Coca-Cola
Campa Cola Challenges Coke, Pepsi In India
Reliance Industries is disrupting the soft drink market in India with Campa Cola, a revived brand gaining significant market share in under two years. Campa Cola's low pricing strategy, offering 200ml bottles for just 10 rupees, allowed it to capture attention, especially in a price-sensitive market, forcing Coca-Cola and Pepsi to reduce prices and introduce new variants to stay competitive. Analysts predict the cola price war will continue as competitors adjust to Reliance’s disruptive pricing strategy. Tata Consumer Products, which admitted it had “missed a trick” when Reliance entered the market, seeks to boost sales of its glucose-based drink, Gluco+.
Consumer Boycott Hits Coca-Cola Sales In Denmark
Carlsberg reported a hit to Coca-Cola sales in Denmark, attributing it to a local consumer boycott of US brands, sparked by political tensions over President Trump’s threats to acquire Greenland, which has led to growing discontent and a surge in support for local alternatives. Sales of Jolly Cola reportedly increased 13-fold in March versus the year-ago period, as Danish consumers turn to homegrown products. Despite the drop in Coca-Cola volumes, Carlsberg stated that the overall impact on its performance remains minimal.
India Drives Coca-Cola’s Global Volume Growth
India emerged as a key growth driver for Coca-Cola in the March quarter, with double-digit volume gains fueled by strong demand for local brands like Thums Up and Maaza. Despite a 2% decline in net revenues from currency headwinds and bottling refranchising, the company reported a 6% volume increase in Asia Pacific, led by India’s early summer boost in beverage consumption. In contrast, volumes in North America fell by 3% amid weakening consumer sentiment.
Geopolitical Tensions Impact Coca-Cola Sales Globally
Coca-Cola faces sales pressures in Denmark, Mexico and among Hispanic consumers in the US, driven by geopolitical tensions and nationalist sentiment. Danish consumers are boycotting US brands, including Coca-Cola, after President Trump’s Greenland-related threats, with local brand Jolly Cola experiencing a surge in sales. In Mexico, sales dropped amid trade-related concerns and tariffs, particularly near the US border, where economic uncertainty curbed spending. In the US, Hispanic consumers reduced purchases of Coca-Cola following viral videos claiming, falsely according to Coca-Cola’s CEO, the company reported undocumented workers to the authorities. Additionally, anti-American sentiment in majority Muslim countries further dampened demand in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Nestle
Nestlé Adapts To Tariffs With Local Production
Nestlé says it’s well-positioned to manage the impact of rising tariffs due to the breadth of its global production network. It operates 337 facilities in 75 countries, allowing it to produce locally for local markets, reducing reliance on international trade. Although tariffs on products like Nespresso and soluble coffee in the US are expected to affect costs, Nestlé remains confident in managing these disruptions through strategies such as load balancing, sourcing adjustments and pricing actions. With strong pricing power in key categories like coffee, premium water and health products, Nestlé’s leadership believes the company is ready to adapt to an evolving tariff landscape.
Other Companies
Arla Launches Protein Soda For Health-Conscious Consumers
Arla Foods Ingredients is showcasing a new protein soda concept at Vitafoods Europe, designed to meet growing demand for functional beverages. With 10g of protein per serving and zero sugar, this soda utilizes Lacprodan® BLG-100, a high-quality protein that supports muscle maintenance, growth and satiety. Arla says the protein content, along with its water-like clarity and clean taste, makes it an attractive option for consumers shifting away from sugary drinks. Arla’s concept aligns with the “better-for-you” trend in soft drinks, offering an innovative, healthier alternative.
Firebird Energy, A Brand Born From Personal Adversity
Firebird Energy, founded by New Zealand police officer Shaun Winstanley, entered the energy drink market last year with a unique blend of protein and caffeine. After surviving a shooting in 2023, Winstanley created a protein-infused energy drink to aid his recovery, combining 150mg of caffeine with 16g of milk protein. In coffee and toffee flavors, it offers sustained energy with minimal sugar and calories. Firebird Energy connects with modern consumers by offering practical benefits while sharing a compelling story of resilience and overcoming adversity. The brand’s focus on health, wellness and a personal narrative resonates with today's informed, value-driven buyers.
Just Ice Tea Thrives After Honest Tea's Demise
Three years after Coca-Cola discontinued Honest Tea, co-founder Seth Goldman shifted focus to Just Ice Tea, which has quickly become a top player in the natural foods sector. Goldman expressed no ill will toward Coca-Cola but sees the closure as an opportunity. Just Ice Tea, which shares Honest Tea's organic and low-sugar principles, reached $16 million in sales in 2023 and is expected to surpass $30 million this year. The brand has expanded into major retailers like Target and Walmart, differentiating itself with agave sweetener and eco-friendly packaging.
Emmi Caffe Latte’s Strategic Growth In RTD Coffee
RTD coffee brand Emmi Caffe Latte is expanding its presence in the UK market. Known for its high-protein, low-sugar options and a focus on natural ingredients, Emmi’s growth is driven by trends, such as decaf and dairy-free products. The brand also targets consumer preferences for healthier drinks without compromising on taste. Emmi’s use of premium ingredients, like Swiss milk and Rainforest Alliance Certified coffee beans, sets it apart, and its strategy includes increasing visibility in impulse retail spaces and promoting convenience through single-serve formats. Emmi plans to continue growing its global reach with a major campaign in 2026.
Fever-Tree Launches Local Production In Australia
Fever-Tree Australia began local production of its premium mixers to capitalize on its record market share. This milestone coincides with the brand’s 20th anniversary and marks another year of strong growth in the Australian market. Production at Remedy Drinks’ Melbourne facility will improve supply chain efficiency, reduce lead times and minimize transport emissions. Fever-Tree plans to expand further with an innovation pipeline, focusing on new products like 250ml cans and capitalizing on the popularity of its soda and cocktail mixers.
Rite Foods Sues Over Alleged Energy Drink Imitation In Nigeria
Rite Foods Ltd. filed a N1.60 billion lawsuit against Mamuda Beverages Nigeria Ltd. for allegedly imitating its Fearless energy drink with a product called Pop Power. Rite Foods claims Mamuda's design, featuring a similar black/brown bottle with a yellow cover, will confuse consumers and infringes on its trademark. Despite a prior settlement and consent judgment requiring Mamuda to redesign its product, Rite Foods asserts that Mamuda's new Pop Power drink still closely resembles Fearless. The lawsuit seeks an injunction, destruction of the infringing products, and damages. Mamuda denies wrongdoing, arguing that the issues were already addressed in the earlier case.
Sēkwl Introduces Functional Mushroom Sparkling Waters
Sēkwl Beverage House aims to shake up the beverage market with a line of adaptogenic sparkling waters, blending flavor, function and organic ingredients. It uses functional mushrooms and organic botanicals, without artificial fillers, to create drinks to support energy, focus and relaxation. With six flavors, including Hibiscus, Lemon Ginger, and Cacao, each product offers distinct health benefits like immunity support and digestive health. Sēkwl emphasizes quality, sustainability and local production, aiming to redefine hydration and functional beverages. Available online now, the brand also plans retail expansion later this year.
More...
Copyright 2025 Business360, Inc.