What struck us with the first sip of Fountain of Youth Coconut Water is the sweet taste and almost milky texture. There is a strong coconut flavor at the finish. Even someone who doesn’t care for most coconut water would be pleasantly surprised by how easy Fountain of Youth is to drink. Fountain of Youth would be great served over ice for a refreshing and hydrating treat. The website also suggests adding Fountain of Youth to a cocktail with vodka, rum, or gin, or serving it warm with a shot of rum.

Summary: The purity and smooth flavor of Fountain of Youth coconut water make it an exciting hydration option. With a refreshing sweetness and a long list of health benefits, Fountain of Youth is a great go-to drink for those who are looking for a unique and versatile functional beverage.

For more information visit Fountain of Youth’s website.

Coconut water is largely consumed in liquid form, which continues to dominate the market. However, it has a short shelf-life and tends to lose its nutritional benefits when exposed to air and temperature. While liquid form will continue to have a high market share, relatively high demand is expected in the powdered coconut water. Powdered form retains natural flavors and nutritional benefits for a longer duration.

North America and Europe are expected to foresee volume growth at CAGRs of more than 20.0% from 2017 to 2025. In the U.S., coconut water has gained adoption as a ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage and is increasingly perceived as an alternative to processed fruit juices and carbonated drinks.

Product innovation is one key strategy adopted by companies, wherein coconut water is available in multiple flavors including pineapple, mango, lime, mango, and watermelon. Flavored coconut water has gained popularity among athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

In Asia Pacific, fresh coconut water is highly preferred, mainly in tropical countries. However, packaged coconut water is expected to grow with the increasing adoption of packaged food and beverages at large. Factors such as convenience and hygiene are expected to play a critical role in the growth of packaged coconut water in the Asia Pacific region.

In addition to flavors, companies are focusing on adopting new packaging designs to offer convenience in consuming coconut water while on-the-go. Tetra packs are the preferred form of packaging and have seen adoption by multiple brands such as Vita Coco, ZICO, and O.N.E.

Tetra packs are expected to continue to dominate the packaging space, followed by plastic packaging. In 2017, tetra packs commanded more than 40% of the market and is expected to continue to dominate the market.

The market is fragmented in nature with the presence of multiple companies having various active brands. Over the coming years, companies are expected to launch new products, focus on product packaging and business expansion. Mergers & acquisition is also evident where established companies such as The Coca Cola Company and New Age Beverage Corporation have acquired companies to strengthen their position in the market.

While New Age Beverage Corporation acquired Maverick Brands LLC in 2017, The Coca Cola Company acquired ZICO, a popular coconut brand. In addition, food products companies are investing in the market to mark their presence. For instance, in February 2018, Danone, a leading food products company, invested USD 30 million in Harmless Harvest brand. Harmless Harvest will use the funds for expanding its product portfolio and strengthening its distribution channel.

• Vegan Yogurt Market – Global vegan yogurt market was valued at USD 748.8 million in 2017 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 16.4% from 2017 to 2025. The increasing working population and their consciousness towards healthy eating habits are key factors driving the growth of the market
• Low Carb Alcohol Market – Global low carb alcohol market was valued at USD 166.7 billion in 2017 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2017 to 2025
• Soy Food Market – Global soy food market revenue was USD 36.67 billion in 2017 and is expected to reach USD 56.66 billion by 2025. Market growth is primarily driven by growing health awareness among consumers due to high nutritional value.

Source: Hexa Research

1. More than 50 years of experience is a huge deal. How did the whole story of Bundaberg start?

Australian family-owned Bundaberg Brewed Drinks has been craft brewing premium non-alcoholic beverages since the 1960s in the Queensland town that shares its name, Bundaberg. For three generations, they’ve kept tradition at heart, brewing to traditional recipes, using time-honored brewing methods and the best quality ingredients.

For as long as they’ve been in business, they’ve lived by one simple rule, it it’s worth brewing; it’s worth brewing well, and to this day they retain the strong company values that have been the foundation of their success.

The company has its origins as a small operation started by Cliff & Lee Fleming, along with Cliff’s parents, Neville and Gladys. Back then, times were extremely tough to build a beverage business, but with perseverance and determination, distribution of their Ginger Beer started to gain serious traction. In the 1980s they secured distribution in both major Australian supermarkets and began exporting the product internationally.

Cliff’s son-in-law, John McLean joined the business in 1995 before taking over as Bundaberg Brewed Drinks CEO in 2007. John’s mission was to grow the business internationally whilst maintaining the company’s strongly entrenched family values. He still gets excited when he’s overseas at a restaurant, and there on the menu is Bundaberg Ginger Beer, “it is a surreal feeling knowing the background and the effort it has taken to get it there”. Now, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks are a global business with Bundaberg Brews now available in over 44 countries around the world.

2. Bundaberg is a brewed drinks brand, born in Australia. Could you tell us more about the brand and impact to the global market?

Now in our 50^th year, Bundaberg has a stronghold in markets like Australia and New Zealand. But the real opportunities rest in the global markets where consumers are seeking authentic products with genuine taste.

In 2017, negotiations were in full swing for two ground-breaking distribution deals for Bundaberg Brewed Drinks – one with PepsiCo USA, taking Bundaberg to over 400,000 stores, restaurants, and bars across the U.S.; and another with AG Barr in the UK. For a small, family-owned, 50-year-old company that still craft brews its beverages in the Australian town that it shares its name, 2017 was an exciting year that culminated in lots of Bundaberg Ginger Beer being distributed around the globe!

Part of the interest in Bundaberg’s products is our authenticity – from the real ingredients we use in our brews, to the brewing process itself (we take over 3 days to brew our Ginger Beer), right through to the excitement of opening our glass bottles with our unique rip-cap top. It’s a premium experience from start to finish and consumers are appreciating that.

Premiumization is a global concept that has influenced change in other categories including spirits, beer, and fast food. Similar changes are now occurring in sodas, with adult consumers seeking more premium products – ones which are a bit more special than an everyday soda, a drink to be savored. Because of this, consumers are looking for brands that are authentic, real and genuine.

Craft and premium soft drinks continue to grow ahead of mainstream carbonated soft drinks. There are many emerging opportunities to increase sales and Bundaberg is a leader in developing craft-brewed drinks that driving growth in the category.

Millennials, the largest and most influential generation of consumers (according to Euromonitor), are turning away from mainstream brands in preference for smaller brands that better cater to their needs. They are seeking out products that provide them with a unique experience; a brand that aligns more with their beliefs, opinions, and values; and a desire to ‘maximize special moments’. As they move away from mainstream CSD products, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks stands out with our authentic backstory, craft-brewing process, real ingredients and unique flavors along with our quirky “Flip, Rip & Sip” opening ritual.  Derika Legg, General Manager USA explains, “It’s not a gimmick – it’s designed to help infuse the real ingredients throughout the brew to unlock the full taste. It’s flavor you can see!”

Millennials have also driven the growth of craft cocktails – from spirit, to mixer, to garnish.  One drink in particular has exploded due to this generation: the Moscow Mule.  They have filled their Instagram feeds with photos of the cocktail’s copper mug, and appreciate the deep, authentic flavor Bundaberg offers to this drink.

Additionally, mules have now moved beyond the classic ‘Moscow’ version to use other liquors. But Ginger Beer remains as the key ingredient and a craft brewed, premium Ginger Beer like Bundaberg quenches Millennials thirst for authentic and sophisticated flavors: the Irish Mule, is made using a peaty whiskey, the Mexican Mule is made best with a reposado tequila, the Kentucky Mule made with rich, deep bourbon, and an English Mule made on a fine gin.

Just as we’ve seen with other niche market developments, the brands that truly provide an authentic, craft, holistic experience will connect, engage and become a consumer’s choice. Bundaberg Brewed Drinks range does this and has proven success now in many markets.

3. Bundaberg has 13 different brews. That’s a huge product variety. Can you tell us more about this line? Are you planning of releasing 14^th flavor? Which one is your favorite?

There’s now 13 flavors in the Bundaberg range in Australia and New Zealand, with seven available in the U.S.  All of our beverages are brewed using the real ingredient (so our Ginger Beer has real ginger, Guava has real guava, our Peach has real peach and so on) – so the taste is outstanding. There is also a special flavor we bring out at holiday time called Spiced Ginger Beer with cinnamon and cloves and it’s frankly, quite spectacular. This special holiday product will be available in the U.S. this November in selected markets so you’ll need to keep an eye out for this.

You can’t pick a favorite flavor though – it’s like picking your favorite child! They’re all sensational on their own and perfect as a mixer so depending on your mood, there’s a flavor for every occasion.

4. Bundaberg is available in Europe, Australia and North America. Is it hard to be a global brand? What are the biggest difficulties regarding the management of such brand?

Bundaberg is available in now over 44 countries so keeping our messaging consistent can be a challenge, particularly when there’s cultural differences. We have terrific and respectful relationships with our partners in each country and work closely with them to ensure the experience you have with Bundaberg is the same no matter where you enjoy our drinks.

Every product is brewed in our brewery in Australia, so you know that the flavor and quality will be consistent. As a family owned business Bundaberg Brewed Drinks have the ability to be agile and adapt to growth and new opportunities. The Fleming family believe that being a family-owned Australian company has had huge impact on how they do business. Team members are undoubtedly a key ingredient in the business’ success, all 200 employees are seen as extended family.

The family is dedicated to ensuring Bundaberg Brewed Drinks continues to adapt, change and grow to meet the needs set by an ever-changing market in one of the most competitive industries in the world; whilst ensuring they stay true to their roots.

5. Personally, I really love the initiative of Upcycling. In your opinion, why consumers are going thought all of this work?

There’s definitely a trend towards the different and interesting which is permeating not only flavor and brand choice, but lifestyle, decoration and entertaining. If you look at most Instagram feeds these days, it’s all about being original and finding a way to connect. We have lots of our customers taking our bottles and upcycling them for table decorations (like putting fairy lights inside or adding a personalized name tag for place settings), through to turning them into vases or cool herb garden creations. There’s some really interesting things people have done shared on our website.

6. What does the future hold for Bundaberg?

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks have seen tremendous growth in recent years, much of it spurred by international success with expansion to now over 44 countries in the last two decades. John McLean, President and CEO of Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, has a mission to grow the business internationally whilst maintaining the strong entrenched family values. Most importantly, staying true to who we are and what we do best – brewing. The company has set in motion plans to become a major international player with recent strategic alignments made across Asia, the United Kingdom and the United States.  Already the #5 Ginger Beer in the U.S. and #1 in California, we have set our sights on accelerated U.S. sales, but have our eye on other countries as well.

7. What is your advice to other beverage startups?

Be true to your brand and its values.

For more information, visit our website, or join in our conversation on Facebook  and Instagram.

Made from 99.5% not-from-concentrate coconut water and big on flavour, BIG BOSS PALM tastes like nothing else on the market. It’s like a deliciously grown-up, clean version of a cream soda, and while it tastes like a naughty soft drink, at only 3.5g natural sugar per 100ml it really isn’t. BIG BOSS PALM Coconut + Vanilla Soda is available for the wholesale list price of £1.18 per unit and is currently available from a selection of cafes and bars including Crosstown Doughnuts and Escape Cafe, Old Street. For more information, visit the BIG BOSS PALM website.

BIG BOSS PALM’s Coconut + Vanilla Soda delivers a citrus bite, followed by warm toasted coconut, smooth vanilla and an incredibly creamy finish from the coconut water.

All of the coconuts that make up BIG BOSS PALM are proudly sourced from coconuts in Ratchaburi, Thailand where the nuts are renowned for their natural sweetness and rich flavour. Think the nostalgic taste of cream soda, but with a grown up twist that at only only 50 calories per can, tastes way naughtier that it is.

BIG BOSS PALM is best enjoyed ice cold from the fridge but it’s also the perfect alternative to the usual cocktail mixer and blends beautifully with most spirits whether it be gin, vodka or rum; add a twist of lime for extra zing or a sprig of mint for added freshness. For those looking for something a little sweeter, add a scoop of ice cream for a delicious BIG BOSS PALM Float.

BIG BOSS PALM is the creation of Ayesha Sherriffs, previously of Smiths of Smithfields, Fifteen, Century and The Hospital, London. Following a launch in Dubai in 2015, BIG BOSS PALM has made huge waves in the UAE with partnerships with Puma, Ray Ban, Coach and multiple venues in the UAE.

Source: BIG BOSS PALM

Frey Farms, one of the nation’s largest watermelon growers, has been selling fresh produce to the nation’s top retailers for more than 30 years. Based on consumer demand for healthier products, labeling transparency and functional ingredients, the Tsamma Watermelon Juice brand has responded with launching the Watermelon + Coconut Juice blend.

“We are changing the way people perceive the watermelon, and educating them on the significant nutritional benefits,” says Sarah Frey, Founder of Frey Farms.

“The trends toward health and wellness have definitely ignited change in our industry, leading us to the perfect line extension creating our Tsamma Watermelon + Coconut Water Blend as the ultimate beverage for performance hydration!”

 

The Tsamma Watermelon + Coconut Water blend provides over 500mg of potassium and just under 500mg of L-Citrulline per bottle. These two vitamins in watermelon help to reduce muscle fatigue, increase muscle recovery, and fuel rapid hydration. The high levels of electrolytes, vitamins and L-Citrulline that are found in watermelon and coconut, work well together to increase intracellular hydration.

The Tsamma Watermelon + Coconut Water Blend can be found at retailers such as Publix, The Fresh Market, Schnucks, Fresh Thyme Markets and Aldi.

Source: Frey Farms Tsamma Juice

TruEnergy

Released in United States, TruEnergy, a start-up brand created by former pro hockey player Jack McNamara, has innovative packaging and a formula suitable for active adults. Infused with natural caffeine, vitamins, electrolytes, antioxidants, and coconut water, TruEnergy will guarantee an energy blast without the crash.

TruEnergy is perfect for vegetarians and gluten- or dairy-sensitive consumers. Instead of sugar, its sweetness comes from maple syrup and stevia. If that weren’t enough, then its packaging is super convenient for taking anywhere, and it’s 100% recyclable. From the product itself to its marketing strategy, TruEnergy is a promising brand with a clear vision and innovative design.

Caliwater

Caliwater entered the beverage industry in 2014 with prickly pear-based beverages that made quite a splash. In 2016, Caliwater introduced two new flavors—cactus berry and cactus peach—to expand its portfolio.

Simply put, Caliwater stands out among other great releases because the brand has developed an interesting product with a marketing strategy that works perfectly. Caliwater has far more than trendy packaging and well-managed social media sites, and the idea behind the brand gives drinkers a special feeling from the very first sip. No matter where you taste its prickly pear-based beverage, Caliwater makes you feel as if you’re standing in the middle of the desert—free, careless, and yet thoroughly refreshed.

Genius

Many of my coworkers bring healthy smoothies to work in order to keep their stomachs happy and their minds as sharp as possible. That’s why I believe that Genius and similar products have massive potential in the market. In 2016, Genius played its cards right by changing its packaging and product from a coconut water-based drink to a protein-focused one.

Given the variety of coconut water-based beverage brands on the market, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to compete. However, with the right formula and communication strategy, Genius protein smoothies might become one of most popular products in its category.

Alta Palla

Released in 2016, Alta Palla is relaunching in March with the same four flavors. Its sparkling water already comes in three flavors: peach, grapefruit, and its most popular, lemon. Now, its new fourth flavor—wild cherry—gives consumers the opportunity to taste something different. Since Alta Palla’s first release, the brand has made few changes, which gives it additional value.

When it relaunches, Alta Palla’s packaging will take four differently colored labels that are brighter and, in my opinion, far more attractive. Moreover, the formula of its drinks will improve by saying no to sugar, calories, and sweeteners. Altogether, Alta Palla will continue to have healthier beverages with a new look and taste.

WellWell

In early 2016, WellWell released its cold-pressed juice line and, throughout the year, updated its primary line with a few improvements. For one, the amount of calories and sugar has been cut. With those changes, the beverages contain fewer than 100 calories and only 20 g of sugar per bottle.

WellWell comes in one flavor: a mix of watermelon and tart cherry with hints of biodynamic lemon. With the right marketing strategy, great packaging, and fantastic taste, WellWell should easily become one of the most-wanted cold-pressed juice brands in the United States.

Shamrock Farms Cold Brew Coffee

Despite the many interesting cold brew coffee brands in the United States and Europe, they are nearly all the same, except for different packaging and marketing strategies. However, Shamrock Farm’s new line of three different cold brew coffees—original, vanilla, and mocha—stands apart by being heavy on milk for a mix whose coffee taste doesn’t overwhelm.

Of course, Shamrock Farm’s line poses a few disadvantages compared to other cold brew coffee brands. For one, the packaging isn’t very inviting. Plus, lactose might deter some consumers from even trying the drinks. Despite those disadvantages, Shamrock Farm Cold Brew Coffee is a promising beverage line that adds diversity to the cold brew coffee industry.

Cave Shake

Usually, there is little doubt about what’s a beverage and what’s a food. However, Cave Shake can give the impression of both at the same time. With a base of coconut milk, the product is a meal replacement for vegan consumers, and its unique outlook on beverage products makes it fun. For consumers looking for healthier food and beverage products, Cave Shake makes it easy with three basic, but tasty flavors. Though coconut water has been on the market for several years now, Cave Shake makes gives coconut milk a brand-new ingredient.

Zupa Noma

If you’re looking for liquid food, then Zupa Noma—part beverage, part food—will rock your world. Though designed to look like a beverage product, Zupa Noma is actually soup that comes in six flavors. Such hybrid products often need a range of flavors to expand their pool of target consumers.

Zupa Noma has great packaging that makes drinking (or eating) the product quite convenient. Moreover, with the famous Ayesha Curry to represent the product, Zupa Noma has had little trouble spreading the good word. In all, Zupa Noma definitely has a taste and style that consumers won’t forget.

Sap!

Launched in 2015, Sap! Maple Water changed its packaging design and packed in even more maple power in 2016. Sap! isn’t just another maple water product line, but a brand boasting maple soda and maple seltzer to attract consumers seeking more interesting refreshments than regular soda. Sap! Soda has 90 calories and a rather high 16 g of sugar per can. However, consumers looking for a slightly healthier option can try Sap! Seltzer with only 50 calories and 9 g of sugar per can.

Cannonborough

Speaking of sodas, I simply can’t finish this list without Cannonborough Soda. Its small-batch beverage line comes in three different flavors with super cute animals on the labels that immediately catch your attention.

Although Cannonborough launched earlier than 2016, it received far more attention last year due to its endless charm. The brand was created by three friends, so it’s not hard to guess that each flavor represents one of them. Hand-made small batches from a true friendship can’t be anything else but a true success story.

2016 was a remarkable year for the beverage industry. Many interesting brands were released that I believe will reach their target market and become well known among consumers. For me, however, the brands above made the most lasting impression, given their mixes, simplicity, and uniqueness. I hope that 2017 will bring even more brands worth trying and falling in love with.

Coco21 caters to convenience, as it eliminates the need to purchase multiple juices or fruits to prepare a high-quality, flavorful cocktail. It appeals to the wellness oriented consumer with its high quality ingredients that over deliver on taste and function, and offer the perfect spirit compliment to a healthy lifestyle!

Coco21 is a premium, ready-to-serve cocktail, made with pure coconut water and premium vodka distilled five times. Coco 21 is pasteurized, which allows it to stay fresh for over 2 years when unopened.  Even after opened, when kept refrigerated, it keeps the same taste for over a month.  It was essential to Coco21 that their formula included a gluten-free vodka that mixed smoothly with coconut water for clean, natural taste.

They offer four varying flavors, all delicious and low calorie. Original, Pineapple, Cocorita, and Guava. Real ingredients, real flavor, real juices.

Original: This is where it all began. Made with pure coconut water and premium vodka, tastes like you are drinking from a fresh coconut. Under 85 calories per serving.

Pineapple: Refreshing coconut water, natural pineapple juice and ultra smooth premium vodka for a tropical taste. Under 90 calories per serving.

Cocorita: Their twist on the margarita. Real coconut water meets the tartness of lime juice and premium vodka for a fresh new take on the classic cocktail. Under 75 calories per serving.

Guava: Coconut water infused with natural guava puree and premium vodka for the perfect fruity blend. Under 70 calories per serving.

The beverage is meant to be poured straight up or served over ice, but customized cocktail recipes are encouraged too!  Coco21 provides suggested recipes on their website, www.coco21cocktails.com, such as the Basic Coco, Iced Coco Coffee, CocoJito, BubblyCoco21, PinoCoco, SparklingCoco or CocoDessert.

Source: Coco21

The global coconut milk market to grow at a CAGR of 15.4% during the period 2016-2020.

One of the positive trends that will affect the growth of the market during the forecast period is the increasing investments by the players in the market. The players in the market are investing in increasing their production capabilities and improving their distribution networks.

According to the report, one of the main growth drivers of the coconut milk market is the health benefits associated with the consumption of coconut milk. Coconut milk helps in improving the immune system of the body, thereby helping to prevent diseases. The lauric acid found in coconut milk is easily absorbed by the body and used by the body for energy. Also, this fatty acid helps in lowering cholesterol levels, improving blood pressure, and preventing heart attacks or strokes.

The global coconut milk market to grow at a CAGR of 15.4% during the period 2016-2020.

Further, the report states that sourcing of tender coconuts is one of the main challenges faced by the global coconut milk market. The players in the market used to source their coconuts from Brazil initially, however due to the increase in demand, the supply from Brazil was not able to meet the demand. Hence, they have shifted to Asia to source the coconuts from countries such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and India, which are the largest coconut producers as of 2012.

Source: Research and Markets

Founded by Ben Weiss in 2009, Bai delivers refreshing, flavorful beverages with better-for-you ingredients. Both Bai and Bai Bubbles offer fresh fruit flavor and antioxidants with no artificial sweeteners and only 5 calories and 1 gram of sugar per serving.  Bai Antiwater offers antioxidants in the form of a super-purified bottled water.  Bai is now the fastest growing brand in the enhanced water category.

“I’ve been a fan of Bai for a long time and when I met Ben and his team, it became clear that I should be involved with this brand,” said Timberlake.  “As a father and someone who is cautious about what my family and I consume, I love what Bai stands for.  This partnership was created from a shared desire to help people put better ingredients in their bodies without sacrificing taste.”

“As an actor, a businessman and a father, Justin embodies the core values of Bai,” said Bai Founder and CEO, Ben Weiss.  “His personal and professional success has been a result of his authenticity and tenacious spirit, traits that have been critical to our success as well.  We are thrilled to have Justin join us in our mission to change the way the world drinks.”

Source: Bai Brands