Headlines

Casket Maker Goes from Coffins to Caffeine with Energy Drink Launch

There’s a new energy drink on the market encouraging consumers to have a laugh about dying – and no, we don’t mean Liquid Death. Titan Casket, a Massachusetts-based direct-to-consumer coffin retailer, is getting into the energy drink space with Awake.

Barebells Doubles Down On Protein Drinks

Fresh off a launch into clear whey protein soda, Barebells has unveiled its three-SKU line of ultra-filtered protein Milk Drinks.

Taste Radio: Why Uncertainty Could Be CPG’s Biggest Opportunity In 2026

As 2026 approaches, the Taste Radio hosts explore why uncertainty may actually favor emerging food and beverage brands. From changing definitions of value and retailer innovation to AI-driven discovery and standout new products, the episode highlights where real opportunity is taking shape in CPG.

Hemp Brand Leaders Talk Battle Plans for 2026

Rather than signaling a death knell, the impending restrictions on hemp-derived THC drinks has spurred industry leaders to regroup, organize and take on the challenge of saving the category.

How to Navigate and Scale Within Independents Retailer Networks

Build in your backyard and own a territory before widespread, national expansion. These cliches are often at the core of emerging brands’ growth strategies and for good reason. But finding independent retail accounts can have its limitations and ensuring these are high visibility and high loyalty partnerships is essential.

Taste Radio: Replay: Inside Poppi’s Early Playbook & The Moves That Led To A Big Exit

In this replay of a 2023 Taste Radio interview with Poppi founders Allison and Stephen Ellsworth – recorded when the BFY soda brand was still firmly in disruptor mode – you’ll hear the blueprint for PepsiCo’s $1.95 billion acquisition years before it happened: a brand that tastes great, moves at the speed of culture, wins both online and in-store, and boldly reclaims the word “soda.”

As Sale Rumors Swirl, What’s Next for Olipop?

It’s logical that there’s building speculation around the next strategic move for Olipop, the brand that built the modern soda category alongside Poppi, but the path forward contains more than a few potential options.

New Jersey Hemp Bill Advances; Ohio Nixes Drink Carve-Out

With the federal ban looming, the future of hemp beverages continues to be litigated by individual states, with New Jersey and Ohio each taking different tracks to manage the explosive growth of hemp-derived THC drinks.