmaceutical giant Roche has announced its acquisition of U.S.-based biotech firm 89bio for up to $3.5 billion. The deal, which includes $14.50 per share in cash and potential milestone payments of up to $6.00 per share, underscores Roche’s commitment to addressing metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, particularly those linked to obesity. 89bio’s flagship drug, pegozafermin, an FGF21 analogue, is in advanced stages of development for treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a severe form of fatty liver disease. Roche’s acquisition aligns with its broader strategy to complement its growing weight-loss drug portfolio, which includes recent deals with Zealand Pharma and Carmot Therapeutics. Teresa Graham, head of Roche’s pharmaceutical division, highlighted the potential of pegozafermin to achieve ‘best-in-disease efficacy’ and its suitability for combination therapies with weight-loss drugs. The move also positions Roche to compete with industry leaders like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, who are exploring the use of GLP-1 treatments for liver disease. This acquisition reflects the intensifying race among pharmaceutical companies to innovate in the rapidly expanding fields of obesity and metabolic health.
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Weekly quiz: Why were these nuns on the run?
This week, London became the epicenter of heightened tensions as a rally in the city sparked widespread attention. Meanwhile, the boxing community came together to honor the legendary Ricky Hatton, celebrating his remarkable contributions to the sport. On the entertainment front, the cult favorite series *The Summer I Turned Pretty* reached its dramatic conclusion, leaving fans eagerly anticipating future developments. Amidst these events, it’s worth reflecting on the broader global happenings over the past seven days. For those keen on testing their knowledge, Ben Fell has curated a quiz to challenge your memory of recent events. Whether you’re revisiting last week’s quiz or exploring the archives, there’s no shortage of engaging content to delve into. In Europe, Austria has been making headlines, particularly in discussions surrounding religion and its societal impact.
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German journalists’ union criticises decision to take Jimmy Kimmel off air
In a bold statement on Thursday, Germany’s leading journalists’ union, DJV, called on major U.S. media outlets to stand by their journalists following ABC’s controversial decision to pull ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ from its lineup. The move came after host Jimmy Kimmel made remarks about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, sparking widespread debate over freedom of expression and press integrity. DJV head Mika Beuster criticized ABC’s actions, labeling them as a symptom of the ‘rampant erosion of freedom of the press and expression in the U.S.’ Beuster further accused broadcasters of ‘servility’ towards U.S. President Trump, warning that such compliance would only invite greater pressure on journalists. The suspension of Kimmel’s show follows a threat from the head of the U.S. communications regulator against Disney, ABC’s parent company. This incident is part of a broader trend of punitive actions against media figures, academics, and corporate employees who have commented on Kirk’s assassination. Republican leaders and conservative commentators have urged Americans to mourn Kirk respectfully, with some individuals facing job losses or suspensions for discussing the killing online. The situation has reignited concerns about the state of free speech in the U.S. and the role of media in safeguarding democratic values.
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Pope Leo plans to keep Francis’ key reforms but avoid bigger changes, he says
In his first major interview since assuming the papacy in May 2025, Pope Leo XIV emphasized his commitment to continuing the policies of his predecessor, Pope Francis, while steering clear of radical changes to Catholic doctrine. The interview, conducted in late July for a forthcoming biography, revealed Leo’s cautious approach to contentious global and ecclesiastical issues. The Pope, the first American to hold the position, reiterated Francis’ inclusive stance toward LGBTQ+ Catholics and women’s roles in the Church but stopped short of endorsing same-sex marriage or female ordination. He also addressed the Church’s ongoing sexual abuse scandals, stressing the need to support victims while acknowledging concerns about false allegations. On the international front, Leo expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza but avoided labeling Israel’s actions as genocide. He also discussed the Vatican’s financial challenges, noting improvements but acknowledging lingering issues. Leo’s reserved style contrasts with Francis’ outspokenness, reflecting his focus on maintaining unity within the Church.
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Anti-Trump protesters march through London as president basks in royal welcome
On September 17, 2025, London witnessed a stark contrast in public sentiment as U.S. President Donald Trump embarked on his second state visit to Britain. While thousands of protesters marched through the capital under the banner ‘Trump Not Welcome,’ a smaller yet enthusiastic crowd gathered outside Windsor Castle to welcome the president with open arms. The visit, marked by royal pageantry including a carriage procession and a grand military parade, highlighted the polarizing nature of Trump’s presence on the global stage. Organized by the Stop Trump Coalition and supported by groups like Amnesty International and pro-Palestinian activists, the protest in London featured banners with messages such as ‘Not Wanted Here, Not Wanted Anywhere’ and ‘Trump, a big step back on the evolution of man.’ Despite the protests, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has cultivated an unlikely friendship with Trump, though public opinion remains deeply divided. A YouGov poll revealed that 45% of Britons opposed the invitation, while 30% supported it. The event also saw the arrest of four individuals who projected images of Trump alongside Jeffrey Epstein onto Windsor Castle, a controversy that continues to shadow the president. Over 1,600 police officers were deployed to manage the peaceful protest, which drew around 5,000 participants. Meanwhile, in Windsor, a handful of Trump supporters, including former New York police officer Steven DeFranco, praised the president as a ‘beaming light’ and celebrated his policies. The turnout for this visit was comparable to Trump’s 2019 state visit but paled in comparison to his first official trip in 2018, which attracted significantly larger crowds.