Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola and Bacardi partnered to launch a ready-to-drink Bacardi and Coca-Cola cocktail, following previous Coca-Cola collaborations with Brown-Forman and Pernod Ricard. This marks Coca-Cola's continued expansion into the growing alcohol RTD market, signaling a strategic shift under CEO James Quincey. Initially available in Mexico and, next year, in select EU markets, the global ABV benchmark for the cocktail is 5%, but tailored by region. The move reflects broader industry trends, with major soft drink brands increasingly venturing into premium alcohol RTD products.
Keurig Dr Pepper
7up introduced a refreshed branding and packaging, emphasizing its iconic green color with vibrant citrus hues to reflect its crisp taste. The redesign, featuring an angled logo and culturally adaptable "Up," aims to create an energetic, uplifting image. The update applies to Lemon Lime and Cherry 7up in Regular and Zero Sugar varieties, with Zero Sugar products showcasing a distinct, bold palette. This marks 7up’s first North American brand refresh since 2014, aligning with consumer preferences for an enhanced visual experience.
Other Companies
Schweppes teamed up with Gelato Messina to create a limited-edition line of sorbet-inspired soft drinks, combining Messina’s sorbet flavors with Schweppes’ classic bubbles. The new range includes Passionfruit Lemonade Sorbet, Pineapple and Lime Sorbet, and Peach and Mango Sorbet. This collaboration aims to deliver a refreshing and indulgent summer treat, appealing to younger consumers seeking innovative flavors. Available in 1.1L, 600ml and 300ml formats, the products highlight Schweppes’ strategy to introduce engaging and nostalgic products into the beverage market.
Waterloo Sparkling Water introduces Pomegranate Açaí, a new seasonal flavor, alongside the return of the popular Spiced Apple for fall. Both flavors offer distinctive taste experiences, such as vibrant pomegranate with earthy açaí and nostalgic baked apple with spices. Waterloo says these calorie-free, sugar-free options reflect its commitment to flavor innovation and growth in the sparkling water market. The launch is part of Waterloo’s broader strategy to drive excitement and brand loyalty. They will be rolled out from this month nationally at Whole Foods, Target, Walmart, Amazon, HEB, Central Market, select Costco and Sam's Club divisions and other outlets.
Beverage brand Strive is introducing a new line of functional beverages focused on hydration, recovery and energy using high-quality ingredients like organic honey and clean caffeine sources. Strive’s products avoid artificial sweeteners and excessive health claims, offering a more natural approach with fewer ingredients and lower caffeine content compared to competitors like Celsius and Zoa. With three flavors - TROPICAL RECHARGE, with passionfruit, BLOOD ORANGE SPARK, featuring a “citrus wake-up call” and “sweet-tart” PEACH PERFECT - Strive aims to capture a share of the growing market for functional beverages. Each 12oz. can contains no more than 45 calories, less than 10 carbohydrates and less than 100mg of caffeine. They can be purchased livedrinkstrive.com.
EastRoc, a leading Chinese energy drink brand valued at over CNY100 trillion, is diversifying into a multi-beverage portfolio, including hydration, teas and ready-to-drink cocktails. The company’s shift from a single-product focus, which had limited success, to a broader approach is in response to evolving consumer preferences. EastRoc will maintain its brand for functional products while introducing new names for non-functional items and also plans to enter the RTD cocktail market, targeting younger consumers who favor these beverages over traditional alcoholic drinks.