Episodes

Consumer demand for new and unique flavors is driving innovation in the food and beverage industry. But achieving great taste, especially when working with novel ingredients and sweeteners, isn’t always easy. Enter Bartek Ingredients.

Brooks Addington, the CEO of sparkling alcohol-alternative brand TÖST, spoke about why the brand’s positioning has resonated with all types of consumers, why having few competitors is “a double-edged sword,” the importance of an affordable price point and a frugal marketing strategy, and the company’s strategic partnership with Constellation Brands.

It was fun while it lasted... The hosts shared highlights from the final edition of Natural Products Expo East, including new brands, standout collaborations and innovative line extensions.

Celsius CEO John Fieldly spoke about how financial discipline is embedded in company culture, why brand-building is about “figuring out where you fit in a consumer’s life,” navigating expectations and opportunities with strategic partner Pepsico and how junior-level employees influence the company’s innovation strategy.

Amid a spate of high-profile investments and acquisitions, the hosts assessed Brooklyn Brewery’s alignment with Hoplark and what it means for the emerging segment of hop-centric beverages and also discussed the timing of Smuckers’ $5.6 billion purchase of Hostess Brands. This episode also features an expansive interview with Adam Crocini, the SVP and global head for food and beverage brands at Hilton.

Christy Goldsby, the founder of fast-growing refrigerated snack brand Honey Mama's, explained why demoing is the foundation of its marketing strategy, leaning on a ‘truth radar’ at every step during a package revamp, how the company navigated a high profile retailer’s devastating decision to discontinue the brand and why handing over day-to-day operations was the right move for its future.