TRIP Heads to Target
U.K.-based functional beverage maker TRIP Drinks expanded its reach to Target stores across the U.S. this month, bringing the brand’s total global distribution footprint to 40,000 doors.
Founded in 2019, TRIP produces a line of sparkling beverages available in Raspberry Orange Blossom, Peach Ginger and Elderflower Mint flavors crafted with functional ingredients like Lion’s Mane, ashwagandha, L-theanine and magnesium. In October, the brand joined forces with consumer mental health company Calm on a co-branded Melon Cucumber SKU.
TRIP previously told BevNET that its products will be available in roughly 3,500 doors by the end of April via KeHE and UNFI.
7-Eleven Unveils Southland Reserve
7-Eleven has introduced its latest private label brand, Southland Reserve, a line of cold brew teas crafted in collaboration with AriZona Beverages.
Offered in four flavors at launch – Sweet, Unsweet, Peach and Lemon – the new offering is available at 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores nationwide. Southland Reserve pays homage to 7-Eleven’s origin story as the world’s first convenience store (then called Southland Ice Company) under Southland Corporation.
“This launch […] celebrates the legacy of 7-Eleven and the loyal customers who have made us who we are today. With this lineup, we’re bringing together the best of the past and the present, delivering a drink that is both nostalgic and refreshingly new,” said Nikki Boyers, VP of Private Brands at 7-Eleven, in a press release.
BERO Rolls Out Across SoCal
BERO, the non-alcoholic beer brand founded by “Spider-Man” star Tom Holland, has announced major retail gains in Southern California, including partnerships with Sprouts Farmers Market, Albertsons Vons Pavilion, Gelson’s, Total Wine & More, Erewhon, BevMo and Gopuff. The brand has also landed its products in venues like The Shrine.
The SoCal region is “at the forefront of culture, wellness and innovation,” making it an “exemplary market in BERO’s next stage of growth,” according to John Herman, co-founder and CEO. The brand seeks to be a premium lifestyle brand that meets consumers where they already shop.
Launched in October, BERO portfolio includes Kingston Gold Pils, Edge Hill Hazy IPA and Noon Wheat. All are pasteurized and available in 12 oz. can 6-, 12-, 18-, and 24-packs. The brand made its debut via DTC before landing its first-ever grocery deal with Sprouts.
“BERO is reshaping the way that consumers think about non-alcoholic beer,” said Brian Fried, general manager for just-acquired Stone Distributing, in a press release. “We are excited to see the strong consumer response in California for BERO right out of the gate.”
Once Upon a Coconut Lands in Fresh Thyme
Premium coconut water producer Once Upon a Coconut (OUAC) is looking to make a splash in Fresh Thyme Market. The retailer will carry the brand’s Pure, Pineapple, Chocolate and Watermelon flavors in 70 locations across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
“At Fresh Thyme Market, we are committed to providing wholesome products that empower our shoppers to live healthier lives while enjoying incredible flavor. Once Upon a Coconut aligns with our quality pillar, offering clean, refreshing hydration that supports well-being with every sip,” said Liz Zolcak, president of Fresh Thyme, in a statement.
The partnership is part of OUAC’s greater brick-and-mortar distribution push. In Q1 2024, the brand devoted its resources to growing its retail footprint and strategizing new ways to reach a broader audience. OUAC has gone deep on messaging around the raw juice inputs sourced from Vietnam and its focus on rainforest-grown, baby green coconuts, which it chose for their sweeter flavor with less salinity.
Beyond Fresh Thyme, the brand’s beverages are available at retailers like Whole Foods Market, 7-Eleven and CVS Pharmacy, among others.
Nguyen Coffee Wins Walmart
Months after failing to win a coveted golden ticket at Walmart’s Open Call, Nguyen Coffee Supply has turned the rejection into a win, launching all three of its Vietnamese RTDs – Classic Black, Condensed Milk and Coconut – in 260 Walmart locations nationwide.
“No is not a discouragement, it’s motivation. I’m better motivated to better understand the other person’s perspective, the landscape and how to find the win-win in a partnership,” said Sahra Nguyen, founder and CEO of Nguyen Coffee, in a LinkedIn post following the Open Call in September. “Every major retail launch we’ve announced over the last year started with nos.”
Though the brand wasn’t granted a meeting with the RTD coffee buyer during Open Call, Nguyen dropped off samples and got their contact information, resulting in a meeting post-event.
“Sometimes you’re given the opportunity; other times, you create your own opportunity,” said Nguyen.
Liquid Death Scores With Madison Square Garden
Liquid Death has secured a multi-year integrated marketing deal with the MSG family of companies, which will showcase the canned water brand across premier sports and entertainment assets.
As part of the partnership, Liquid Death is the official sparkling water partner of New York’s Madison Square Garden, The Garden at MSG, Radio City Music Hall, The Beacon Theatre, Sphere in Las Vegas, The New York Rangers and The Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes.
Additionally, the brand is the official iced tea partner of The Theater at MSG, Radio City, The Beacon Theatre, The Christmas Spectacular and Sphere.
“Liquid Death is a disruptor and innovator,” said Jamaal Lesane, Chief Operating Officer, MSG Sports, in a press release. “We look forward to working with their team across high-profile assets to introduce bold campaigns and interactive initiatives that exemplify our shared vision for this dynamic partnership, including Sphere’s Exosphere.”
In other distribution news:
- “Living beverage” maker Sol-ti is set to make its debut in Canada this month, according to a LinkedIn post by founder Ryne O’Donnell.
- Saint James has hit the bullseye, landing its ready-to-drink iced teas at Target stores nationwide. The retail chain now carries the brand’s Red Raspberry, Classic Lemon, Pineapple & Mango and White Lotus Limited Edition Mango flavors.