Beverage Industry Top Stories, News, and Analysis

In the midst of dramatic leaps in the distribution of its organic energy drinks, Hiball is set to launch a first of its kind energy-infused organic coconut water — with a chocolate-flavored variety not far behind.

BevNET is pleased to announce that the final agenda for Beverage School NYC at BevNET Live Summer ’13 is now available for viewing. The intensive, half-day “Beverages 101″ session is open exclusively to attendees of BevNET Live who are new (or relatively new) beverage company entrepreneurs. There is no additional cost for the program, however, only a limited number of seats remain for Beverage School.

Traders Point Brewhouse’s Cold Brew Coffee comes in two varieties, Kenyan and Sumatra, based on the type of beans that are used in each product. Which one consumers prefer is ultimately a matter of personal preference, but both were made to the same standard. That said, both are top notch, with a thoughtfully crafted formulation and package.

Merging two fast-growing beverage trends – iced coffee and almond milk – Califia Farms’ new line of iced coffee products is well-timed, and very well-executed. The formulation of the drinks is excellent, and with a unique carafe-style package, the company takes an approach that is fresh and unique, which is something that seems to be lacking in the dairy and dairy alternative categories.

Almonds, monsters and juice… oh my! Whitewave Foods touts the incredible growth of its almond-based products. Monster decides to keep Ultra Pink on the shelf… for now. Suja gets innovative on quality control and charity.

The past two years have brought on tremendous change in the beverage industry, and products and systems of going to market that may once have been considered on the fringe will be have great influence over the future of the entire business.

With interviews, sampling opportunities, and networking, this year, BevNET Live offers unmatched chances to get inside the minds – and the trucks – of the beverage distributor network. Content and sampling and opportunities are designed to help entrepreneurs maximize their understanding of what it takes to win from a distribution standpoint.

POM Wonderful entering the coconut water category is sure to get some buzz, and this product was the starting point for our sampling of its three newest flavors. Overall, it’s a very solid product in both formulation and packaging.

In a nod of thanks to U.S. military service members and veterans, Red Bull will launch limited-edition camouflage-colored cans to be distributed beginning on Memorial Day and continue to be offered until Labor Day. The 16 oz. cans, which will come in original, Sugar-Free and Total Zero varieties, will be available for sale through military channels and retailers immediately surrounding bases.

Much-maligned in his former job as the CEO of FRS, Carl Sweat has been welcomed with open arms at kids’ beverage outfit In Zone Brands, which recently hired Sweat as its Chief Marketing and Commercial Officer. At In Zone, which markets TummyTickler and Bellywashers beverage brands, Sweat is expected to extend the company’s foray into health and wellness drinks.

Just a quick reminder — BevNET Live Summer ’13 in NYC will feature a special edition of Beverage School, BevNET’s introduction to the beverage business. The session is open exclusively to attendees of BevNET Live who are new (or relatively new) beverage company entrepreneurs. There is no additional cost for the program, however, only a limited number of seats remain.

In the rarified world of high-end coffee, there’s a broad discussion of whether the post-Starbucks rise of independent coffee shops and specialty roasts comprises a third wave or fourth wave of coffee culture in the U.S. Regardless of the wave number, however, there’s something gathering out there on the horizon; it’s cold brewed iced coffee, and it’s headed for a store near you, and likely sooner than you think.