The latest food and beverage industry news and trend analysis

Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams has appointed David Stever, former CEO and CMO of Ben and Jerry's, as its new Chief Executive Officer. Bringing over 25 years of consumer-packaged goods (CPG) leadership, Stever is tasked with scaling the artisanal brand's national footprint across its 90-plus scoop shops, 15,000 retail locations, and its newly launched Fellowship Model for franchising.

Amy's Kitchen, a pioneer in the organic prepared food sector, has promoted Paul Schiefer to Chief Executive Officer as part of a planned multi-year leadership transition. Schiefer, a 20-year veteran of the company who previously served as President, is tasked with scaling the brand toward 1 billion dollars in retail sales while maintaining its status as a leading Certified B Corporation.

Pepsi Global has unveiled the Pepsi Football Nation platform, a multi-year initiative designed to integrate the brand into the daily rituals and cultural conversations of global football fans. Supported by a high-profile roster including David Beckham and Vini Jr., the campaign utilises digital innovations.

Sodexo has appointed Orla Muldoon as General Counsel for North America, effective March 23, 2026. Bringing over 20 years of experience from industry leaders, including ADM and Kellogg Company, Muldoon will oversee legal, compliance, and government affairs to support Sodexo's strategic growth and regulatory rigour across the United States and Canada.

Rockstar Energy is marking its return to NASCAR through a multi-faceted partnership with 23XI Racing and championship frontrunner Tyler Reddick. The move signals the start of a broader investment strategy into elite sports and music under the new "LIVE LOUD" brand identity, leveraging Reddick’s historic 2026 season start to drive cultural relevance and high-stakes brand visibility.

Minute Maid Spiked is capitalising on its 92% year-over-year growth by launching its first celebrity-led campaign featuring multi-hyphenate Action Bronson. The partnership reinforces the brand's "No Muss, No Fuss" positioning in the high-growth Alcohol Ready-to-Drink (ARTD) category, focusing on non-carbonated, juice-forward alternatives to traditional hard seltzers.

The Coca-Cola Company has appointed Tapaswee Chandele as its next Global Chief People Officer, effective May 1. A 25-year veteran of the company, Chandele succeeds Lisa Chang, signalling a focus on internal continuity and global talent development as the beverage giant optimises its international workforce strategy.

Lifestyle coffee brand happy®, co-founded by Robert Downey Jr. and Craig Dubitsky, is entering the high-growth refrigerated multi-serve category with a 48-oz Cold Brew launch across Kroger’s national banners, targeting the "premium convenience" segment.