?? Food for Thought - 5th July 2024

Welcome to this week’s Food For Thought - Fresh F&B Trends and Innovations. I’m Dawn Gribble, your host. I'm on a mission to bring you the latest actionable insights to help you Delight Guests and Drive Growth.?

? Let’s Check In!

?? The New Pepsi Smart Can: A High-Tech Soda Revolution

• Pepsi has unveiled their latest innovation at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity: the Pepsi Smart Can.
• This 16 oz. connected can features a digital screen, movement sensors, and state-of-the-art sound technology, turning it into a high-tech marketing tool.
• Currently only available to early adopters, creatives, and influencers in the sports, gaming, and music space, Pepsi plans to use the cans to engage their fans' passions by offering exclusive assets and experiences through the can. This "CANvas" for self expression allows for unique, high-definition content to be produced. (FC )

?? Popsicle-Inspired Energy Drinks Capture Flavours of Summer

• C4 Energy is collaborating with Popsicle to introduce three new flavours—Cherry, Grape, and Hawaiian Pineapple—capturing the essence of childhood summer treats.
• Each beverage is infused with 200mg of caffeine and CarnoSyn Beta-Alanine, designed to provide an energising boost for summer activities.
• The new flavours offer a blend of sweetness and a frosty finish, evoking memories of classic summer treats while delivering a refreshing and energising experience. (TH )

? Starbucks Joins the Energy Drink Market

• Starbucks has officially joined the energy drink market with the release of their new line, Starbucks Iced Energy Beverages.
• This move was expected due to the booming popularity of energy drinks and the increasing number of restaurants adding them to their menus.
• The line includes three sugar-free options, including a frozen variety exclusively available on the Starbucks app.
• Sales of energy drinks have grown significantly in recent years, with a 73% increase from 2018 to 2023. (RBO )

?? Little Dipper Offers Astrology-Themed Cocktails in NYC

• Last month, two former Tao Group Hospitality employees, Bobby Papachryssanthou and Steven Duran, opened Little Dipper, a unique cocktail bar in Midtown Manhattan. The bar is inspired by astrology and offers ingredient-driven cocktails based on each zodiac sign.
• The menu includes small plates and tableside handroll service. Papachryssanthou and Duran, who previously worked together at Lavo, came together again to open this new venture after working at different restaurants.
• The cocktail program is led by Alyssa Sartor, formerly of August Laura. (RH )

?? Heinz and Wieden & Kennedy London Create 'Every Sauce' Medley

• Heinz UK has just released their highly anticipated "Every Sauce" - a combination of 14 of their most popular sauces.
• Only 100 bottles are available and fans must enter a quiz and raffle to win one (CL )

?? Dunkin' and Mike's Hot Honey Collaborate on Hot Honey Snackin' Bacon

• Dunkin' is partnering with Mike's Hot Honey to offer three new menu items this summer, including a Hot Honey Bacon Sandwich, Hot Honey Bacon Wake-Up Wrap, and Hot Honey Snackin' Bacon.
• These additions mark Dunkin's first new seasoned bacon flavour since 2019 and are exclusive for a limited time. (FB )

?? 5-hour ENERGY Introduces Energising BBQ Sauce

• 5-hour ENERGY Shots has partnered with actor and BBQ pro Brian Baumgartner to create a caffeinated BBQ sauce.
• The sauce, with a Peach Mango flavour and 60 mg of caffeine per serving, is perfect for grilling enthusiasts and beginners alike.
• Instagram and Reddit's r/BBQ community have plenty to say about the new sauce, which is promises to take summer grilling to the next level. (BI )

?? Costa Coffee Launches New Golden Caramel Drinks Range

• Costa Coffee has launched a new Golden Caramel drinks range, available in-stores and via Costa Express machines.
• The range includes a Golden Caramel Latte Macchiato with a dusting of bronze shimmer and salted caramel sauce, as well as a refreshing iced version.
• The drinks are designed to capture the essence of champions and are available now. (RT )

Thank you for subscribing - I hope you enjoyed the newsletter and I look forward to welcoming you back soon! ??

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