This year's BrauBeviale is taking place from 28-30 November in Nuremberg, Germany, offering solutions for beverage production and marketing across nine halls. More than 900 exhibitors from the brewing and beverage industry will showcase their products. The event has a special focus on products for filling and packaging, with 221 exhibitors registered with their portfolio of filling and packaging technology. In addition, another 160 exhibitors focus on packaging, closure materials, labelling and packaging aids. This corresponds to the strong visitor interest – around 33 % of all visitors come to Nuremberg to find out about filling and packaging technology. All information is available in the exhibitor database here. Exhibitors can use the database to select companies according to specific requirements. BrauBeviale has long been a social event for the industry including a supporting programme, focusing on current developments in the European beverage market: Forum BrauBeviale in Hall 1 – presentations and discussion rounds on topics such as the technical focus on nitrogen production or CO2 recovery or in the focus on raw material supply and raw material availability Logistics Lounge in Hall 4 – with detailed analyses on the current topics of the logistics chain Expert Forum – with news and presentations by exhibitors Special Show "Design" in Hall 4A – with a daily design tour 'brau@home' – meeting place for all homebrewing specialists in Hall 6 Joint pavilion "Innovation made in Germany" in Hall 6 Special exhibition grape processing and cellar management including a wine tasting area in Hall 4A The wide-ranging supporting programme is free of charge for all visitors. Find out more here.

Keurig Dr Pepper (KDP) has appointed former Mondelēz International executive Tim Cofer as its new chief operating officer, with plans for Cofer to succeed current CEO Bob Gamgort in the second quarter of 2024. Cofer, who will join KDP on 6 November, will work closely with Gamgort while in the capacity of COO. Following the transition, Gamgort will assume the role of executive chairman. Cofer has over 30 years of multinational expertise, and currently serves as CEO of Central Garden and Pet Company. Prior to joining Central in 2019, Cofer spent over 25 years with Mondelēz and its predecessor company, Kraft Foods. During this time, he held various executive roles with responsibility across a wide range of product categories, including coffee, chocolate and packaged food. Gamgort said: “Tim is the ideal person to lead KDP in its next chapter. With his background as a successful public company CEO and a veteran CPG executive, Tim steps into this role with the experience and capabilities that will propel KDP’s growth journey. I’m fully committed, as is our entire ELT, to supporting Tim as he prepares to assume the CEO role. When the transition occurs, I will lead the board of directors as executive chairman.” KDP’s lead independent director, Paul Michaels, commented: “The process the board took in evaluating KDP’s next CEO was thoughtful and comprehensive, including the consideration of internal and external candidates. We are confident that Tim’s extensive CPG experience and growth-oriented leadership will make him a very strong next CEO of KDP.”

Refilled, a newly established climate tech start-up based in Sydney, Australia, has recently launched an initiative to eliminate single-use plastic bottle waste caused by the vending industry. Earlier this week, the company started working with two Australian institutions: The University of Technology Sydney and The University of Sydney Union. Refilled’s strategy involves replacing a significant number of these vending machines with its new BYO-Bottle system. The company plans to capitalise on the trend of reusable bottles by providing consumers with a wide range of flavoured and nutritionally enriched options beyond plain tap water. The business has developed ‘Refillers,’ a fusion between a fridge and a “giant” SodaStream, offering chilled still and sparkling drinks in various flavours. These beverages can be further customised with optional boosters like caffeine, vitamins and exercise-oriented nootropics. Refilled aims to build and install 100 Refillers machines by 2024. This initiative is said to eliminate over 1 million single-use plastic bottles from polluting our environment or filling up landfills every year. In addition, it aims to eliminate 100 million single-use plastic bottles by 2030. According to the company, a single Refiller has the capacity to stock ten times more beverages than a standard vending machine. Consequently, it can “dramatically reduce waste” and lower emissions produced by frequent deliveries and restocking of traditional beverages. Moreover, Refilled is employing technology to track the number of saved bottles in real time. It has introduced reusable bottles featuring QR codes that can be scanned at the Refiller to pay for drinks, eliminating the need for cards, phones or cash. Refilled founder and CEO Ryan Nelson said: “Refilled is transforming the ordinary, everyday act of drinking water into climate action. Most people have good intentions and want to do good for the planet, but not everyone can afford to buy an electric vehicle or install solar panels.” He continued: “Armed with just a reusable bottle and a couple of bucks, our Refillers offer an affordable, achievable way to eliminate plastic pollution. If we can replace even a fraction of drink vending machines, which are an outrageous source of plastic waste, we will stop millions of plastic bottles going to landfills.” University of Sydney Union president, Naz Sharifi, added: “As part of our ongoing efforts to expand our sustainable practices and reduce the usage of single-use plastic bottles, we are thrilled to be partnering with Refilled, who share our social, environmental and ecological aspirations. This will allow our members access to filling stations in key locations around campus.”

Aquatech Amsterdam 2023: Unveiling the future of water technology Aquatech, the premier water technology exhibition in the world, is set to make a splash in Amsterdam this November. With over 800 exhibitors and an anticipated 22,000 visitors from more than 140 countries, this event promises to be a game-changer for water professionals worldwide. But what sets Aquatech apart isn’t just its scale – it’s the knowledge, innovations and connections it offers. Aquatech has partnered with over 50 organisations to bring this water-focused extravaganza to life. Introducing the Aquatech Worlds At the heart of Aquatech Amsterdam 2023 are the four groundbreaking Aquatech Worlds, each addressing current trends and challenges in the water industry. These immersive zones cater to specific interests and issues, shifting the focus from products to solutions and fostering innovation. The Digital World explores the emerging field of digital water. Here, water professionals can discover how digital technologies, data analytics and real-time monitoring are revolutionising water resource management, enhancing efficiency, sustainability and decision-making. Clean Water World addresses the pressing challenges faced by drinking water treatment professionals. From increasing contamination threats to climate change impacts, this zone provides a platform to share best practices and knowledge. Waste Water & Resources World champions the concept of Net Zero and circular ambitions. It unites leaders in water resource innovation, promoting water reuse and energy generation from waste. Industry is a major water consumer, and its impact on water resources is undeniable. This world serves as a meeting place for industry experts to share insights, experiences, and solutions. Topics range from water security to sustainable mining. InnovationLAB and Aquatech Innovation Award Research and development are pivotal for the water industry’s future sustainability. The InnovationLAB offers a glimpse into early-stage technology innovations. It showcases nominees and winners of the Aquatech Innovation Award, as well as demos and scale models of fundamental research projects from universities and research institutes. Located in Hall 7 (07.550), the InnovationLAB is where the future of water technology trends is unveiled. Circular Economy Pavilion powered by GWI A joint endeavour with Global Water Intelligence (GWI), the Circular Economy Pavilion (Hall 7, 07.400) is a treasure trove of insights. GWI, a trusted interface between clients and their markets, provides valuable content and knowledge about sustainable water practices. Bluetech Research Innovation Pavilion The Bluetech Research Innovation Pavilion (Hall 7, 07.540) showcases ten carefully selected companies with cutting-edge water technology. These innovators have the potential to disrupt the water industry with their groundbreaking technologies, spanning both utility and industrial applications. Digital Water Pavilion The future of the water industry lies in smart solutions, and the Digital Water Pavilion (Hall 2, 02.120) is the hotspot for the latest trends and technologies. Powered by SWAN and Bluefield Research, it offers a focused learning experience, complemented by seminars at AquaStage. World Championships Pipefitting Celebrate the craftsmanship of pipefitting professionals from around the world in Hall 3 (03.118). The competition features mechanics, a rookie race, and a contest among management teams, all powered by Saint-Gobain and IPCO. Exhibitor Happy Hour The Aquatech Exhibitor Hour, complete with live music, free drinks and Dutch delicacies, is now available to visitors. It’s a great opportunity for networking and relaxation. AquaRun Combine business with fitness by joining the AquaRun, a 5km run through the scenic Beatrix Park. Finish off with a healthy breakfast and networking opportunities – all for a charitable cause. Aquatech Innovation Forum: Accelerating Water Agility On 6 November 2023, the Innovation Forum (Hall 13) will address the pressing challenges faced by water utilities. This event fosters connections between utilities, start-ups, investors and policymakers to enhance agility in addressing future water-related challenges. Don’t miss Aquatech Amsterdam 2023 – it’s where the water industry’s present and future converge, fostering innovation, collaboration and sustainable water solutions on a global scale. Register here.

Purity Soft Drinks, makers of leading juice drink brands Juice Burst and Firefly, is expanding its range with the launch of Juice Burst Peach Ice Tea. Juice Burst Peach Ice Tea features a sweet blend of peach juice and black tea flavouring, offering a HFSS-compliant option. Available in a 330ml bottle format, the latest innovation is rolling out across the grocery, convenience and licensed channels at an RRP of £1.29 from 14 August. According to Purity Soft Drinks, the new Peach Ice Tea contains more fruit juice than any other SKU in the growing tea-flavoured juice market. Sarah Baldwin, CEO of Purity Soft Drinks, commented: “Our mission is to deliver natural refreshment for everyone, in every drop. That’s the Purity Promise, and the introduction of Juice Burst Peach Ice Tea is very much a part of this promise.” She added: “On-the-go soft drinks are currently growing twice as fast as the total category. As we approach the Back-to-School season, retailers have a clear opportunity to tap into those occasions. The launch of Juice Burst Ice Tea aims to have strong appeal with younger consumers, by offering a healthier, great-tasting, permissible juice drink option which puts a fruity twist on a current and on-trend flavour profile.” Peach Ice Tea is said to provide consumers with one of their f

Scott Mason, head of strategy at brand design agency Stormbrands, looks at how food and beverage brands can make their products succeed across all marketing touchpoints – even in heavily regulated sectors. It might sound a little counterintuitive, but regulatory constraints can often unlock creative freedom and exploration when it comes to strategic brand design, which can have a positive impact on consumer appreciation and business growth. We’re seeing mandatory health warnings come in for alcohol brands in Ireland in May 2026 – a move that other home nations will surely follow. Last October saw the introduction of a fresh set of restrictions on foods that are high in fat, salt and sugar (HFSS). New policies on where these items can be displayed in shops ruled out high-footfall areas, including checkouts, end-of-aisle units, entrances and queueing sections. And this October, promotions such as ‘buy-one-get-one-free’ and ‘50% extra’ will be phased out in the UK. At first glance, it might all seem a bit gloomy and restricting for brands. But for strategic brand designers, shifting parameters present exciting new challenges and opportunities to move away from accepted tropes and think outside the box. Navigating new brand territory Measures like these can come across as top-down, as though the government is stepping in to mitigate damage to the population and control food, beverage and retail companies’ behaviour. The other side of the story is that ordinary people are driving the changes and the powers that be are simply reflecting societal shifts in thinking. For brand owners and their design partners, it’s about navigating that new terrain, and understanding, recognising and balancing all sides of the issue. We have to work with our partners to take on board the practical considerations and opportunities to rethink relevance and engagement. Without that perspective, new regulatory mandates can feel like a one-way street. Brand owners often feel a sense of loss and deep concern when new regulations come in. Their intellectual property has been compromised and they face a host of new challenges: additional complexities in touchpoints, channels, scalability and brand guardrails. Consumers may reconsider their choices and reassess a brand’s values unless reasons to believe are restored or new ones are created. And traders and retailers will be looking to brands to find out how they are futureproofing. How does all this affect the food and beverage manufacturer and their brand agency partner? In simple terms, when you limit a brand’s ability to communicate, everything that remains must work harder to drive trial, sustain loyalty and create advocacy. Facets of a brand or category experience that may have been neglected in the past have an opportunity to come into sharper focus when the ability to express and differentiate is compromised elsewhere. Responding to new regulations We’re seeing myriad strategies come to the fore. Take Unilever. It promised to stop advertising its products to under-16s altogether. A self-imposed move that positions it as a champion of responsible consumption and ally to parents. Other brands have redeveloped their ranges to lower fat, salt and sugar content. Kettle Chips Bread Bites carry less fat, Mr Kipling’s Deliciously Mr Kipling range contains 30% less sugar than traditional lines, and Kellogg’s has cut sugar and salt across several of its products, for example. As well as these moves, in order to meet policy requirements and continue to appeal to target consumers there are other areas for food and beverage manufacturers and their brand agency partners to consider. Contextual association Think about what’s memorable about a brand. Formats, haptics, sound and aroma are all powerful sensory signals that make a lasting impression. In a restricted market you need to turn them up. It’s an opportunity to elevate a brand’s most iconic assets, creating disruptive ways to generate recall and association. Take the use of the iconic Coca-Cola ribbon – on its own it’s enough for everyone to recognise the brand, proving simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing high brand salience. An identifiable graphic form, with no text to scale up or down, also makes life a lot easier when you think about zooming in and out of thumbnails on mobiles. And it shows product confidence. Building connections Amazon founder and CEO, Jeff Bezos, famously said: “Your brand is what other people say about you when you’re not in the room.” What are the truths, barriers, urban legends? How does your brand make people feel? Most of us enjoy random facts more than perfectly curated stories – in restricted markets there’s an opportunity to focus on the more unconventional left-field details to drive the journey from trial to loyalty to advocacy. So why not channel your eccentricities? By aligning with relevant events, activities or online platforms, brands can initiate conversations, encourage user-generated content and foster brand advocacy. Route to market, placement, promotion, rewards and loyalty programmes all offer opportunities for disruption – and in restricted markets, they need to be exploited. A brand’s agency partner can curate that roll-out so that it’s consistent and builds meaningful traction. Balancing agility and consistency It’s important to consider markets and geography, too. Legislative environments vary wildly around the world, which means the scalability and adaptability of brand platforms is complex. Having a well-thought-out brand localisation strategy ensures every aspect of a company’s branding is in the good graces of that global market. All of these considerations help to connect every brand encounter the consumer has, building up a stronger set of mental associations. The more coherent these are, the more easily the brand comes to mind at key moments to influence purchase decisions. Of course, when new rules come into practice there’s bound to be concern. But with strategic creative thinking, there’s no reason why brands shouldn’t thrive in regulated sectors. Far from being a downer – these can be some of the most exciting times for brands.

SmartSoda has entered into the ready-to-drink category with the launch of Brilliant Life Drink. SmartSoda's Brilliant Life Drink line, which features vitamin-infused alkaline water, is available in three functional offerings: Brilliant Sparkling Water, Optimize Plus Immunity and Quantum Energy and Focus. Brilliant Sparkling Water includes three flavours: Wild Passionberry, Limone Dream and Bright Citrus Sunshine. Meanwhile, the Optimize Plus Immunity series – designed to support daily immune function with zinc, turmeric, ginger, magnesium and elderberry – offers three flavours: Yuzu-Currant Noir, Posh Gran-Limone and Pomelo Breeze. Quantum – infused with l-theanine to provide natural energy and paired with ginseng, guayusa and guarana to enhance focus – boasts flavours like Peachberry Lust, Lush Berry and Blackcurrant Affair. SmartSoda's CEO, Lior Shafir, said: “Today marks an exciting milestone in our journey to redefine the wellness beverage category with the launch of our Brilliant Life Drink. Now you can enjoy SmartSoda both in the office and on the go”. SmartSoda's VP of business development, Alex Garson, added: “Over the past two years, we made it our mission to perfect a sparkling, functional beverage that was crafted with clean ingredients, didn’t sacrifice taste and delivered on health benefits. We analysed the market to develop a beverage that stays true to SmartSoda standards and meets consumers' demands for a better functional beverage option." SmartSoda Brilliant Life Drink is available on Amazon this autumn and other foodservice distribution channels.

The Coca-Cola Company has reported a 6% rise in second-quarter net revenue to $12 billion, surpassing analyst estimates. The drinks giant recorded organic revenue growth of 11%, and revenue performance included 10% growth in price/mix. Meanwhile, the company's operating income grew 3% in the quarter, driven by currency headwinds and items impacting comparability. Unit case volume remained steady in Q2, with both developing/emerging markets showing even performance. In developed markets, the growth experienced in Mexico was offset by declines in the US and Spain. Similarly, the growth seen in India and Brazil was offset by the suspension of business operations in Russia during 2022 and a decline in Pakistan. In Q2, the unit case volume of sparkling soft drinks was even. The positive performance in Asia Pacific and Latin America contributed to this stability. However, the growth in these regions was offset by a decline in Europe, Middle East & Africa, primarily due to the suspension of business in Russia. Meanwhile, the unit case volume of juice, dairy and plant-based beverages was also steady, as strong growth of the Fairlife brand in the US and Minute Maid Pulpy in China was also offset by the suspension of business in Russia. Water was even as growth in Latin America was offset by Europe, Middle East & Africa and North America. Coffee grew 5%, primarily driven by the strong performance of Costa coffee in the UK and China, and tea grew 1%, led by growth in Latin America. Meanwhile, sports drinks declined 3%, primarily driven by Bodyarmor and Powerade in the US. James Quincey, chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, said: “I am encouraged that our all-weather strategy, working together with our bottling partners, has delivered strong second-quarter results. We are executing efficiently and effectively on a local level, while maintaining flexibility on a global level. The strength of our first half results and the resiliency of our business give us the confidence to raise our 2023 guidance.”

Latin American beverage technology company, Beliv, has acquired a 78% stake in High Brew, a ready-to-drink cold brew coffee brand based in the US. With a portfolio boasting over 40 brands, and a presence in 30 countries, the latest acquisition builds on Beliv’s global expansion strategy and its consumer-centric vision. It enables the company to strengthen its position in the US, where it is already present with its OCA, Güitig, Petit and Big Easy brands. Beliv operates in China, Europe and Latin America, offering a wide range of beverage options that include natural energy drinks, functional and carbonated waters, s well as juices and nectars. The company noted that citrus juices “holds a prominent position in Argentina, Uruguay, Chile and the Asian market”. High Brew is well-positioned in the cold brew coffee ready-to-drink market. The cold extraction process ensures the product naturally contains more antioxidants, enhancing its original flavour and reducing the acidic characteristic – a common result of traditional heat-induced brewing methods. Avaialble in 8oz cans, High Brew is 100% natural, low in sugar and currently available in 11 flavours: Double Espresso, Mexican Vanilla, Dark Chocolate Mocha, Black Triple Shot, Black & Bold, Creamy Cappuccino + Protein, Nitro Caramel Cold Brew, Nitro Cold Brew, Nitro Sweet Cold Brew, Peppermint Mocha and Espresso Triple Shot. The remaining 22% share of High Brew will continue to be held by David Smith, who founded the comapny in 2013, as well as current investors in the brand. Smith joins Beliv as a consultant, bringing his knowledge and experience of the F&B industry to the portfolio as it expands in the coming years. Carlos Sluman, founder, CEO and partner of Beliv, said: “The entrepreneurial spirit is our point of connection, and we have a strong desire to build together our growth in the US, which is one of the strategic markets for the expansion of Beliv’s business. This acquisition is essential to continue developing a well-positioned and solid portfolio, backed by a consumer-centric vision.” He continued: “With High Brew, we are adding a disruptive product in a booming category, through its distribution to 15,000 sale points in the US and the collaboration with 54 strategic partners”. High Brew founder Smith commented “Undoubtedly, we share the same identity, commitment and vocation,” adding that “sustainability will continue to be a differential value in the operation since High Brew needs the best beans to make the best coffee, and this means supporting all those who participate in the value chain”.

PepsiCo has announced that its Walkers Max crisp brand has teamed up with Pizza Hut to launch two new non-HFFS, pizza-inspired flavours in the UK. The two new permanent flavours, Pepperoni Feast and Texan BBQ, are available now in grocery and convenience stores across the UK (MSRP £1 per 50g single bag, £1.25 per 70g RRP PMP, £2.50 MSRP per 140g sharing bag). The Pepperoni Feast flavour also comes as part of a 5x27g multipack (£2 MSRP). Walkers Max said the flavours are tailored toward Gen Z consumers that are looking for more intense flavours from their snacks. They will also be the first SKUs to showcase a new pack design rolling out across the wider Walkers Max range from the end of August, which aims to visually highlight the range’s intense flavours. Part of the partnership also includes an on-pack promotion across both SKUs, allowing consumers a two-for-one pizza deal at Pizza Hut. Lynn Grant, marketing manager for Walkers Max, said: “Pepperoni is Pizza Hut’s number one flavour and its Texan BBQ is iconic with a loyal following. By offering younger shoppers the indulgent taste of these flavours on the well-loved ridged crunch of Walkers Max, we hope to create excitement, and offer younger consumers maximum flavour.”

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has entered into a letter of intent to jointly acquire Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines (CCBPI) from the Coca-Cola Company for $1.8 billion with Aboitiz Equity Ventures (AEV). CCEP and AEV have signed a non-binding Term Sheet regarding the acquisition of CCBPI, which CCEP said would offer a “great opportunity to co-acquire an established, well-run business”. The non-binding letter of intent with the Coca-Cola Company implies an enterprise value (or CCBPI of $1.8 billion. CCEP would be the majority owner (60%), and it is expected to consolidate CCBPI on the acquisition date to establish a “non-controlling interest” representing AEV’s 40% minority interest. The proposed acquisition would build on CCEP’s expansion into Australia, Pacific and Indonesia in 2021. CCBPI would be managed by a board of five members – three appointed by CCEP and two by AEV. The acquisition is subject to the satisfactory completion of due diligence, the parties concluding definitive agreements and the receipt of regulatory approvals.

Coffee subscription brand Pact Coffee has introduced new packaging across its range of coffee blends. The packaging is fully recyclable and made from 70% recycled materials – said to be plastics commonly disposed of in recycling bins. Additionally, it funds the collection of ocean-bound plastic bottles from Asian rivers. According to Pact Coffee, for every 1,000,000 bags created the equivalent of 53,000 600ml plastic bottles will be collected from rivers in the Philippines and Indonesia by the ethical recycling program Plastic Bank. Paul Turton, Pact Coffee’s CEO, said: “If climate change continues at its current trajectory, it’s estimated that we’ll see a significant impact on 75% of Arabica supply, which has already fallen short of demand for the past two years. Plastic pollution significantly reduces ecosystems’ ability to adapt to climate change, so reducing our usage, promoting a circular economy and funding schemes like this bag saves is exactly what we need to do to protect the future of coffee and the planet. Turton added that there had been the option for the brand to choose ‘compostable’ packaging instead. However, “around 90% of people don’t have the means to compost at home, and the growing data shows that lots of this packaging is ending up in landfill or blocking the food recycling process”, he added. #PactCoffee #UK