Coca-Cola
Costa Coffee, Podback Launch Pod Recycling Trial
Costa Coffee is partnering with Podback to trial a coffee pod recycling initiative across 142 of its UK stores. During the five-month trial, customers can collect free Podback recycling bags, fill them with used pods and return them for recycling. Podback, supported by over 27 coffee brands including Nespresso and Tassimo, aims to make recycling more convenient. The used pods will be processed to recover materials like aluminum and plastic, and coffee grounds will be converted into biogas and soil improvers.
Keurig Dr Pepper
Keurig Dr Pepper Fined $1.5 Million For Misleading Recycling Claims
The Securities and Exchange Commission in the US has fined Keurig Dr Pepper $1.5 million for misleading recyclability claims about its K-Cup pods. KDP claimed in its 2019 and 2020 annual reports that its pods were recyclable, but the SEC found that KDP did not disclose major US recycling companies’ “significant concerns” about the feasibility of curbside recycling for these pods. The SEC's enforcement action requires KDP to cease and desist from these claims. KDP, while not admitting fault, has agreed to the penalty and continues to emphasize the recyclability of its pods in North America. The company has also introduced a new “compostable” coffee pod, K-Round, which is expected to be certified compostable and is designed to work with its new Keurig Alta brewing system.
Dr Pepper Eyes Growth With New Varieties And Distribution
As it approaches its 140th anniversary, Dr Pepper is focusing on growth through expanded distribution, Dr Pepper Zero Sugar and new product launches, according to Keurig Dr Pepper CEO Tim Cofer, who also highlighted Arizona as a key market for expansion, thanks to new facilities. Dr Pepper Zero is attracting younger, multicultural consumers, offering significant growth potential. The brand plans to introduce a new flavor in 2024, following successful launches like Strawberries & Cream, which generated $300 million in sales, and Creamy Coconut, its most successful limited-time offering.
Nestle
Nestlé Settles French Water Probe With €2 Million Fine
Nestlé's water subsidiary has agreed to a €2 million settlement to end French investigations into illegal wells and mineral water treatment practices. The settlement, described as the largest environmental non-prosecution agreement in France, resolves issues related to unauthorized well usage and fraudulent filtration of mineral waters, illegal under French law. Additionally, Nestlé will invest €1.1 million over two years in environmental restoration projects in affected French towns. While the agreement is praised for promoting quicker remediation and compliance, consumer advocates criticize it as a "scandalous" example of corporate impunity, arguing that it allows Nestlé to evade significant consequences for its environmental misconduct by “pulling out its checkbook".
Other Companies
Monster Energy Launches Rehab Green Tea For Active Consumers
Monster Energy has introduced Rehab Monster Green Tea, a new addition to its non-carbonated beverage lineup. It combines green tea with electrolytes and vitamins, targeting health-conscious consumers seeking hydration and recovery. Each 16oz can contains 160mg of caffeine, 15 calories and less than 5g of sugar. Infused with essential electrolytes including sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium, as well as vitamins B3, B5, B6 and B12, it targets those who want replenishment after physical activity. Dan McHugh, Monster’s CMO, highlighted the drink’s role in supporting hydration and energy. It’s available nationally in five flavors: Tea + Lemonade, Peach Tea, Wild Berry Tea, Strawberry Lemonade and Watermelon
Red Bull Unveils Winter Edition Iced Vanilla Berry Flavor
Red Bull is launching its second Winter Edition flavor, Iced Vanilla Berry, featuring a blend of blueberry, vanilla, cotton candy and eucalyptus notes. Packaged in a blue can, it will soon start appearing in wholesalers and will be fully available in stores from October 1. Consumer tests indicate a strong interest, with 72 percent of respondents saying they would be likely to purchase it and 49 percent intrigued by the novelty. Red Bull aims to replicate the success of last year's Winter Edition Spiced Pear, which significantly boosted brand sales. Iced Vanilla Berry will be sold in single 250ml cans for £1.60, with a 355ml Sugarfree option at £1.95. There’s also a 4-pack of 250ml Sugarfree at £5.00.
British Brand YEW Launches 'Super Natural' Sparkling Waters
British brand YEW has introduced a new range of flavored sparkling waters, positioned as a healthy alternative to sugary sodas and energy drinks. The initial lineup features three flavors—Crisp Apple, Pink Rhubarb and Zesty Lemon—in 440ml cans and available at Selfridges, online and in select independent shops in the UK. YEW’s drinks contain no sugar, calories or artificial ingredients. Co-founder Francesca Zampi, inspired by the US soft seltzer market, sought to fill a gap in the UK with a vibrant and health-conscious option.
Ybee Drinks Launches CBD-Infused RTD Iced Coffee In The UK
Two-year-old Ybee Drinks has launched its flagship product in the UK, a functional ready-to-drink iced coffee infused with high-quality cold-pressed CBD. It claims to enhance focus and mood, and reduce anxiety and jitters. Manufactured in the UK, it uses natural ingredients and avoids artificial flavorings and sweeteners. Co-founder Conor D’Arcy said that after two years of development, the goal was to offer a healthier, jitter-free alternative to existing market options, combining focus and energy in one beverage.
Fhirst Secures National Listing On Ocado For Its Functional Sodas
Fhirst, a new functional soda brand, has achieved its first national grocery listing with Ocado. Multipacks, featuring flavors like Lemon Lime and Cherry Vanilla, will be available online starting September, with an introductory six-week offer of £4.40 for four 300ml cans. Fhirst claims to offer a healthier alternative to traditional sodas, with each can containing two billion probiotic cultures, 5g of prebiotic plant fiber and no more than six calories. The brand also claims to be unique in its science-backed approach, supported by in vitro studies showing that over 90 percent of its probiotic cultures remain stable and effective by the time they reach the gut. Founded last year, Fhirst is also available on Amazon, and in over 600 independent retailers and 150 health stores across the UK and Ireland.
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