Purchase, N.Y.-based PepsiCo unveiled an “Internet Taste Test” for its new reduced-sugar Pepsi Next variety. Designed to be a digital incarnation of the product’s “Drink it to believe it” premise, the product’s marketing campaign encourages consumers to take their first sip of the cola at Walmart Supercenter sampling events, at similar events in 40 national cities or online via its Internet Taste Test.
Bacardi Ltd., Hamilton, Bermuda, released its Corporate Responsibility Report that documents the family-owned, privately held spirits company’s improved global environmental efficiencies and increased engagement with responsible suppliers. In addition, the company also announced professional tennis player Rafael Nadal as the new Bacardi Ltd. Global Social Responsibility Ambassador and face of its “Champions Drink Responsibly” program.
Tingyi Holding Corp., Tianjin, China, and Purchase, N.Y-based PepsiCo Inc. announced that the two parties have completed their transaction to create a strategic beverage alliance in China. The alliance was approved by the shareholders of Tingyi in February and received regulatory approval March 29.
The Coca-Cola Co., Atlanta, announced a multi-year product and marketing agreement with Dunkin’ Brands Group Inc., the Canton, Mass.-based parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins, and the National DCP, which is the exclusive supply chain partner for Dunkin’ Brands.
The U.S. craft brewing industry increased 13 percent in volume and grew 15 percent in retail sales in 2011, according to full year data released by the Brewers Association, Boulder, Colo. The increases accounted for 1.3 million additional barrels from 2010 to 2011, during which annual craft beer production reached nearly 11.5 million barrels, the association said.
Corona, Calif.-based Monster Energy Co. launched the Monster Energy Ultimate Intern Search to fill two newly created intern positions. The Monster Energy Ultimate Intern Search will award two individuals a compensation package worth more than $15,000 and the opportunity to work directly with athletes, music artists, celebrities and the Monster Energy staff at major national sports and entertainment events across America, including X-Games 18, the Vans Warped Tour 2012, and the Street League DC Pro Tour fueled by Monster Energy, during the summer.
Forty-six percent of global consumers are willing to pay extra for products and services from companies that have implemented programs to give back to society, according to Nielsen’s Global Corporate Citizenship Survey.
Premiering at the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) 69th Annual Convention & Exposition on April 5 in Las Vegas, the U.S. Beverage Alcohol Forum will offer educational sessions for suppliers and wholesalers. The U.S. Beverage Alcohol Forum is a partnership between WSWA and the U.S. Drinks Conference (USDC) that will feature business-related sessions from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. at Caesars Palace.
Starbucks Corp., Seattle, introduced two new retail concepts for its Seattle’s Best Coffee and Evolution Fresh Inc. subsidiaries. In addition, the company also shared plans to launch its own single-cup coffee system.
Consumer product goods (CPG) manufacturers continue to navigate the whims of undecided consumers, some of whom feel more optimistic about the economy while a similar-sized group expect continued deterioration of economic and personal financial health, according to Susan Viamari, editor of SymphonyIRI’s Times and Trends report. The Chicago-based market research firm released its “CPG 2011 Year in Review: The Search for Footing in an Evolving Marketplace” report that finds that consumers plan to continue their current path of frugality and conservatism this year.
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