Alternative Drinks

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If major coffee chains are any indication, plant-based dairy alternatives such as almond milk and coconut milk are taking their success mainstream.

Celsius Holdings Inc., the Boca Raton, Fla.-based maker of Celsius negative-calorie beverages, reported a revenue increase of 47 percent to $3.42 million in the third quarter of 2014, which ended Sept. 30. This increase was associated with a 60 percent increase in international sales to approximately $1.6 million due to increases from existing accounts and initial sales in Brazil. In addition, domestic sales increased 38 percent to approximately $1.9 million because of a 66 percent increase in health and fitness retail accounts and a 53 percent increase in domestic retail accounts. However, this was partially offset by a 6 percent decrease in Internet sales and the elimination of a liquidator sale that took place during the same period in 2013.

CideRoad LLC, Mendham, N.J., launched an organic line of switchel beverages. Also known as “haymaker’s punch,” switchel typically features water, vinegar and ginger, according to Wikipedia. CideRoad Organic Switchel beverages will be available in Original, Blueberry and Cherry flavors.

Although protein drinks previously were associated with bodybuilders and workout occasions, mainstream consumers now are seeking protein-enhanced products.

Lotus Elixirs North America, Indian Wells, Calif., launched its new Lotus Botanical Elixirs in 12-ounce Sleek cans from Rexam.

The WhiteWave Foods Co., Broomfield, Colo., announced that it has agreed to acquire So Delicious Dairy Free, Eugene, Ore., from its existing shareholders, led by Wasserstein & Co., for approximately $195 million in cash.

Dunkin’ Brands Group Inc., Canton, Mass., introduced almond milk to the menu in some of its Dunkin’ Donuts stores. Through a new partnership with Blue Diamond Growers, Sacramento, Calif., select Dunkin’ Donuts restaurants nationwide now will offer Vanilla Almond Breeze Almondmilk as an addition to hot or iced coffees and lattes. Consumers can use the store locator at www.dunkindonuts.com and search for a special “AM” symbol to determine if their local stores offer the dairy alternative, the company says.

San Francisco-based DripDrop Inc., the maker of a same-named medical-grade
rehydration solution, announced that it has closed a $5.8 million round of financing, which will help the company to accelerate development and continue to drive availability in retailers and hospitals, the company says. Investors include funds affiliated with owners of the San Francisco 49ers, Seth Taube and Brook Taube of Medley Corp., and American rock musicians Sammy Hagar, Joe Satriani, and Grateful Dead’s Bob Weir.
 

Lifeway Foods Inc., Morton Grove, Ill., announced results for the second quarter, which ended June 30. Total consolidated net sales increased 28 percent to $29.6 million during the three-month period from $23.1 million during the same three-month period in 2013. This increase is primarily attributable to increased sales and awareness of the company’s flagship Kefir line as well as its ProBugs Organic Kefir for kids and BioKefir lines.

Within the beverage industry, one trend exists that generally spans every category: health and wellness.