Food Empire Holdings’ subsidiary Empire International and Santan Food Services have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop and launch a range of ready-to-drink beverages.

The collaboration will begin with the launch of a Vietnamese iced coffee product which is to be sold on AirAsia flights and through retail channels across the region, a release reads.

Executive chairman of Food Empire, Tan Wang Cheow said: “This collaboration with Santan aligns with our strategy to cater to consumer trends, and bring an authentic CaféPHỐ Vietnamese coffee experience on AirAsia flights so that more people can enjoy our great-tasting beverages.”

Shares in Food Empire closed 11 cents higher or 5.473% up at $2.12 on July 17.