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- Mock the Toast | 05.01.25
Mock the Toast | 05.01.25
Tariffs Push THC Sales | Founders Redefine Non-Alc Shelf | Restaurant Menus Pivot
your weekly briefing on everything non-alc
Industry
Botivo, TRIP, and Mother Root exemplify how founder-led brands with clear missions are expanding shelves, not just competing but redefining expectations in the fast-growing wellness and no/low alcohol space. (cavendish.com)
Heineken $HEINY ( ▼ 0.49% ) is undervalued, globally diversified, and boosted by strong growth in non-alc beverages. (barrons.com)
Coors lowers ABV to 3.4% to save on duty and attract younger drinkers with major campaign push. (thegrocer.co.uk)
Trump’s alcohol tariffs may boost Illinois’ booming THC beverage market by shifting consumer demand. (axios.com)
Start-up brands can turn budget constraints into standout packaging by aligning early with designers and emphasizing storytelling. (drinks-intel.com)
Bars and restaurants are rethinking drink menus as non-alc options grow in demand, profitability, and guest expectations. (bottleraiders.com)
Suja Juice founder Jeff Church joins Cheeky Cocktails to help scale its premium mixer business globally. (bevnet.com)
Functional soda brands like Poppi and Olipop are reshaping the category and catching Big Soda’s eye. (bloomberg.com)
Thirsty Thursday Podcast: Rachel Martin, CEO of Oceano Wines, shares her journey from fine arts to founding one of the top luxury non-alc wine brands. (youtube.com)
Chew On This Podcast: Holland-backed BERO blends star power with strategy, launching strong through retail wins and clear vision. (youtube.com)
Sustaining Creativity Podcast: Creative leadership lessons from the founder of The Free Spirits Company on building brands and solving problems. (podcasts.apple.com)
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Health
Cali sober drinks use bioactive compounds like adaptogens, nootropics, and cannabinoids to modulate mood and cognition. (psychologytoday.com)
Culture
Zebra striping mirrors growing cultural trends that embrace balance, wellness, and intentional alcohol consumption. (huffpost.com)
What to know about the rise of THC beverages. (goodmorningamerica.com)
Luxury sparkling teas are rising as elegant, antioxidant-rich, alcohol-free alternatives with sommelier-level complexity. (vogue.com)
Non-Non-Alc
Whisky barrel scams are rising as investors buy untraceable or fake casks promising inflated returns. (nytimes.com)
Sprite has surpassed Pepsi as America’s #3 soda by reconnecting with Gen Z through culture-driven marketing. (adweek.com)
Campari and The Alchemist partnered on a theatrical Negroni Bar, blending brand heritage with immersive, experiential hospitality. (thespiritsbusiness.com)
Bartenders nationwide are sick of hearing the same jukebox songs, from “Mr. Brightside” to “Sweet Caroline.” (vinepair.com)
Data Shot 🥃

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