Nutpods Sells to Kroger-Backed MPearlRock

Nutpods, the plant-based coffee creamer brand founded in 2013 by Madeline Haydon, has been acquired by Kroger-backed investment group MPearlRock, the company announced this morning. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Taste Radio: He Convinced A CPG Giant To Invest… Pre-Launch. Here’s How.

Marcus Sakey, the co-founder of Ritual Zero Proof, spoke about why Diageo invested in his non-alcoholic spirit brand pre-launch, how it became an anchor in an increasingly crowded category, the evolution of its marketing strategy and how he assesses challenges from new and existing brands.

Diageo and Diddy Settle Racial Discrimination Suit

After nearly nine months of an ugly public legal battle, Sean “Diddy” Combs and Diageo have settled disputes over allegations from the music mogul that the brands he collaborated with Diageo on— Cîroc Vodka and DeLeon Tequila— received worse treatment because of his race.

VUUM Marries Protein and Energy with Sparkling Beverage Launch

It’s a protein drink. It’s an energy drink. And its founders believe it can be a superior alternative to both categories leading brands. Founded by a pair of USC graduates, Los Angeles-based startup VUUM produces a line of functional sparkling drinks made with 135 mg of caffeine and 10 grams of pea protein.

Taste Radio: Does Anyone Do Instagram & TikTok Better Than These Brands?

While the volume of videos and images posted daily on popular social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok makes it challenging to capture users’ attention, the hosts highlighted brands that create consistently authentic and entertaining content as a way to break through the clutter.

Carbonating Mix Brand Bobelo Makes a Break for Brick-and-Mortar

After years of operating as a small, under the radar brand sold online, powdered functional beverage maker Bobelo is making a serious push for retail. Based in Utah, Bobelo produces a line of better-for-you, functional drink mixes which add flavor and carbonation when poured into still water.

Suja Launches Protein Shakes, “Reinforcing Its Dedication” to Innovation

Suja Organic is going back into protein, today announcing the launch of a line of plant-based Organic Protein Shakes. Available in three flavors at launch – Vanilla Cinnamon, Chocolate and Coffee Bean – each 12 oz. shake delivers 16g of plant-based protein derived from pea, rice and hemp protein.