Weekly Sip is Food Dive's column focusing on the latest news from the fast-changing and growing beverage sector. From the first product lines to major investments and controversial topics, this column aims to quench your thirst for development in the category.
Molson Coors moves Peroni production to the United States.
A major brewer looking to bolster its premium beer portfolio is introducing one of its popular products into its U.S. supply chain after years of importing beer from Rome.
Molson Coors has announced that it will begin producing Peroni Nastro Azzurro at its brewery in Albany, Georgia, starting this summer. First produced in cans, then in bottles and cans. According to the company, the move is designed to help unlock the beer's full potential and expand distribution opportunities for Italian beers.
“We have worked closely with Peroni’s talented brewmasters over the past several months to ensure that the brand’s crunchy, refreshing taste remains intact and honors the original recipe from 1963,” said Brian Erhardt, Chief Supply Chain Officer at Molson Coors. He said. name. “By brewing Peroni at home, we can ensure consumers can get fresh, delicious Peroni at even more of their favorite restaurants, bars, stores and events across the country.”
The line's non-alcoholic beer, Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0%, will continue to be produced at the Peroni brewery in Rome.
Moving production from Italy could help Molson Coors expand Peroni's reach. Company officials told Beer Business Daily that some bars and stores in the U.S. have been hesitant to sell the beer because of the high costs and unreliable supplies that come with importing small quantities of beer.
Molson Coors said producing Peroni in the U.S. is part of its goal to grow its premium beer offerings. Strengthening its premium alcohol offering has been a top priority for the company's CEO, Gavin Hattersley, since taking the helm in 2019.
The action followed a three-month strike at Molson Coors' Fort Worth, Texas, production facility that ended last week after the Teamsters union representing the workers agreed to a new three-year contract with the company. The details of the contract were not disclosed. During the strike, production of Molson Coors products was not affected as the company hired temporary and salaried employees to work at its facilities.
— Chris Casey
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Provided by Outshine
Cheers to cocktails with Outshine fruit and yogurt smoothie
Outshine Fruit Yogurt Smoothies have become a popular brand with kids. Now parents are finding grown-up ways to enjoy this offering.
Inspired by modern people's love for simple, fruit-filled cocktails And for creative parents looking to use up their kids' leftover snack pouches, Outshine has arrived. Limited Edition Fruit Cocktail Kit. Each kit includes all the cocktail-making essentials, including Outshine fruit and yogurt smoothie pouches, cocktail glasses, stirrers, and a $25 adult gift card to purchase your favorite drink.
The pouch was a popular shortcut for drinks like a peach-raspberry bellini, blueberry-pear mimosa, or strawberry-coconut colada.
“Whether you're used to caring for your children or even a friend, Outshine Fruit & Yogurt Smoothie will allow you to indulge in a little self-love with a fruity cocktail you can enjoy any time.” Leili Riegel, Head of Outshine Fruit & Yogurt Smoothies Brand, said in a statement:
Consumers can receive their Outshine Fruit Cocktail Kit by visiting the brand's Instagram page until June 21st.
Outshine is famous for its frozen new products. Fruit yogurt smoothie pouch launched in 2022It is the first shelf-stable portable snack product in history.
The pouches addressed an unmet need in the market: a portable, nutritious snack that, like fruit bars, is popular with both adults and children.
Outshine is the latest brand to see its products used by adults to make cocktails and mocktails. Energy drink brand Celsius and coconut water maker Vita Coc0 are just a few of the beverages in the adult beverage category, in addition to cola.
— Christopher Doering
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Courtesy of Free AF
As the mocktail craze continues, free AF expands.
As many consumers want to drink less alcohol, a New Zealand brand is making a name for itself in big box stores.
Free AF, a lineup of non-alcoholic cocktails, launched in 800 Walmart stores this month and Target last month as part of a collaboration with non-alcoholic beverage marketplace Sèchey. The brand is also sold in major grocery chains such as Safeway and Sprouts. This represents a five-fold increase in retail volume since it launched in the US last year.
The brand sells six mocktails: Apero Spritz, Cuba Libre, Vodka Spritz, Cucumber G&T, Paloma, and Sparkling Rosé. Each zero proof cocktail is low in sugar and contains natural ingredients.
Unlike other mocktails, Free AF also contains a secret to induce the feeling of drinking. Afterglow, a plant heat extract that the brand claims can mimic the warm feeling of drinking alcohol.
The brand expansion comes as new brands, including Mingle Mocktails, have seen year-on-year growth in the non-alcoholic category. Established alcohol brands are also looking to cash in on the growing category with new ready-to-drink products. White Claw launched zero-proof carbonated water earlier this year, and Boston Beer last month launched General Advancement, a non-alcoholic beverage that combines the flavors of beer and carbonated water.
— Chris Casey
