Tag: soda

  • Celsius Debuts Sparkling Raspberry Peach: An Exclusive 7-Eleven Flavor Revolutionizing the Australian Beverage Scene

    Celsius Debuts Sparkling Raspberry Peach: An Exclusive 7-Eleven Flavor Revolutionizing the Australian Beverage Scene

    Celsius, a renowned US energy drink brand, is introducing a flavour that will be exclusively available at 7-Eleven stores across Australia. This beverage, Sparkling Raspberry Peach, will be presented via the brand’s first-ever pop-up at the popular convenience store chain.

    The Sparkling Raspberry Peach flavour offers a delightful mix of succulent peach and a touch of zesty raspberry. A representative for Celsius anticipates that this new beverage will be popular among Australian consumers and could potentially become the preferred non-alcoholic drink of choice. This prediction comes on the back of a recent study which reported that roughly 40% of drinkers are seeking to reduce their alcohol consumption, creating an opportunity for non-alcoholic beverages like Celsius to fill the gap.

    The Sparkling Raspberry Peach flavour is currently available at 7-Eleven stores across the nation at a suggested retail price of $4.

    To commemorate the launch, a pop-up event was organised featuring Australian DJ and producer, DJ Cyril. Entry tickets were priced at $7.11 each, with limited availability.

    Adam Jacka, the General Manager of Marketing at 7-Eleven Australia, stated that their stores have consistently been a go-to spot for Australians to kickstart their day. Whether it’s a comforting oat latte, a chilly iced coffee, or a refreshing energy boost like Celsius, they cater to all preferences. Expressing his excitement about the partnership with Celsius, he added that the morning rave event was unconventional yet fitting. According to him, it encapsulates the spirit of 7-Eleven in its local, fun, and community-oriented approach.

    Celsius has recently broadened its product offerings in Australia.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new Celsius flavor that is launching in Australia?
    The new flavor is Sparkling Raspberry Peach, a blend of sweet peach and tangy raspberry.

    Where will this new Celsius flavour be available?
    The Sparkling Raspberry Peach flavor will be exclusively available at 7-Eleven stores across Australia.

    What was the special event organised to celebrate the launch of the new flavor?
    A pop-up event featuring Australian DJ and producer, DJ Cyril, was organised to celebrate the launch.

  • Emma & Tom’s Unveils Zesty Lemonade Range in Australia and New Zealand, Reinventing the Classic with a Healthy Twist

    Emma & Tom’s Unveils Zesty Lemonade Range in Australia and New Zealand, Reinventing the Classic with a Healthy Twist

    Emma & Tom’s, the health-focused beverage company, has expanded its product offerings by launching the Old Fashioned Lemonades range in Australia and New Zealand. The newly introduced range includes Classic Lemon and Pink Lemonade flavors, and is now available for purchase at major supermarkets, independent retailers, cafes, and lunch bars across both nations.

    In addition to the new lemonade line, Emma & Tom’s have also revamped their Quencher product line by introducing the Light Lemonade range. This range, which is free from added cane sugar and sweetened with white grape juice, is available in Light Lemon and Light Pink varieties. Consumers can find these products on the shelves of Coles Group supermarkets.

    Emma & Tom’s was established two decades ago, centering its business on the philosophy of self-care. Their extensive range of products is health-oriented, while maintaining a strong commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Last year, the company was integrated into the food and beverage group, Soulfresh.

    Questions & Answers

    What new products has Emma & Tom’s launched?
    Emma & Tom’s has introduced the Old Fashioned Lemonades range and the Light Lemonade range to its beverage lineup.

    Where can the new products be purchased?
    The new lemonade ranges are available at major grocery stores, independent retailers, cafes, lunch bars, and at Coles Group supermarkets in Australia and New Zealand.

    What is the unique feature of the Light Lemonade range?
    The Light Lemonade range is free from added cane sugar and is sweetened with white grape juice, aligning with Emma & Tom’s health-oriented business philosophy.

  • Coca-Cola Vietnam’s $31M Tax Challenge Shaken: Legal Appeal Loses Fizz

    Coca-Cola Vietnam’s $31M Tax Challenge Shaken: Legal Appeal Loses Fizz

    Despite its efforts to dispute a tax claim, Coca-Cola Vietnam has been ordered to pay VND821 billion ($31.1 million) in back taxes and penalties after losing a lawsuit. The lawsuit was dismissed by the HCMC People’s Court last Thursday. This judgment upholds the decision made by the General Department of Taxation on December 25, 2019.

    Incorrect Tax Filings

    The tax authorities began to question Coca-Cola Vietnam’s tax filings for the business period from 2007 to 2015. Subsequent investigations revealed that the company had made errors in its filings, leading to an order for it to pay VND471 billion in back taxes and VND288 billion as a penalty for late payment.

    In court documents, the tax department revealed that Coca-Cola Vietnam had consistently reported losses from 1994 to 2015, resulting in no payment of business income taxes for those years, excluding 2015 when it paid VND115 billion. However, a contrary trend was noticeable in its net revenues, which consistently rose during this period. The company’s net revenues had reached VND197 billion in 2001, VND1.13 trillion in 2008, and VND6.82 trillion in 2015.

    Audit Results and Legal Disputes

    An audit of Coca-Cola Vietnam’s tax filings for the years 2016-2017 was conducted by the tax authorities. The audit, which concluded in December 2019, found incorrect filings, leading to the company’s underpayment of taxes. Coca-Cola Vietnam lodged a complaint in 2020, requesting the removal of part of the order, but this was dismissed by the tax department. Consequently, the company initiated a lawsuit in 2022.

    During the lawsuit, Coca-Cola Vietnam acknowledged disagreements with some of the tax authorities’ conclusions but was unable to provide sufficient evidence to support its case. The tax department maintained that its audit and decisions were in accordance with the law, a position which the court validated.

    Despite the dismissal of its appeal, Coca-Cola Vietnam stated that it respects the court’s procedures and judgement, reiterating its commitment to full compliance with tax regulations. The company is currently contemplating its subsequent moves.

    Coca-Cola’s History in Vietnam

    Coca-Cola made its entry into the Vietnam market in 1994, becoming one of the first U.S. companies to invest in the country after diplomatic relations were normalized. In more recent years, the company invested $136 million to establish a new factory in the southeastern province of Tay Ninh, indicating its continued intent to contribute to Vietnam’s development.

    Questions & Answers

    What was the outcome of Coca-Cola Vietnam’s lawsuit?
    The company’s lawsuit was dismissed, and it was ordered to pay VND821 billion ($31.1 million) in back taxes and penalties.

    What accounting discrepancies were found by the tax authorities?
    The tax authorities found that Coca-Cola Vietnam had been reporting losses consistently from 1994 to 2015, resulting in no payment of business income taxes for those years, except for 2015. However, the company’s net revenues had been steadily rising during this same period.

    How has Coca-Cola reacted to the court’s decision?
    Coca-Cola Vietnam has expressed respect for the court’s procedures and judgement. The company maintains that it has always fully complied with tax regulations and is considering its next course of action.

  • Bacardi and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners: Brewing Success in Australia with New Distribution Deal

    Bacardi and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners: Brewing Success in Australia with New Distribution Deal

    On November 3, Bacardi-Martini and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) initiated a multi-year partnership in Australia. This strategic alliance between the two beverage leaders aims to broaden their influence in the local drinks industry.

    The Partnership Details

    The partnership, first publicized in August, allows CCEP the responsibility of distributing an array of well-known brands. These encompass Bacardi rum, Bombay Sapphire gin, Grey Goose vodka, Patrón tequila, Dewar’s Scotch whisky, Angel’s Envy whiskey, and Martini vermouth. Simultaneously, Bacardi-Martini will continue to manage marketing and brand strategies.

    Luiz Schmidt, the Managing Director of Bacardi-Martini Australia, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “Our brands are incredible with fantastic equity, but we acknowledge that to fully exploit their potential in Australia, we need to collaborate with an organization that possesses the necessary resources to put them in consumers’ hands nationwide,” he stated.

    Schmidt further stated that not only does CCEP have tremendous scale, but it also possesses proven industry expertise that can ensure long-term sustainable growth for both companies.

    Strengthening CCEP’s Market Position

    This agreement solidifies CCEP’s position as a key contender in the local premium drinks market and mirrors broader consolidation trends in beverage distribution.

    Orlando Rodriguez, the Managing Director of Australia Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership and its potential. “The Bacardi portfolio is iconic, and we at CCEP have the track record of operational excellence to best support it,” Rodriguez stated.

    He added that both companies are eagerly anticipating the accomplishments they can achieve in the vibrant and expanding alcohol category.

    Questions & Answers

    What does the partnership between Bacardi-Martini and CCEP entail?
    The partnership allows CCEP to distribute Bacardi-Martini’s renowned brands across Australia, including Bacardi rum, Bombay Sapphire gin, among others, while Bacardi-Martini will continue managing marketing and brand strategies.

    How does the partnership affect CCEP’s position in the market?
    The agreement strengthens CCEP’s position as a leading player in the local premium drinks market and reflects broader consolidation trends in beverage distribution.

    What are the expected outcomes of this alliance?
    The Managing Directors of both Bacardi-Martini Australia and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners have expressed optimism about the potential growth and achievements this partnership can bring to the dynamic and expanding alcohol category in Australia.

  • Melbourne Startup Jim Revolutionizes Fitness Drinks With Protein-packed, Prebiotic Soda

    Melbourne Startup Jim Revolutionizes Fitness Drinks With Protein-packed, Prebiotic Soda

    Melbourne-based start-up, Jim, has recently introduced a novel functional soda into the market. This unique beverage combines proteins and prebiotics, targeting both health-conscious consumers and those seeking high-quality fitness recovery options.

    The Details

    The innovative soda line comes in three distinct flavours: Golden Pash, Lem’n’Ade and Rarr-Berry. According to the company, each 330ml soda can is packed with 5 grams of protein, organic prebiotics, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and L-glutamine. Additionally, these soda variants are free from added sugars and caffeine.

    Jim’s founders, Aimee Tawhai, a former elite athlete turned entrepreneur, and her companion Jono, envisioned a fitness recovery drink that would be both beneficial and enjoyable. They aimed to move past the conventional ‘gym bro’ beverage market, with a drink that appeals to a broader consumer base.

    Breaking Away from the Norm

    Aimee Tawhai, co-founder of Jim, shed light on the brand’s unique approach. “Fitness recovery drinks have been primarily targeted towards the ‘gym bro’ culture for quite some time. These drinks often have intimidating labels, excessively sweet and artificial tastes, and ingredients that offer no real benefits. Our intention was to cater to the everyday consumer, the ones who value their health and appreciate effective recovery drinks but don’t necessarily identify with the ‘gym bro’ culture. We wanted to create a beverage that I would personally drink, something I could confidently offer to my mother, a drink that delivers on promises and also tastes great.”

    Currently, Jim’s health-focused sodas are available in over 100 wellness centres, health food shops, and recovery hubs across the country. They can also be found through Kelly’s Distributors in Queensland. Plans are in place to expand online availability via Healthylife, the official health and wellness partner of Woolworths, in the near future.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the unique selling point of Jim’s new functional soda?
    The soda combines protein and prebiotics, targeting both health-conscious consumers and those seeking high-quality fitness recovery options. It also avoids added sugars and caffeine.

    Who are the founders of Jim?
    Jim was founded by Aimee Tawhai, a former elite athlete turned entrepreneur, and her companion Jono.

    Where can consumers purchase Jim’s functional sodas?
    Jim’s sodas are available in over 100 wellness centres, health food shops, and recovery hubs nationwide, and through Kelly’s Distributors in Queensland. There are plans to expand online availability via Healthylife, Woolworths’ official health and wellness partner.

  • Pepsico Surpasses Q3 Projections; Announces Leadership Transition And Future Growth Strategies

    Pepsico Surpasses Q3 Projections; Announces Leadership Transition And Future Growth Strategies

    PepsiCo recently reported robust Q3 results that exceeded projections, also unveiling key leadership changes as it intensifies its commitment towards expansion, cost efficiency, and meeting shareholder expectations.

    The beverage giant’s Q3 net income saw a 2.6% year-on-year surge, reaching an impressive US$23.94 billion ($36.5 billion). This was fueled mainly by robust pricing strategies and a boost in international sales, which helped offset the mild market performance in North America.

    Regional Performance

    In terms of regional performance, the company’s Latin American Foods division enjoyed 4% organic growth. The European, Middle Eastern, and African (EMEA) sectors also showed a strong performance, reporting 5.5% organic growth. While the Asia Pacific Foods division saw a slightly slower growth rate, it still managed to report a 1% organic increase.

    PepsiCo Beverages North America (PBNA) also contributed towards the company’s overall growth, with 2% organic revenue growth. This was attributed to their effective execution strategies for the Pepsi and Mountain Dew product lines, and the successful introduction of innovative platforms such as Pepsi Zero Sugar.

    Future Plans and Leadership Transition

    Ramon Laguarta, the Chairman and CEO of PepsiCo, stated, “As we look towards the remainder of this year and the future, our prime objectives are to speed up growth and drastically streamline our cost structure. To achieve these goals, we are leaning into a robust pipeline of innovation to expedite portfolio transformation, continually refining our price pack architecture to offer excellent value to consumers, and recalibrating our entire cost base to help finance our activities.”

    In a significant leadership transition, Steve Schmitt, the former CFO of Walmart U.S., will succeed Jamie Caulfield as PepsiCo’s CFO on November 10. Caulfield will continue to serve as an advisor until late next year. Schmitt’s extensive experience in retail, supply chain, and financial sectors is viewed as crucial for PepsiCo’s efforts to improve its operating leverage and address investor pressures.

    Laguarta added, “Steve’s track record in handling complex supply chains, adapting to the evolving retail landscape and omnichannel consumers, and delivering operational excellence at a large scale will be instrumental at PepsiCo. He will play a pivotal role as we expedite growth, streamline our cost structure, and generate enhanced value for our shareholders.”

    Questions & Answers

    What is PepsiCo’s focus for future growth?
    PepsiCo aims to accelerate growth and aggressively optimize their cost structure. They plan to introduce a strong innovation pipeline, continuously refine their pricing architecture, and right-size their entire cost base to fund their activities.

    Who is succeeding Jamie Caulfield as PepsiCo’s CFO?
    The former CFO of Walmart U.S., Steve Schmitt, will be succeeding Jamie Caulfield as PepsiCo’s CFO on November 10.

    What role will Steve Schmitt play at PepsiCo?
    Schmitt’s expertise in retail, supply chain, and financial sectors will be crucial to PepsiCo. He will be instrumental in handling complex supply chains, adapting to the dynamic retail landscape and omnichannel consumers, and delivering operational excellence on a large scale.

  • Keurig Dr Pepper’s $25.9b Acquisition Of Jde Peet’s To Birth Two Global Beverage Titans

    Keurig Dr Pepper’s $25.9b Acquisition Of Jde Peet’s To Birth Two Global Beverage Titans

    Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has announced its forthcoming acquisition of JDE Peet’s, the renowned European coffee titan, in a significant deal worth A$25.9 billion (€15.7 billion). This bold strategic move will result in the division of the company into two separately traded entities.

    In the Australian market, JDE Peet’s owns top local coffee brands like Campos Coffee and Piazza D’Oro, in addition to its international brands such as Moccona, L’Or, Jacobs, and Pickwick.

    The Acquisition Deal

    As per the agreement, KDP will buy all the remaining shares of JDE Peet’s, which is listed in Amsterdam, for A$52.55 (€31.85) per share in cash. This represents a 33% premium over the 90-day volume-weighted average price of the company’s shares.

    This agreement will lead to the formation of two independent market leaders: one concentrating on the global coffee sector, while the other will focus on North American beverages.

    Formation of Two Market Leaders

    The first resultant entity, named Global Coffee Company, will combine KDP’s Keurig single-serve platform with the vast coffee portfolio of JDE Peet’s. The newly formed company will have its headquarters in Burlington, Massachusetts, with international headquarters situated in Amsterdam. The current CFO of KDP, Sudhanshu Priyadarshi, will take the reins of this new entity.

    The second entity, named Beverage Company, will concentrate on KDP’s famous beverage brands, which include Dr Pepper, 7Up, Canada Dry, and Snapple. The company will be based in Frisco, Texas, and will continue to be governed by the current CEO, Tim Cofer.

    KDP anticipates that the acquisition will result in cost savings of approximately A$660 million (€400 million) over three years, and is expected to boost earnings starting from the first year post-acquisition.

    KDP’s CEO, Tim Cofer, expressed his enthusiasm for the merger by noting, “The exceptional combination of Keurig and JDE Peet’s presents a significant opportunity to establish a global coffee giant. The timing of this transaction couldn’t be better, given KDP’s robust operational and financial position, the momentum across our diverse portfolio, and the increasing resilience of the coffee category.”

    The transaction is anticipated to close within the first half of the next year. The subsequent splitting into two distinct companies is planned to occur shortly afterward, subject to final legal and board approvals.

    Questions & Answers

    Who will head the newly formed Global Coffee Company?
    The Global Coffee Company will be led by Sudhanshu Priyadarshi, the current Chief Financial Officer of KDP.

    What will the two new entities be focused on?
    The Global Coffee Company will focus on the international coffee sector, while the Beverage Company will concentrate on North American beverages.

    What are some of the brands owned by JDE Peet’s in Australia?
    JDE Peet’s owns several well-known Australian brands, including Campos Coffee and Piazza D’Oro.

  • Celsius Celebrates First Aussie Anniversary With New Sparkling Mango Lemonade Flavor

    Celsius Celebrates First Aussie Anniversary With New Sparkling Mango Lemonade Flavor

    This year, Celsius, the Swedish energy drink brand, is celebrating its first anniversary in the Australian market by launching a new flavor, Sparkling Mango Lemonade.

    Sparkling Mango Lemonade: A Fusion of Flavors

    The newly introduced Sparkling Mango Lemonade merges the exotic taste of mango with the tanginess of lemonade, resulting in a refreshing and invigorating beverage. As with all Celsius products, this new concoction is not only delicious but also health-conscious, containing B vitamins and being entirely free of sugar.

    As described by Andrew Brooks, the head of marketing for ANZ at Celsius, the Sparkling Mango Lemonade encapsulates the essence of summer. “Whether you’re pursuing the warm sun or in search of a tropical boost, this flavor imbues the vivacity and vitality required to keep moving,” he said.

    Nationwide Availability

    For those eager to try this new offering, the Celsius Sparkling Mango Lemonade is conveniently available in convenience stores, service stations, and Woolworths outlets across Australia. The suggested retail price of this new flavor is $4.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new flavor introduced by Celsius in Australia?
    The company has launched a new flavor, Sparkling Mango Lemonade, to mark its first anniversary in the Australian market.

    What are the unique features of this new flavor?
    The Sparkling Mango Lemonade combines the taste of mango and lemonade. It also includes B vitamins and is completely sugar-free.

    Where can one buy Celsius Sparkling Mango Lemonade in Australia?
    The drink is available at convenience stores, service stations, and Woolworths stores nationwide.

  • Pepsi Unveils Prebiotic Cola: A Revolutionary Step In Classic Beverage

    Pepsi Unveils Prebiotic Cola: A Revolutionary Step In Classic Beverage

    PepsiCo has announced the launch of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, a significant development in the traditional cola category that it hasn’t seen in two decades.

    The Modern Twist to Classic Pepsi

    The new product brings a fresh perspective to the conventional Pepsi flavor, enhanced with functional prebiotic fiber aimed at promoting gut health. Pepsi Prebiotic Cola is available in two distinctive flavors: Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla. Each 350ml can of this innovative concoction includes five grams of cane sugar, 30 calories, and three grams of prebiotic fiber, and is void of any artificial sweeteners.

    A Leap Forward in Cola Experience

    PepsiCo’s US CEO, Ram Krishnan, expressed his excitement about the new product, stating that Pepsi Prebiotic Cola takes a significant leap forward in offering consumers more choice and functional ingredients in their cola drinking experience, without sacrificing the iconic Pepsi taste that the brand is renowned for.

    Reflecting Mindful Consumption Trends

    The introduction of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola is a marker of shifting trends towards more conscious consumption. This product complements PepsiCo’s existing portfolio, which includes Pepsi Zero Sugar and Poppi, a rapidly growing prebiotic soda brand recently acquired by PepsiCo.

    Availability and Packaging

    The new Pepsi Prebiotic Cola range is scheduled to launch online in the fall, and it is expected to be available in retail stores nationwide in the early part of next year. The product will be sold as single cans and in eight-packs, allocated in the conventional soft drink aisle, alongside Pepsi’s comprehensive range.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new product that PepsiCo has launched?
    PepsiCo has launched Pepsi Prebiotic Cola, a product that brings a modern twist to the traditional Pepsi flavor with the addition of functional prebiotic fiber.

    What are the key features of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola?
    Pepsi Prebiotic Cola contains five grams of cane sugar, 30 calories, and three grams of prebiotic fiber. It does not contain any artificial sweeteners and is designed to support gut health.

    When and where will Pepsi Prebiotic Cola be available?
    The new Pepsi Prebiotic Cola range will be available online in the fall and in nationwide retail stores in the early part of next year.

  • Bobby partners with the Happy Hour podcast on new flavour

    Bobby partners with the Happy Hour podcast on new flavour

    Bobby, an Australian soft drink brand, has recently joined hands with Lucy Jackson and Nikki Westcott, co-hosts of the popular Happy Hour podcast, to introduce a limited-edition flavour named ‘Strawberries & Cream.’

    A First-Time Collaboration

    This initiative is Bobby’s inaugural venture in co-creating a flavour with external contributors. The move signifies the brand’s inclination to engage with popular culture via strategic partnerships.

    The latest beverage offers a unique mix of strawberry and vanilla, enriched with a creamy finish, positioning itself as a healthier alternative in the drink market.

    Health-Conscious Beverage

    Each can of the drink only contains 30 calories and is 98% sugar-free. It also includes prebiotics. Moreover, the drink is vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO.

    Kristian Johannsen, the founder of Bobby, stated that collaborating with the podcast hosts was an obvious choice. She said their vibrant and unrestricted energy perfectly aligns with what Bobby represents.

    Bobby called the collaboration ‘authentically genuine,’ with Jackson and Westcott playing an active part in the entire process. This involvement ranged from conceptualising the initial flavour to participating in taste tests and contributing to the broader brand execution.

    Authenticity and Enthusiasm

    Jackson expressed, “We didn’t just want our faces on a can, we wanted a drink that felt like us. Strawberries & Cream is nostalgic, fun, a little cheeky – basically everything Happy Hour stands for.”

    Westcott added her excitement about introducing a non-alcoholic drink for their listeners to enjoy. “It’s creamy and totally satisfying without all the unnecessary ingredients,” she said.

    Bobby’s Strawberries & Cream flavour is now available nationwide at Coles and Metro stores. The retail price is $36 for a six-pack.

    Questions & Answers

    What is the new product launched by Bobby?
    The Australian soft drink brand, Bobby, has launched a new flavour, ‘Strawberries & Cream,’ in partnership with the co-hosts of the Happy Hour podcast.

    Who were the external collaborators on this new Bobby flavour?
    Bobby has collaborated with Lucy Jackson and Nikki Westcott, the co-hosts of the popular Happy Hour podcast, to create the ‘Strawberries & Cream’ flavour.

    What are the health benefits of the new Bobby flavour?
    Each can of the ‘Strawberries & Cream’ flavour contains only 30 calories and is 98% sugar-free. It also includes prebiotics and is vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO.

  • PepsiCo to acquire Poppi for US$1.95 billion

    PepsiCo to acquire Poppi for US$1.95 billion

    PepsiCo has signed a definitive agreement to acquire probiotic soda brand Poppi for US$1.95 billion.

    The transaction amount includes $300 million of anticipated cash tax benefits for a net purchase price of $1.65 billion.

    “We’ve been evolving our food and beverage portfolio over many years, including by innovating with our brands in new spaces and through disciplined, strategic acquisitions that enable us to offer more positive choices to our consumers,” said Ramon Laguarta, PepsiCo chairman and CEO.

    “More than ever, consumers are looking for convenient and great-tasting options that fit their lifestyles and respond to their growing interest in health and wellness. Poppi is a great complement to our portfolio transformation efforts to meet these needs.”

    The agreement also includes a further potential earnout consideration subject to reaching certain performance milestones within a specified period after the transaction’s closing.

    Poppi, which combines apple cider vinegar with natural fruit flavours and probiotics, gained attention after appearing on the reality TV show Shark Tank in 2018.

  • Coca-Cola raises outlook amid revenue growth

    Coca-Cola raises outlook amid revenue growth

    The Coca-Cola Company has raised its full-year guidance after its net revenue expanded 8 percent to US$12 billion for the third quarter.

    The US-headquartered company saw net revenues increase in most of its markets, including Europe, Middle East & Africa (10 percent), Latin America (24 percent), and North America (6 percent). Meanwhile, revenues in Asia Pacific declined 2 percent.

    Revenues of global ventures and bottling investments were up 15 percent and 4 percent, respectively.

    Global unit case rose 2 percent and operating income grew 6 percent, with earnings per share up 9 percent to $0.71.

    “We delivered an overall solid quarter and are raising our full-year topline and bottom-line guidance in light of our year-to-date performance,” said James Quincey, chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company.

    “Our leading portfolio of brands, coupled with an aligned and motivated system, positions us to win in the marketplace today while also laying the groundwork for the long term.”

    The company expects to deliver organic revenue growth of 10-11 percent. For comparable net revenues, it anticipates a 4 percent currency headwind based on the current rates and including the impact of hedged positions.

  • Ampersand Projects launches new purple gin soda

    Ampersand Projects launches new purple gin soda

    Victoria-based spirit company Ampersand Projects has expanded its ready-to-drink gin offerings with a new product dubbed ‘Purple Gin Soda &’.

    The launch of Purple Gin Soda & comes after the release of its Pink Gin Soda & in 2020. Its alcohol level is at 6 percent. The packaging features a minimalist purple colour theme.

    The company said the new gin line combines locally distilled gin with “bright and vibrant” blackcurrant flavors and sparkling soda water.

    Purple Gin Soda & is sugar-free, carb-free, and gluten-free.

    The new Purple Gin Soda & is priced at $26.99 for a 4-pack and is available to purchase at BWS, Dan Murphy’s, and independent bottle shops around Australia.

    Ampersand Projects was founded in 2018 in NSW by Alex Bottomley and Marcus Kellett. The company was nominated for the Startup Award at the Sydney Young Entrepreneur Awards 2019.

  • Bobby launches low-calorie prebiotic soft drinks

    Bobby launches low-calorie prebiotic soft drinks

    Beverage company Bobby has launched low-calorie and low-sugar soft drinks in different flavors, added with prebiotics.

    The company claims each can contain 32 to 40 calories and that the beverage may aid digestion and boost good gut bacteria with the added prebiotics.

    “Our mission is to redefine what soft drink is to everyday Australians by offering a truly exceptional and enjoyable beverage that doesn’t compromise on health or taste,” said Kristian Johannsen, founder and MD at Bobby.

    Johannsen added that Bobby supports environmentally friendly practices, such as using recycled aluminum cans and cardboard slabs.

    “We’re here to make a difference in taste and sustainability. With each sip of Bobby, our customers can indulge guilt-free, knowing they are contributing to a company that genuinely cares about the impact it makes.”

    Bobby drinks are sold in Doctor Bobby, Vanilla Cola, and Lemon Lime flavors. Lemon Lime is exclusive to 7-Eleven, while Vanilla Cola and Doctor Bobby are available nationwide at 7-Eleven, independent retailers, and online.

  • Coca-Cola launches limited-edition Y3000 Zero Sugar flavour

    Coca-Cola launches limited-edition Y3000 Zero Sugar flavour

    Coca-Cola Australia has launched a limited-edition flavor called Coca-Cola Y3000 Zero Sugar across the country.

    The company says the latest launch is the first “futuristic flavor” co-created by human and artificial intelligence from Coca-Cola Creations.

    Last year, the business established a new global innovation platform called Coca-Cola Creations, which brings new products and experiences across the physical and digital worlds through limited-edition sequential releases.

    Under this venture, Coca-Cola Y3000 Zero Sugar was the first product Coca-Cola Creations introduced in Australia.

    Livia De Salvo, marketing manager of Coca-Cola Australia, said: “With the help of AI-powered technology, Coca-Cola Y3000 Zero Sugar imagines how a Coca-Cola from the future tastes and introduces innovative experiences to explore the future.”

    The inspiration and look for the product come from fans’ perspectives combined with insights gathered from artificial intelligence.

    Coca-Cola also looked at flavor trends and preferences to understand what consumers think the taste of the future will be like. These were used as inspiration to help develop flavor profiles and pairings recommended by artificial intelligence.