Weekly Roundup – Week of 4.15.24

April 19, 2024

Discover the latest trends and news covering the food and beverage industry – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

Millennials & Gen Z: A Driving Force In Iced Coffee Sales

GlobalData reveals that these demographics are driving the surge in demand for iced and specialty coffee beverages, igniting a captivating trend in the beverage industry. Sunil Agarwal, Principal Consultant and Beverages Analyst at GlobalData, emphasizes the pivotal role of younger consumers in shaping this trend, underscoring the importance for foodservice providers and manufacturers to cater to their distinct preferences and environmental concerns. By crafting customized offerings with unique ingredients, novel flavors, and sustainable packaging, accompanied by engaging social media campaigns, brands can effectively capture the cravings of these discerning consumers. Learn More.

Revamping the Refrigerated Aisle: Yogurt & Non-Dairy Milk Get a Modern Makeover

With evolving consumer interests at the forefront, both the yogurt and non-dairy milk categories are undergoing transformations. According to Food Business News, this makeover is driven by a focus on health, diverse eating occasions, and the integration of functional ingredients. Yoplait has launched a high-protein yogurt line, crafted with ultra-filter milk and the brand’s signature yogurt-style fermentation process. Meanwhile, Chobani introduced a new dessert-inspired line, catering to the growing demand for indulgent offerings and Danone is making moves to capitalize on the snacking trend within the dairy category. Non-dairy milk alternatives are experiencing a revolution of their own, with significant shifts in ingredients. From barley and chickpeas to pinto beans and black beans, these innovative dairy substitutions offer a diverse array of options to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Dive deeper into the world of yogurt innovations [here], and explore the latest trends in non-dairy milk alternatives [here].

Gopuff Is Revolutionizing The CPG Industry

Gopuff, the rapid delivery service, announced its latest innovation: Powered by Gopuff. This direct-to-consumer offering allows brands on the platform to provide lightning-fast 15-minute delivery from their own online stores. The initiative marks a significant expansion of Gopuff’s “instant commerce” platform, promising unparalleled convenience for customers, empowering brands with customizable Shopify themes and access to invaluable first-party data. Having undergone rigorous testing with over 20 leading brands, including household names like Mondelēz International, Nestlé, and the JM Smucker Company, Gopuff is poised to reshape the landscape of online shopping. Read Article.

The Dichotomy Of Tradition and Innovation In Grocery

In today’s fast-paced retail landscape, grocers grapple with the pressing need to adopt new technologies and processes while contending with deep-seated tendencies towards caution and inertia. Gary Hawkins, the founder and CEO of the Center for Advancing Retail & Technology, notes that external changes often outpace internal adaptation within organizations. As the industry witnesses the emergence of groundbreaking technologies poised to revolutionize grocery operations and customer experiences, industry leaders emphasize the critical need for grocers to expedite their technology evaluations swiftly before the window of innovation closes. Read More.

New Products Spotlight

Plant-based mac and cheese and Starbucks’ bold spring LTOs covered the news this week. As consumers increasingly seek healthier and more inclusive options, plant-based macaroni and cheese has emerged as a star player. Manufacturers are innovating by removing dairy ingredients, incorporating gluten-free pasta, and enhancing nutritional profiles, tapping into the growing demand for gluten-free and lactose-free alternatives. With its nostalgic appeal and broad market reach, offering diverse flavors and customizable options in this category presents a lucrative opportunity for brands to bolster their bottom line.

Meanwhile, Starbucks offered spicy twists on their beloved iced drinks, exclusively available to rewards members in a buy-one-get-one-free promotion. From Spicy Dragonfruit to Spicy Pineapple and Spicy Strawberry, these concoctions, infused with a fiery chili powder blend, deliver a heated kick and vibrant crimson hue. As the LTO unfolds, the question lingers: will Starbucks extend this spicy sensation beyond the spring months into the sizzling days of summer?

Looking for more industry news and insights? Stop back each week for our latest roundups of food and beverage-related news!