Headlines

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson Joins VOSS As Investor, Advisor

Imported Norwegian premium water brand VOSS announced this morning that actor and wrestler Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson has joined the company as an investor and strategic advisor. The 47-year old California native will also serve as the face of a new marketing campaign entitled “Live Every Drop.”

Distribution Roundup: VYBES Expands with Florida Partnership

VYBES Continues Expansion with Florida Partnership; Olipop Adds 41 SoCal Whole Foods; Cann Now Available Via Eaze; Richard’s Rainwater Adds Whole Foods, The Fresh Market; Elev8 Hemp Signs with Three Distributors

Elevator Talk: Straightaway Makes Craft Cocktails Convenient

Straightaway Cocktails co-founder and CEO Cy Cain wants to help people enjoy quality craft cocktails at home and on-the-go. The company launched in 2018 and offers bottled ready-to-drink classic cocktails using house made zest, simple syrups and bitters.

Liquid I.V. Raises $5M in Celebrity-Backed Funding Round

Powdered hydration mix maker Liquid I.V. has raised $5 million in a strategic funding round backed by numerous celebrities, the company announced this week. The round was led by Liquid I.V. CEO Brandin Cohen, who invested his own money in the brand, alongside prior investor and music business executive Scooter Braun.

Coke: Zero Sugar Beverages Drive Q2 Growth

Speaking to investors and analysts on an earnings call today, Coke CEO James Quincey said much of the company’s North American sales performance was driven by consumer demand for sugar free soft drinks. Retail sales for the company’s no sugar offerings, including Coke Zero Sugar, grew 6% in the quarter.

Taste Radio Ep. 172: Why Guayaki’s David Karr Stopped Worrying About The Future and How It Made Him a Better Leader

In an interview included in this episode, Karr opened up about the origins of Guayaki, how the brand creates evangelists for yerba mate, how viewing time as “an illusion” allowed him to align his personal and professional lives, why he considers the company to be “a reforestation vehicle,” and its unique approach to distribution and hiring.

Ethan’s Launches Organic Energy Shots Line

Since launching in 2017, organic shots maker Ethan’s has built out a portfolio of functional products that includes apple cider vinegar, MCT, and immunity-boosting “fire shots.” So, it was only a matter of time before the company embraced the functionality the shots category is most widely known for: Energy.

Weller Raises $3M in Series Seed Round

CBD-infused snack and beverage maker Weller has raised $3 million in a funding round led by Brand Foundry Ventures, the company announced Friday. As part of the raise, Brand Foundry founder and general partner Andrew Mitchell will gain a seat on Weller’s board of directors.

Cannabis Forum 2019: The Challenges Facing Entrepreneurial Brands

When it comes to challenges in legal cannabis, regulatory hurdles are only one issue facing young THC and CBD brands. New entrants to the category must also contend with product quality and efficacy, reliable sourcing, and establishing strong business connections within the CPG industry.

Taste Radio Insider Ep. 43: How I Got Into My Dream Retailer

This week’s episode features interviews with the founders of three innovative brands and focuses on how each landed placement in their dream retailers. Jesse Wolfe, the founder of O’Dang Hummus, Kuli Kuli founder/CEO Lisa Curtis, and Tyler Noyes, the co-founder of Kalahari Biltong, discussed their respective paths into popular chains, including Publix, Walmart, Sam’s Club and Wegmans, and revealed key steps along the way.

Wells Fargo: C-Store Survey Shows Strong Start to Q2

Bolstered by warm weather, a good economy and the Fourth of July holiday, convenience retailers enjoyed a strong start to the summer season as overall total beverage sales increased 4.8% in the second quarter, according to the latest “Beverage Buzz” survey of c-store retailers by Wells Fargo Securities.