The NBA and The Coca-Cola Company have established a new global marketing agreement naming Sprite the league’s Official Global Soft Drink Partner. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Beverage Coca-Cola Company The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The National Basketball Association (NBA) and The Coca-Cola Company have announced a comprehensive global marketing partnership that returns Sprite to its position as the league’s Official Global Soft Drink Partner. The agreement marks a major reconciliation of two prominent brands in the sports and beverage sectors, aiming to leverage basketball as a "cultural engine" to reach a global audience. The partnership focuses on co-creating fan experiences and exploring emerging digital formats to engage the next generation of consumers. Historical Context and Strategic Alignment The Coca-Cola Company originally partnered with the NBA in 1986. For decades, Sprite was a fixture in basketball marketing, notably serving as the title sponsor of the Slam Dunk Contest from 2003 to 2016. The new agreement seeks to build on this heritage while modernising the approach for a digital-first market. Kerry Tatlock, NBA EVP of Global Marketing Partnerships and Media, noted that the values of individuality and self-expression celebrated by Sprite align with the league's global fan base. The partnership is expected to integrate the brand into the cultural aspects surrounding the game, including music, fashion, and lifestyle. Targeting the Next Generation through Athlete Ambassadors A cornerstone of the renewed collaboration is the brand's relationship with 2026 NBA All-Star Game MVP Anthony Edwards. The Minnesota Timberwolves guard will serve as a lead representative for the brand, embodying the "bold originality" that Sprite aims to project to younger demographics. By utilising high-profile athletes whose influence extends beyond the court, the partnership intends to secure a foothold in the lifestyle categories that drive Gen Z and Millennial consumer behaviour. Global Activation and Retail Integration The agreement grants Sprite exclusivity across the NBA’s global footprint. Strategic activations will occur during league tentpole moments and international events such as the NBA Global Games. Key components of the marketing rollout include: Custom Content Series : Exclusive programming developed for NBA digital platforms. Co-branded Packaging : Limited-edition Sprite cans featuring select NBA team logos in participating markets. In-Market Experiences : Integrated retail programs and fan events designed to drive regional pride and local engagement. Operational Reach The partnership builds on Sprite’s existing infrastructure within the league, which currently includes individual team partnerships with 17 NBA franchises. Manolo Arroyo, EVP and Global Chief Marketing Officer at The Coca-Cola Company, stated that the goal of the reunion is to meet the next generation where they are through experimentation with new formats and immersive experiences. The collaboration represents a significant consolidation of sports marketing assets for Coca-Cola, positioning Sprite as the primary refreshment partner for the league's diverse international audience. NBA and Coca-Cola Reunite for Global Sprite Marketing Partnership March 17, 2026 Marketing Just Shrimp Launches Shrimpmas Retail Campaign Confectionery Snickers and Adidas Partner on Limited-Edition Football Cleat Dairy Arla Foods UK Launches Feed Life Masterbrand Marketing Platform Marketing TRIP Launches Global TV and Billboard Campaign with Kendall Jenner and Joe Jonas Beverage Business & Finance Marketing Related news

Pop & Bottle has expanded its RTD portfolio into the functional hydration category, launching a Matcha Coconut Water line that combines ceremonial-grade matcha comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Pop & Bottle, the organic ready-to-drink (RTD) coffee and tea brand, has announced a strategic expansion into the functional hydration category with the launch of its new Matcha Coconut Water product line. Currently recognised as the number one brand in the RTD matcha category, the rollout leverages the company's existing market authority to target the growing demand for clean, dual-benefit beverages. The new range is now available nationwide at Sprouts, with distribution scheduled to scale across additional retail partners later this year. Technical Formulation and Functional Hydration The new product line is engineered to bridge the gap between sports hydration and cognitive focus. By merging ceremonial-grade matcha with coconut water, the brand provides a liquid solution that hydrates while delivering a steady, slow-release energy lift without the "crash" often associated with high-sugar stimulants. The Matcha Coconut Water line debuts with three distinct flavour profiles, all formulated without added sugar: Matcha Coconut Water: Lightly earthy and naturally sweet, providing 25mg of caffeine and 640mg of natural electrolytes. Pomegranate Berry: A blend of sweet blackberry and tart pomegranate, delivering 25mg of caffeine and 600mg of natural electrolytes. Citrus: Featuring bright citrus notes and a hint of fresh ginger, yielding 25mg of caffeine and 640mg of natural electrolytes. Amelia Winslow, Vice President of Marketing at Pop & Bottle, stated that expanding into hydration represents a "natural evolution" for a brand built on the premise of delightful and nourishing daily wellness rituals. By applying its ingredient-first philosophy to the hydration sector, the organisation aims to capture consumers seeking proactive wellness solutions that require no manual preparation. Portfolio Expansion in RTD Lattes Alongside the hydration rollout, Pop & Bottle is reinforcing its core competency with the introduction of two new RTD Matcha Almond Milk Lattes, also debuting at Sprouts this month. Designed for a more indulgent, café-style consumption occasion, the new variants include: Vanilla Bean Matcha Almond Milk Latte: A creamy, plant-based option lightly sweetened with coconut nectar and infused with rich vanilla flavour. Blueberry Matcha Almond Milk Latte: A fruit-forward, indulgent profile merging the earthy tones of matcha with vibrant blueberry juice. Pop & Bottle Enters Hydration Category with Matcha Coconut Water Launch May 12, 2026 New Products La Colombe Launches Ready-to-Drink Matcha Latte Line New Products TRUBAR and Cha Cha Matcha Partner to Launch Protein Bar and Café Drinks New Products Little Moons Launches Strawberry Matcha Latte Mochi Ice Cream in UK Ingredients Dawn Foods Introduces Matcha Fond and Upgrades Berry Stabilisers Water New Products Beverage Coffee & Tea Related news

TrueStart Coffee, the Bristol-based B Corp known for its "clean energy" proposition, has closed a "significant" Series A funding round to accelerate its retail footprint and direct-to-consumer (D2C) operations. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > TrueStart Coffee , the Bristol-based B Corp known for its "clean energy" proposition, has closed a "significant" Series A funding round to accelerate its retail footprint and direct-to-consumer (D2C) operations. The undisclosed investment was led by JamJar Investments —the venture capital firm established by the founders of Innocent Drinks —marking a major vote of confidence from some of the UK’s most successful consumer brand builders. The round also saw participation from DLF Venture and a group of strategic angel investors. Disrupting a "Static" Category Founded in 2015 by Helena and Simon Hills, TrueStart has positioned itself as a disruptor in the traditional coffee aisle. The brand focuses on "hyper-consistent" caffeine levels and a "better-for-you" health angle, addressing the demand for functional beverages that offer stable energy without the crash. The company plans to use the capital to drive product innovation in what it describes as a "traditionally static category," alongside funding extensive sampling activations to recruit new consumers. Adam Balon , co-founder of JamJar Investments, commented: "Coffee is a huge category that’s been crying out for a shake-up. TrueStart has already proven they can unlock growth in a way most challengers can’t. We see massive potential and are excited to be part of the journey." Performance Metrics: Explosive Growth The investment follows a period of rapid scaling for the brand. TrueStart reports 620% growth over the past two years , with a 140% year-on-year increase in 2025 . Key Market Data: Retail Footprint: Over 5,000 UK distribution points. Current Stockists: Asda, Morrisons, Co-op, Costco, and Ocado. Channel Strategy: Investment will be split between scaling retail distribution and bolstering the fast-growing D2C channel. Clément Helinckx , Principal at DLF Venture, noted that the brand's ability to deliver "incremental and profitable growth" was a key driver for the investment. "This next stage is about scaling across retail, out of home and D2C, by launching innovation that grows the category and activating the brand in ways that recruit new consumers and build long-term brand value." Helena Hills, CEO and Co-Founder, added: "After 10 years of diligently building our brand bootstrapped, we have fantastic product-market fit. This strategic investment will enable us to rapidly accelerate our already explosive growth to build a category-defining brand." TrueStart Coffee Secures Series A Investment Led by Innocent Drinks Founders January 30, 2026 Coffee & Tea Starbucks Sells Two Million Unicorn Frappuccinos in Record Weekend Business & Finance Millow Secures €2M to Scale Clean Label Oat and Mycelium Protein Alcohol Heineken Cuts 3,000 Roles As First-Half Operating Profit Rises 6.7% Business & Finance Ingredion Completes Sale of Majority Stake in Pakistan Business Rafhan Maize Coffee & Tea Business & Finance Related news

Hormel Foods has expanded its refrigerated snacking portfolio with the launch of HORMEL Pepperoni Snack Bites, a ready-to-eat meat snack comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Hormel Foods has announced the expansion of its HORMEL Pepperoni portfolio with the introduction of HORMEL Pepperoni Snack Bites. The new refrigerated product line is designed to target consumer demand for convenient, ready-to-eat protein snacks that cater to grazing and quick-consumption occasions. The launch aligns with evolving retail trends where manufacturers are increasingly adapting core products into bite-sized, portable formats to capture share within the competitive chilled snacking segment. Convenience Packaging The new product line features thick-sliced pepperoni reformatted into a smaller, snackable size. Engineered for immediate consumption, the bites are packaged in a structured, resealable tray. This packaging design is intended to simplify portion control, support multiple snacking occasions, and maintain product freshness during storage in domestic refrigerators. Flavour Profile The ready-to-eat meat snacks are launching in three distinct flavour profiles: 🥩 Original : The brand's signature seasoned pepperoni formulation. 🧀 Parmesan : A savoury, cheese-infused pepperoni blend. 🥒 Dill Pickle : A tangy flavour profile combining traditional pepperoni spices with dill pickle notes. Market Positioning The introduction of the snack bites represents a focused effort to position processed meats for non-mealtime consumption occasions, including mid-afternoon grazing and late-night snacking. Rhonda Ihrke, brand manager for HORMEL Pepperoni, stated that the product line was developed for moments when consumers are seeking a quick, satisfying option to tide them over rather than a full meal. Ihrke noted that the snack bites are designed to provide a highly accessible format that delivers the brand's traditional flavour profile without requiring any preparation. Hormel Pepperoni Launches Refrigerated Snack Bites in North America July 9, 2026 Packaging ProAmpac Launches ProActive Intelligence Shelf Protect Packaging New Products Jack Link's Launches Grass-Fed Beef and LiL' Links Multipacks New Products Sun-Maid Introduces Charcuterie Pairings Line New Products Rosina Food Products Launches Five Frozen Meatball Innovations New Products Food Meat & Seafood Related news

According to the company, nearly 6 in 10 community members still prioritise sweet or fruit-based snacks when cravings hit, challenging the notion that January is a period of complete sugar abstinence. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Freeze-dried fruit snack leader Crispy Green® has released new consumer data indicating a significant shift in snacking behaviours for the start of 2026. The findings suggest that consumers are moving away from traditional restrictive resolutions towards a "healthy-ish" mindset, prompting the brand to launch a strategic Crispy Fruit™ Trial Pack to drive product discovery. According to the company, nearly 6 in 10 community members still prioritise sweet or fruit-based snacks when cravings hit, challenging the notion that January is a period of complete sugar abstinence. The Rise of 'Healthy-ish' The findings, drawn from a recent poll of 261 community members, highlight a pragmatic approach to wellness. Rather than eliminating indulgence, consumers are seeking "smarter" ways to satisfy cravings. Key Data Points: Cravings: When after-work cravings strike, 31% reach for sweet treats, while 28% opt for fruity and refreshing profiles. Defining 'Healthy-ish': The poll revealed that 32% of respondents define this term as choosing "good ingredients that are still enjoyable," while 23% view it as making "realistic choices they can stick with." Only a minority associated healthy eating with strict rules. Strategic Launch: The Trial Pack To capitalise on this demand for accessible wellness, Crispy Green has introduced a Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) Trial Pack . The SKU serves as a low-barrier entry point for new customers, designed to facilitate sampling without the commitment of bulk purchasing. The Pack Includes Four Fan-Favourite Flavours: 🍎 Apple 🥭 Mango 🍍 Pineapple 🍓 Strawberry Product Proposition Crispy Green maintains its position as the top-selling freeze-dried fruit snack in the U.S. by adhering to a single-ingredient philosophy. The products are made exclusively from real fruit, leveraging freeze-drying technology to deliver crunch and shelf stability without added sugar or preservatives. Angela Liu , Founder and CEO of Crispy Green, commented on the alignment between the product and the current consumer mindset: "Our community is telling us that the New Year is not about eliminating cravings. It is about finding options that feel enjoyable, sustainable, and easy to feel good about. That mindset is exactly what Crispy Fruit™ was created to support." Commercial Availability The Crispy Fruit™ Trial Pack is available exclusively through the brand's e-commerce platform, CrispyGreen.com . Crispy Green Debuts Trial Pack as Data Shows Shift Away from Restrictive 'New Year' Diets January 14, 2026 New Products JiMMYBAR! Launches Creatine and Protein Trail Mix Line New Products UFC and FoodStory Brands Launch Main Event Protein Bars Snacking Popcorn Kitchen Secures British Airways Inflight Listing New Products Frankie's Organic Snacks Launches Halloween Line Snacking Food New Products Flavours & Colours Health & Nutrition Related news

The new lineup spans the entire "heat-o-meter," ranging from Zero Heat to Hot, and includes two high-profile retailer exclusives designed to drive footfall at Walmart and Kroger. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Takis® , the snack brand best known for its high-heat Fuego profile, has announced a major strategic pivot with the launch of six new rolled tortilla chip flavours. Hitting shelves nationwide starting February 9 , the launch is anchored by a new campaign— "All Intense, Not All Spicy" —which seeks to decouple the brand's identity from extreme heat alone, expanding its Total Addressable Market (TAM) to include consumers seeking bold flavour without the burn. The new lineup spans the entire "heat-o-meter," ranging from Zero Heat to Hot , and includes two high-profile retailer exclusives designed to drive footfall at Walmart and Kroger. Intensity Beyond Heat For years, Takis has defined the "hot chip" category. This expansion acknowledges a saturation point in the extreme-heat segment and pivots toward flavour complexity. By introducing "Zero Heat" and "Mild" options, Takis aims to retain brand loyalty among consumers with lower spice tolerance while maintaining its reputation for intensity through acidity, savoriness, and texture. Sandra Kirkpatrick , Senior Director of Marketing at Takis, explained the positioning: "From zero heat to hot, this new lineup allows us to reach consumers and delivers craveable flavours for every taste preference—giving snackers more ways to experience Takis snacks in a way that matches their intensity." Clean Label Commitment: Removal of Artificial Colours In a significant operational shift, the new flavours represent the first step in a broader initiative to remove artificial colours across the entire Takis portfolio by the end of 2026 . This move addresses growing consumer and regulatory scrutiny regarding artificial dyes in snack foods, positioning the brand as a leader in the "cleaner indulgence" space without compromising on visual impact. Product Lineup and Retailer Exclusives The rollout includes four national SKUs and two channel-specific exclusives, leveraging current flavour trends such as "swicy" (sweet/spicy) and pickle. National Launch: Xtreme Lime™ (Zero Heat): A citrus-forward profile capitalising on the lime trend without the chilli. Smokin' BBQ (Mild): A savoury, smoky entry into the classic BBQ segment. Pickle Punch (Medium): Tapping into the viral pickle flavour trend with a high-acidity brine profile. Jalapeño (Hot): A herbaceous green pepper profile for traditional spice lovers. Retailer Exclusives: Hot Honey (Hot) – Exclusive to Walmart: Capitalising on the "swicy" trend, blending honey sweetness with lingering heat. Crazy Buffalo (Medium) – Exclusive to Kroger: A wing-night inspired fusion of tangy buffalo sauce and creamy notes. Commercial Details The new range is available in 3.25 oz and 9.9 oz sizes, catering to both the impulse/convenience channel and the take-home grocery occasion. Takis® Pivots Brand Strategy with Non-Spicy Innovation and Retailer Exclusives February 9, 2026 New Products Lay's Debuts Holi-LAY'S Range with Chocolate Chips New Products Doritos Debuts Limited-Edition Lemon Pepper Flavour New Products Walkers Launches Gold Crisp Range New Products Utz Brands Launches Three Flavour Innovations in US New Products Flavours & Colours Snacking Related news

Gopuff, the leading Instant Commerce platform, has announced a major strategic partnership with NBA Champion and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Gopuff , the leading Instant Commerce platform, has announced a major strategic partnership with NBA Champion and two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo . The deal transcends a traditional endorsement, with Antetokounmpo officially joining the company as a shareholder , signalling a deepening integration between athlete-entrepreneurs and the quick commerce (Q-commerce) sector. The multi-year collaboration will see Antetokounmpo play an active role in product development , content creation, and distribution strategy. This move aligns with Gopuff’s broader tactic of leveraging high-affinity cultural figures to drive brand relevance and app engagement beyond simple transaction utility. Product Incubation and Content Unlike standard marketing arrangements, this partnership is structured to influence Gopuff's operational offering. The collaboration will focus on: Product Development: Co-creating and incubating new product offerings exclusive to the platform. Content Creation: Developing original media assets designed to increase time-in-app and user retention. Distribution: Utilising Antetokounmpo’s massive global reach to open new demographic funnels for the service. Rafael Ilishayev , co-CEO and co-founder of Gopuff, emphasised the operational value of the partnership: “We’re most excited to work with partners who don’t just stand behind the brand, but actively experience it and help evolve it through their ideas and feedback. Giannis brings that energy in a big way.” The 'Authenticity' Play The partnership leverages Antetokounmpo’s genuine usage of the platform to market "authenticity"—a critical currency in reaching Gen Z and Millennial consumers. Antetokounmpo cited his reliance on the service for "late nights after games, early mornings, and everything in between" as a primary driver for his investment. “I respect how they move,” Antetokounmpo stated. “I’m proud to officially join the Gopuff team as a shareholder.” The Athlete-Equity Trend This announcement follows a distinct pattern in Gopuff’s marketing strategy, which increasingly relies on celebrity equity partners to anchor product launches. Recent collaborations include a high-profile campaign with Tom Brady (for the Super Monday Off Coalition ) and the successful launch of GOAT Gummies . By integrating elite athletes into the cap table, Gopuff is attempting to differentiate itself in the crowded delivery market by transforming from a logistics provider into a lifestyle brand with exclusive content and product capability. Gopuff Secures Strategic Partnership with NBA Star Giannis Antetokounmpo; Athlete Joins as Shareholder February 12, 2026 New Products Caliwater Debuts Dragon Fruit Flavour with Benson Boone Collaboration Soft drinks Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel Join PRODA Protein Soda as Co-Founders Marketing TRIP Launches Global TV and Billboard Campaign with Kendall Jenner and Joe Jonas Alcohol Hall & Woodhouse Partners with James May to Launch The Spanner Cask Ale Business & Finance Marketing People Related news

Wisconsin Brewing Company to launch ChampionSips, a non-alcoholic American pils-style brew delivering 10g of plant protein and 90 calories. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Featured in this news Health & Nutrition Glanbia The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Glanbia brand Optimum Nutrition has entered the non-alcoholic beer space with the release of ChampionSips, an American pilsner-style non-alcoholic brew formulated with added plant protein. Developed in collaboration with craft contract brewer Wisconsin Brewing Company, the release introduces a functional cross-category proposition that merges sports nutrition macronutrients with traditional craft brewing methods. The product introduction has launched as a limited-edition direct-to-consumer (DTC) release, formatted in four-packs of 16 fl. oz. cans via OptimumNutrition.com. Formulation and Brewing Collaboration ChampionSips is engineered to replicate the sensory profile, carbonation, and mouthfeel of an American pilsner while integrating a 10-gram blend of plant-derived proteins. Brewed using traditional beer ingredients—including water, malted barley, and hops, the beverage integrates plant proteins sourced from pea and rice without compromising liquid clarity or crispness. Key formulation specifications and technical attributes include: 🌾 Pilsner Profile: Brewed with malted barley and hops to deliver crisp citrus and hop notes with a traditional beer finish. 💪 Plant Protein Fortification: Formulated with 10g of protein per 16 fl. oz. serving, derived from a blend of pea and rice proteins. ⚖️ Macronutrient Profile: Delivers 90 calories, 11g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fat per 16 fl. oz. can. 🚫 Alcohol-Free Base: Formulated as a non-alcoholic brew designed for post-activity social occasions and daytime gatherings. Functional Cross-Category Innovation The product launch reflects an operational exploration of adjacent consumption occasions outside the gymnasium and performance training environments. Data cited by the brand indicates that while Americans are dedicating more time to active lifestyles, 62 per cent report wishing they had gone out after choosing to stay in. ChampionSips is positioned to bridge this gap, catering to social occasions such as post-game gatherings and tailgates without requiring consumers to compromise on nutritional goals. Jeff Schoenfield, Director of Innovation at Glanbia, noted that the enterprise's product development roadmap focuses on tracking evolving consumer routines to identify new format opportunities, explaining that ChampionSips establishes an entirely new drinking occasion for the Optimum Nutrition brand. Availability and Packaging The limited-edition release of ChampionSips has commenced commercial distribution exclusively through digital commerce channels. Key commercial parameters of the launch include: Packaging Configuration: Formatted in 4-packs of 16 fl. oz. cans. Pricing Tier: Available at a retail price of US$14.99 per four-pack. Distribution Channel: Distributed nationwide in the United States exclusively via OptimumNutrition.com for a limited time while stocks last. Purchasing Parameters: Restricted to consumers aged 21 and older. Kevin Zerman, President of Wisconsin Brewing Company, stated that partnering with Optimum Nutrition challenged the brewery to rethink the formulation parameters of non-alcoholic brewing, adding that the collaborative process enabled the team to approach the brew differently while delivering the crisp taste and familiar drinking experience consumers expect. The cross-category release illustrates how sports nutrition brands and regional contract breweries can collaborate to engineer functional hybrid beverages, extending active nutrition platforms into traditional social occasions. Optimum Nutrition and Wisconsin Brewing Launch ChampionSips Protein Non Alcoholic Beer September 9, 2026 Beverage BERO Brings Back Spider-Man Branded Beer Cans New Products Goodrays with Brewgooder to Launch Functional Alcohol-Free Beers New Products Dr Zero Zero Launches AperZero Non Alcoholic Aperitivo in US Market New Products Riboli Family Wines Expands Spritz Del Conte Range with Hugo and Non Alcoholic Options Beverage Health & Nutrition New Products Alcohol Related news

The collaboration is designed to scale Five Guys' off-premise business by tapping into the lucrative "return-to-office" budget, where employers are increasingly investing in food perks to boost attendance and productivity. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Workplace food technology platform ezCater has announced a major expansion of its restaurant network, securing a partnership with Five Guys. The deal sees approximately 800 Five Guys locations joining the ezCater marketplace, unlocking high-value corporate catering opportunities for the burger chain nationwide. The collaboration is designed to scale Five Guys' off-premise business by tapping into the lucrative "return-to-office" budget, where employers are increasingly investing in food perks to boost attendance and productivity. The 'Free Lunch' Incentive The partnership capitalises on shifting workplace dynamics. Recent survey data from ezCater indicates that 75% of hybrid employees would work on-site more frequently if their employer provided free lunch. By integrating with ezCater, Five Guys aims to capture a significant share of this corporate spend. The move also addresses a specific category trend; ezCater reports a 16% year-on-year jump in orders for the burger category in 2025, suggesting a growing appetite for comfort food in professional settings. Menu Optimisation for Catering To accommodate the specific logistical demands of workplace dining, ezCater assisted Five Guys in optimising its menu for bulk orders. The offering moves beyond single-unit delivery to include: Small Group Bundles: Curated sets for team meetings. Build-Your-Own Bars: Large-format setups allowing employees to customise burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches to preference. Sides: The chain's signature fresh-cut fries are also available within the catering structure. Molly Catalano , Chief Marketing Officer at Five Guys, highlighted the morale-boosting aspect of the offering: "A good meal can turn an ordinary workday into a great one. Employers are looking for ways to get their teams excited about coming together, and there's something special about a Five Guys burger bar where everyone gets exactly what they're craving." Cindy Klein Roche , Chief Growth Officer at ezCater, noted the timing relative to market demand: "Workplaces are hungry for a brand like Five Guys. We are seeing a 16% jump in orders for the burger category in 2025, making this the perfect time to bring their menu to our customers." Five Guys Joins ezCater Platform Adding 800 Locations to Corporate Catering Market January 14, 2026 Technology Ricoh USA and Hyphen Partner to Scale Restaurant Robotics in US Foodservice Common Table Group Acquires 57 Whitbread Sites in Hospitality Deal Foodservice Sealed Air Launches CRYOVAC ZeroPrep Pouches for Foodservice Dispensing Business & Finance London Gatwick Issues Major Food and Beverage Tender Food Foodservice Business & Finance Logistics & Supply Chain Related news

Taco Bell is expanding its premium "topped fries" category with the launch of Zab's Chicken Ranch Nacho Fries, a limited-time offering that marks the brand's first partnership centred on the rare St. Augustine Datil pepper to capture the "sweet-heat" consumer trend. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Taco Bell has announced a partnership with speciality hot sauce brand Zab's to debut "Zab's Chicken Ranch Nacho Fries." Launching nationwide on April 16, 2026, the limited-time offer (LTO) represents the first time Taco Bell has integrated the rare Datil pepper into its menu, signalling a move toward more sophisticated, regional flavour profiles in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector. The product is positioned within the high-growth "sweet-heat" category, utilising a custom-developed Zab's Ranch sauce that blends Taco Bell’s Spicy Ranch with Zab’s "St. Augustine Style" Sauce. Value of the Datil Pepper Partnership The partnership provides Taco Bell with a unique culinary narrative centred on the Datil pepper, a heritage ingredient harvested for over 200 years in St. Augustine, Florida. By incorporating a "culinary treasure," Taco Bell is attempting to: Differentiate in a Crowded Market : Utilising a rare, regional pepper provides a distinct competitive advantage over standard jalapeño or habanero-based offerings. Support Sustainability and Preservation : The collaboration supports Zab’s mission to preserve the endangered Datil pepper and establish it as a staple American ingredient. Capture the "Swicy" Trend : The Datil pepper’s naturally sweet and tangy profile with a slow-burning heat aligns perfectly with the current consumer obsession with sweet and spicy combinations. Menu Engineering: Nacho Fries as an Innovation Platform Since their inception, Nacho Fries have served as one of Taco Bell's most effective vehicles for flavour experimentation. The "Zab's Chicken Ranch" iteration represents the next evolution of the "topped fries" format, which allows the brand to drive higher average transaction values (ATV) compared to standard side dishes. Technical and product specifications for the launch include: Flavour Architecture : Mexican-spiced fries layered with slow-roasted chicken, nacho cheese sauce, a three-cheese blend, and pico de gallo. The "Kick" Factor : The Zab's Ranch is engineered to deliver a "lingering burn" that encourages repeat bites, a key metric for "craveability" in the fast-food industry. Pricing Strategy : Positioned at a premium LTO price point of $5.49, reflecting the inclusion of speciality ingredients and high-protein toppings. Scaling Niche Brands via Global Platforms For Zab's, the collaboration offers an unprecedented scale for brand awareness. Miles Soboroff, Zab’s Co-Founder and CEO, noted that the partnership allows the brand to bring the one-of-a-kind flavour of the Datil pepper to a mass audience, advancing their goal of mainstreaming the ingredient. Liz Matthews, Global Chief Food Innovation Officer at Taco Bell, emphasised that the brand is constantly exploring partnerships that can bring "a different kind of flavour experience" to the menu. By blending a niche, heritage sauce with a fan-favourite staple like Spicy Ranch, Taco Bell is able to innovate without alienating its core customer base. The launch of Zab's Chicken Ranch Nacho Fries highlights a broader trend where global QSR leaders are looking to artisanal and regional sauce brands to provide "cool factor" and flavour authenticity. As the "sweet-heat" trend continues to dominate the snack and fast-food landscapes, the ability to secure exclusive access to unique ingredients like the Datil pepper will be a critical differentiator. Industry analysts expect that the success of this LTO will serve as a pilot for future "regional heritage" partnerships at Taco Bell. The focus on "topped fries" as a premiumized canvas suggests that the brand will continue to utilise this format to test complex, multi-layered flavour profiles that appeal to younger, adventurous eaters. Taco Bell Partners with Zab's to Launch Datil Pepper-Inspired Nacho Fries April 15, 2026 Foodservice Coca-Cola and KFC Announce US Beverage Partnership Foodservice Taco Bell Expands Live Más Café with Horchata Lineup and New Sites New Products Wingstop Launches Sour Patch Kids Flavoured Wings Business & Finance Starbucks Explores Takeover of Chipotle Foodservice Food New Products Related news

Jones Soda Co. has expanded its craft beverage portfolio in Canada with the launch of Jones Zero, a zero-sugar and zero-calorie range. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > The craft beverage sector is adjusting to shifting consumer preferences as demand for lower-sugar alternatives continues to rise. Jones Soda Co. has announced its entry into this segment with the launch of its Jones Zero craft soda range, distributing initially through club stores across Western Canada. The new product line aims to offer the brand's established taste profile without the sugar or calorie content of its traditional range, providing a commercial option for retailers looking to capture health-conscious beverage buyers. Retail Distribution The initial rollout focuses on the club store channel in Western Canada, a format that allows the brand to test bulk consumer purchasing habits for the sugar-free alternative. By targeting this region, Jones Soda Co. aims to reconnect with lapsed consumers who have reduced their intake of traditional sugary craft sodas. Scott Harvey, Chief Executive Officer of Jones Soda Co., stated that the development of the range was driven directly by consumer demand for lower-sugar options that do not compromise on taste. He noted that the product serves as an entry point to bring former customers back to the craft soda segment by delivering a familiar sensory experience without the associated sugar or calories. Flavour Portfolio and Product Specifications The Jones Zero range features four of the brand's established core flavours, formulated to meet craft soda standards while containing zero sugar and zero calories: 🫐 Berry Lemonade: A sweet and tart berry-infused lemonade profile. 🍊 Orange and Cream: A smooth blend of citrus and sweet cream flavours. 🍦 Cream Soda: A vanilla-forward interpretation of the classic craft recipe. 🥤 Root Beer: A traditional, richly spiced root beer option. Alongside the retail launch, the company is introducing a social-first marketing initiative titled "Show Us Your Aftertaste Face". The campaign is designed to address a common consumer barrier in the zero-sugar beverage category: the lingering sweetener aftertaste. By encouraging consumers to share their reactions on social media channels, the brand aims to build digital engagement and drive trial at the retail level. The campaign offers consumer incentives, including product prizes, to support the regional product launch and build brand visibility across digital platforms. Jones Soda Co. Launches Zero Sugar Lineup at Western Canada Club Stores July 15, 2026 New Products Caliwater Debuts Dragon Fruit Flavour with Benson Boone Collaboration New Products Pepsi Debuts Limited-Edition Vanilla & Cream Flavour Soft drinks Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel Join PRODA Protein Soda as Co-Founders New Products PepsiCo Unveils 2026 Halloween Lineup across Snacks and Beverages New Products Soft drinks Beverage Related news

Spindrift has expanded its beverage portfolio into the ready-to-drink tea category with a new line of non-carbonated, Non-UPF verified teas formulated with real brewed tea and squeezed fruit. comments debug Exchange Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. The Newsroom Never Miss an Update! Receive personalised weekly email newsletters with industry news curated just for you. Email* Submit or create an account to access more > Spindrift Beverage Co. has announced a strategic expansion into the ready-to-drink (RTD) tea market with the launch of Spindrift Tea. The new non-carbonated line combines custom-brewed tea blends with real squeezed fruit, marking a significant step beyond the brand's foundational sparkling water portfolio. This launch also aligns with Spindrift’s recent industry milestone of becoming the only beverage brand to secure verification under the Non-Ultraprocessed Food (Non-UPF) Standard across its entire product lineup. Disrupting the Ready-to-Drink Tea Category The commercial tea aisle is currently dominated by products formulated heavily with refined sugars and artificial or non-sugar sweeteners. According to Spindrift's internal data, products utilising real squeezed fruit account for less than one percent of the RTD tea category. Dave Burwick, CEO of Spindrift, noted that entering the tea market was a logical progression for the company's clean-ingredient philosophy. The strategy is designed to offer a cleaner, brighter alternative to traditional sweet teas. Jon Silverman, Senior Vice President of Spindrift Ventures, added that the goal was to reverse the industry norm of prioritising sweetness over the actual tea profile, creating a balanced beverage where both the brewed tea and fruit notes are distinct. Supply Chain and Product Formulation Spindrift Tea represents the first commercial release from the brand's Ventures Lab, developed over a three-year research and development period. To achieve the desired flavour architecture, Spindrift partnered with one of North America's largest leaf tea importers. This collaboration yielded proprietary black and green tea blends sourced from 16 global origins, including India, China, Indonesia, and Argentina. The initial product rollout includes four distinct SKUs, utilising fruit sourced from long-standing regional farm partners: 🍋 Lemon Black Tea : Brewed black tea combined with California lemon juice and apple. 🍊 Blood Orange Black Tea : Black tea featuring blood orange and citrus profiles. 🍵 Raspberry Black Tea : Black tea blended with Pacific Northwest raspberries. 🍑 Peach Green Tea : Green tea mixed with sun-ripened Pacific Northwest peaches. To achieve a "slightly sweet" profile without relying on heavy processing, select flavours in the lineup incorporate a small amount of organic agave. Industry Impact and Clean Label Momentum The rollout of Spindrift Tea highlights a growing opportunity within the beverage sector for minimally processed options. By maintaining its Non-UPF verification for this new product line, Spindrift is reinforcing its corporate commitment to transparent, real-ingredient formulations. For retail category managers, this launch offers a premium, clean-label alternative in a high-volume category. As consumer scrutiny regarding ultra-processed foods intensifies, Spindrift's expansion provides a compelling case study on how brands can scale real-ingredient sourcing models into new, mature beverage segments. Spindrift Expands Beverage Portfolio with Real Brewed Tea Line March 3, 2026 New Products Saint James Launches Organic Yerba Mate Range Coffee & Tea The Spice & Tea Exchange Secures Five New Southeast Franchise Deals New Products Yorkshire Tea Launches Fruit Herbal and Green Tea Infusions Range New Products Clearspring Expands Japanese Tea Range with Organic Hojicha Powder Coffee & Tea Beverage New Products Soft drinks Related news