David McGlinchey

Diageo doubles down on non-alcoholic spirits with the acquisition of Ritual Zero Proof & now owns three of the five world's largest non-alcoholic spirit brands Ritual Zero Proof was founded in 2019, and became the #1 non-alcoholic spirits player in the US after joining Diageo’s accelerator program in 2020. Five reasons why this deal makes sense: 1) Fast growing: The US non-alcoholic spirits has been the fastest growing category with +31% L5Y CAGR. 2) Incremental: 94% of non-alc buyers in the US also purchase alcoholic beverages, spending on avg $292 more than households exclusively purchasing alcohol demonstrating the incrementality of the category to beverage alcohol. 3) High Right-to-Win: Ritual is already a #1 non-alcoholic spirits player in the US, with a strong market position and tailwinds 4) Synergistic: being a #1 player globally in both alcoholic and non-alc spirits Diageo is well positioned to build on Ritual’s current success and scale it up further leveraging its GTM muscle and category expertise 5) Close to the Core: being a part of Diageo’s accelerator (Distill Ventures) since 2020, Ritual already knows what it takes to make cooperation with a spirits giant successful, limiting risks of integration challenges Exciting times for Diageo 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘂𝘀: FF&A solves the most complex strategic problems of the world's largest FMCG companies across Corporate Strategy, Organic Growth, Digital RTM (eCommerce, DTC, and eB2B) and M&A. 14 out of the world's 20 largest FMCG companies are repeat Clients 𝗧𝗼 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲, 𝗰𝗳. 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗙𝗠𝗖𝗚 𝗠&𝗔 𝗽𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗯𝗲𝗹𝗼𝘄: https://lnkd.in/efD5RNWX 𝗧𝗼 𝗴𝗲𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀, 𝗳𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝘂𝘀 & 𝘀𝘂𝗯𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗙𝗠𝗖𝗚 𝗖𝗘𝗢 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗻𝗲𝘄𝘀𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿: https://lnkd.in/ea4gy65y #fmcg #cpg #mergersandacquisitions https://lnkd.in/dXAZQ242 Pernod Ricard The HEINEKEN Company AB InBev Carlsberg Group Campari Group William Grant & Sons The Coca-Cola Company PepsiCo

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In light of Goldman Sachs Equity Research's recent analysis of NielsenIQ retail scanner data, some interesting insights about the non-alcoholic beverage industry emerge. Here are the key points to note: •   The industry's overall dollar sales grew by +3.5% in the two-week period, although these figures slowed down from +4.2% in the four-week period. •   Carbonated soft drink sales grew by +3% in the two-week period, with a slight drop in volume sales at -2.9% and a spike in average pricing by +6%. • Energy drinks faced declines, with dollar sales down by -1.1% while volume sales fell by -2.3%, and average pricing remained consistent at +1.2%. •   Bottled water saw noteworthy growth of +5.2% in the two-week period with fairly consistent volume sales at +6.1% and a decline in average pricing by -0.9%. •   Sports drinks emerged as a positive area with an increase of +9.1% and growth in volume sales by +6.3%. The average pricing also saw a significant rise of +2.6%. •   The coconut water category sustained robust growth, up +24.4% in the two-week period, supported by a rise in volume sales and a decrease in average pricing. A few brands that stood out: Vita Coco is leading the fast-growing coconut water category and grew +21.7%. Keep your eyes out for 100 Coconuts. They are making some impressive waves. Spindrift Beverage Co, Inc. was up +24.2% in sparkling water sales. Hydration-focused products are doing well as a category. Electrolit USA +35.9% and PRIME -29.7% Energy Drink leaders Red Bull and Monster Energy were down, while many others are still experiencing nice growth. CELSIUS Holdings, Inc. I +15.9%, Nutrabolt +21.1%, Alani Nutrition +57.1%. poppi is not slowing down at all +154.5% and Zevia also grew their sales by +8.2% The non-alcoholic beverage sector reflects fascinating patterns in sales and pricing across different beverage categories and subcategories. These trends pose potential implications for competitive strategies, branding, and product offerings within the industry. I look forward to your valuable input as we collaborate to comprehend the evolving dynamics of the non-alcoholic beverage sector. What stands out to you? #BeverageIndustry #NonAlcoholicBeverage #IndustryTrends #Insights #InnovationInBeverages #MarketTrends

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As the demand for high-protein, on-the-go snacks continues to surge, Conagra is positioning itself at the forefront of this enduring trend. Conagra Brands, the force behind iconic names like Slim Jim and Duke's, has strategically expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of Sweetwood Smoke & Co., makers of Fatty Smoked Meat Sticks. What makes Fatty's unique? Their meat sticks boast high protein, low sugar, gluten-free ingredients, and no MSG—exactly what today's health-conscious consumers are after. Since their major 2018 acquisition of Pinnacle Foods, Conagra has been laser-focused on strengthening their core business and managing debt, keeping acquisitions on the back burner. But when the right opportunity comes along, especially a bolt-on that aligns perfectly with market trends, they were ready to act. With the meat snack market projected to grow at nearly 7% CAGR through 2033, this acquisition is a smart move for Conagra, bolstering their position in a booming segment. At Greenwich Capital Group LLC, we anticipate a significant increase in strategic-driven M&A activity within the F&B category in the coming year, likely surpassing previous levels. Mars' recent acquisition of Kellanova underscores the growing trend of large strategic acquirers making bold moves to enhance their market presence and diversify their offerings. This acquisition is a clear signal that leading players are not just pursuing growth, but are also keenly focused on aligning with evolving consumer demands for health-conscious, innovative products. We expect to see more deals of this nature as companies seek to strengthen their positions in an increasingly competitive and dynamic market. #MergersAndAcquisitions #FoodIndustry #FoodandBeverage #ConsumerTrends #InvestmentBanking https://lnkd.in/gT4AWgMW

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Coke vs. Pepsi? Not so fast.   For the first time, Keurig Dr Pepper Inc. has now claimed the #2 soda spot in America, surpassing PepsiCo, who had held the position for over two decades. Their innovative marketing initiatives and unique blend of flavors have truly set them apart from the competition. I had the chance to discuss Dr. Pepper's remarkable rise with The Food Institute, emphasizing their strategy and how they have particularly resonated with the younger demographic, who crave diverse flavors beyond traditional cola.   In the article, I mentioned: "Dr. Pepper has distinguished itself through effective marketing campaigns that emphasize its unique flavor and individuality. This strategy resonates particularly well with younger demographics seeking alternatives to traditional cola drinks."   With Dr. Pepper's leap to the #2 position, do you think they have a shot at dethroning The Coca-Cola Company from the #1 spot? In which other categories do you think a shift like this is possible? Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/g572y5jv   #MarketingStrategy #BeverageIndustry #Innovation #DrPepper

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Agave Abundance vs. Agave Anxiety: Why Tequila Brands Boom While Agave Fields Bust Tequila, the spirit synonymous with good times and possibly questionable decisions. But behind the seemingly endless rows of celebrity-endorsed brands and overflowing shelves lies a surprising truth – there just aren't that many agave plants, the key ingredient in tequila production. So, how can so many brands exist with a limited supply? The blue agave plant, the heart and soul of tequila, takes a leisurely 7-8 years to mature. This slow growth cycle can't keep pace with sudden surges in tequila demand; particularly as Tequila regulations dictate a minimum agave content is at least 51%; 100% for premium brands. Some brands might use various techniques to make the most of their agave. This could include using more neutral alcohol alongside the agave or harvesting younger, less flavorful plants (which can lead to a harsher taste and the need for additives). Those additives, particularly those used in the mixto category (containing less than 100% agave), might add coloring, sweeteners, or artificial flavors to mimic the taste of a high-quality tequila. The key to a good tequila experience lies in understanding the label. Look for 100% agave tequilas for the purest expression along with aged tequilas, particularly those aged for several years that often use higher quality, mature agave plants, resulting in a smoother and more complex flavor. Its also a good idea to seek out smaller, artisanal producers that prioritize quality agave and traditional production methods, offering a unique and potentially more sustainable approach to tequila. While the abundance of tequila brands might seem at odds with the limited agave supply, it's a story of adaptation, innovation, and sometimes, a dash of creative stretching. By understanding the challenges and making informed choices, you can navigate the tequila landscape and find a bottle that reflects your taste and values.

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This study sheds light on the evolving consumer drinking habits over the past four years post-COVID-19. The research highlights the profound influence of health and wellness concerns on altering drinking behaviors across all age groups. For more cohort-specific insights, check out the study here: https://lnkd.in/gJ5ED32f

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The Coca-Cola Company and Coca-Cola zero sugar...after a stronger-than-expected second quarter 2024 performance that was announced today, which saw net sales revenue increase 3% to $12.4 billion, the Coca-Cola Company has raised its full-year outlook. Coca-Cola’s latest earnings success comes at a time when the soda business as a whole is in decline. Between 2004 and 2023, the volume of carbonated soft drinks bought and sold in America decreased by -27%, according to trade publication Beverage Digest. Still, amid the category’s downward trajectory one brand has continued to rise, capturing more market share in the past 20 years than all the others. That brand: Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar is an ongoing example of how superior taste drives consumer demand, with Coca Cola Zero seeing a +20% global volumes increase. The strong performance of Coca-Cola's Zero sugar variants, is reflective of an overall beverages category move to Zero sugar offerings as consumers look for healthier beverages choices, with zero calories and sugar. For any beverages brand owner or manufacturer looking to create great tasting 😋 beverages innovations 💡 with reduced or zero sugar, please reach out to the beverages team at Kerry, we are here to help. #cocacola #cocacolazero #zerosugar #sugar #softdrinks #taste #zerocalories #refreshingbeverages #tastsesense Erlon Pereira Marc LEJEUNE Breda Kelly Tiphaine BEAU Farrah Gilsenan Thomas Hahlin Ahlinder Sheelagh Pentony Carol Dunne Gwyneth Kelly Michelle Osagie Mark Allen Leigh-Anne Vaughan Massimo Barbeni Romel Doshi, MBA Sam Choucha Nina Riggins Sergio Saavedra Rodríguez Birgit Schaaf Ian Chesworth Erika Minaguchi Magdalena Edyta Przewoźnik Barbara Lezzer David Deeley Brian Short Aoife Mc Donald Elaine Druhan Juan Soto Daniel S. Xavier Herrera

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