The beverage industry is witnessing a convergence of categories, and Danone is confident that its newest offering can meet the increasing demand for coffee with added functional benefits, aiding busy consumers in getting through their day. Stōk Cold Brew has introduced Cold Brew Energy, a range of ready-to-drink canned coffee that incorporates some advantages of energy drinks. As described by the brand, this beverage is termed “energy coffee,” featuring the same cold brew as the flagship product, delivering 195 milligrams of caffeine along with components such as B-vitamins, ginseng, and guarana. The drinks come in three flavors: Mocha Cream, Vanilla Cream, and Caramel Cream.
Brittney Polka, Danone’s vice president of RTD beverages, stated, “Keeping a close watch on how coffee trends are changing, we’re thrilled to bring STōK Cold Brew Energy to the boldest coffee drinkers out there – delivering the coffee-forward flavor our brand fans love, with a boost of caffeine.” The drinks are available at 7-Eleven and Speedway convenience stores, with a broader rollout planned for 2025, according to Stōk. The increase in ready-to-drink beverages has led to a surge in energy drinks and coffee, as consumers seek more caffeine options. Recently, the canned beverage Throne Sport Coffee, developed in partnership with NFL star Patrick Mahomes, was launched to cater to active adults looking for a less sugary coffee or energy drink.
In a unique marketing twist, Sazerac has introduced Crierball, a limited-time spicy cinnamon whiskey infused with the actual tears of football fans. Fireball will set up tents outside football stadiums throughout November, inviting grieving fans to donate their tears, which will be collected, sterilized, and distilled to create this exclusive spirit. Danny Suich, Fireball’s global brand director, mentioned, “Our brand is all about embracing that competitive spirit, but amping it up with a little more spice. We’re on a mission to capture the soul of rivalries – aka the tears of losers – at this season’s biggest games.” The Crierball collections will take place during rivalry games, such as the Philadelphia Eagles vs. the Dallas Cowboys.
Meanwhile, V8 is collaborating with pickle producer Grillo’s to unveil a new Bloody Mary mix that combines V8’s tomato juice, natural cucumber flavor, and Grillo’s signature brine. Prabha Cheemalapati, vice president of beverage at Campbell’s, remarked, “Our new V8 Bloody Mary mix seamlessly taps into the popularity of pickles thanks to our friends at Grillo’s. Our collaboration makes it easier than ever to enjoy this weekend beverage staple at brunch, tailgates, happy hours, and more.” This mix will be available on Amazon and in stores nationwide in early 2025.
The introduction of this Bloody Mary mix highlights two major trends: the beloved weekend brunch cocktail and the growing popularity of pickles, particularly among Gen Z consumers. With nearly 75% of Americans enjoying Bloody Mary cocktails, the mix positions V8 within the alcohol sector, without producing an actual alcoholic beverage. By incorporating Grillo’s flavor, V8 enhances its appeal to a broader audience while drawing attention to its other products, including V8 Energy.
In discussions about calcium supplementation, the conversation often revolves around elemental calcium vs calcium citrate malate. This distinction is particularly relevant for consumers seeking to enhance their dietary calcium intake effectively. As the beverage market continues to innovate, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve and how products like V8’s Bloody Mary mix might incorporate various health elements, including discussions around calcium.