This Week’s New Products: Starlight, Star Fruit and “Loud” Drinks

From Coca-Cola Starlight to Lemon Perfect Kiwi Star Fruit, beverage makers debuted a variety of new products this week, including functional plant-based creamers from Silk, a new limited edition flavor from Brew Dr., and a new permanent addition to Red Bull’s flavored line. Meanwhile, cannabis beverage startup Drink Loud is debuting micro-sized THC drinks that pack a wallop, and LaCroix getting ready for spring with a new flavor.

Mast-Jägermeister US Names New CEO

Mast-Jägermeister US has named its chief operating officer Joe Fortune as CEO, effective April 1, the company announced Thursday. Fortune assumes the role from outgoing CEO Jeff Popkin, who has held the role since 2015.

Coca-Cola Starlight Kicks Off LTO “Creations” Series

Coca-Cola’s new “global innovation platform,” Coca-Cola Creations, was unveiled this week, kicking off with the release of Starlight, the first in a series of limited-edition products and experiences that will be introduced “across physical and digital worlds.”

Binske Hones in on High-End Edibles With Intelligentsia Collaboration

In partnering with specialty coffee roaster Intelligentsia to collaborate on new products – the first being a cannabis-infused chocolate bar with espresso shavings – the self-styled “luxury cannabis” brand is aiming to distinguish itself as a leader in boutique, artisanal edibles.

Bizzy Coffee Raises $7.1M to Support Manufacturing, Retail Growth

Minnesota-based Bizzy Coffee announced today it has closed a $7.1 million funding round led by venture capital firm Sidekick Partners. The financing comes as the company prepares to move into a new 50,000 square foot production facility to help support national retail expansion.

Review: Liquid Death Flavored Sparkling Water

Canned water maker Liquid Death has made a name for itself using an unorthodox – and highly catchy – approach to its branding and marketing. Now the company is hoping to take its momentum into a new category with the release of its first flavored varieties. 

IRI: CPG Sales Rise in 2021; Red Bull, BodyArmor Among Top Brands

The total U.S. CPG industry grew 2.7% to $962 billion in 2021 as pandemic-related shifts in consumer behavior and routes to market began to cement themselves, according to the latest CPG Growth Leaders report by market research firm IRI.

Golden Grail Acquires Kids Drink Brand Tickle Water

Florida-based holding company Golden Grail Technology is continuing to build out its beverage portfolio with the acquisition of kids sparkling water brand Tickle Water, the company announced on Tuesday.

KOS Closes $12M Round, Clayton Christopher Joins Board

Plant-based products brand KOS announced today it has closed a $12 million Series A financing round led by food and beverage industry veterans Clayton Christopher and Brian Goldberg. The two investors are now playing active roles in guiding the brand’s strategy.

Cann Goes to Canada, Closes $27M Series A Round

Cannabis-infused social tonic brand Cann has closed a $27 million Series A funding round, the company announced today, setting the stage for expansion into Canada and bringing a crew of new celebrity investors into the fold.