Latest news with #betterforyou
CTV News
21-07-2025
- Business
- CTV News
Pepsi is betting a popular health trend can get more people to drink its soda
As younger drinkers shun traditional soda brands for gut-friendly alternatives, PepsiCo is hoping to lure them back with its iconic cola flavour. On Monday, the company is unveiling a healthier version of its flagship flavour called 'Pepsi Prebiotic Cola.' The permanent addition to its lineup builds off its acquisition of prebiotic soda brand Poppi, further entrenching itself in the fast-growing 'better-for-you' trend that's been a hit with Gen Z. The new soda is a 'reimagining what a traditional cola is for the changing consumer needs,' Ram Krishnan, CEO of PepsiCo's US beverage portfolio, told CNN. 'This is the natural evolution of what's next.' Pepsi hopes the new version reignites interest with the roughly 120-year-old cola flavour, which Krishnan said has fallen out of favor as consumers are increasingly buying sparkling waters and hydration drinks. A can of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola shares similar traits to Poppi, including having no artificial sweeteners, the same amount of sugar (5 grams of cane sugar), and roughly the same number of calories (30) and 3 grams of prebiotic fibers — an enhancement that has propelled the modern soda category to US$1.8 billion, according to research firm Circana. The new soda, which comes in original and cherry vanilla flavours, will first be sold online starting on Black Friday in November before rolling out to major retailers in February 2026. Prices for a 12-ounce can and an 8-pack of 12-ounce cans will be slightly higher than a traditional Pepsi and more aligned with Poppi's premium positioning. Cola crisis Consumers are drinking the traditional cola flavour less often, which poses a problem for a company that's built itself around just that. Over the past two years, the average number of times a consumer drinks the traditional cola flavour has dropped from 9.4 times each month to 7.7, Krishnan said, citing research from consumer insight firm Kantar. Diet colas are falling out of favour even faster — showing a 27% decrease in consumption over the past three years — with Gen Z drinkers consuming the flavour substantially less than their older counterparts, he said. Although Poppi has a cola flavour, Krishnan revealed the brand is having more success with its fruity flavours, leaving the door open for Pepsi. Pepsi Prebiotic Cola Pepsi is rolling out a prebiotic version of its signature flavour in November. Pepsi via CNN Newsource 'That's the problem to solve for us: No one's doing much to retain a lot of these consumer cohorts who are leaving for other options,' he told CNN. Another demographic PepsiCo hopes to attract is Gen Z drinkers who buy 'better-for-you' beverage brands such as Olipop and Poppi but haven't tried Pepsi. Krishnan hopes they can be enticed with this new version that has the distinct Pepsi flavour. 'We think both of these complement each other because it addresses both ends of the spectrum,' he said. 'Poppi is the original modern soda category leader and then Pepsi is one of the founding fathers of cola.' As for Poppi, Krishnan said the company is still operating separately. But Poppi's availability will be supercharged in September when it's integrated with PepsiCo's distribution system, giving the brand access to thousands of more locations, including restaurants, travel outlets and colleges, he revealed. Risky release? Launching a permanent flavour without trialing it has its risks. Coca-Cola learned that the hard way last year after its much-hyped Spiced flavour failed to resonate with consumers and was discontinued just six months after its splashy debut. However, adding another healthier-aimed soda to Pepsi's beverage portfolio could spur sales. In its second quarter earnings report last week, PepsiCo (PEP) reported that North American volumes dipped 2% across its beverage unit. Its low-calorie sodas like Zero Sugar and Wild Cherry Zero were among the bright spots for the company. Nate Rosen, editor-in-chief of consumer brands-focused newsletter Express Checkout, questions why PepsiCo is launching the new Pepsi when it owns Poppi, which has a young following and helped establish the modern soda category. However, he thinks the two brands can coexist. 'This prebiotic version is banking heavily on the Pepsi brand recognition, but it feels more like a defensive 'me-too'-type product,' Rosen told CNN. 'Poppi remains the clear winner in the 'better-for-you' soda category. It has the credibility and positioning that a 'healthified' Pepsi will struggle to match.'
CNN
21-07-2025
- Business
- CNN
Pepsi is making a bold bet that prebiotic sodas are here to stay
As younger drinkers shun traditional soda brands for gut-friendly alternatives, PepsiCo is hoping to lure them back with its iconic cola flavor. On Monday, the company is unveiling a healthier version of its flagship flavor called 'Pepsi Prebiotic Cola.' The permanent addition to its lineup builds off its acquisition of prebiotic soda brand Poppi, further entrenching itself in the fast-growing 'better-for-you' trend that's been a hit with Gen Z. The new soda is a 'reimagining what a traditional cola is for the changing consumer needs,' Ram Krishnan, CEO of PepsiCo's US beverage portfolio, told CNN. 'This is the natural evolution of what's next.' Pepsi hopes the new version reignites interest with the roughly 120-year-old cola flavor, which Krishnan said has fallen out of favor as consumers are increasingly buying sparkling waters and hydration drinks. A can of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola shares similar traits to Poppi, including having no artificial sweeteners, the same amount of sugar (5 grams of cane sugar), and roughly the same number of calories (30) and 3 grams of prebiotic fibers — an enhancement that has propelled the modern soda category to $1.8 billion, according to research firm Circana. The new soda, which comes in original and cherry vanilla flavors, will first be sold online starting on Black Friday in November before rolling out to major retailers in February 2026. Prices for a 12-ounce can and an 8-pack of 12-ounce cans will be slightly higher than a traditional Pepsi and more aligned with Poppi's premium positioning. Consumers are drinking the traditional cola flavor less often, which poses a problem for a company that's built itself around just that. Over the past two years, the average number of times a consumer drinks the traditional cola flavor has dropped from 9.4 times each month to 7.7, Krishnan said, citing research from consumer insight firm Kantar. Diet colas are falling out of favor even faster — showing a 27% decrease in consumption over the past three years — with Gen Z drinkers consuming the flavor substantially less than their older counterparts, he said. Although Poppi has a cola flavor, Krishnan revealed the brand is having more success with its fruity flavors, leaving the door open for Pepsi. 'That's the problem to solve for us: No one's doing much to retain a lot of these consumer cohorts who are leaving for other options,' he told CNN. Another demographic PepsiCo hopes to attract is Gen Z drinkers who buy 'better-for-you' beverage brands such as Olipop and Poppi but haven't tried Pepsi. Krishnan hopes they can be enticed with this new version that has the distinct Pepsi flavor. 'We think both of these complement each other because it addresses both ends of the spectrum,' he said. 'Poppi is the original modern soda category leader and then Pepsi is one of the founding fathers of cola.' As for Poppi, Krishnan said the company is still operating separately. But Poppi's availability will be supercharged in September when it's integrated with PepsiCo's distribution system, giving the brand access to thousands of more locations, including restaurants, travel outlets and colleges, he revealed. Launching a permanent flavor without trialing it has its risks. Coca-Cola learned that the hard way last year after its much-hyped Spiced flavor failed to resonate with consumers and was discontinued just six months after its splashy debut. However, adding another healthier-aimed soda to Pepsi's beverage portfolio could spur sales. In its second quarter earnings report last week, PepsiCo (PEP) reported that North American volumes dipped 2% across its beverage unit. Its low-calorie sodas like Zero Sugar and Wild Cherry Zero were among the bright spots for the company. Nate Rosen, editor-in-chief of consumer brands-focused newsletter Express Checkout, questions why PepsiCo is launching the new Pepsi when it owns Poppi, which has a young following and helped establish the modern soda category. However, he thinks the two brands can coexist. 'This prebiotic version is banking heavily on the Pepsi brand recognition, but it feels more like a defensive 'me-too'-type product,' Rosen told CNN. 'Poppi remains the clear winner in the 'better-for-you' soda category. It has the credibility and positioning that a 'healthified' Pepsi will struggle to match.'
CNN
21-07-2025
- Business
- CNN
Pepsi is making a bold bet that prebiotic sodas are here to stay
As younger drinkers shun traditional soda brands for gut-friendly alternatives, PepsiCo is hoping to lure them back with its iconic cola flavor. On Monday, the company is unveiling a healthier version of its flagship flavor called 'Pepsi Prebiotic Cola.' The permanent addition to its lineup builds off its acquisition of prebiotic soda brand Poppi, further entrenching itself in the fast-growing 'better-for-you' trend that's been a hit with Gen Z. The new soda is a 'reimagining what a traditional cola is for the changing consumer needs,' Ram Krishnan, CEO of PepsiCo's US beverage portfolio, told CNN. 'This is the natural evolution of what's next.' Pepsi hopes the new version reignites interest with the roughly 120-year-old cola flavor, which Krishnan said has fallen out of favor as consumers are increasingly buying sparkling waters and hydration drinks. A can of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola shares similar traits to Poppi, including having no artificial sweeteners, the same amount of sugar (5 grams of cane sugar), and roughly the same number of calories (30) and 3 grams of prebiotic fibers — an enhancement that has propelled the modern soda category to $1.8 billion, according to research firm Circana. The new soda, which comes in original and cherry vanilla flavors, will first be sold online starting on Black Friday in November before rolling out to major retailers in February 2026. Prices for a 12-ounce can and an 8-pack of 12-ounce cans will be slightly higher than a traditional Pepsi and more aligned with Poppi's premium positioning. Consumers are drinking the traditional cola flavor less often, which poses a problem for a company that's built itself around just that. Over the past two years, the average number of times a consumer drinks the traditional cola flavor has dropped from 9.4 times each month to 7.7, Krishnan said, citing research from consumer insight firm Kantar. Diet colas are falling out of favor even faster — showing a 27% decrease in consumption over the past three years — with Gen Z drinkers consuming the flavor substantially less than their older counterparts, he said. Although Poppi has a cola flavor, Krishnan revealed the brand is having more success with its fruity flavors, leaving the door open for Pepsi. 'That's the problem to solve for us: No one's doing much to retain a lot of these consumer cohorts who are leaving for other options,' he told CNN. Another demographic PepsiCo hopes to attract is Gen Z drinkers who buy 'better-for-you' beverage brands such as Olipop and Poppi but haven't tried Pepsi. Krishnan hopes they can be enticed with this new version that has the distinct Pepsi flavor. 'We think both of these complement each other because it addresses both ends of the spectrum,' he said. 'Poppi is the original modern soda category leader and then Pepsi is one of the founding fathers of cola.' As for Poppi, Krishnan said the company is still operating separately. But Poppi's availability will be supercharged in September when it's integrated with PepsiCo's distribution system, giving the brand access to thousands of more locations, including restaurants, travel outlets and colleges, he revealed. Launching a permanent flavor without trialing it has its risks. Coca-Cola learned that the hard way last year after its much-hyped Spiced flavor failed to resonate with consumers and was discontinued just six months after its splashy debut. However, adding another healthier-aimed soda to Pepsi's beverage portfolio could spur sales. In its second quarter earnings report last week, PepsiCo (PEP) reported that North American volumes dipped 2% across its beverage unit. Its low-calorie sodas like Zero Sugar and Wild Cherry Zero were among the bright spots for the company. Nate Rosen, editor-in-chief of consumer brands-focused newsletter Express Checkout, questions why PepsiCo is launching the new Pepsi when it owns Poppi, which has a young following and helped establish the modern soda category. However, he thinks the two brands can coexist. 'This prebiotic version is banking heavily on the Pepsi brand recognition, but it feels more like a defensive 'me-too'-type product,' Rosen told CNN. 'Poppi remains the clear winner in the 'better-for-you' soda category. It has the credibility and positioning that a 'healthified' Pepsi will struggle to match.'
Globe and Mail
22-05-2025
- Health
- Globe and Mail
A Potential $78.2 Billion Opportunity in the Better-For-You Market
By 2030, the global better-for-you snack market could be worth well over $78.2 billion, as note by Grand View Research. All of which should have a positive impact on companies such as Simply Better Brands (TSXV: SBBC) (OTCQX: SBBCF), BellRing Brands (NYSE: BRBR), General Mills (NYSE: GIS), Kellanova (NYSE: K) and Mondelez International (NASDAQ: MDLZ), too. We also have to consider that demand for better-for-you snacks is off the scales. In fact, also noted by Grand View Research, 'Concerns about rising obesity rates and chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension are pushing consumers toward healthier eating habits. According to the CDC, obesity affects four out of ten Americans, while the OECD report ' Health at a Glance: Europe 2020' reveals that one in six Europeans is obese, and over 50% are overweight. Better-for-you snacks, which are lower in calories, sugar, and fat compared to traditional options, are seen as a solution to these health issues.' Fueling even more momentum, the Trump administration wants to remove artificial dyes from the US food supply, with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. expected to share more about those plans shortly. Plus. According to CNN, 'Lawmakers in more than half of states – both Republican- and Democrat-led – are pushing to restrict access, according to a tracker by the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit environmental health organization, reflecting a bipartisan push toward a safer food system.' 'Food dyes are most commonly used in foods of low nutritional value such as candy and soft drinks, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, a nonprofit consumer advocacy group,' they added. With a shift toward better-for-you foods, here are just a few stocks to keep an eye on. Simply Better Brands (TSXV: SBBC) (OTCQX: SBBCF) Just Announced Name Change to TRUBAR Inc. and Changes to Management Effective today, Simply Better Brands Corp. has officially rebranded as TRUBAR Inc. and expects to begin trading on the TSXV under the new ticker symbol 'TRBR' at the start of trading on or about May 26, 2025. As part of the transition, the Company has appointed Kingsley Ward as Executive Chairman, focusing on capital markets and strategic initiatives, and Erica Groussman as Chief Executive Officer, leading brand operations and growth. TRUBAR Inc. (formerly, Simply Better Brands Corp., a better-for-you snacking company focused on delivering high-quality, plant-based protein products with exceptional taste and made with clean, recognizable ingredients, is pleased to announce the Company has changed its name from 'Simply Better Brands Corp.' to 'TRUBAR Inc.', aligning its corporate identity with its flagship brand and primary business focus, TRUBAR™. The Company's common shares are expected to commence trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the new name and new stock ticker symbol "TRBR" at the start of trading on or about May 26, 2025. In connection with the name change, the new CUSIP number for the common shares will be 89778A100 and the new ISIN number will be CA89778A1003. The name change reflects the Company's evolution into a pure-play branded snacking business, focused entirely on the growth and expansion of TRUBAR™, one of North America's fastest-growing plant-based protein bar brands. The purpose of the rebrand is to align the Company's identity with its core business and consumer-facing brand, while reinforcing its commitment to building long-term shareholder value. No action is required to be taken by shareholders with respect to the name change. Outstanding common share and warrant certificates bearing the old name of the Company are still valid and are not affected by the name and ticker symbol change. Changes to Management In connection with the rebrand to TRUBAR Inc., J.R. Kingsley Ward, who previously served as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Company, will transition to Executive Chairman of TRUBAR, where he will focus on capital markets strategy and corporate development with the goal of driving long-term shareholder value alongside the leadership team. Erica Groussman, co-founder of TRUBAR™, will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer of TRUBAR, leading the brand's day-to-day operations, innovation, and growth strategy. Kingsley Ward, Executive Chairman of TRUBAR, commented ' This rebrand marks a pivotal moment for our company as we align our corporate identity with the brand driving our growth, TRUBAR™. It's more than a name change, it reflects our evolution into a focused, disciplined organization committed to scaling a standout brand in the better-for-you snacking space. With Erica leading day-to-day operations as CEO, and my focus shifting to capital markets and corporate strategy as Executive Chairman, we are well-positioned to build long-term shareholder value while continuing to deliver innovative, great-tasting products made with recognizable ingredients.' TRUBAR is proud to be led by an experienced management team with a track record of building and scaling consumer brands. The leadership team includes: ● Laura Fremaine, Chief Financial Officer – Former Controller at VRG Capital, with over 15 years of extensive experience in operational oversight and financial reporting. ● Kate McDevitt, Vice President of Sales — Over 20 years of sales experience, former Director of National Accounts at Red Bull, leading the brand's sales strategy. ● Claire Ughetto, Vice President of Operations — Over 25 years of supply chain experience in CPG, former Global Supply Chain leader at Mars, Wrigley's, and Kimberly-Clark. ● Luc Francillon, Vice President of Finance — Over 30 years of finance experience, former CFO of Mars Retail Group. ● Natasha Port, Vice President of Marketing — Over 10 years of marketing experience, former marketing leader at Bai Beverages and Keurig Dr Pepper. ● Fernando Massalin, Vice President Corporate Development and Investor Relations – Former Senior Associate at VRG Capital, bringing capital markets expertise and strategic advisory experience with over 10 years of capital markets experience. Together, this experienced team brings a unique combination of expertise from some of the world's largest consumer packaged goods companies and financial leadership from VRG Capital. With this team, TRUBAR™ is positioned to accelerate its next phase of growth, expand its market presence, and drive continued innovation in the better-for-you snacking space. Other related developments from around the markets include: BellRing Brands' President and CEO Darcy Davenport just said, 'Our momentum continued this quarter as Premier Protein consumption accelerated. Increased promotions, our media campaign and new products drove Premier Protein household penetration and market share to new all-time highs. Our powder products benefited from distribution gains and brand building investments. The convenient nutrition category and our leading mainstream brands continue to resonate with consumers, demonstrating a long runway of growth for ready-to-drink shakes and powders. I am pleased to affirm our guidance of net sales growth of 13% to 17% with strong Adjusted EBITDA margins even amidst the current uncertain macroeconomic environment.' General Mills reported results for its fiscal 2025 third quarter. 'Our third-quarter organic net sales finished below our expectations, driven largely by greater-than-expected retailer inventory headwinds and a slowdown in snacking categories,' said General Mills Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Harmening. 'At the same time, we drove continued positive market share trends in Pet, Foodservice, and International as well as improvement in Pillsbury refrigerated dough and Totino's hot snacks, two businesses where we made incremental investments last quarter and saw positive returns. We're focused on improving our sales growth in fiscal 2026 by stepping up our investment in innovation, brand communication, and value for consumers,' Harmening continued. 'We'll fund that investment with another year of industry-leading HMM productivity, coupled with expected new cost-savings initiatives designed to further boost our efficiency and enable growth.' Kellanova announced fourth quarter and full year 2024. While net sales were negatively impacted by adverse currency translation, the Company's organic- basis growth was above its long-term target range, both in the fourth quarter and the full year. Double-digit operating profit growth was sustained in the fourth quarter, as well as the full year, as the Company improved profit margins faster than expected. Double-digit growth momentum was also sustained in earnings per share, both in the fourth quarter and for the full year 2024, owing primarily to higher operating profit. Due to the pending merger with Mars, Incorporated, Kellanova will not be providing forward looking guidance. "A more growth-oriented portfolio and solid execution by our entire organization once again contributed to stand-out quarterly performance, as we concluded our first full year as Kellanova,' commented Steve Cahillane, Kellanova's Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer. 'Led by our strong emerging markets presence, we sustained better-than-expected top-line growth amidst challenging industry conditions, and we improved our profit margins faster than we had anticipated. We also embarked on an exciting next phase, as we prepare to combine with Mars.' Mondelez International released new findings on consumer attitudes toward indulgence from the sixth annual State of Snacking™ report, a global consumer trends study examining how consumers make snacking decisions. Overall, indulgence and treating remains at the fore of the snacking category, with most consumers snacking as a treat or reward. Developed in partnership with The Harris Poll, the State of Snacking survey tracks snacking behaviors among thousands of consumers across 12 countries. The 2024 survey findings show snacking remains a cost-effective way for consumers to have a bit of satisfaction in their daily lives. This may explain why appetite for cookies and biscuits is rising with the percentage of global consumers who eat biscuits and/or cookies at least once per week increasing 5% in the last year. Legal Disclaimer / Except for the historical information presented herein, matters discussed in this article contains forward-looking statements that are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Winning Media is not registered with any financial or securities regulatory authority and does not provide nor claims to provide investment advice or recommendations to readers of this release. For making specific investment decisions, readers should seek their own advice. Winning Media is only compensated for its services in the form of cash-based compensation. Pursuant to an agreement Winning Media has been paid three thousand five hundred dollars for advertising and marketing services for Simply Better Brands. by Simply Better Brands. We own ZERO shares of Simply Better Brands. Please click here for disclaimer. Contact:
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Systm Foods appoints Elizabeth Stephenson as new CEO
US drinks company Systm Foods has appointed Elizabeth Stephenson, a former executive at The Wonderful Company, as its new CEO. The company, positioned as a provider of 'better-for-you' beverages, is a joint venture between investment firms Systm Brands and GroundForce Capital. Its brands include protein shake brand Rebbl, Chameleon Organic Coffee cold-brew coffees and Humm, a low- and no-sugar kombucha brand acquired in 2024. The company has a manufacturing site in Oregon for Humm products. In a statement, Systm Foods said Stephenson brings a 'strong track record of leading high-growth brands through transformative expansion'. From June 2023 to January this year, Stephenson was CEO of US meals manufacturer Intelligent Brands. Before joining Intelligent Brands, she worked at consultancy AlixPartners for three years. Earlier in her career, Stephenson held senior roles at The Wonderful Company, home to brands including Fiji Water and Pom Wonderful. GroundForce Capital co-founder and managing partner Mark Rampolla said: 'Elizabeth's proven success with building and scaling purpose-driven brands deeply resonates with our mission at Systm Foods." Stephenson added: "Consumers today are seeking beverages that deliver on both wellness and taste and Systm Foods' portfolio is uniquely positioned to meet that demand. "The System Foods platform is an amazing and innovative approach for acquiring, incubating, and accelerating healthy better-for-you brands, and one that I feel honoured to help grow and build." Outgoing CEO Andy Fathollahi is moving to a role on the board of directors. In the statement, Systm Foods credited him with playing a 'key role' in 'shaping Systm Foods' growth and strengthening its portfolio'. "Systm Foods appoints Elizabeth Stephenson as new CEO " was originally created and published by Just Drinks, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
