Bevi Offers Sound Tea As First Brand Partnership
Bevi now offers two SKUs — green tea and rose tea — from Sound as options within its system. Launched in late July, the partnership marks Bevi’s first affiliation with an independent beverage brand.
People Moves: Soylent Co-Founder Moves On
Soylent co-founder and chief technology officer John Coogan has left the company to pursue independent consulting; Long Island Iced Tea Corp. brings on Rob Stefanizzi; Shawn Sugarman leaves Moon Juice; Sidney Horn joins Halen Brands
Review: La Colombe Pumpkin Spice Draft Latte
Most third wave, independent, and premium coffee roasters have tried to steer clear of pumpkin spice, so it’s somewhat against the grain for La Colombe to attempt this. That means that there’s additional pressure on to make it something really special.
Juicero Says It’s Shutting Down
A letter posted on the company's web site today explained that the company was shutting down due to the infrastructure challenges in "creating an effective manufacturing and distribution system for a nationwide consumer base."
Google Beverage Trend Report Touts Cold Brew, Earthy Flavors
Google released its first ever beverage trends report last week, drawing on its vast data collection and analysis resources to present a deep dive into the factors fueling non-alcoholic drinks in the U.S., United Kingdom, Mexico and Spain.
Review: Doctor D’s Water Kefir is a Nice Alternative to Kombucha
Doctor D’s is a line of water kefir beverages that are infused with fruit juices for flavor. The products, which are produced in Colorado, are marketed for their probiotic content and great taste.
Taste Radio Ep. 73: How Can Premiumization and Portland Define a Rich Career? Ask Joth Ricci.
This week’s episode of Taste Radio features a captivating interview with Joth Ricci, a veteran beverage executive with one of the most diverse, interesting and impactful track records of anyone in the industry. Over a 17-year career, Ricci has held roles as president of Stumptown Coffee, president and CEO of Jones Soda and managing director with beverage investment and advisory firm First Beverage Group. We recently traveled to Portland, Ore. to meet with Ricci, who is currently the president/CEO of Adelsheim Vineyard.
Functional Beverages Find New Energy with MCT Oil
Much of MCT oil’s newfound recognition in food and beverage is due to its purported health benefits. Studies have shown it to be a particularly effective component of the "healthy fat" trend. High in saturated fats, the body quickly converts MCT into energy, making it popular amongst proponents of the paleo and ketogenic diets.
In the Courtroom: Poland Spring Labeled “Fraud,” Pastors Sue Coke
Nestlé Waters North America faces a proposed class action lawsuit alleging that its Poland Spring water products constitute a "colossal fraud" to consumers, while two Washington, D.C., area pastors take on The Coca-Cola Company. Elsewhere, a judge grants final approval to a seven-figure settlement for consumers in a class action suit against GT's and Whole Foods.
Review: Bruce Cost Goes Zero Calorie with Brooklyn Organics Craft Ginger Ale
Bruce Cost Ginger Ale is a brand that has, at least in terms of their ability to develop top notch ginger based sodas, really developed into one of the preeminent craft soda brands that’s on the market today.
Amp Energy Launches Organic Line
Available exclusively in 7-Eleven stores nationwide through the end of this year before a wider launch in Q1 2018, Amp Energy Organic will debut in four fruit-flavored SKUs: Citrus, Pineapple Coconut, Grape and Tropical Burst.
Califia Farms Grows On-Premise with New Partnership
Califia Farms announced Monday a new on-premise partnership with The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, launching the company’s Barista Blend Almondmilk nationwide in select cafe locations. The deal brings Califia Farms’ total on-premise presence to roughly 2,500 locations, making its barista-focused business the fastest growing segment of the company.
Ocean Spray Relaunches Pact
Initially launched in 2014 through a distribution partnership with PepsiCo, the original Pact beverages were marketed to consumers as a cleanse drink. The new 16 oz. bottles feature cleaner-looking packaging that highlight the beverage’s low-calorie count and emphasize its fruit content.
Distribution Roundup: NOOMA Lands At Whole Foods, Kroger Expands Functional Set
NOOMA secures national distribution at Whole Foods and Life Time Fitness, Kroger expands its functional beverage set, and La Colombe's Draft Latte lands at Trader Joe's.