Center Store

PepsiCo to buy probiotic beverage brand KeVita
PURCHASE, N.Y. — PepsiCo is accelerating its evolution toward health and wellness products by agreeing to acquire KeVita, a leading North American creator of fermented probiotic and kombucha beverages.

The transaction will expand PepsiCo's health and wellness offerings in the premium chilled beverage space.
Dr Pepper Snapple Group to acquire Bai Brands
PLANO, Texas, and HAMILTON, N.J. -- Dr Pepper Snapple Group is positioning itself to meet growing consumer demand for better-for-you beverages by agreeing to acquire Bai Brands and its portfolio of antioxidant infused beverages.

DPSG says the cash purchase price of $1.7 billion includes a tax benefit of approximately $400 million on a net present value basis and will be financed through new unsecured notes and short term commercial paper.

Lemi Shine unveils new look for 2017

AUSTIN, Texas — Lemi Shine, the nontoxic household cleaning products line powered by natural citric extracts and no harsh chemicals, is shaking things up for 2017.

The brand has completely overhauled its brand packaging. In an effort to better speak to its core consumer, the 22-year-old brand says it simplified and streamlined the packaging while differentiating itself from competitors on the shelf.

The new product packaging hits the shelves this month, with a complete debut of the packaging by February.
CandyRific debuts new Trolls treats for the candy aisle

ATLANTA — CandyRific has expanded its DreamWorks Animation collection by adding products related to the smash hit movie Trolls.

Hug Bands, available in two colors, pink and blue, have a hidden compartment to keep your candy and plays a tune when the button is pressed.
Mars helps cat lovers avoid holiday 'cat-astrophes'

FRANKLIN, Tenn. – Mars pet brand Temptations is launching a fun campaign to urge cat owners to tame their feline's holiday spirit with a little help from the brand’s cat treats.
Hard sodas, flavored beers make a splash

Beer is still America’s No. 1 alcoholic beverage, but retail experts say that U.S. consumers are buying less of it as they turn to other alcohol types, such as hard soda, cider and wine.

(To view the full Category Review, click here.)
R.W. Knudsen launches sparkling glogg beverage

ORRVILLE, Ohio -- R.W. Knudsen is introducing a new beverage inspired by a traditional seasonal Scandinavian drink.

R.W. Knudsen Family Sparkling Glogg is a blend of apple, white grape and lemon juice concentrates with brewed extracts of ginger, cinnamon, cloves and cardamom. Sparkling Glogg does not contain artificial flavors or preservatives and is Non-GMO Project Verified.
Smart container shakes up its functionality

PITTSBURGH — SmartShake started in 2009 as a solution for gym users and bodybuilders, offering them a leak-proof, nontoxic way to carry and prepare protein powders and shakes. Today, as well as a shaker cup, SmartShake is used as a lunch box, water bottle, snack box, coffee cup, etc. SmartShake is available in a range of sizes, models and colors. The shaker cups feature compartments that store powder, pills, snacks or other items. The patented Snap-On strainer will mix powdered drinks, sauces and dressings.
Healthy juice drinks drive dollar growth

While price, taste and convenience continue to be key influencers of food-shopping behavior, U.S. consumers are increasingly prioritizing health and wellness in their decision-making, and this is especially true when it comes to beverages.

(To view the full Category Review, click here.)
Anheuser-Busch brews bold cherry cola

ST. LOUIS — Anheuser-Busch recently launched Best Damn Cherry Cola, the second national offering from Best Damn Brewing Co. According to the company, Best Damn Cherry Cola is aged on whole cherries after brewing for a harder take on the timeless taste of cherry cola. “Best Damn Cherry Cola continues to build our portfolio of bold, approachable and down-to-earth beers,” said Rash-mi Patel, VP share of throat, Anheuser-Busch.