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Promotions/Appearances
The Coca-Cola Company announced that it has committed US $30MM over the next six years to provide access to safe drinking water to communities throughout Africa through its Replenish Africa Initiative. Implemented by The Coca-Cola Africa Foundation, RAIN will provide at least 2 million Africans with clean water and sanitation by 2015. Link • Monster Energy Drink will be the official energy drink sponsor for Fiesta Atlanta from 2009 through 2011. • Link Independent Superstars of Professional Wrestling chose Xfuel as their new tag team partner. Link • TeaZazz Sparkling Tea will be a part of the gift bags for the Andrew Christian Fall 2009 Fashion Show at Boulevard 3 on March 20th during the LA Fashion Week.
Financials
Chinese regulators have until Friday to decide whether they will approve Coca-Cola Co.'s plan to acquire beverage maker China Huiyuan Juice Group Ltd., but the law allows the deadline to be extended. Link • mix1beverage company marks its third year of business with exponential revenue growth through continued national retail expansion and the recent launch of its hi-antioxidant fiber drink. Link
Law, Policy and Advocacy
The American Family Association (again) accused Pepsi for supporting a "homosexual lifestyle" by buying commercial time during a recent episode of Family Guy. Link • An Oklahoma state lawmaker says he plans to send a cease and desist letter to retailers who are selling Cocaine energy drink. Link • Under a new California state law, beverages such as Smirnoff Ice are supposed to be taxed as liquor. But manufacturers say they've changed their recipes to continue fitting into the lower-taxed beer category. Link • The Grocery Manufacturers Association issued a statement applauding President Obama's choice of Dr. Margaret Hamburg as Commissioner of the United States Food and Drug Administration. Link
Distribution
Red Bull Cola is now available nationwide following a gradual launch process that started in Las Vegas last June. Link • Daily’s, which has 70+ accounts in TN, has authorized CRUNK!!! Energy Drink in their energy door set.
Miscellaneous
Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez has given Coca-Cola Femsa two weeks to vacate a plot of land which the government wishes to use for social housing. Link • The father of one of three young men killed last month in a fiery collision with a Pepsi delivery truck has filed a wrongful-death suit against Pepsi and the truck driver. Link • The FBI has issued a criminal complaint against a former controller at G&J Pepsi-Cola Bottlers Inc., citing evidence that he improperly diverted $4.6 million in company funds. Link • GLG Life Tech Corp is ramping up its production capacity for rebiana, a natural zero-calorie sweetener. Link
Source: BevNET.com Staff