Articles by Jessica Jacobsen

With the emergence of the pandemic, consumers turned to the juice category to support their immune systems. That has resulted in growth across many segments including refrigerated lemonades and aseptic juices.

The functional attributes of energy drinks have helped the category post growth despite the challenges of the pandemic. Although energy drinks recorded 12.6% growth for the 52 weeks ending May 16, energy shots contracted 3.4%.

The foodservice channel experienced unprecedented sales declines this past year, with beverage sales underperforming in the channel. Yet, experts forecast beverage will be the great differentiator in its rebuild.

As packaging materials have become thinner, material handling equipment ― like palletizing and depalletizing machines ― is adapting to ensure warehouse operations protect the efficacy of beverages.

For the U.S. on-premise market, the pandemic last year was the equivalent to a season-ending injury as it forced many operations to shut their doors. Although it has been a difficult 15 months for the channel, beverage-makers are stepping up to support the on-premise community as it looks to rebuild.

When it comes to eCommerce, consumers continue to index increased usage. As eCommerce’s influence grows, beverage-makers and wholesalers also are seeing the benefits direct-to-consumer and digital ecosystems can offer.

With the pandemic hampering the tourism market, craft beverage alcohol purveyors had to get creative to engage with consumers. Harvest Hosts is aiming to connect American RVers with hosts among its 868 winery, distillery and brewery partners.