Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is scaling AI across its global operations through a cross-functional digital council, which includes the CFO, CMO and CIO. AI initiatives focus on consumer insights, bottler support and corporate efficiency. Employees use AI-powered tools for internal research, while external applications include ad creation and predictive sales models. Retailers receive AI-generated guidance on stock planning, improving sales at pilot locations by 5–20%. Partnerships with Microsoft, Adobe and SAP support these efforts.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners is investing €68 million in its Dunkirk facility in Hauts-de-France to add a ninth production line for still drinks like iced teas, fruit beverages and sports drinks. There will also be a new syrup plant and logistics upgrades and it will likely be operational by the end of next year. Dunkirk is the only CCEP French site with still-drink production technology, hosting existing lines for Fuze Tea, Tropico juices and Powerade.
Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission approved Coca-Cola’s sale of Chivita|Hollandia to UAC of Nigeria Plc. CHI Limited produces juice, value-added dairy, still drinks and snacks under brands such as Chivita and Hollandia. Coca-Cola acquired a 40% stake in 2016 and secured full ownership in 2019. Both companies expressed optimism about a smooth transition, emphasizing CHI Limited’s innovation, ISO-certified manufacturing and strong market presence.
Diet Coke relaunched two nostalgic flavors: Diet Cherry Coke in the UK and Retro Diet Coke Lime in the US. Diet Cherry Coke, originally from the 1980s, is back on Tesco shelves with retro-inspired packaging, reflecting the growing popularity of cherry flavors. In the US, Retro Diet Coke Lime returns with neon lime packaging, following a successful earlier Cherry Coke relaunch. The limited-time products are available in various sizes, from multipacks to single bottles.
Powerade Power Water is a sugar-free, electrolyte-enhanced water under its Bodyarmor Sports Nutrition division and the first Powerade innovation in over five years. Available in four flavors, it contains 50% more electrolytes than Gatorade Thirst Quencher and is positioned as a functional hydration option for consumers seeking alternatives to traditional sports drinks. Initial sales are regional in the US, with nationwide availability planned for next year via retail and Amazon. Coca-Cola will support the launch with social media campaigns, sampling events and fitness partnerships.
Keurig Dr Pepper
A class action lawsuit filed against Keurig Dr Pepper alleges that Snapple drinks marketed as “all natural” contain synthetic citric acid. Plaintiff Kesha Peters purchased Snapple Peach Tea believing it was natural, claiming she would not have bought it otherwise. The lawsuit, filed in New York federal court, argues that the label misleads consumers and allows the company to charge a premium. It cites FDA guidance that citric acid is considered synthetic.
Other Companies
Lipton Teas and Infusions sold two factories in Rize, Türkiye, to local company Öz-Gür Çay. Lipton will continue operations through its blending and packaging facility in Sakarya, recently expanded with a €30 million investment. The deal aligns with Lipton’s strategy to focus on core strengths: sourcing, blending and selling tea. Approval from Türkiye’s competition authority is pending. Öz-Gür Çay already markets tea under its own brand. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Fentimans brings two new flavors to its Botanically Brewed soft drinks range. English Apple and Orange Blossom are both available in 250ml cans at Sainsbury’s for a RRP of £1.45. Orange Blossom offers a floral citrus profile and English Apple provides a crisp, refreshing taste. The new SKUs complement existing 250ml cans of Rose Lemonade and Ginger Beer, responding to rising consumer demand for convenient, high-quality beverages.
Tata Consumer Products promoted Zip Zap Energy Drink during Durga Puja in Kolkata through hourly “Energy Hour” dhol performances. The 180ml non-carbonated drink, priced at Rs. 10, combines caffeine and vitamins, offering an affordable, accessible option for festival-goers. Activation included live music, crowd engagement and free samples.
Adrafül Labs introduced energy drinks combining caffeine and adrafinil, a wakefulness-promoting stimulant. Targeting startup and tech communities, the brand uses a pre-order “drop” model and positions the drinks as productivity enhancers. A patent-pending formula aims for sustained mental focus without typical caffeine crashes. Produced in Southern California, the Endurance line appeals to professionals seeking cognitive performance.
South Korean beverage companies are introducing low-calorie, low-sugar and functional energy drinks. LOTTE Chilsung expanded its Hot Six line with peach-flavored, zero-calorie and protein-enhanced variants. Starbucks reintroduced Cherry & Plum Energy Fizzio, featuring taurine, vitamins and biotin. Hyundai Pharm’s Enerin emphasizes natural sweeteners, guarana and vitamins, aligning with a “healthy energy” trend. Convenience stores report strong demand.
South Korea’s SEP Cooperative plans investment in two projects in Can Tho, Vietnam: a tropical fruit juice processing plant and a biofuel facility using rice straw and agricultural by-products. The juice plant aims to supply export markets, producing 300,000–500,000 liters daily from fruits such as pineapple, mango and passion fruit. Pulp will be reused for bio-oil, fertilizer and biomass energy. Initial investments range from $120–180 million, potentially rising to $220 million, and could create 900 direct and 2,500 indirect jobs.