Center Store

Smart container shakes up its functionality
PITTSBURGH — SmartShake started in 2009 as a solution for gym users and bodybuilders, offering them a leak-proof, nontoxic way to carry and prepare protein powders and shakes. Today, as well as a shaker cup, SmartShake is used as a lunch box, water bottle, snack box, coffee cup, etc. SmartShake is available in a range of sizes, models and colors. The shaker cups feature compartments that store powder, pills, snacks or other items. The patented Snap-On strainer will mix powdered drinks, sauces and dressings.
Healthy juice drinks drive dollar growth
While price, taste and convenience continue to be key influencers of food-shopping behavior, U.S. consumers are increasingly prioritizing health and wellness in their decision-making, and this is especially true when it comes to beverages.

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Anheuser-Busch brews bold cherry cola

ST. LOUIS — Anheuser-Busch recently launched Best Damn Cherry Cola, the second national offering from Best Damn Brewing Co. According to the company, Best Damn Cherry Cola is aged on whole cherries after brewing for a harder take on the timeless taste of cherry cola. “Best Damn Cherry Cola continues to build our portfolio of bold, approachable and down-to-earth beers,” said Rash-mi Patel, VP share of throat, Anheuser-Busch.
Paperchase to launch holiday ‘pop-up’ stores in U.S.

AUSTIN, Texas -- British greeting card and stationery retailer Paperchase plans to open its first pop-ups in the U.S. market just in time for Christmas.

Paperchase is famous in London for its distinctive Holiday collections, which will be showcased in the five pop-up stores.

The Paperchase pop-up stores will be located across the U.S.:
Report: Anheuser-Busch CEO talks possible Coca-Cola acquisition

Sources have told the U.K.'s Sunday Telegraph that Anheuser-Busch InBev could buy Coca-Cola soon.

The Telegraph reports that Anheuser-Busch InBev CEO Carlos Brito has acknowledged that it's looking at beverage targets outside of beer.

Anheuser-Busch InBev has been on a buying spree in recent years, buying rival SABMiller and small craft brewers including Goose Island, Blue Point, Elysian, Golden Road and Karbach.
More natural -- and Kosher -- consumables coming to the frozen food aisle

MIFFLINTOWN, Pa.-- A U.S. kosher poultry company is doubling down on consumer appetites for products with clean ingredients by launching a whole new line of natural foods.

Empire Kosher Poultry will launch a new lineup of natural (minimally processed, no artificial ingredients) products from poultry humanely raised on family farms without antibiotics debuting at Kosherfest 2016, the world's biggest event for kosher business to be held Nov. 15-16 at the Meadowlands in New Jersey.
Mondelez International makes Oreo chocolate bars a reality in U.S.

EAST HANOVER, N.J. -- Mondelez International is joining together two popular candy brands into one candy bar.

Mondelez's new Milka OREO Chocolate Candy Bars combine two of the world's most iconic brands: OREO cookies and Milka European chocolate candy, the No. 1 chocolate candy in Europe. The new chocolate candy bar line comes in an assortment of different formats, all of which feature bits of OREO cookies and vanilla creme filling alongside Milka's European chocolate candy.
Febreze unveils funny Christmas campaign with Doug E. Fresh

CINCINNATI -- Febreze is taking an old-school approach to its holiday marketing by releasing the second installment of “The #12Stinks of Christmas" with iconic hip-hop artist Doug E. Fresh.
Kroger raises more than $3 million for USO
Bai Brands unveils the next generation of carbonated drinks

HAMILTON, N.J. -- Innovative beverage company Bai Brands is launching a line of carbonated beverages with traditional soda flavors but also clean ingredients.

Available nationwide in January, the new Bai Brands Black lineup includes Kohala Kola, Simbu Citrus, Rioja Root Beer, Jambi Ginger Ale and Colombia Cream.