All news articles for December 2018

Beverage entrepreneurs: Boom-time for Malaysia's Hausboom

Malaysia’s Hausboom has taken off across Asia and Europe.

Boom-time for burgeoning brand from Asia’s fizzy drinks backwater

By Richard Whitehead

Sitting in a cafe in Saudi Arabia, Azri Zahier came to a realisation. All around him, people were guzzling fizzy drinks. These, he noticed, were not local beverages, or even ones made elsewhere in the Gulf. They were from Thailand.

Pic:getty/jane55

Highlights of 2018: Cannabis, coffee, craft beer and more

By Rachel Arthur

It's been another busy year in the big world of beverages. From cannabis to coffee and from Coca-Cola to craft beer, we take a look at some of the key moments that have hit the headlines in 2018 - and that will continue to shape the industry as we...

The BA says the change will spur innovation in and beyond craft beer. Pic:getty/vectorfun

‘This update will allow craft brewers to keep their creative and innovative pathways open’

Brewers Association changes craft brewer definition

By Rachel Arthur

The Brewers Association has updated its definition of a craft brewer: removing the ‘outdated’ traditional pillar.

Flow Water gets functional with new CBD-infused line

Flow Alkaline Spring Water gets functional with new CBD-infused line

By Mary Ellen Shoup

When Flow Alkaline Spring Water was looking to launch its next big idea in bottled water – a functional water infused with CBD (cannabidiol) and other botanical ingredients – it went to directly to the source: its four million US customers that the Canadian...

Bundaberg Rum &h Pauls launch 3 Christmas drinks. Photo: Diageo.

Bundaberg Rum & Pauls launch three Christmas products

By Jenny Eagle

Diageo’s Bundaberg Rum has partnered with milk and dairy brand Pauls to launch three Christmas products; Pauls Bundaberg Rum Premium Rumball Custard; Pauls Bundaberg Rum Premium Vanilla Rum Custard; and Pauls Bundaberg Rum Flavoured Egg Nog.

Pic:getty/bethhall

The year in beer: US celebrates 2018 craft brewing highlights

By Rachel Arthur

With the number of US breweries breaking the 7,000 milestone in October this year, it’s been a big year for small beer. The Brewers Association, the trade association for small and independent US craft brewers, looks back on the 2018 highlights for the...

Sproutly positions itself for North America’s cannabis explosion

By Beth Newhart

With the US poised to sign a farm bill that will legalize hemp production, and Canada’s recent legalization of recreational marijuana, North America is on the brink of a CBD revolution. Food, beverage and ingredients companies are all looking to get in...

Sugar taxes: Sweet success or a sorry story? It usually depends who you ask... Pic:getty/bopav

Sugar taxes: The global picture

By Rachel Arthur, Elaine Watson, Stephen Daniells, Gary Scattergood, Niamh Michail

Sugar taxes continue to hit the headlines, but the introduction of new legislation is never straight-forward. We take a look at 20 countries around the globe where sugar taxes have been in the news.

'Manufacturers must focus on targeting quality-focused consumers; and offer an authentic consumption experience.' Pic: Getty/semensalivanchuk

Asia-Pacific spirits sector to grow by over $100bn by 2022

By Beth Newhart

The APAC region is seeing growth in health and wellness awareness, influencing spirits purchasing behavior. About 52% of consumers are now looking for options that ‘align with their health and wellbeing.’

GettyImages/alexis84

'An open trading zone covering one-third of global GDP'

EU vote puts EU-Japan trade deal on track to enter into force

By EU-Japan trade deal to enter in force following EU vote

The EU Japan trade deal is set to enter into force on 1 February 2019 after receiving the backing of EU politicians yesterday.

With the rise of diets such as keto, paleo & gluten-free, there'll be a move to develop corresponding labelling & certification on products, says Koia

Koia launches keto-friendly drinks

By Beth Newhart

Koia, known for its plant-based RTD smoothies, is introducing Koia Keto in the new year. The high-fat and low-carb beverages claim to help achieve ketosis, a main component of the trendy ketogenic diet. It represents a growing opportunity for brands to...

Extra wine and vine research will be carried out in Adelaide, South Australia. Pic:getty/gam1983

Boost for Australian vine and wine research

By Rachel Arthur

Wine Australia and the University of Adelaide have signed a four-year, multi-million-dollar agreement to support long term strategic wine research and development.

Drinkers are now more drawn to experience-based locations for their alcohol consumption than typical bars with no extra incentives. Pic: ©GettyImages/David Prahl / EyeEm

Experiential drinking bolsters craft beer sales

By Beth Newhart

After the boom and subsequent plateauing of craft beer sales in the US, on-premise experiential drinking establishments are managing to draw in new customers. Brewpubs, taprooms and game-based bars all saw a surge in popularity in 2018.

“It’s so important that consumers understand where their food comes from, how it’s produced and why that’s important.

'Sustainability is a process. It’s not a destination, it’s a journey'

McDonald’s McCafe close to 100% sustainably-sourced US coffee

By Beth Newhart

McDonald’s global McCafe division relies heavily on inexpensive, quality coffee, requiring a strong relationship with coffee farmers and a transparent supply chain. The company has committed to sustainably sourcing 100% of its coffee by 2020.

Mountain Dew launches gaming-inspired drinks

Mountain Dew launches gaming-inspired drinks

By Beth Newhart

PepsiCo’s Mountain Dew brand has launched Mtn Dew Amp Game Fuel in the US: a line of drinks designed by video gamers and optimized for ‘an enhanced gaming experience’ with features such as a no-slip grip, resealable lid, and ingredients for alertness.

Pic:getty/gustofrazao

Aussie-China wine exports: Zero to hero in two decades

By Richard Whitehead

Opportunities in the Chinese wine market remain “exciting and plentiful” with consumption forecast to continue to grow at 6% per annum for the next five years, according to Wine Australia. At this pace the country will break the 3tr litre barrier by 2022.

What is water stewardship? Bottled water and protecting sources

Sustainability spotlight

Past, present and future: Bottled water's journey through time

By Rachel Arthur

Natural mineral and spring water brands are built on their provenance, making their source a unique part of who they are. But with increasing pressure from man's impact on the planet, how are brands protecting their water for the future?