ADM is undertaking significant changes to its soy protein production network, aimed at improving operational efficiency and better serving its global customer base. The company has announced that it will cease operations at its Bushnell, Illinois facility while leveraging the recently recommissioned soy protein plant in Decatur, Illinois, along with other facilities in its extensive global network. As part of ADM’s broader strategy to optimise its portfolio, this decision reflects a commitment to consolidating production capabilities and enhancing service levels. Back in April, ADM announced that it would permanently shutter its soybean processing facility in Kershaw, South Carolina , as part of a broader strategy to streamline operations and reduce costs, according to Reuters. Ian Pinner, president of ADM’s Nutrition business, highlighted the importance of these changes in reinforcing the company’s competitive position within the industry. “Optimising our soy protein production network is an example of how we’re strengthening our asset platform, combining capital discipline with smart organic innovation and operational improvements to increase cash flows and returns,” said Pinner. The decision to close the Bushnell facility is part of ADM's strategy to focus on its most efficient operations, allowing for a more streamlined approach to meet the growing global demand for soy protein products. The Decatur plant, which has resumed operations, is expected to play a crucial role in this transition, providing enhanced manufacturing efficiencies and supporting ADM's speciality ingredients business. The company says it is committed to ensuring a smooth transition for affected customers and employees during this operational shift. Pinner reassured stakeholders, stating: “We are prioritising treating any affected colleagues with respect as we advance this process,” indicating that the company is focused on minimising disruption. This move comes at a time when the demand for plant-based proteins is on the rise, driven by consumer trends toward healthier diets and sustainable food sources. Bunge Global also recently has acquired IFF's soy and lecithin business , a move that aimed to enhance Bunge's product portfolio and strengthen its position in the F&B sector. J Erik Fyrwald, CEO of IFF, highlighted during a conference call that the divested products were better suited for Bunge's operational expertise. “They’re highly commoditised and managed far more efficiently by Bunge than they were by us,” said Fyrwald. He noted that these products delivered only low single-digit EBITDA margins for IFF, and selling them will enable the company to focus on its more specialised isolated soy protein business – boosting both margins and innovation potential.

Marc Busain Marc Busain, president of the Americas for Heineken, will step down effective 1 October 2025, to assume the role of chief executive officer at Lipton Teas and Infusions. This dual announcement underscores Busain's extensive experience in the consumer packaged goods sector and sets the stage for new leadership at both companies. Busain has been a pivotal figure at Heineken for over 30 years, having joined the company in 1995. His career trajectory includes a series of key roles across Europe, Africa and the Americas, culminating in his appointment as president of the Americas in 2015. Under his leadership, the Americas region experienced remarkable growth, with revenues, operating profits and net profits all doubling during his decade-long tenure. Notable achievements include the successful integration of Brazil Kirin, which has positioned Brazil as Heineken's largest market for both Heineken and Amstel brands. Dolf van den Brink, Heineken's chairman of the executive board and CEO, praised Busain's contributions: “Marc leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the Americas, where he cultivated a winning culture rooted in trust and empowerment”. His focus on premiumisation and the expansion of Heineken 0.0 has also been instrumental in adapting to changing consumer preferences. As Busain transitions to Lipton Teas and Infusions, he will lead a brand renowned for its rich heritage and diverse product offerings. Jean-Remy Roussel, chair of the supervisory board at Lipton, expressed confidence in Busain’s capabilities, noting his track record of delivering growth and strong commercial acumen. “I have every confidence that the world’s leading tea business is in good hands,” said Roussel. Upon Busain's arrival, current CEO Pierre Laubies will return to the supervisory board after a year at the helm. Laubies has previously served as Chair and played a crucial role in establishing Lipton as an independent entity in 2022. Reflecting on his new role, Busain commented: “It is a tremendous pleasure to join a company with responsibility for such a collection of storied and much-loved brands. Tea, in all its varied forms, is an exciting growth category, and I look forward to working with the talented team at Lipton to ensure there’s a tea for everyone.”

Goodfella's is invigorating the frozen food aisle with its New York-Style Pizza range, designed to attract a growing segment of consumers seeking convenient, high-quality takeaway alternatives at home. The new product line, which will replace the existing Goodfella's Takeaway range, features four indulgent flavours and is backed by consumer testing that underscores its appeal. The New York-Style range includes Ultimate Four Cheese, Fully Loaded Pepperoni, Hot & Spicy Meat Feast and Sweet & Smoky BBQ Chicken, each crafted with a stonebaked base and a large crispy crust. The pizzas are topped with trendy ingredients such as Hot Honey Drizzle, diced pepperoni, roquito peppers and a chilli and black pepper crumb, reflecting current consumer preferences for bold flavours and premium toppings. Claire Hoyle, head of marketing at Goodfella's, said: “We have a proud reputation for delivering quality and innovation that shoppers love – and our New York-Style Pizza range will do exactly that”. Hoyle also praised the team for their ability to balance cheesiness, crust thickness and toppings, aiming to create the ultimate at-home pizza experience. The brand's eye-catching packaging design highlights its New York inspiration and the claim of being the 'tastiest recipe ever'. This strategic branding aims to capture the attention of shoppers looking for high-quality, takeaway-style options in the frozen food section. The launch aligns with a significant consumer trend: recent data indicates that 65% of shoppers who enjoyed a 'fakeaway' in the past three months do so at least once a week. Goodfella's is positioning itself to tap into this market, providing retailers with an opportunity to attract more customers seeking convenient meal solutions. In addition to the pizza range, Goodfella's is also introducing a revamped Garlic Bread product, made with the same dough as the New York-Style pizzas. This offering promises an indulgent side that complements the main dish, enhancing the overall pizza night experience for consumers. The New York-Style Pizza range is set to debut in the UK on September 8 at Tesco, with further rollouts planned across other retailers through November. Goodfella's Garlic Bread will launch on October 13 at Co-op, expanding availability by the end of November.

When we talk about sustainability, we often think of complex choices that require significant investments. However, installing an SMI rotary stretch-blow moulder equipped with special moulds to produce label-less PET and rPET containers inside your production facilities demonstrates that innovation can be simple. At Drinktec 2025 (stand 102/hall A6) , SMI will showcase an EBS 10 KL ERGON rotary stretch-blow moulder in combi with an ENOBERG filler from the HEVF series. This solution can produce up to 2,750 bph/cavity and is equipped with aluminium moulds for 0.5-litre PET bottles without labels. The bottles feature an elegant, sinuous shape with the company logo embossed vertically along the height of the container. Tell your story with a bottle Thanks to the label-less solution, primary packaging becomes functional, efficient and sustainable. The container showcased at the trade fair stems from the idea of creating a customisable bottle featuring the company’s logo, which, thanks to a highly innovative system, is no longer printed on a paper or plastic label, but directly embossed onto the surface of the bottle. In addition, all essential product information is accessible via a QR code printed on the cap, which also assists visually impaired or blind users, as it is marked with braille text. Since SMI does not produce water or soft drinks, scanning the QR code leads to the corporate website, where visitors can discover our story of passion and continuous innovation. Advantages for the environment and the consumer: Eco-sustainable solution, as the PET bottle is 100% recyclable Better compliance with environmental regulations regarding recycling Easier material recycling, since there’s no label to remove No glue needed for label application Advantages for the bottler: Saving on the purchasing costs of raw materials (label and glue) Saving on storage costs of raw materials Simplified and optimised production process, as no labeller is required for the application of the label. If you want to discover the stretch-blow moulders from the EBS KL ERGON range in stand-alone or ECOBLOC and the solutions to realise innovative containers with a strong visual appeal, we look forward to welcoming you to Drinktec, booth 102/hall A6. For more information, feel free to contact our sales department .

Celsius Holdings has deepened its partnership with PepsiCo in a deal that will see the functional energy drink maker take on a wider portfolio and a more prominent strategic role in the US market. PepsiCo first purchased an 8.5% stake in Celsius in 2022, paying $550 million through a preferred stock deal. Under the latest agreement, PepsiCo will acquire $585 million in newly issued convertible 5% preferred stock in Celsius, increasing its ownership to around 11% on an as-converted basis and securing the right to nominate an additional board member. Celsius will take over the US and Canada rights to the Rockstar Energy brand from PepsiCo, while PepsiCo retains ownership of Rockstar internationally. The company will now serve as PepsiCo’s “strategic energy lead” in the US, overseeing Celsius, Alani Nu and Rockstar Energy brands. PepsiCo will handle distribution for all three labels in the US and Canada. The deal also transfers Alani Nu, acquired by the US food and drink giant in February 2025, into PepsiCo’s North American distribution system, expanding its retail and foodservice presence. Celsius said adding Rockstar Energy will help broaden its offering to appeal to consumers who prefer traditional energy drink formats, complementing the modern positioning of Celsius and Alani Nu. John Fieldly, chairman and CEO of Celsius Holdings, said: “Stepping into the role of PepsiCo’s strategic energy drink captain in the US is expected to be a pivotal milestone in our journey to shape the future of modern energy and grow our brands within a leading beverage distribution system". "With a proven functional beverage portfolio and a stronger long-term partnership with PepsiCo, we believe that Celsius Holdings is well-positioned to deliver greater innovation, sharper execution and sustained brand growth. Together, we will reach more people, in more places, more often, with a total energy portfolio that offers options for every consumer and creates greater value for all our stakeholders.” Ram Krishnan, CEO of PepsiCo Beverages US, added: “This agreement marks the next step in PepsiCo reshaping its brand portfolio to position us for long-term growth. Energy is an important growth category, and we believe this move with our partner Celsius creates a stronger multi-brand energy portfolio that is better positioned to serve different consumer cohorts. This transaction creates an aligned incentive structure for both parties to bring their individual expertise to better compete in the energy category.” The companies said the arrangement will enable a unified commercial strategy, streamline planograms, prioritise SKUs and expand geographic reach across retail and foodservice channels.

PepsiCo has announced a $550 million investment in Celsius Holdings to become the long-term US distributor of the brand's energy drinks. The agreement, which came into effect today, includes distribution in retail and foodservice channels. The deal will see PepsiCo become "the preferred distribution partner globally for Celsius". The beverage giant will acquire an estimated 8.5% ownership in Celsius. As part of the contract, PepsiCo will also nominate a member to Celsius' board. Kirk Tanner, CEO of PepsiCo Beverages North America, said: “We are extremely pleased to partner with Celsius and excited about the opportunity for our two organisations to drive growth and innovation in the energy beverage category. The Celsius brand’s growing momentum, coupled with the strength of PepsiCo’s portfolio and go-to-market capabilities, creates a combination we believe will be very compelling and valuable to retailers and consumers.” Celsius president, chairman and CEO, John Fieldly, added: “We believe the opportunity to partner with a global best-in-class distributor provides Celsius with significant near-term additional shelf space in both existing retailers as well as new expansion within the independent retailers that represent a significant portion of the US convenience and gas channel where approximately 70% of energy drinks are sold". He continued: "It also provides a strategic partnership that is expected to accelerate growth for both companies globally. In addition, this partnership will drive efficiencies allowing our teams to consolidate sales, marketing and distribution efforts with associated cost benefits, which we expect to recognise once the initial transition is completed.”

With the aim of reshaping the scratch cooking category, Flavour Bombs has launched its innovative line of bath bomb-inspired home cooking ingredients, designed to cater to the evolving tastes of Gen Z and younger Millennials. The new product, which has already gone viral on TikTok, offers a convenient solution for home cooks seeking authentic world flavours without the hassle of traditional preparation methods. Founded by Tina Faghihi-Hallam, a former global tech executive and passionate foodie, Flavour Bombs are shelf-stable spheres filled with premium herbs, spices and aromatics from diverse culinary traditions, including Vietnamese, West African and Mexican cuisines. Each Flavour Bomb serves as a complete cooking solution, allowing consumers to create restaurant-quality dishes in under 30 minutes by simply adding the bomb to their choice of protein or vegetables. “The purpose behind Flavour Bombs is to make it easier for busy people to enjoy incredible homemade food from around the world, without needing ten ingredients or hours of prep,” said Faghihi-Hallam. “This is scratch cooking reimagined: flavour-packed, authentic and ready in no time.” The product line includes five distinct flavour mixes: Birria for authentic Mexican tacos, Coconut Curry inspired by Guyanese cuisine, Jollof for a West African rice dish, Seafood Boil with a Cajun garlic sauce and Vietnamese Pho. Each recipe is rooted in generational family traditions and has been taste-tested to ensure authenticity and quality. Market research indicates a growing consumer preference for convenience in meal preparation, with 59% of consumers reporting a shift towards ready-to-eat meal options to save time and reduce kitchen clean-up. The rise of global cuisine in the UK market further supports the potential for Flavour Bombs, as consumers increasingly seek to experiment with diverse flavours and cooking techniques. Marcus Carter, founder of Artisan Food Club, praised the product, stating, “This is the best product I've seen for years. The branding and packaging are perfect, and Tina has nailed it with a colourful, informative design that captivates modern cooks.” Flavour Bombs are available to retail trade customers through Mahalo Supplies and the Artisan Food Club, with a focus on efficient retail offerings. Each tube contains two Flavour Bombs, serving two-three people, and boasts a 12-month ambient shelf life with zero preservatives, making them an attractive addition to any retailer's inventory. As consumer interest in authentic, convenient cooking solutions continues to grow, Flavour Bombs is well-positioned to capture a significant share of the market.

Frederic Lebourg With consumers increasingly seeking healthier options for home cooking, seed oils are under scrutiny for their nutritional value, ingredients and refining processes. Frederic Lebourg, chief executive officer of Fresh Press Farms, a producer of cold-pressed artisanal oils, discusses with FoodBev how processing methods can shape consumer perception and help health-conscious shoppers make better choices. In the food and beverage manufacturing industry, few ingredients have sparked more debate in recent years than seed oils. Once considered a kitchen staple, many seed oils are now under scrutiny due to concerns about their processing methods and nutritional impact. But as with many trends in health and wellness, the full picture is more nuanced, and important distinctions often get lost in the noise. Crop quality vs production methods Many food companies have spent the past few years working to better understand this category, particularly how seed oils are grown, pressed and refined – or left unrefined. It’s time to separate fact from fiction: not all seed oils are created equal, and often the processing method has a greater impact on quality than the source crop itself.   Take sunflower oil, for example. It can be obtained from regular high-yield seeds or from high-oleic seeds. Regular seeds yield an oil rich in saturated fat (between 15% and 17%!), which is the most harmful type of fat to consume, as it increases bad cholesterol. On the opposite side, high oleic seeds produce an oil containing only 3-5% of saturated fat. Furthermore, high oleic sunflower oil contains mostly monounsaturated fat. According to the Mayo Clinic, monounsaturated fat from plants has been proven to decrease bad cholesterol (HDL) and triglycerides in the blood, while raising good cholesterol (LDL) and therefore promoting cardiovascular health. But fatty acid profiles only tell part of the story. The production process plays a critical role in determining the nutritional and functional value of the final product. Many commercial seed oils are extracted using high heat and chemical solvents, then refined, bleached and deodorised to extend shelf life and remove flavour. While this approach creates a uniform, neutral product, it wipes the oil of beneficial compounds such as vitamins and introduces oxidative free radicals that can be harmful. Refining is a way of transforming low-quality oils into marketable oils that otherwise would be considered rancid (high free fatty acid) or present a bad taste.   Cold pressing offers an alternative. This method involves mechanically extracting oil at low temperatures, preserving more of the oil’s natural nutrients and minimising oxidative stress. The slower extraction time yields less volume, but we believe it results in a cleaner, better-tasting and healthier product. Sourcing also plays a crucial role. By creating optimal growing conditions for crops like sunflowers and managing every step of production onsite – from seed to bottle – producers can maintain tighter control over quality and traceability. This vertically integrated approach is increasingly important for manufacturers seeking transparency in their supply chains. Meeting nutritional targets From a formulation standpoint, high-oleic sunflower oil presents an opportunity to meet both functional and nutritional targets. Its high smoke point and nutty flavour make it versatile in a range of applications, from snacks and baked goods to dressings and sauces, while its fat profile supports better-for-you positioning. Of course, the seed oil conversation is ever evolving. While it is easy to group all oils from seeds under a single umbrella, science shows that this category is far more diverse. For manufacturers and product developers, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity: the challenge of navigating consumer perceptions, and the opportunity to rethink ingredient selection through a more informed lens. Ultimately, the goal is not to defend seed oils as a whole, but to encourage a more accurate and science-based view of what they are and what they can be. With better sourcing, thoughtful processing, and clearer communication, seed oils have a place in the future of food.

Painterland Sisters, a dairy brand founded by fourth-generation farmers, has closed its seed funding round, attracting significant investments from prominent angel groups, including The Angel Group and Supernatural Ventures, as well as individual investors from the sports and lifestyle sectors. This funding will enhance the brand's mission to promote organic, health-forward dairy products, particularly its popular skyr-style yogurt. The funding round underscores Painterland Sisters' growth trajectory, with the brand's organic, high-protein, lactose-free skyr yogurt resonating with health-conscious consumers across the US. In just under three years, the brand has expanded its distribution to over 5,000 stores nationwide, achieving remarkable sales of more than 5.7 million cups in 2024 alone. Notably, the brand has experienced a staggering 161.8% increase in dollar growth among the top 15 dairy brands in recent months, according to SPINS data. Investors were drawn to Painterland Sisters not only for its strong market performance but also for its commitment to sustainability and transparency in the food supply chain. The brand’s founders, sisters Stephanie and Hayley Painter, are dedicated to preserving their family’s organic regenerative dairy farm while connecting consumers directly with their food sources. Their approach aligns with a consumer demand for nutrient-dense, responsibly sourced dairy products. “Painterland Sisters checks every box for us,” said Adam Spriggs, founding member at The Angel Group. “It’s a brand with proven traction and strong fundamentals, led by founders who are deeply committed to a mission that resonates with today’s consumers.” The brand has garnered support from notable athletes and lifestyle entrepreneurs, including Olympic medalists Shawn Johnson and Andrew East, further validating its market appeal. The investment will be used to bolster operations and innovation as Painterland Sisters continues to expand its footprint, including a recent launch into Whole Foods Market. In 2024 alone, the brand utilised over 8.7 million pounds of milk, reinforcing its commitment to supporting American dairy farmers and sustainable practices. Jaxon Stuart, principal at Spacestation Investments, highlighted the brand’s unique position in a market traditionally dominated by legacy players. “Painterland Sisters is not just riding the wave of consumer interest in premium dairy; they are defining it with a compelling brand story and exceptional product quality,” he commented. As consumers become increasingly educated about ingredient quality and health benefits, Painterland Sisters is poised to lead a renaissance in the dairy sector. The brand's focus on clean, transparent ingredients and its mission-driven approach align with current market trends, making it a key player in the evolving landscape of health-oriented dairy products. With this funding round, Painterland Sisters is set to enhance its operations and continue its trajectory as a leader in the premium yogurt space, catering to a consumer base that increasingly values quality, nutrition and sustainability in their food choices.

The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) – in partnership with Linney and milk processors such as Müller UK & Ireland – has released new research aimed at understanding how aisle design and packaging can significantly influence consumer purchasing behaviour in the milk category. This research comes at a critical juncture for the dairy industry, which faces declining milk consumption and shifting consumer attitudes towards dairy products. The dairy landscape: Challenges and opportunities The dairy category stands as one of the most valuable segments within the grocery market, accounting for a staggering £16.4 billion in total spend in the UK alone. Despite its prominence, milk volumes have experienced a concerning decline of 2.6% over the past year, equating to a loss of approximately 102 million litres. The AHDB/YouGov Consumer Tracker reveals that nearly 20% of consumers are considering reducing their dairy intake, primarily driven by health concerns and animal welfare issues. This decline poses significant challenges for retailers and dairy processors, necessitating innovative strategies to engage consumers effectively. Insights from the AHDB’s 'Optimising Milk In-Store' research To address these pressing challenges, the AHDB's 'Optimising milk in-store' research seeks to provide retailers and processors with actionable insights into shopper preferences and behaviours. The study employed a multifaceted approach, including a quantitative survey and a consumer immersion phase that tested over 4,000 unique combinations of packaging designs and aisle layouts. Key findings: Health messaging drives purchase intent: One of the standout findings from the research is the powerful impact of health-related communication within the milk aisle. When health messages were incorporated into the shopping environment, 25% of consumers indicated they would be more likely to purchase milk. The most effective health message identified was: “Milk naturally contains seven vitamins and minerals – vitamins B2, B5 and B12, calcium, iodine, potassium and phosphorus”. This messaging not only enhanced the perceived quality of the milk aisle but also transformed it into a more inspirational and engaging space, encouraging shoppers to view milk as a vital component of a healthy diet. The importance of packaging: On the packaging front, the research revealed that visuals and messaging centred around farming practices resonate strongly with consumers. Cow-centric imagery – depicting cows grazing in lush fields – coupled with messaging emphasising high food and farming standards, proved particularly effective in capturing shopper attention. Becs Goodwin, category development controller at Müller, commented: “AHDB’s fixture and packaging strategy is built on deep consumer insight, and Müller is proud to be part of the work to shape the fixture of the future. This collaboration reflects our shared ambition to reinvigorate the dairy aisle and inspire consumers with the benefits of milk, and we’re looking forward to engaging with our retail partners to help them deliver a more impactful and engaging experience in-store.” Consistency is key: The study also underscored the importance of maintaining consistent messaging across both aisle communication and packaging. Shoppers responded most positively to clear and cohesive themes that highlighted nutritional benefits and responsible farming practices. This consistency not only aids in reinforcing brand identity but also helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions, ultimately influencing their loyalty to specific products. Consumer immersion techniques: A noteworthy aspect of the research was the use of themed 3D virtual aisles, allowing researchers to simulate shopping experiences and gauge consumer reactions to various aisle designs and packaging strategies. This innovative approach provided valuable insights into how different elements of the shopping environment can impact consumer behaviour, revealing preferences for certain layouts and messaging styles that resonate with modern shoppers. Strategic implications for retailers For retailers, the insights gleaned from this research offer a strategic framework for enhancing shopper engagement within the milk category. By prioritising clear communication about the nutritional benefits of milk and showcasing responsible farming practices, retailers can effectively address consumer concerns and potentially reverse the downward trend in milk sales. Redesigning the milk aisle: Retailers are encouraged to consider redesigning milk aisles to incorporate health messaging prominently. This could involve new signage that highlights the nutritional advantages of milk, creating a visually appealing and informative shopping experience. Additionally, integrating interactive elements, such as QR codes linking to further information on sourcing and health benefits, could enhance consumer engagement. Leveraging packaging innovations: Highlighting packaging that features authentic visuals of dairy farming and clear messaging about quality standards can help differentiate products in a crowded market. Retailers should collaborate with processors to ensure that packaging not only meets regulatory standards but also resonates with consumer values around sustainability and animal welfare. Training staff and educating consumers: To maximise the impact of these changes, retailers should invest in staff training to ensure that employees are knowledgeable about the benefits of milk and can effectively communicate these to shoppers. Educational campaigns, both in-store and online, can further engage consumers and foster a deeper understanding of the health benefits and quality standards associated with dairy products.

Signode, a manufacturer of transit packaging solutions, has launched the Octopus Prestige Stretch Wrapper, designed specifically for the high-speed demands of beverage production lines. This new machine, set to be showcased at Drinktec in Munich, promises to enhance packaging efficiency while maintaining load stability and reliability. The Octopus Prestige stretch wrapper is engineered with direct input from beverage industry operators, ensuring it addresses the unique challenges faced in fast-paced production environments. Its design incorporates advanced features aimed at maximising uptime and minimising operational disruptions, making it a vital addition to any beverage packaging line. Key features of the Octopus Prestige include: High-speed performance: The machine is built to keep pace with rapid production lines without sacrificing load integrity, a critical factor in beverage packaging. User-friendly maintenance: The TopDown design allows all maintenance areas to be lowered to floor level, facilitating quick and efficient service without the need for extensive downtime. Enhanced durability: With fewer sensors and reduced wear and tear, the Octopus Prestige is designed to increase operational uptime, a crucial element for beverage manufacturers. Advanced film handling: The new Double-S film carriage system ensures stable loads while significantly reducing film consumption, contributing to cost efficiency. Integrated top sheet dispenser: This feature, combined with the RollCycler Film Roll Changing System that accommodates up to eight film rolls, allows for seamless operations and fewer interruptions during production. Jyri Lehtiö, business development director at Signode, noted the importance of customer feedback in the development of the Octopus Prestige. “Beverage lines demand speed, consistency, and uptime. The Octopus Prestige stretch wrapper delivers all three,” Lehtiö commented. “It’s built on customer insight and engineered to perform where it matters most.”

In a move to enhance its market presence, 818 Tequila has launched its new product line, 818 Minis, alongside an investment from Grupo Solave, one of Mexico’s largest family-owned agave producers. These two moves mark a pivotal moment for the brand, which has quickly risen to prominence in the competitive spirits landscape. The introduction of the 818 Minis aims to cater to the growing demand for premium, portable spirits, particularly among younger consumers and those seeking convenience without compromising on quality. The miniatures, which capture the essence of the brand’s full-sized offerings, are designed to appeal to both retail and hospitality sectors, providing an innovative option for bars, restaurants and retailers looking to diversify their beverage selections. Grupo Solave, renowned for its four generations of expertise in agave cultivation, has become a part-owner of 818 Tequila, reinforcing the brand's commitment to authenticity and excellence in production. This partnership not only deepens the brand’s roots in traditional Mexican craftsmanship but also enhances its supply chain capabilities, ensuring that 818 Tequila maintains the highest standards of quality as it scales operations. With this strategic investment, 818 Tequila is poised for accelerated growth in the premium spirits category. The brand's focus on quality and craftsmanship resonates well with consumers who are increasingly discerning about their beverage choices. The 818 Minis are expected to be a game-changer, allowing the brand to reach new markets and demographics. In conjunction with the product launch, 818 Tequila has appointed Larry Goodrich as the new chief executive officer. Goodrich, who previously led the brand during its early expansion, brings invaluable experience and a deep understanding of the company's vision. His leadership is anticipated to drive the brand's next phase of growth, leveraging both the new product line and the strategic investment to capture a larger share of the market.