Retail Rollouts

Start Right Foods expands into Raley’s Supermarkets

Start Right Foods, co-founded by Clint Matthews and Kyle Rood, has made its protein-packed breakfast options available in Raley’s Supermarkets, reaching a wider audience with its better-for-you waffles and pancake mixes. The brand’s growth in retail distribution is attributed to strategic partnerships with industry leaders like Jon Haduca and Joelle Hoffman.

CVT Soft Serve lands in 300+ Albertsons, Vons, and Andronico’s stores

CVT Soft Serve, founded by Joe Nicchi, has successfully secured placement in over 300 Albertsons, Vons, and Andronico’s locations across California. Known for its nostalgic and high-quality soft-serve ice cream, the brand’s expansion into more retail outlets marks a significant milestone as it brings its signature flavors to a larger customer base.

Myles Comfort Foods partners with Howard University

Myles Comfort Foods, founded by Myles Powell, has entered into a partnership with Howard University, offering students a high-protein, clean-ingredient mac & cheese option on campus. As a Black-owned brand based in the DMV region, this collaboration holds special significance, aligning with the university’s tradition of excellence while providing nutritious comfort food to the Bison community.

New Product Launch

Not Beer debuts three new flavors, ending its ‘Zero Taste Era’

Not Beer, founded by Dillon Dandurand, has introduced three new flavors—Lemon Lime, Black Cherry, and Red White & Blue—available on Amazon and soon to be stocked in retail stores. Previously marketed as a zero-carb, zero-alcohol, zero-taste “beer,” this new lineup signifies the brand’s transition into the “Flavor Era,” bringing natural evolution and excitement to its product range.

Maïzly introduces the first-ever corn-based milk alternative

Maïzly, co-founded by Tim Leclercq and Marcel van der Merwe, is launching its Original and Chocolate flavors in the U.S., marking the debut of the world’s first corn-based milk alternative. Free from dairy, gluten, and major allergens, this sustainable beverage is rich in fiber and developed with a focus on sustainability, offering a new option for plant-based milk enthusiasts.

Free Bird launches Southern Spring Water in sustainable cans

Free Bird, founded by Jay Williams, has introduced its Southern Spring Water, now available for purchase on its website in sustainable 19.2 oz cans. The brand celebrates everyday American heroes while providing a plastic-free alternative to bottled water, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility and customer satisfaction.

Brand Partnerships

AN Supps and Chiquita team up for banana and pineapple sports nutrition

AN Supps, founded by Aaron Heidebreicht, has collaborated with Chiquita to launch a new line of banana- and pineapple-flavored sports nutrition products, exclusively available at The Vitamin Shoppe. This innovative product lineup includes pre-workout powders, hydration drinks, and protein blends, marking Chiquita’s entry into the sports nutrition market with a blend of iconic fruit flavors and functional benefits.

Fishwife x Bixby Chocolate drop a Valentine’s Day gift pack

Fishwife, co-founded by Becca Millstein and Caroline Goldfarb, has partnered with Bixby Chocolate, founded by Kate McAleer, to create a limited-edition Valentine’s Day pack featuring a trio of tinned fish and dark chocolate sardine-shaped treats. This unique collaboration has gained popularity, with 30% of the inventory sold in just two days, showcasing the appeal of seafood and chocolate as a unique and delightful gift.

Acquisitions and Investments

NoBaked launches equity crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine

NoBaked, co-founded by Megan Feeman and Jimmy Feeman, is offering fans the opportunity to invest in its edible cookie dough brand through an equity crowdfunding campaign on StartEngine. As the only edible cookie dough company manufacturing its product in-house, NoBaked aims to expand its operations and strengthen its position in the market through this crowdfunding initiative.

Perfy’s Wefunder campaign fuels rapid retail expansion

Perfy, founded by Vasa Martinez, has initiated a Wefunder campaign to support its functional soda brand’s rapid growth as it secures key retail partnerships. With placements in Safeway NorCal, H-E-B, and 7-Eleven, along with an upcoming new flavor debut at Expo West, Perfy is poised for a successful year in 2025, driven by its innovative product offerings and expanding retail presence.

News to Celebrate

Sarjesa completes reformulation, enters regulatory approval process

Sarjesa, founded by Alexandra Sangster, has completed a significant product reformulation to enhance shelf life and efficacy while maintaining a commitment to ethical ingredient sourcing. With approvals from Health Canada and the FDA on the horizon, the brand is also refining its packaging and customer experience, experiencing strong sales growth in key retail accounts.

Buzzkill Wines wins Silver Medals at San Diego Wine & Spirits Challenge

Buzzkill Wines, founded by Molly Fedick, has been awarded Silver Medals for its non-alcoholic Sparkling Blanc de Blancs and Sauvignon Blanc at the San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge. Competing against traditional alcoholic wines, Buzzkill’s recognition underscores its mission to demonstrate that non-alcoholic wines can compete with the best in the industry.

For more updates and stories in the CPG industry, visit Foodbevy’s website and stay informed about the latest trends and developments.