Latest news with #functionalwellness
Yahoo
11-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Will Celsius' Innovation Strategy Fuel its Next Wave of Growth?
Celsius Holdings CELH is aggressively positioning itself as a leader in the modern energy category by broadening its portfolio beyond traditional energy drinks. The acquisition of Alani Nu closed in April 2025, a brand that resonates strongly with female consumers and adds a complementary growth lever to the core CELSIUS line. Together, the brands serve a wider consumer base with a shared focus on sugar-free, functional energy. CELH also entered the hydration space with CELSIUS HYDRATION, a caffeine-free, zero-sugar electrolyte stick targeting the booming $1.4 billion hydration powder market. This move highlights CELH's intent to evolve into a broader functional wellness company, not just an energy drink is being matched with effective execution. CELH has rolled out new flavors like Playa Vibe and expanded multipacks, which now make up over 50% of sales in some channels. Shelf space is increasing, especially in foodservice and convenience channels, with new placements in over 18,000 Subway locations and 1,800 Home Depot stores. The company's Big Beverages facility is now fully integrated, providing flexibility for faster innovation cycles. Meanwhile, the operational leadership brought in from PepsiCo is expected to enhance supply chain efficiency and support rapid scaling as distribution first-quarter 2025 showed a 7% revenue decline, CELH is cycling an exceptionally strong prior-year quarter and remains optimistic about momentum heading into the second quarter of 2025. International growth is strong, up 41%, and the company now holds a combined 16.2% dollar share in the U.S. energy drink category alongside Alani Nu in the first quarter of 2025. With gross margin expansion, a pipeline of new product launches and increased marketing investment, Celsius is poised for an acceleration in growth. As consumer demand shifts toward better-for-you, daily-function beverages, the company's innovation strategy appears well-aligned with long-term category trends and could be a key driver of sustained growth. PepsiCo, Inc. PEP and The Coca-Cola Company KO are the key beverage companies competing with Celsius in the global is actively transforming its beverage and snack portfolios to meet evolving consumer needs around functionality, health and convenience. The company is investing in portfolio transformation, launching zero-sugar variants, smaller-format multipacks and function-forward products like Gatorade Zero and Gatorade Rapid Hydration. Its recent acquisition of Poppi, a prebiotic soda brand, signals deeper interest in gut health and wellness-driven innovation. Coca-Cola continues to evolve its innovation strategy by combining its iconic global brands with hyper-local execution. The company is prioritizing 'fewer but bolder' launches, such as Coca-Cola Orange Cream and Simply Pop, its first prebiotic soda aimed at health-conscious consumers. Coca-Cola is also expanding functional and wellness offerings like fairlife and Fuze Tea, both of which contributed to value share gains. Innovation at KO now integrates advanced digital marketing through Studio X, enabling personalized consumer experiences at scale, evident in campaigns like 'Share a Coke' and Lunar New Year activations across Asia. Celsius shares have surged 75% year to date against the industry's 2.2% dip. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research From a valuation standpoint, CELH trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 46.19X compared with the industry's average of 15.91X. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CELH's 2025 and 2026 EPS indicates year-over-year growth of 17.1% and 41.6%, respectively. The company's EPS estimates for 2025 and 2026 have remained stable in the past seven days. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research Celsius carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) at present. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report CocaCola Company (The) (KO) : Free Stock Analysis Report PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP) : Free Stock Analysis Report Celsius Holdings Inc. (CELH) : Free Stock Analysis Report This article originally published on Zacks Investment Research ( Zacks Investment Research
Globe and Mail
10-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Will Celsius' Innovation Strategy Fuel its Next Wave of Growth?
Celsius Holdings CELH is aggressively positioning itself as a leader in the modern energy category by broadening its portfolio beyond traditional energy drinks. The acquisition of Alani Nu closed in April 2025, a brand that resonates strongly with female consumers and adds a complementary growth lever to the core CELSIUS line. Together, the brands serve a wider consumer base with a shared focus on sugar-free, functional energy. CELH also entered the hydration space with CELSIUS HYDRATION, a caffeine-free, zero-sugar electrolyte stick targeting the booming $1.4 billion hydration powder market. This move highlights CELH's intent to evolve into a broader functional wellness company, not just an energy drink brand. Innovation is being matched with effective execution. CELH has rolled out new flavors like Playa Vibe and expanded multipacks, which now make up over 50% of sales in some channels. Shelf space is increasing, especially in foodservice and convenience channels, with new placements in over 18,000 Subway locations and 1,800 Home Depot stores. The company's Big Beverages facility is now fully integrated, providing flexibility for faster innovation cycles. Meanwhile, the operational leadership brought in from PepsiCo is expected to enhance supply chain efficiency and support rapid scaling as distribution deepens. While first-quarter 2025 showed a 7% revenue decline, CELH is cycling an exceptionally strong prior-year quarter and remains optimistic about momentum heading into the second quarter of 2025. International growth is strong, up 41%, and the company now holds a combined 16.2% dollar share in the U.S. energy drink category alongside Alani Nu in the first quarter of 2025. With gross margin expansion, a pipeline of new product launches and increased marketing investment, Celsius is poised for an acceleration in growth. As consumer demand shifts toward better-for-you, daily-function beverages, the company's innovation strategy appears well-aligned with long-term category trends and could be a key driver of sustained growth. CELH's Competitors: PEP & KO's Smart Moves PepsiCo, Inc. PEP and The Coca-Cola Company KO are the key beverage companies competing with Celsius in the global arena. PepsiCo is actively transforming its beverage and snack portfolios to meet evolving consumer needs around functionality, health and convenience. The company is investing in portfolio transformation, launching zero-sugar variants, smaller-format multipacks and function-forward products like Gatorade Zero and Gatorade Rapid Hydration. Its recent acquisition of Poppi, a prebiotic soda brand, signals deeper interest in gut health and wellness-driven innovation. Coca-Cola continues to evolve its innovation strategy by combining its iconic global brands with hyper-local execution. The company is prioritizing 'fewer but bolder' launches, such as Coca-Cola Orange Cream and Simply Pop, its first prebiotic soda aimed at health-conscious consumers. Coca-Cola is also expanding functional and wellness offerings like fairlife and Fuze Tea, both of which contributed to value share gains. Innovation at KO now integrates advanced digital marketing through Studio X, enabling personalized consumer experiences at scale, evident in campaigns like 'Share a Coke' and Lunar New Year activations across Asia. CELH's Price Performance, Valuation & Estimates Celsius shares have surged 75% year to date against the industry 's 2.2% dip. Image Source: Zacks Investment Research From a valuation standpoint, CELH trades at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of 46.19X compared with the industry's average of 15.91X. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CELH's 2025 and 2026 EPS indicates year-over-year growth of 17.1% and 41.6%, respectively. The company's EPS estimates for 2025 and 2026 have remained stable in the past seven days. Celsius carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) at present. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Higher. Faster. Sooner. Buy These Stocks Now A small number of stocks are primed for a breakout, and you have a chance to get in before they take off. At any given time, there are only 220 Zacks Rank #1 Strong Buys. On average, this list more than doubles the S&P 500. We've combed through the latest Strong Buys and selected 7 compelling companies likely to jump sooner and climb higher than any other stock you could buy this month. You'll learn everything you need to know about these exciting trades in our brand-new Special Report, 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Download the report free now >> Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report CocaCola Company (The) (KO): Free Stock Analysis Report PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP): Free Stock Analysis Report Celsius Holdings Inc. (CELH): Free Stock Analysis Report
.png&w=3840&q=100)
WIRED
28-05-2025
- Health
- WIRED
WIRED's Guide to Mushroom Supplements (the Functional Kind)
All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. From ancient remedies to your Amazon cart, mushroom supplements have traveled a circuitous road. They nourish the body, enhance the mind, and occasionally poison the unlucky. Their biochemical adaptability has intrigued Eastern cultures for centuries. The West has been slow to embrace mushrooms until the 21st century, propelled in part by endorsements from celebrities like Gisele Bündchen and Gwen Stefani. Today, in a zeitgeist fixated on biohacking and self-optimization, mushrooms are now tools for functional wellness. Gone are the days of foraging and sautéing. Instead, we embrace microdosing. We're enjoying lion's mane in our adaptogenic lattes and mixing cordyceps into our post-workout smoothies, aiming to enhance our brains and upgrade our immune systems. Researchers are also exploring their potential applications, ranging from cancer therapies to supportive treatments for COVID-19. Power up with unlimited access to WIRED . Get best-in-class reporting that's too important to ignore for just $2.50 $1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. Subscribe Today . Functional mushrooms, often referred to as medicinal or adaptogenic, offer more than just nutritional value. The excitement surrounding them isn't due to recent studies; their advantages have been recognized for years. What has shifted is the way they are presented, allowing for simpler integration into contemporary lifestyles without the need for cooking. Brands like RYZE and PlantFusion have played a significant role in transforming these fungi from traditional remedies to nootropic supplements. 'One of the OG brands was Four Sigmatic,' recalls Brigitte Zeitlin, a NYC-based nutritionist who has swapped caffeine for mushroom coffee and matcha tea. 'When they first hit shelves, people were like, 'Wait, we drink mushrooms now?'.' 'If you don't like the taste or can't find quality mushrooms at your store, supplements are a great second option,' she adds. 'Some people hate swallowing pills or are already taking too many, so powders are a great alternative because they're already broken down.' For as long as humans have been getting sick, they have relied on fungi as a means of healing. Hippocrates is said to have used amadou, a spongy fungus, to reduce inflammation. Ötzi the Iceman had amadou in his supplies (probably for fire-starting), along with birch polypore, which was likely used to fight intestinal parasites. Native American cultures pressed puffball mushrooms onto wounds to halt bleeding and aid healing. Additionally, they used tiger milk mushrooms to treat asthma. East Asian traditions have long used Phellinus fungi to treat digestive issues. Ganoderma lucidum —commonly known as reishi or lingzhi—was first recorded in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing , the oldest Chinese pharmacopeia written over two millennia ago, where it was classified as a tonic for anti-aging and boosting qi. In modern-day China, reishi is often recommended to support immune health in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. Inonotus obliquus —better known as chaga—has been a staple in traditional medicine among Indigenous communities across the world. Notably, native Siberians would grind up chaga and add it to teas, soups, and stews, believing it to ward off degenerative diseases. It was also a remedy for ulcers, liver ailments, and tuberculosis. Russian First Nations used it to slow the growth of visible tumors. Today, hunters in rural Russia still consume chaga to boost endurance on long treks. Nutritionists agree: food first. Whole mushrooms like maitake, shiitake, and lion's mane offer fiber and nutrients you won't get from supplements. Toss them into stir-fries, omelets, or soups. While supplements don't always deliver the same results, here are some of the health benefits seen with regular intake. A review of 17 cancer studies shows that consuming about 1/8 cup of mushrooms a day may lower your risk of cancer by as much as 45 percent. Fungi are packed with ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that slows cellular damage. Shiitake, oyster, maitake, and king oyster have some of the higher amounts of ergothioneine, but any variety of mushrooms is better than none. In a study in Singapore, participants who ate more than two cups of mushrooms (golden, oyster, shiitake, and white button) a week had a 50 percent lower risk of developing mild cognitive impairment. Unlike many foods that are broken down by stomach acid, the polysaccharides in fungi remain intact as they pass through the stomach. This allows them to reach the colon, where they can prompt the growth of healthy bacteria. Certain shrooms also provide vital nutrients that can support your overall well-being. Cremini and portabella are high in selenium, a mineral that produces antioxidant enzymes to prevent cell damage. Maitake mushrooms are a great source of vitamin D, and incorporate Shiitake into your diet for vitamin B6. Photograph:From nootropic lattes to adaptogenic powders, certain species have become stars in the wellness space. Here's what the research and experts have to say about the fungi dominating your feed. Chaga, a white-rot fungus that thrives on birch trees in northern climates, is recognized for its abundant antioxidants. 'If you have autoimmune issues like Hashimoto's or psoriasis, Chaga mushrooms are awesome because they reduce inflammation,' says Zeitlin. Though much of the research has been conducted in vitro or on animals, Chaga demonstrates promising antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory effects. Cordyceps is a parasitic fungus that sprouts on larvae of insects. In wellness marketing, it's the performance mushroom and a favorite among athletes. Research suggests cordyceps may help improve stamina and post-workout recovery by boosting ATP production and oxygen efficiency in cells. But many of those claims are based on early-stage research and lab models. Marketed as brain food, lion's mane is rich in terpenes like hericenones and erinacines that boost the production of the Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), a protein vital for the maintenance and regeneration of neurons. Preliminary research also indicates it may aid in nerve regeneration, reduce the risk of cognitive decline, and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. It's important to note, though, since it might contain phytoestrogens that could activate estrogen-sensitive cells, those with a history of breast cancer should consult a physician before using it. Maitake (also known as hen-of-the-wood) contains beta-glucans that have been shown to activate lymphocytes, natural killer (NK) cells, and T-helper cells. Researchers are investigating its potential to help regulate blood pressure and blood sugar, particularly in individuals with metabolic issues. Zeitlin recommends maitake—and shiitake—mushrooms for those who have a history of chronic illnesses. Reishi is studied for calming effects and possible support for blood sugar and lung function, thanks to its high polysaccharide content. "Reishi mushrooms are [for] a general wellness boost," Zeitlin says. "If you're feeling stressed out, you get colds frequently, or it's spring season and your allergies are running amok, Reishi mushrooms are a supportive move." Behind their umami-rich bite is a potent wellness profile: these mushrooms deliver lentinan, an immune-boosting polysaccharide, and eritadenine, known for supporting heart health by lowering cholesterol. Shiitake also reduces inflammation markers like CRP (C-reactive protein) and IgA (Immunoglobulin A). Plus, they're packed with B vitamins to support energy, metabolism, and cardiovascular health. This colorful mushroom gets its name from its resemblance to a turkey tail's feather, and it's one of the most researched macrofungus in oncology. Turkey tail is rich in protein-bound polysaccharides (PBPs) that stimulate immune responses, particularly in the function of T-cells and NK cells. Courtesy of Four Sigmatic Like most supplements, timing your mushroom intake depends on the specific variety and what you're hoping to get out of it. Let's start with mornings. If you're caffeine-sensitive, mushrooms can be an energizing swap. Lion's mane is a go-to for AM focus (especially during workdays) for its ability to support brain health, and cordyceps is a popular pre-workout boost. 'Caffeine works by blocking the neurotransmitters that make us feel tired,' says Zeitlin, who regularly drinks mushroom coffee. 'It doesn't give us energy, it just stops the sensation of tiredness.' Chaga acts as a multitasker; it provides calmness without sedation, allowing it to enhance your morning coffee or offer an afternoon boost. Its earthy, mildly bitter taste has a coffee-like mouthfeel, contributing to its popularity. If you're looking for immune support, incorporate turkey tail in the morning to prepare your body for a day of commuting. Finally, reishi is typically consumed in the evening to help relax the body. In most cases, yes—while consuming mushrooms poses minimal risk for most people, unless you're allergic. Toss them into stir-fries, omelets, or soups. Concentrated mushroom supplements operate in murkier territory. The supplement industry is under-regulated in the U.S., and that lack of oversight extends to functional fungi. Labels may not always reflect what's inside the package. 'If you're going the supplement route, look for products with natural ingredients and some sort of third-party regulation,' says dietitian Laura Wargo. 'That gives you a clearer idea of what's actually in them.' Be sure to take them with food to avoid any gastrointestinal discomfort. 'Natural food is more bioavailable, and taking supplements with a meal can support better digestion,' Wargo says. If you can eat your mushrooms, eat your mushrooms. Supplements are great insurance, but not a replacement for a well-balanced diet. Supplements are great insurance, but not a replacement for a well-balanced diet. Think purpose over timing. Different mushrooms shine at different times, but no matter when you take them, consistency is key. Different mushrooms shine at different times, but no matter when you take them, consistency is key. Always check with your doctor first. Laura E. Wargo, RD, a registered dietitian at Northwestern Medicine Osher Center for Integrative Health in Chicago, Illinois. Brigitte Zeitlin, MPH, RD, CDN, a registered dietitian and nutritionist at BZ Nutrition in New York City.
Forbes
07-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Suja Life's Evolution From Cold-Pressed Juice To Functional Wellness
Suja Life CEO Maria Stipp has shift shifted the company to a "house of brands" including Vive ... More Organic wellness shots and Slice, a better-for-you soda Suja Life Suja Life, once a pioneer in the cold-pressed juice industry, has undergone a significant transformation under the leadership of CEO Maria Stipp. Shifting from a single brand to a "house of brands," Suja has expanded its portfolio to include innovative products like Vive Organic wellness shots and Slice, a better-for-you soda. In this interview, Stipp shares insights on Suja's growth, the company's strategic approach to acquisitions, and how it stays ahead in the competitive functional wellness beverage space. Dave Knox: Let's start with your background. Where did your career take you before Suja? Maria Stipp: Before Suja, I was CEO of Sapporo Stone in the U.S. and, before that, led Lagunitas Brewing Company. I entered the craft beer space in 2015, right when consumers were fueling its explosive growth and reshaping the industry. It was an exciting time—people wanted brands with character, quality, and a strong point of view. Over time, though, I noticed a shift. Health and wellness started becoming more central to how people lived and what they consumed. That shift resonated with me personally, and Suja felt like a natural next step. I already had a strong foundation in beverages, but this space is so dynamic, I'm still learning every day—and I love that. Knox: Suja Life has evolved from a cold-pressed juice brand to a wellness beverage platform. How did Suja get to where it is today? Stipp: Suja started in San Diego back in 2012 with a bold mission: to democratize organic food through cold-pressed juice. We launched in Whole Foods and quickly gained traction—by 2013, we were named Whole Foods' Supplier of the Year, which helped establish our credibility. For years, we operated as a single brand, but in 2018, we launched wellness shots—a new category at the time—and saw enormous upside. That success led us to acquire Vive Organic in 2022, a brand focused specifically on immune-boosting cold-pressed juice shots. It was our first big step toward becoming a house of brands. Then in 2024, we acquired the trademark for Slice and reimagined it as a better-for-you soda with real benefits. Today, we're a portfolio of three brands—Suja, Vive, and Slice—all united by a commitment to wellness, but each with its own unique brand personality and product offering. Knox: You mentioned 'house of brands.' In brand building, companies often choose between creating one mega brand or a collection of individual brands. Why did Suja opt for a house of brands approach? Stipp: We didn't rush into it. When we acquired Vive, we took our time to understand what it meant to manage more than one brand—how to balance distinct identities, build the right team structures, and stay focused on what matters to each consumer. The experience gave us confidence. We saw that Vive Organic could stand on its own while still aligning with our broader mission. That clarity made us more deliberate in our approach to Slice. We built a dedicated team to steward it and leaned into its own brand story. A house of brands works for us because it allows each brand to be authentic and focused, while still sharing the common thread of wellness and better-for-you ingredients. Knox: Functional wellness is a rapidly growing area, and many beverage companies are trying to enter the space. How does Suja's heritage in this category give you a competitive advantage? Stipp: We didn't just enter functional wellness—we helped define it. From the beginning, Suja Organic was built on organic ingredients, real functionality, and low sugar. That's not something we added later—it's who we've always been. That consistency has earned us trust, and that trust gives us the permission to grow into new spaces like soda. When consumers see the Suja name—or now Vive and Slice—they know they're getting something that's not just better tasting, but better for them. That reputation is a huge advantage, especially as new players try to jump into the space. Knox: How does Suja decide where to innovate within the functional wellness space? What drives your innovation choices? Stipp: It always starts with the consumer. We spend a lot of time listening—through surveys, social media, and market data—to understand what people want from their wellness routines. Then we look at where we can deliver real value. Every product we launch has to offer a functional benefit that's easy to understand—whether it's for energy, focus, immunity, or gut health. We also keep a close eye on broader trends and where white space exists. That's what led us to reintroduce Slice—not as just another soda, but as a functional one. We're not chasing trends; we're trying to lead with products that feel fresh but purposeful. Knox: When you think about expanding into a new category, such as natural soda with Slice, how do you decide whether to focus on one brand or spread innovation across your entire portfolio? Stipp: It depends on the role each brand plays. Suja is our powerhouse in cold-pressed juice and green juice, and we're continuing to evolve that space. We just launched a new flavor, Sunrise Greens, designed for people who want the benefits of greens, but prefer a sweeter, more refreshing profile. Vive Organic is our most 'cutting edge' brand—it's all about high-impact shots and potent ingredient combinations. Slice, on the other hand, is about reimagining what soda can be. Each brand has a distinct purpose, and innovation is only successful when it supports that purpose. Knox: You've mentioned that Slice was the first soda with real fruit juice. How did you decide what elements of the heritage you wanted to preserve versus what to change for the relaunch? Stipp: That was a fun challenge. Slice has a lot of nostalgic value, so we knew we had to honor that. But we also wanted to make it modern so we kept the spirit of the brand—the bold flavors and fun personality—but stripped out the stuff today's consumers are avoiding. We added pre-, pro-, and postbiotics, and made sure the sugar and calorie counts were in check. The result is something that feels both familiar and fresh. People tell us it tastes like the soda they remember—but better for them. That's exactly what we were going for, and our trial and repeat purchase rates are already exceeding expectations. Knox: Looking at your second year leading Suja Life, what's next for the business, and what excites you most about the future? Stipp: What excites me most is the momentum we've built. Last year, we leaned hard into becoming a brand-led organization. That meant investing in marketing and storytelling—sometimes before we had the numbers to prove it would work. But now, we're seeing those bets pay off. We have a repeatable model for how we build, launch, and scale our brands, and we're positioned to accelerate. We've laid the foundation, and 2025 is about growth—smarter, faster, and with even more impact. Knox: How do you balance managing a house of brands and ensuring each brand stays true to its core values while also innovating? Stipp: It comes down to clarity and discipline. Each of our brands has its own identity and its own playbook. Suja Organic is about everyday wellness. Vive Organic is about potent, targeted functionality. Slice is soda with benefits. Internally, we make sure each team understands who their consumer is and what their brand stands for. Innovation flows from that foundation—it's not just about launching something new; it's about launching something that feels right for that brand. That alignment keeps us focused and makes sure every product adds real value. Knox: You've mentioned the importance of consumer insights in shaping your innovation strategy. How do you gather and use that data effectively? Stipp: Insights fuel everything we do. We gather feedback through surveys, panels, in-store testing, and social media—then layer that with syndicated data and trend reports. It's not just about listening, but about interpreting. What are people really asking for? What are the gaps in their wellness routines? We use that data to shape the product, the positioning, even the packaging. And we keep listening after launch, which helps us refine and improve. The result is a more meaningful connection with our consumers—and products that meet real needs. Knox: As Suja expands into new categories, what's the biggest challenge you face, and how do you plan to overcome it? Stipp: The biggest challenge is staying focused while growing fast. It's easy to chase opportunities, but harder to say no to things that don't align. We're committed to making thoughtful, strategic moves—expanding only where we can bring something truly better to the table. And we never compromise on our values. That consistency is what keeps consumers coming back and what sets us apart in a crowded space. Our approach is simple: lead with purpose, move with intention, and always listen to the people we serve.
