Watch Office Hours: Sales Strategy & Building Retailer Relationships

On this week's Office Hours show, NOSH editor Carol Ortenberg brings Darla Mears, the Chief Customer Officer at Kodiak Cakes, and Cheryl Christian, the EVP of Sales at Bobo's, on the livestream to dive into sales strategy and take questions from viewers.

People Moves: Minna Names New CEO; Health-Ade Adds VP of Ecommerce

Sparkling tea brand Minna has named Dyanna Salcedo, founder of angel investing and advisory business Tastebud Ventures and the brand’s interim CFO since August, as its new permanent CEO. Founder and former CEO Ryan Fortwendel has moved into the role of chief innovation officer.

Review: Elenita Mezcal-based RTD Cocktails

Elanita is a line of ready-to-drink sparkling cocktails that are produced in Mexico and based on Espadin mezcal. The products currently feature two flavors, Cucumber Lime Basil (6.5% ABV) and Pineapple Jalapeno (7% ABV), both of which are packaged in 12 oz slim cans.

In the Courtroom: Defy Claims Trademark Infringement in Lawsuit

Colorado-based CBD drink maker Defy LLC filed a lawsuit last month against Tennessee-based hydration beverage brand Defiance Fuel, claiming the latter company infringed on its trademarks; A new lawsuit against 75 members of Dairy Farmers of America’s (DFA) leadership team is accusing the co-op of extortion and cartel-like tactics; Family of late Hansen’s Beverage Co. founder Hubert Hansen were awarded $17 million in a ruling against The Coca-Cola Company and Monster.

Krave Kicker Launches 10,000-Bottle Pilot Run

You probably remember “Kryptonite” from the Superman movies. It was that greenish-hued crystal that drains Superman’s powers, while being harmless to humans.

FULLBAR Launching in Texas

Proof & Union is happy to announce that it’s unique brand, FULLBAR, will be available statewide in Texas starting the Week of July 13, 2020. Hops & Vines/Ambiente will be their distributor-partner across the state.

Onda Launches With Sparkling Tequila

Onda, a spirits brand for a new generation of drinkers, has launched with a line of premium canned sparkling tequila beverages. The product is available for purchase nationally at drinkonda.com and in select retail locations throughout the greater New York City area.

Connacht Whiskey Hires Killian O’Sullivan as Commercial Director

Connacht Whiskey Company, a distiller of Irish whiskey and innovative Irish spirits located in Ballina, County Mayo, today announced the appointment of Killian O’Sullivan as its Commercial Director. As part of his new role Killian will be responsible for expanding the Company’s brands internationally and accelerating the company's growth and success.

Kill Cliff Aims to Expand Audience With Design Shift

After spending the last year pivoting its marketing and identity back towards its core military audience, Kill Cliff is looking to expand its consumer base with a change in design that positions it as an approachable clean energy play with an array of use occasions.

Spirits Gallery: New RTD Takes on Tequila, Seltzer and Sake

Ready-to-drink cocktails take the spotlight here, including a collaboration between Reed’s and Full Sail Brewing Co., a new seltzer with a tequila twist and an approachable sake-in-a-can, while there’s also notable spirits releases in SVEDKA’s Pure Infusions collection and limited time offerings from Crystal Head and Bombay Sapphire.

Taste Radio Insider Ep. 92: Why This Retailer Might Love Your Brand… And Why It Might Not

Emily Kanter, co-owner and CEO of Boston-area natural products retailer Cambridge Naturals spoke about the history and evolution of the retailer and the factors that determine its unique product selection. She also discussed how she develops relationships with brand owners, evaluates emerging trends and why Cambridge Naturals was one of the first area stores to carry CBD-infused products.