News

Taste Radio: How Freestyle Snacks Won Over The ‘Sharks’

When “Shark Tank” called, Nikki Seaman was ready. The Freestyle Snacks founder secured $300K for 11% equity, turning a pandemic craving into a thriving brand of snackable olives and pickles. In this episode, Nikki shares how Freestyle’s bootstrapped, profit-focused strategy, viral TikTok buzz, and disciplined retail-first approach fueled growth – and a Shark’s appetite.

Laird Shutters Picky Bars, Moves into Dairy with Protein Coffee

Laird Superfood reported a 10% jump in year-over-year net sales in Q3, as the company prepares to support that growth with innovation within a streamlined product portfolio in 2026 that includes its first-ever dairy-based release.

Hemp Bevs Facing Prohibition Under Fed Funding Proposal

Hemp beverages could be sacrificed in a deal to reopen the federal government, as spending legislation moves through Congress that includes language effectively prohibiting intoxicating hemp-derived THC products.

Diageo Names Consumer Industry Veteran as New CEO

Diageo has tapped Sir Dave Lewis to lead the world’s largest spirits maker into its next chapter, ending a months-long search following former CEO Debra Crew’s departure in July.

Taste Radio: Lessons From Caulipower’s Exit, With Padma & ‘Popcorn’ in Focus

What do the hosts make of Caulipower’s fitting exit, a tennis icon’s investment in a corn-free (!) popcorn startup, and Padma Lakshmi’s partnership with a particularly spicy CPG brand? It’s a full serving of Taste Radio, complete with a taste-test of high-fiber gummy candy and a $20, creatine-packed cereal.

TikTok and Tariffs Stoke Supply Chain Tension

Between TikTok's influence, tariff impacts and the MAHA movement, innovating across the CPG landscape is more complex than ever. We spoke with a range of stakeholders during SupplySide Global to see how they are navigating ever-changing demands and constraints.