Category Close-Up: Expert Analysis – Juice
In this episode of Category Close-Up, our panel of experts examined the present and future of the juice segment, framing current trends against historical precedents and consumer preferences.
High Hops: Non-Alc Brands Look to Create a Category Around Hops
This nascent space has seen an influx of innovation within the past two years, including startups such as HopTea, HOP WTR, Aurora Superior Sparkling Beverages and Oregon Hop Springs, as well as offerings from beer brewers like Urban Chestnut Brewing Company and Snake River Brewing. Even non-alcoholic beer brewers have gotten on board with the trend.
Taste Radio: After A $419M Exit, Manitoba Harvest’s Mike Fata Has Something ‘Bigger’ On His Mind
Mike Fata, the co-founder of global hemp foods producer Manitoba Harvest, spoke about how his interest in nutrition and healthy living led him to hemp, overcoming government-led and generational disinformation about the crop, why he laments not seeing greater potential for the company early into its development and where he drew inspiration for confidence as a CEO.
“Greg Made the World a Better Place”: Industry Reacts to Steltenpohl’s Passing
Greg Steltenpohl’s legacy is alive in Califia Farms, today one of the top brands in the dairy alternative category and a leader in socially conscious, environmentally sustainable brand building. But the impact of his death is being felt most dearly in those who knew and worked with him.
Review: Weird Tea
Weird Tea is the first product line from Weird Beverages, the company that was recently launched by a trio of Rockstar alumns. The USDA Organic product line pairs mainstream flavor with fun and engaging branding to create something with potentially broad appeal.
Spindrift Goes Hard with Spiked Sparkling Water Line
In its ongoing mission to be the leading premium sparkling water brand on the market, Spindrift is going hard. The Newton, Massachusetts-based beverage brand announced today the launch of Spindrift Spiked, an alcoholic hard seltzer line rolling out to stores next month.
Why Greg Inspired: A Remembrance
Greg Steltenpohl, the innovative juice executive who twice brought progressive, environmentally and socially conscious brands to national prominence, was deep into a triumphant second act as a businessman -- and force for good -- when he passed away this week.
Industry Pioneer Greg Steltenpohl Dies at 67
Greg Steltenpohl, a natural food and beverage pioneer and entrepreneur who emerged as a leading voice in the plant-based movement over the course of more than 40 years in the business, has died. He was 67.
Celsius: Sales Gains in Q4 Cap Year of Growth
Fitness energy drink brand Celsius closed out 2020 on a high note, reporting a 48% increase in revenue during Q4 on top of 74% growth for the full year, according to an earnings report released yesterday.
Taste Radio: First-Year Fortune — How Bomani’s Founders Set Themselves Up For Success
The co-founders of Bomani Cold Buzz, a brand of alcohol-infused cold brew coffee, spoke about how, despite launching at the outset of the pandemic, it persevered through preparation, planning and purpose, including why aggressive cold-calling was critical. They also discussed their thoughtful approach to surveys and focus groups and how they convinced investors and advisors to believe in their vision.
People Moves: Former VEB Director Bill Ford Joins ICV Partners; CLEAN Cause Names New CFO
Atlanta, Georgia-based investment firm ICV Partners announced last week that former Coca-Cola Company executive Bill Ford has joined as a managing director in its Portfolio Operations Group (POG); Yerba mate beverage maker CLEAN Cause has named Todd Bondy as its new chief financial officer.
The Alkaline Water Co. Accused of Fraud in Lawsuit
Minneapolis-based brand management firm Castello is taking The Alkaline Water Company to court, alleging the publicly traded beverage maker failed to make payments and fraudulently misrepresented its ability to “produce products of sufficient quality to meet retailer standards.”
Hoist Strengthens Military Ties With New Investor, Advisor
As the competition for dollars in the evolving hydration drink market heats up, Cincinnati-based Hoist is looking for an edge. In announcing the addition of Tyler Merritt as an investor and advisor last week, the company believes it has found one.
Speed Dating: Meet 1:1 with CPG Retailers on April 15
Our special subscribers-only Retailer Speed Dating will return on Thursday, April 15. The 1:1 virtual pitch and networking event will take place from 3PM to 5PM ET, bringing together retailers and up-and-coming food and beverage brands.