Once Upon a Coconut Names Merson President, Acquires Punch’d Energy
Premium coconut water brand Once Upon a Coconut has named Matt Merson as President, promoting him after more than two years with the company as its Chief Sales and Strategy Officer.
Brad Avery
Posts by Brad Avery
Hemp Industry Braces for Last Minute Action, Worst Case Scenarios, on Looming Ban
If there’s a stay of execution, it’ll probably be at the last minute. That’s what hemp lobbyists and industry groups are starting to believe about the potential for a reprieve from the upcoming November 12 THC ban, according to the Coalition for Adult Beverage Alternatives (CABA).
Reed’s CEO Steps Down as COO Cohane Steps Into Role, 2025 Earnings Down
After nearly a year with the Connecticut-based craft soda brand, Cyril Wallace has resigned as CEO of Reed’s, Inc. and stepped from the board of directors. COO Neal Cohane has been named as interim CEO as the board begins seeking a permanent replacement.
Swig on Pace for Record Growth As Dirty Soda Craze Continues
Swig, the Utah-based quick service restaurant concept that popularized the dirty soda trend, is on pace for record growth this year as the 16-year-old company expands its national presence with nearly 150 locations.
Distribution: Hiyo Goes National with Target
Non-alcoholic social tonic maker Hiyo is rolling out to nearly 2,000 Target stores nationwide, according to the brand, as well as online via Target.com.
NA Beverages Remain “Healthy” in Early March
Non-alcoholic beverage sales decelerated in the two-week period ending March 7, 2026, with weaker volume growth and pricing action leaving retail sales “healthy” but slowing, according to the latest analysis of NielsenIQ data by Goldman Sachs Equity Research.
Mood Support Outpaces Protein, Gut Health in Functional Beverage Trends
While protein and digestive health may be some of the top functions driving overall beverage growth, mood support is now the fastest growing benefit in the sector outpacing the expansion of protein by nearly three-to-one, according to data firm SPINS’ 2026 State of Industries webinar this week.
Distribution: Woodstock Goods Strikes Strategic Partnership with Craft & Art
Hemp THC beverage producer Woodstock Goods is teaming with Craft & Art Wine & Spirits, a sales and operation company helping to scale beverage brands.
Family Startup HRBL Debuts with Adaptogenic Functional Drink Line
With relaxation and immunity still key priorities for consumers, New Jersey-based startup brand HRBL is leaning into adaptogenic ingredients to meet those needs.
PRÉS Looks Beyond Short-Term Trends with Protein Coffee Rollout
While protein was all over Natural Products Expo West 2026 last week, PRÉS, a startup protein coffee brand at the show, is seeking to build a business that can thrive far past the current protein hype.
Caliwater Flashes Star Power with Demi Lovato; CEO Owens Brings Sales Focus
At Natural Products Expo West 2026 last week, singer Demi Lovato joined co-founders and actors Oliver Trevena and Vanessa Hudgens at the brand’s booth. In this video from the show, the trio discussed their experience being involved in the business end of a CPG brand.
GURU Posts ‘Record’ Q1 Revenue Despite U.S. Sales Declines
Despite a dip in U.S. sales, Canadian energy drink maker GURU reported “record” quarterly net revenue of CAD$8.8 million, up 14.7% year-over-year, according to the company’s Q1 Fiscal Year 2026 earnings report today.
Trump Chases New Tariff Alternatives with Investigations Into Trade Partners
Despite a major loss with the Supreme Court last month, Donald Trump isn’t giving up on his tariff ambitions. The United States announced Wednesday two trade investigations; one into excess industrial capacity for 16 international trade partners and another looking at alleged forced labor.
PolkaDot Refreshes Adaptogenic Mushroom Drink Line
As adaptogenic mushroom beverages see rising mainstream interest, startup functional drink brand PolkaDot made a splash at Natural Products Expo West last week with new packaging and a psychedelic booth design intended to fully launch the brand into market.