Coca-Cola
Lawmakers Criticize Soda Brands' Price Gouging Practices
US Senator Elizabeth Warren and Representative Madeleine Dean accuse Coca-Cola, as well as PepsiCo and General Mills, of "profiteering" through shrinkflation and price hikes while benefiting from lower tax rates. They highlight Coca-Cola’s strategy of reducing package sizes to increase profits, which contributed to a 30 percent growth in gross profit. Warren and Dean argue the 2017 corporate tax cuts incentivized price inflation, allowing companies to pay minimal taxes on large profits. They demand transparency on pricing, tax impacts and executive bonuses during inflationary periods, while consumer brands defend their pricing strategies amid rising costs and inflation.
AI's Role In Shaping The Future Of Soda Brands Coca-Cola Style
Dominik Heinrich, Coca-Cola's global head of AI design, is leveraging AI to keep the iconic brand culturally relevant. While many brands currently embrace AI for flashy campaigns, Heinrich says he’s focusing on practical applications that enhance day-to-day operations and personalization. He warns that relying on limited AI tools could lead to "mass mediocrity," diluting brand uniqueness. Heinrich sees AI as an infrastructural shift, like the Industrial Revolution, and is working to ensure Coca-Cola thrives in this new era without losing its creative edge.
Coca-Cola To Close Five Plants In Germany
Coca-Cola is closing five production and logistics sites in Germany, cutting 500 jobs to reduce costs and adapt to evolving logistics trends. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners aims to consolidate operations, responding to competitive pressures and shifting toward centralized delivery systems. Facilities in Neumünster, Bielefeld, Berlin, Memmingen and Cologne will close, with some jobs relocated. The Cologne plant, the smallest in Western Germany, will shut down by March 2025. CCEP currently operates 14 production facilities in the country and employs some 6,500 people.
Other Companies
Hive₂O Launches Premium Mineral Spring Water
US-based Hive₂O expands its beverage portfolio with the launch of HiveH₂O Mineral Spring Water, emphasizing wellness and sustainability. Sourced from the hill regions of Napa Valley and the Smoky Mountains, this premium water features a naturally alkaline pH of 7.7+, ensuring a pure, mineral-rich hydration experience. HiveH₂O contains no additives, sugars or artificial ingredients, aligning with the brand's commitment to health and taste. Founder David Bee Lolis highlights the importance of purity and sustainable practices in the new product, which will debut at the San Diego Wine & Spirits Festival as the exclusive premium water sponsor. With direct online sales and retail availability, Hive₂O says it aims to provide consumers with exceptional beverages that deliver luxury and environmental consciousness.
Clearly Canadian Is Consolidating Its Nostalgic Return
Clearly Canadian has revived its presence since relaunching in 2017, selling 50 million bottles and expanding distribution to major retailers like Kroger and Target. The company, known for its distinctive fruit-flavored sparkling water, appeals both to former fans and younger consumers by emphasizing authenticity and a sensory experience. After a crowdfunding campaign generated significant interest, Clearly Canadian has maintained its original branding while introducing new products, including a zero-sugar line and cans for wider distribution. The brand aims to attract millennials and Gen Z consumers while honoring its past, positioning itself as a unique option in a crowded beverage market focused on health and nostalgia. Clearly Canadian first launched in 1987, but strategic missteps, mismanagement and leadership conflict saw the company fail. Entrepreneur Robert R. Khan acquired it 12 years ago.
Recoup Launches Prebiotic Beverages In Sprouts Market
Recoup introduces its prebiotic sparkling beverages to 420 Sprouts Farmers Market locations, emphasizing gut health and regenerative agriculture. They are made with 3 grams of prebiotic fiber from agave inulin and functional ginger, contain no added sugar and are sweetened with maple tree water. Available in flavors like Pineapple Passion Fruit and Watermelon Blood Orange, Recoup sources 95 percent of its ingredients from Regenerative Organic Certified suppliers. Participation in Sprouts’ New-For-You innovation set offers potential for regular shelf space based on performance. Despite only nascent consumer awareness of ROC, Recoup aims to raise understanding of regenerative agriculture through its direct-to-consumer sales on its website and Amazon, tapping into growing consumer interest in sustainable and health-focused products.
DASH Water Launches New Cucumber & Mint Flavor
DASH Water in the UK introduces its latest flavor, Cucumber & Mint, set to launch this October. The all-natural sparkling water combines fresh spring water, bubbles, wonky cucumber and mint, and contains no sugar, sweeteners or calories. Co-founder Jack Scott claims this refreshing twist enhances the classic Cucumber flavor, appealing to consumers who prefer healthier drink options. This launch follows DASH's recent marketing campaign challenging sugary beverages, underscoring its commitment to providing alternatives in the soft drink industry. Cucumber & Mint will be available for order on the DASH website and at Ocado starting in November.
Beekeeper Coffee Launches Itself With Honey-Sweetened Brew
Beekeeper Coffee’s co-founders are leveraging their brand-building experience from Nike and Beats by Dre to differentiate their honey-sweetened ready-to-drink coffee in a crowded market. They emphasize authenticity and sustainability, using honey to complement but not overpower the coffee's flavor profile. The brand offers products like Double Black coffee and flavored lattes, sourcing high-quality beans from Guatemala, Brazil and Peru. Understanding younger consumers' preferences for simplicity, Beekeeper’s formulation appeals to those new to coffee who may dislike bitterness. Strategic partnerships, including collaborations with Taco Bell and Lobos 1707 tequila, further boost visibility and align with the brand's vision, fostering organic growth across various markets.
ThaiBev
ThaiBev Invests 18 Billion Baht For Strategic Growth
Thai Beverage plans to invest 18 billion baht this year to support its "Passion 2030" vision, focusing on both domestic and international expansion. CEO Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi emphasizes agility in responding to changing consumer behaviors, with a significant push towards digital solutions. The investment will enhance all product lines, including food and non-alcoholic beverages. 2.5 billion baht will be allocated to Cambodia and an 8 billion baht AgriValley project in Malaysia will develop a sustainable dairy farm. ThaiBev identifies Malaysia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Thailand as core markets for non-alcoholic beverages, and sees Indonesia as a promising opportunity.
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