Headlines

Macro and Micro Brands Grapple For RTD Domination

Ready-to-drinks (RTD) are currently one of the fastest growing categories in beverage alcohol, but it can be extremely difficult for consumers to know exactly what they’re buying and who’s making it.

Taika Adds New Funding, Launches Matcha Latte

Adaptogen-powered, plant-based latte maker Taika has announced the close of a $2.2 million seed round of funding from a diverse group of experienced investors, as well as the launch of its fourth flavor: Matcha Latte.

Direct-to-Consumer Food and Beverage Brands Dominate The Inc 5000 List

Alongside healthcare, financial services and software companies, dozens of food and beverage brands were ranked on Inc.’s annual 5000 list of the fastest-growing privately-held companies in the United States. Released today, the 2021 list features an array of companies with a direct-to-consumer focus, highlighting the pandemic’s lasting impact on consumer shopping habits.

Oatly: Q2 Earnings Hone in on Growth, Capacity Expansion

Oatly announced today Q2 revenue of $146.2 million, up 53.3% year-over-year in its first earnings report as a public company. Global foodservice sales accounted for 33.2% of revenue in the quarter, compared to 21.6% in the same period last year.

First Bev Takes Controlling Stake in Health-Ade, Belsito Named CEO

First Bev has acquired a controlling stake in Health-Ade Kombucha. The move comes alongside an executive shakeup for the brand as CEO Daina Trout moves into the new role of Chief Mission Officer while First Bev managing partner Jack Belsito is moving from investor to CEO.

Caliwater Raises $2M in Celeb-Backed Seed Round

California-based cactus water maker Caliwater, which relaunched in April under the leadership of filmmaker Oliver Trevena and actress Vanessa Hudgens, announced last week that it has raised $2 million in a seed round, backed by individual investors.

UNFI Moves Winter Show to Virtual Format, Mondelez Cancels Accelerator Showcase

In an email to customers yesterday distributor UNFI announced that it would shift its Winter Natural Show to a virtual-only format. The expo, for suppliers of the ubiquitous natural foods distributor, was slated to be held in Las Vegas Sept. 7-9 and was going to be the company’s first in-person event following the start of the Covid-19 pandemic last year.

REBBL Launches Functional POP, Stacked Coffee Lines

Plant-based functional beverage maker REBBL is expanding its category reach with two new product lines: prebiotic soda REBBL POP and mushroom-boosted REBBL Stacked Coffee. Stacked Coffee is available in four varieties: Straight Black, Cafe Mocha, Vanilla Latte and Hazelnut Latte.