Expo West 2023: Editors Share Quick Takes From Day One

At the close of the event's opening day, editors discuss their initial observations and takeaways thus far, including a pair of exits for two young brands in the bottled water space, a spike in mood-boosting and brain-focused drinks. 

People Moves: Bacardi, Siempre Tequila Bring on New Leadership

Roberto Ramirez Laverde has returned to Bacardi as global senior vice president of Bacardi rum, the company announced yesterday. Laverde took on the role following the promotion of Ned Duggan to global chief marketing officer of Bacardi and president of Bacardi Global Brands Limited.

Elevator Talk: All Phenoms, AF Drinks, TATU, Ringa, More Than Energy

Watch founders and CEOs introduce their brands and provide a recap of recent news and updates. This week's special co-host is Sebastian Dreher, Managing Director, Döhler Ventures, who shared his thoughts, questions and feedback with the participants.

Brew Dr Unveils More “Inviting” Redesign, Two New Flavors

Kombucha specialist Brew Dr. is rolling out redesigned packaging labels and branding — along with a pair of new flavors — aimed at building on the brand’s existing momentum while bringing new consumers into the category.

Taste Radio: Make Better Food. You Might Save Millions. Plus, Investment In Women-Led Brands Is Shrinking. Why?

Distinguished physician, professor and author Dr. Robert Lustig spoke about how overconsumption and poor quality food are root causes of chronic illness and the role that innovative food and beverage companies can play in effecting change. And in the latest edition of The Maxi Minutes, investor Maxine Kozler Koven discussed why women-owned CPG brands are facing a lack of sustained investment, and ways for the industry to collectively address the problem.

Vita Coco Chair Mike Kirban to Join BevNET Live Summer 2023

From selling products on Rollerblades to ringing the opening bell at NASDAQ, Vita Coco co-founder Mike Kirban has lived as a beverage entrepreneur over the past 20 years, and he’ll discuss his experiences and reflect on the lessons he’s learned for the benefit of the audience at BevNET Live Summer 2023 in New York City.

Pureboost Raises $2.6M in Crowdfunding As Retail Business Expands

Clean energy drink mix brand Pureboost announced it has raised over $2.6 million via crowdfunding from over 500 individuals as it prepares to expand its retail presence this year. Launched in 2018, Pureboost produces powdered energy drinks sold in single-serve stick packs.

Sippin On Indo: Snoop Dogg Enters Cold Brew Coffee

Rap legend and prolific entrepreneur/marketeer Snoop Dogg has stepped into the ready-to-drink coffee space with Indo, which is launching its line of unflavored cold brew, packaged in 12 oz. cans, online this week.

Devil’s Drink: Craft Soda Rises in Craft Beer Country

Devil's Foot Beverage Company has been building a loyal following for its low-sugar, craft sodas in the Western North Carolina region and recently upsized its production capacity to expand in retail across the Southeast.

Green Day: Craft’s Quest to Reclaim Absinthe’s Reputation

Irish pubs may be gearing up for St. Patrick’s Day, but this Sunday marks another green-hued, boozy celebration: National Absinthe Day. The Swiss drink was banned in the U.S. until 2007, and since then its enthusiasts have been working hard to challenge the spirit’s illicit reputation. But have those efforts paid off?

Taste Radio: Mr. Beast & Ed Sheeran Are In The Mix. Not So Sweet News For Some Brands?

On the cusp of Expo West 2023, the hosts highlighted a handful of meetups they’ll be attending at the annual event, including the first for new industry organization MENA CPG. They also discussed a recent study that links health issues to a commonly used sweetener, a platform to build awareness for early-stage brands and a bevy of new products, including two backed by internet and pop music icons.