Luckin Coffee Closing on Blue Bottle Acquisition
Chinese coffee giant Luckin Coffee is nearing a deal to acquire Nestlé's Blue Bottle Coffee, according to media reports.
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Elmhurst Launches Clean Protein Drinks As Sprouts Exclusive
Having established its prowess in plant-based dairy over nearly a decade in business, nut milk beverage maker Elmhurst is making its case for protein with a new line of shelf-stable "Clean Protein" drinks.
Former SGWS Employees Face Trial For Pay-to-Play Scheme in California Grocery Chains
A federal grand jury has indicted five former senior executives at Southern Glazer's Wine and Spirits (SGWS) – the largest alcohol distributor in the U.S. – along with a salesman from a major Napa Valley wine company, on charges stemming from an alleged bribery scheme that prosecutors say ran for nearly a decade and earned favors from California’s largest grocery retail chains.
Taste Radio: Expo West 2026: Protein Dominates, But Flavor Decides
Expo West 2026 made one thing clear: food and beverage brands are racing to add function, but the ones that nail flavor have the best chance of winning. The hosts break down the show’s biggest trends, from protein-packed everything to standout brands in candy, beverages, frozen treats, and snacks, while sharing the products and ideas that reinforced a simple truth: in modern CPG, taste still comes first.
As Judge Weighs Uncle Nearest’s Future, Founders Challenge Receiver’s Credibility
Uncle Nearest founders Fawn and Keith Weaver have made their final courtroom arguments to take back ownership of the troubled bourbon company after it defaulted on more than $100 million in loans and went into receivership.
Reyes to Acquire 5 Additional Markets From RNDC; Drops Illinois
Reyes Beverage Group will acquire more markets from Republic National Distributing Company (RNDC), while dropping a previously announced state from the transaction.
Milkadamia Taps Former Diana’s Bananas Exec as CEO; Launches Oat Milk Slices
Plant-based milk brand Milkadamia appointed CPG veteran Neil Cox as CEO, succeeding founder Jim Richards, who will stay on with the company as an advisor.
Gym Weed Jumps Into Modern Soda
Gym Weed's new protein soda line is part of a larger group of new and established brands jumping into the growing set.
Elos Seeks ‘Calm Energy’ With Magnesium Drink
The family-run, Dallas-based brand, quietly debuted at Natural Products Expo West this week, showcasing its new four-SKU line of caffeine-free, lightly sparkling waters infused with 100mg of magnesium and electrolytes in each 12 oz. slim can.
Tropicana Embraces Hydration, ‘Indulgent Protein’
Like many other established CPG brands today, Tropicana Brands Group (TBG) is chasing hydration and protein with its latest product innovations.
DFA Embraces Protein with Multiple New Milk Innovations
The protein trend has opened a whole new avenue for innovation for dairy brands, and Dairy Farmers of America (DFA) showcased several new protein-rich milk products this week at Natural Products Expo West 2026 in Anaheim, Calif.
Harmless Harvest Enters Shelf-Stable Coconut Water
The Danone-owned premium coconut water brand is expanding outside of refrigeration for the first time.
Oatly Launches Matcha, Popcorn Flavored Barista Blends
With samples rolling out on a conveyor belt, Oatly brought a funky assortment of flavor innovations to Natural Products Expo West this week, dedicating its show presence to a new line of six flavored Barista Oatmilks launching in Q3 this year.
Smul Enters Functional Drinks, Heat-And-Eat Meals
South African plant-based nutrition brand Smul is adding four RTD functional drink lines and heat-and-eat meals to its portfolio.