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.
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.
Ayr Wellness Inc. has entered into a binding letter of intent to acquire 100% of Massachusetts-based Cultivana, the parent company of cannabis-infused beverage brand Levia, for $20 million.
Cannabis-infused “social tonic” maker Cann has partnered with Swedish pop star Tove Lo for its latest product launch: Peach Passionfruit Maté, a limited edition caffeinated beverage infused with THC.
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.
Canadian cannabis producer Tilray Inc. has acquired a majority stake in dispensary chain MedMen in a $165.8 million deal, the company announced today. As part of the deal, Tilray will acquire 75% of the California-based cannabis retailer’s outstanding secured convertible notes.
The spirit industry saw a variety of innovations across the whiskey and tequila categories this month along with a handful of limited-edition expressions and new brand debuts including Fleur Charmante and Calirosa. Check out the gallery below for the latest from WhistlePig, Gin Lane, Compass Box and more.
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.
Amidst the release of Q2 earnings reports, Reed's faces supply chain challenges, while Zevia posts its best-ever sales quarter. Elsewhere, Laird Superfood sees changes behind the scenes as president/CEO Paul Hodge steps down.
This week we’re joined by Teresa Tsou and Jeff Martin, co-founders of Pipsnacks, which markets classic salty snacks made with a base of heirloom corn. The pair spoke about the brand’s unique positioning, how they navigated a tumultuous funding round and a key partnership that has boosted its innovation strategy.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.