Taste Radio Insider Ep. 54: The ‘Better’ Way to Rethink Brand Strategy

In this episode, we’re joined by Ashleigh and Trey Lockerbie, the co-founders of organic kombucha brand Better Booch, who joined us for a conversation about the good, the bad and the ugly of a brand revamp. As part of our conversation, they discussed how the process helped shape the strategy that now serves as the foundation for the company’s future.

Review: The Bitter Housewife Bitters & Soda

The Bitter Housewife is best known for its line of small batch cocktail bitters that are made in Portland, Oregon. Now, the company is expanding this concept with a zero calorie ready-to-drink beverage that combines bitters and carbonated water.

Harbinger Ventures Closes Second Fund

Over the past three years the firm, which invests in early-stage companies that are led by female or “mixed-gender” founder teams, has seen interest in its investment thesis grow exponentially. Perhaps the best indication of the changing sentiment: this week the firm announced the close of its second fund, worth $21.7 million -- roughly 12 times larger than its first fund.

Celsius Adds BCAA Line, Acquires Distributor

Fitness energy drink brand Celsius is entering the final months of 2019 with a flurry of activity, including introducing a new recovery beverage, launching a nationwide marketing tour and acquiring one of its European distributors.

Tea Time: Yogi Tea Acquires Choice Organic

Yogi Tea CEO Giancarlo Marcaccini sees a bright future for mellow moments. Owned by East West Tea Company, Yogi last week announced its acquisition of Choice Organic Teas.

Distribution Roundup: JUST Water Goes Chainwide in Target

JUST Water Goes Chainwide in Target; Daytrip Expands in New York and New Jersey; Bimble Partners with Gotham Brands; Olipop Launches Ecommerce; Hoist Adds New Retailers, Tests Launches in Hy-Vee and Target; SOS Hydration Goes Chainwide in CVS; Hellowater Adds Target; Brio! Adds Whole Foods

Elevator Talk: Shot X Aims to Detox Your Liver

Yash Kankaria is the Chief Growth Office for Shot X, a company aiming to help consumers live healthier lifestyles through daily supplement shots. The brand’s first product is a shot made with curcumin, the active ingredient extracted from turmeric root, which Kankaria states helps destroy toxins in the liver.

Review: Harmless Harvest Protein & Coconut

Harmless Harvest’s latest entry is a line of plant-based USDA organic certified beverages that offer 12 grams of protein, 5 grams of MCTs and 3 grams of fiber in a low sugar format. The product line is launching with three flavors: Toasted Coconut, Vanilla Spice and Chocolate.

Andy Malloy Named Picnik CEO

Andy Malloy, the former CEO of sweets maker Hail Merry, has joined butter coffee brand Picnik as CEO, the company told BevNET this week. Malloy replaces Picnik’s founder, Naomi Seifter, who stepped down as the brand’s chief executive in September.

Taste Radio Ep. 182: ‘The Key To This Game Is Surrounding Yourself With People You Really Trust’

Greg Vetter, the co-founder/CEO of organic dressing brand Tessemae’s, spoke about the huge wins and unexpected losses from his first decade in business. He also explained why his “positively intense” approach is not for everyone, the dangers of bad employees and advisors, and why he believes that “the key to this game is surrounding yourself with people that you really trust.”

Reed’s: Stalowir Exits, Bello Steps in as Interim CEO

Carbonated soft drink maker Reed’s Inc. today announced the appointment of John Bello, the company’s current chairman of the board, as interim CEO following the sudden departure of Val Stalowir, according to a press release.

Gallery: September’s New Product Launches

In this gallery, we highlight some of the notable new product releases from September, including the latest from Vital Proteins, Soylent and AriZona, as well as several new CBD offerings.

Review: Day One Sparkling CBD Water

Day One is a line of recently launched a line of zero calorie, unsweetened sparkling waters infused with 20 mg of CBD per 12 oz. can. The line debuted in three flavors, Lemon, Watermelon and Grapefruit, all of which contain real fruit juice.