Weekly Roundup – Week of 6.3.24

June 7, 2024

This week’s roundup spotlights big brands and food and beverage industry news – all curated by our team of strategists and food enthusiasts:

Brand Spotlight: How Dr. Pepper Jumped To Second Place In The Soda Race

In the ever-competitive world of soda, where giants like Coca-Cola and Pepsi have long reigned supreme, a surprising contender has emerged: Dr Pepper. Once relegated to the sixth spot on America’s soda hierarchy, according to insights from The Hustle and The Wall Street Journal, Dr Pepper has orchestrated an impressive leap to claim the coveted second place in 2024. Dr Pepper’s resurgence is fueled by its bold embrace of Gen Z’s flavor preferences and leveraging platforms like TikTok to engage with younger audiences in playful and relatable ways. Unapologetically indulgent in its sweetness, Dr Pepper embraced its unique flavor profile, refusing to compromise on what makes it stand out. Read Story.

Sonic Drive-In Unveils New Brand Platform & Campaign

Departing from its traditional advertising featuring the “Two Guys” concept, Sonic introduces a new dynamic duo, including a chief ingenuity officer and his colorful partner, Tia Saborita. This innovative campaign, titled “Live Free Eat Sonic,” promises to showcase menu innovation in a whimsical and engaging manner. The campaign’s launch ad, set in a “fantastical Department of Research and Deliciousment”, invites viewers to “live a more delicious life.” With this fresh approach, Sonic aims to expand its storytelling beyond the confines of previous campaigns, embracing creativity across all brand channels. Led by Ryan Dickerson, Sonic’s newly appointed CMO, this campaign marks an exciting chapter for the brand’s marketing strategy. Read More.

Celebrating Dad: Why Father’s Day Is A Profitable Holiday For Restaurants

Father’s Day brings more reservations, increased takeout and delivery orders, and bigger checks. TouchBistro offers valuable insights to capitalize on this lucrative occasion – from crafting specialized Father’s Day menus weeks in advance to introducing unique specials and convenient takeout meal kits. Effective marketing strategies play a pivotal role and investing in staff training and efficient equipment ensures that every customer experience is nothing short of exceptional. And for food manufacturers, there’s an opportunity to lend support to restaurant partners, aiding in strategic planning to amplify holiday foot traffic not only for Father’s Day but well beyond. Find tips, here.

Exploring Shifts In Consumers’ Organic Food Consumption

In the upcoming Beyond Organic 2024 report by The Hartman Group, an insightful exploration into consumer behaviors and attitudes towards organic certification is revealed. While the USDA Organic seal has long been synonymous with safety and “free from” attributes, consumers are now attributing additional qualities of purity to it, although not clearly defined within the current certification framework. This intersection of consumer expectations and industry certifications has sparked a pivotal moment, prompting individuals to evaluate their dietary choices. As the complexities of labeling and certifications are scrutinized, consumers are redefining what they truly seek from the foods and beverages they consume. Learn More.

Spicy New Product News

McCormick & Co. is venturing into the frozen food category with the introduction of Cholula hot sauce-infused bowls. The Frozen Cholula Burrito Bowls debut in four enticing varieties, meticulously crafted to cater to the needs of busy consumers, particularly families, who crave both flavor and convenience in their meals. As Cholula resonates with Gen Z and spice-loving shoppers, this strategic move into salsas, taco seasonings, and now bowls allows McCormick to tap into this trend across various food types and occasions. Unlike previous products that encouraged consumers to add Cholula to existing dishes, these bowls offer a complete meal solution that can be prepared in under five minutes, aligning perfectly with today’s fast-paced lifestyles. Read Article.

We’ll update you on the latest food and beverage industry news and insights every Friday. Make sure to stop back each week to read our roundup!