A two-day rally on the London market came to an end today as traders waited for key economic data from the US.

Premier Foods today said it was in advanced talks with two parties over the sale of its meat-free food range Quorn.

BROKERS are trying hard to link Kerry Group with Quorn, the branded non-meat subsidiary of British group Premier.

Commodity stocks led London's blue-chip share index lower today as investors paused for breath after a recent strong rally.

The maker of Branston pickle and Hovis bread today said it was looking at ways to speed up the reduction of its £1.8bn (€2.3bn) debt mountain.

Debt-laden Hovis bread maker Premier Foods secured vital breathing space today as it battles against soaring interest payments and wheat prices.

Hovis bread maker Premier Foods today slashed its final dividend and revealed extra banking facilities to help it cope with rising debt payments and soaring wheat prices.

Branston Pickle owner Premier Foods hailed the success of its Campbell’s acquisition today after revealing a 12.2% rise in annual profits.

BRITISH food manufacturer Premier Foods has bought jam maker Chivers after it sold it in a management buyout in 1999, it was confirmed last night.

The owner of Branston Pickle stocked up on some of Britain’s best known brands after agreeing the £1.2bn (€1.8bn) takeover of Hovis owner RHM today.

Hovis and Mr Kipling firm RHM today backed a £1.2bn (€1.8bn) takeover by Branston Pickle owner Premier Foods.

Premier Foods showed no signs of bid indigestion today after confirming interest in the UK maker of brands such as McVitie’s, Jaffa Cakes and KP.

Sales of meat alternative Quorn showed a sharp rise today after its new owner spent more money on advertising and launched new products.

Premier Foods today said its new Branston baked beans range had snared 7% of the UK market in the first three months since its launch.

Premier Foods today said healthy Christmas sales had helped to compensate for lower demand created by the unusually mild autumn in the UK.

Typhoo tea could be set to change hands for up to £100m (€150m) after being put up for sale by its owner, a report said today.

US giant Heinz is expected to confirm today that it has bought the maker of HP sauces for €702m.

Premier Foods and Associated British Foods were today reported to have lost out to US giant Heinz in the battle for the maker of HP sauces.

Premier Foods added a new ingredient to its portfolio of brands today by snapping up the maker of meat alternative Quorn for £172m (€255m).

Nick Faldo was in severe danger of his worst-ever European tour performance today – as playing partner Lee Westwood produced one of his best.

Nick Faldo will fully appreciate what Colin Montgomerie is going through when they play together in the first round of the British Masters at the Forest of Arden tomorrow.