Scott Graham

Another example of how fast our earth is heating up with far reaching consequences. The Great Barrier Reef is seeing unprecedented coral bleaching and global warming will mean its obliteration. Creative Boardroom: Collaborate4Climate #sustainability #climate change

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Aleh, as you know, I'm a fan... my philosophy on food is 'helping people to prepare delicious, healthy food for all' ... and if it's sustainable, that's a big plus. Planetarians prepares tasty, nutritious and affordable meat alternatives but that sounds kind of yukkie to me, as a chef. I would love if our marketing experts could help come up with a catchy name... for those who haven't tried this product yet-to me, it's very much like polenta that is 'set' in a pan. You can cut it and grill, fry, toast, saute, stir fry, grind it up, etc... add sauces- it's delicious and healthy and affordable. Maybe I watched Jerry Seinfeld's movie, 'Frosted' too many times and loved when they named it Pop Tarts hahaha. ok, marketing experts-this is a contest-who can help with a great name for Planetarians tasty, nutritious and affordable meat alternatives? OR-does it even need a name?

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Instead of always thinking Optimum Nutrition needs to be the "clear winner" in every protein category format for Glanbia Performance Nutrition (GPN), maybe ISOPURE is the better RTD protein beverage offering to compete against the likes of market leaders…Premier Protein, Fairlife/Core Power, and Muscle Milk. But you might be wondering why hasn’t ISOPURE been successful to those massive levels yet after ~26 years in market? - packaging swap needed - marketplace timing patience needed - retail/distribution strategy shift needed - protein technology advancement needed These internal/external factors could be converging together quickly...but will Glanbia be aggressive enough to take full advantage of it? #strategy #trends #markets #fmcg #cpg #sportsnutrition #supplements #protein #beverages #innovation #nutrition #health #wellness #productdevelopment #marketing #retailing #retail #grocery #merchandising #business #businessintelligence #entrepreneurship #consultants

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It's not enough to know what products people are cutting down on; you need to know what they're replacing them with. Prinova's bespoke research has uncovered men's changing attitudes to beverages, creating a North Star for brands to follow as they look to pivot in line with consumer needs. Take a look at the full report below. #WeArePrinova #PrinovaGlobal #Beverages #BeveragesTrends

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👓 Exciting insights from a recent report reveal significant growth opportunities in the plant-based protein market. Despite 54% of consumers being put off plant-based products by concerns over taste and 42% by texture, an impressive 91% of consumers report satisfaction after trying plant-based products. To expand this market further, improving taste and texture, enhancing product placement in stores, and implementing educational initiatives are crucial. For more details on growth in the plant-based space read the full report from Dig Insights and Upsiide: https://lnkd.in/eePGUSXU #plantbased #innovation #consumertrends #cibusnexum

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I am going to say this publicly one time and one time only. Please stop tarnishing the integrity of the CPG industry with rushing products to the market. What I mean by this is lying to customers, followers, influencers etc about your ingredients and nutritional analysis or lack there of. This effects other upcoming entrepreneurs by creating a illusion that the CPG is easier than what it really is. As a black man in this industry I take great offense to this because black owned businesses have to work very hard to get products into retail as it stands. In the past I've been told West Food Brands wasn't professional, however we've never lied to a customer not once especially about testing or ingredients. Come to think of it we've sent customers free products and apologized for any delays or inconvenience on our end. I don't care about your race or sexual orientation just please remember to have integrity in business. Going around lying to customers and followers about your products or ingredients is not cool. If you have not done proper lab testing of your products please take some time to get those things done. You should not be mass promoting on social. This post may come off has harsh but I rather you not lie to a customer, and get sued or worse someone gets sick. The CPG industry is not a get rich quick business it takes time. Any business you start takes time. I have been on LinkedIn more often the last year or so, and have seen many brands just dissappear no Instagram page now or posts on LinkedIn from the founders. The one thing I will tell you about business it's all about integrity and strong business acumen. You can have all the followers/hype you want and be out of business next week. Slow and steady wins the race. #community #engagement #collaboration #blackowned #blackownedbusiness #smallbusiness #customerservice #integrity #followers #development #creativity #mindset #cpg #strategy #operationalplanning #linkedincommunity #collaboration #wealthgap #culturalawarness #diversity #inclusion #financialinclusion

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Fascinating insights from Scott Dicker and Joshua Schall in BevNET's latest issue: protein continues to dominate the beverage space, fueled by health-conscious consumers. Here are some key takeaways: ☘ Plant Protein Powerhouse: The protein beverage market is surging with consumers seeking health benefits. Plant-based protein is a key driver, offering muscle-building and weight-loss potential. 💉 GLP-1 and Protein Synergy: GLP-1 medications for weight management are gaining traction, further boosting demand for protein shakes. Plant protein positions itself well in this growing market. 🍊 What's next for plant protein beverages? I'm excited for the expansion of plant-protein fortification into fruit beverages (PURIS HiLo unlocks this!). Can't wait to see who launches first! #plantprotein #beverageindustry #glp1 #health #wellness https://lnkd.in/gxbjNxec

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Based on our research, few consumers prioritize texture/ touch as a key sense when selecting foods and beverages, but there is plenty of evidence to support the idea that texture is critical in driving satisfaction. On Monday, Mike Kostyo, in his #mondaysparks, shared an ice cream product that came with a gorgeous lattice top and cherry filling that created surprise and delight as well as added texture. When I saw this article from Food Business News (https://lnkd.in/gG3yis98) in one of my morning newsletters, it reminded me of that product. There's no question US food/ beverage manufacturers and operators should be looking more often abroad for trends and inspirations, but I also love rethinking the ice cream experience beyond new mix-ins. Ice cream is beloved and ubiquitous which makes it ripe for a fresh new look and take that not only creates surprise and delight but also keeps consumers engaged and excited. #innovation #trends2024 #newproducts #cpg #icecream #foodandbeverageindustry #foodservice #restaurants #consumerbehavior #consumerinsights #menumattersllc

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🌱 Leading the Plant-Based Revolution: Insights from Voyage Foods' Expansion 🚀💼 With a remarkable $52 million funding round, Voyage Foods is setting a transformative course in the plant-based sector. This expansion reflects a strategic evolution from retail into broader markets, signaling a new era for sustainable food innovations. Strategic Shift and Innovation Voyage's leap beyond initial products showcases a vision for substantial market impact. Their steadfast commitment to quality, sustainability, and nutrition continues to build consumer trust. By innovating and diversifying offerings, Voyage Foods exemplifies how companies can scale and maintain core values. The Role of Strategic Partnerships Adam Maxwell emphasizes the power of strategic alliances to extend reach and enhance operational capabilities. These partnerships are pivotal for scalable solutions that meet evolving consumer needs and sustainability goals. Vision for the Future Voyage Foods is not just growing; it's leading with purpose. Their approach offers a blueprint for industry leaders, proving that innovation coupled with a strong commitment to sustainability can reshape the food industry landscape. As Voyage Foods pioneers new paths, their journey is a masterclass in how visionary leadership and strategic execution can drive meaningful industry transformation. #Leadership #Sustainability #PlantBasedRevolution #FoodInnovation #StrategicGrowth

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Are financial markets missing the value of healthy food is the question on the table? Super interesting report just released from Access to Nutrition Initiative and partners looking at nutrition with respect to financial outcomes in large global food & beverage companies. The conclusion states: Nutrition represents both an investment opportunity and an investment risk, and our analysis - which is based on a sample representing 10% of the market by revenues - suggests that the issue of nutrition would be given a higher priority if there was greater corporate disclosure regarding nutrition. In the 7% of cases where the issue of nutrition was mentioned by both analysts and the company it was because an analyst asked a question and the company responded. In all the other instances where nutrition was mentioned (33% of the calls) it was the company initiating the discussion with no analyst follow-up or questions. The analysis in this report highlights that there is a positive association between healthier food product portfolios and higher margins for companies with broader food portfolios. Companies with narrower food portfolios exhibit the opposite effect with the result that they are more at risk from regulatory changes that could threaten their business models. Even if you aren't a financial analyst reading about EBITDA all day, this is worth a read! #nutrition #health #diet #wellness #food #foodscapefinds Access to report here: https://lnkd.in/gGxJGQEx

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The American Alcohol-Free Spirits Association advocates for non-alcoholic beverage alternatives amidst rising concerns about alcohol abuse in the USA. The impact of alcohol abuse, exacerbated by factors like accessibility and product innovation, has prompted a shift towards non-alcoholic spirits, beer, and wine among younger consumers. Major industry players are investing in these products to cater to a growing demand for healthier beverage options.   However, challenges like limited retail access and potential resistance from traditional alcohol companies pose threats to this emerging trend. The AAFSA's mission is to raise awareness, improve access, and provide support for non-alcoholic beverage manufacturers. By studying the influence of retail marketing on consumer habits and environments, the association aims to promote the adoption of non-alcoholic alternatives and empower consumers to make informed choices.   Stakeholders across the beverage industry play a crucial role in shaping consumer trends, particularly in the context of the 3-Tier distribution system in the USA. Through collaborative efforts, the AAFSA strives to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for non-alcoholic beverage options, ensuring that consumers have access to a diverse range of choices that align with their preferences and health goals. https://lnkd.in/d_9ZXXES

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https://lnkd.in/g9hcdHEc - Amazing spot on post by Keith Nunes - Cost reduction is the No. 1 trend that will influence food and beverage product development in the next 12 to 18 months, according to exclusive research conducted by Food Business News and that will be released later this year. Addressing the sharp rise in ingredient costs over the past few years ranked higher than such longstanding trends as clean label, convenience and health and wellness. This will be particularly vital in the next two quarters to come. There has been a 196% increase in container prices over the past year and a 30% in the past month. The tea leaves say that this trend will continue with container prices landing on $12,000 to $15,000 by September. These are not the rates we saw in 2020 where they were as high at $24,000 but this could add at least $1.00 per KG on top of what you are currently paying. The key is to plan ahead and stock up for 3 month to get you through the end of October where prices will come down slowly and normalize by Q1 2025.

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Being in the business of coffee, I read this article and understand supply and demand of the RTD space. As a registered dietitian, I cringe as once again as business intelligence yields no regard for the health of our younger population. With a plethora of options, the intake of food is seen as a novelty instead of sustenance. The thought and care given are primarily for monetary gain and to appease instead of to nourish, and build the knowledge needed to decipher the difference between food that is good for you, and food that just looks good. When deciding to pursue entrepreneurship in coffee, I didn’t yet know where my dietetic skills would come in to play. But now I see that I am in a unique position as I use my skills often in the development of our products. I am in a position of potential impactful change, producing CPG and RTD for my people, which comes with the thoughtfulness and care of what is needed in our communities to enhance nutritional health, and guidance in order to retrain our tastebuds and our minds so that we can understand what is actually good for us. I don’t believe that the single origins and the pour overs are going anywhere. I also believe convenience is on the fast track. The new wave of ‘coffee culture’ is just emerging and the appreciation without the pretentiousness of coffees from around the world has yet to be Its own spotlight. Coffee Culture is also something that the GenZs are learning to appreciate and adapt as their own. Thankfully I have positioned myself to compete with the businesses that just want to capitalize on the younger generation, as my company has already developed ‘old-school’ CPG single origins and new waves of RTD and flavored syrups that benefit and stimulate the body, the mind, and our tastebuds. A dietetic tip, do not any longer let marketing control what you bring into your home and what you consume into your body. This is one thing I think the GenZs are learning early on. They are learning to read, and to know what it is they are consuming, where it comes from, and how it is prepared. Let’s do the next generation the right way. Stay Dope.

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I'm excited to see SPINS highlighting "sustainability" as a top trend in the snack industry: "Multiple brands are tackling sustainability issues through upcycled food products. Whether the product is in the form of vegetable chips or plant-based jerky, brands are seeking sustainable options for a healthier planet and consumers longer term." It’s crucial to support and promote these sustainable initiatives. Not only do they contribute to environmental conservation, but they also align with the growing consumer demand for healthier, more responsible food choices. The number of Upcycled Certified snacks on shelves is steadily increasing, showing a promising shift towards more sustainable and conscientious consumption. read about more snack trends in Food Business News: https://bit.ly/4a9Lxss #upcycledfood #snacktrends #sustainability Upcycled Food Association Brooke Just

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Insights from Our Investment Trends Poll in the Food and Ingredients Sector We recently polled private equity and venture capital investors to identify investment priorities within the food and ingredients sector for this year. Here are the insightful results: Health and Wellness: 53% Sustainable Packaging and Food Safety Technologies: 19% each Plant-Based Innovations: 8% Analysis: The dominant focus on Health and Wellness highlights a significant consumer shift towards healthier lifestyles, which is reshaping market demands and investment strategies. The strong interest in Sustainable Packaging and Food Safety Technologies reflects increasing consumer and regulatory expectations for sustainability and safety in food products. Interestingly, Plant-Based Innovations received fewer votes, possibly due to market maturity or other emerging opportunities garnering more immediate interest from investors. Strategic Implications: These trends underscore the need for visionary leaders who are adept at navigating these shifts. As an executive search specialist in this sector, I see the critical role of strategic leadership in aligning with these investment trends to drive innovation and market growth. Call to Action: If your company aims to align its leadership with these emerging trends, connect with me. Together, we can ensure your leadership strategy is poised to capitalize on these opportunities, driving your business forward in this dynamic industry. Thank you to everyone who participated and shared your perspectives, helping us chart the course of industry investment.

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"What we do now is good enough..." Well, is it really? Beer glass rinsers were good for their time, because it was the best of what was available to clean bar tools. They were repurposed to clean bar tools because there was a definite need in the market. But when you use equipment for something it was never designed for, you end up with problems. Beer glass rinsers: ❌ are inconsistent ❌ waste a lot of time ❌ require manual operation ❌ only rinse one vessel at a time ❌ do not rinse the outside surfaces of vessels And the list goes on and on. That's why I invented a custom, bespoke solution to clean bar tools. Auto-Rinse™ is everything a beer glass rinser is trying to be: ✅ fast ✅ durable ✅ automatic ✅ easy to clean ✅ rinses 2 tins and a strainer simultaneously And the list goes on and on... If you really want the most efficient way to rinse bar tools, you need to consider Auto-Rinse™ for your operations. Saving seconds per drink build = getting your servers back on the floor so they can sell. Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/et9MuYD #bars #restaurants #cocktails #specialtycoffee #bubbletea

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Constellation Brands Inc. saw its stock climb during premarket trading on Thursday following an upward revision of its adjusted fiscal 2025 profit forecast, surpassing analyst predictions. The company also reported a robust fourth-quarter profit, driven by the stronger-than-anticipated performance of its beer division. CEO Bill Newlands highlighted the beer business's consistent volume growth over 56 quarters, coupled with impressive margins, although wine and spirits sales experienced a decline. https://lnkd.in/ggNU_G9r Constellation Brands Bill Newlands Branded Hospitality Ventures #Technology #Business #Innovation #AI #investing #venturecapital MarketWatch

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How can we progress to the next stage of alternative protein development, ensuring that the products are not only tasty, but also reasonable in cost and available to everyone?    It’s the million-dollar question! I’m looking forward to this year’s Future Food-Tech Alternative Protein where I have the wonderful opportunity to chat about this topic alongside a great lineup of speakers.    If you're heading to the Windy City, let me know what you'd like to hear as we talk about scaling the category. Would love to include your voices and questions!    #CargillInnovates #AlternativeProtein #FutureFoodTech 

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