Headlines

Virginia-based kombucha brand Blue Ridge Bucha announced last week that it has been acquired by Hank Heyming, a venture capitalist who is also the co-founder and a managing partner of Trolley Ventures. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The nominees and finalists for BevNET’s “Best of 2020” Awards reflect the variety and strength within the beverage industry both in front of and behind the scenes, whether it’s delivering bold new innovation and inspiring product concepts, executing effective marketing, or managing operations and supply chain in an unpredictable economic climate. For the first time, BevNET accepted nominations for the 2020 awards, resulting in a wide field of over 320 brands, products, campaigns and individuals that reflected the diversity and rich tapestry of our industry.

The beverage company today revealed “The Flaming Joe,” a new spicy pineapple-flavored SKU in its CBD-infused energy line developed in collaboration with Rogan, best known as the host of The Joe Rogan Experience.

Beverage company Dyla Brands is expanding into a new category with the launch of Happy Viking, a line of plant-based protein drinks developed by tennis superstar Venus Williams.

Hard coffee maker Bomani Cold Buzz announced last week that it has raised $3.5 million in an investment round featuring over 40 firms and individuals; Connecticut-based ‘Merican Mule, maker of a line of canned ready-to-drink Moscow Mules, announced last week a round of financing led by The Bishop Family, founders of Blue Buffalo pet food and SoBe Beverages.

VPX Sports, the maker of Bang Energy, is seeking an injunction against PepsiCo to stop it from making threats to its customers and wholesale distributors, as the two companies’ dispute over a long-term distribution contract moves into the legal phase.

With winter on the horizon, this month's New Product Gallery features a number of new releases, ranging from seasonal flavors to full line extensions, including added SKUs from Health-Ade Kombucha, CELSIUS, C4 and KeVita. As well, we feature a new brand from Ocean Spray, a smoothie line courtesy of Koia and fresh forays into beverage from Genius Gourmet and Nellie's Free-Range Eggs.

CBD beverage brand Unity Wellness Co. has raised $1.25 million in a Series A funding round poised to aid the brand’s nationwide expansion. Founded in 2019, the California-based company is currently available in more than 500 stores across 16 states, including at Erewhon, alongside numerous independent accounts.