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NEW YORK — A few months after the split of Kraft Foods into independent, publicly traded companies was announced by the company's chief executive, new details have emerged regarding who will lead the businesses.

Sales of carbonated beverages remain stagnant, but sales of energy drinks, sports drinks and functional waters have seen gains over the last quarter. Sales of ready-to-drink tea and yogurt drinks and smoothies also are segments showing promise.


Consumers have a bottomless appetite for energy drinks; the segment has had double-digit growth quarter after quarter. Low-calorie options sparked renewed interest in sports drinks.


Alkaline batteries are showing tepid growth, and experts expect sales to plunge as much as 3% as fierce competition among manufacturers continues to pressure pricing. More devices are using built-in rechargeable battery systems — another trend hurting primary battery sales.


AYER, Mass. — Two almond beverages from Vitasoy will hit retail this holiday season.

Vitasoy has announced the return of Holly Nog for a limited time and also has introduced a mint chocolate drink that will be available year-round.

"Smart hosts know the best parties serve foods that are tasty and fun, as well as satisfying. Vitasoy's Holly Nog and mint chocolate offer all three," Vitasoy marketing VP Susan Rolnick said. "Their flavors are irresistible, plus they're packed with the complete proteins we need to feel satisfied and full of energy."

Texting and social media have not killed the traditional greeting card business. “Facebook has caused most people to acknowledge more birthdays than ever before, but they aren’t sending fewer cards as a result,” said Susan January, president of the Greeting Card Association and VP of Leanin’ Tree Cards.

Bootlegging, debauching and murdering its way through the second season, HBO’s Prohibition-themed series “Boardwalk Empire” has dramatized an era alien to its viewers but whose vestiges have remained in much of the country.


Dr Pepper Snapple Group recently manned up behind a campaign supporting their action-adventure diet soda for men: Dr Pepper Ten. Drug Store News tapped Eddie Hicks, VP national accounts, to get the low-down.


DSN: Why men? What is the opportunity? 


SUPPLIER NEWS — Kimberly-Clark’s new portable cleaning wipes are designed to eliminate smudges from touchscreen devices. Packaged in resealable pouches, the wipes easily remove fingerprints, makeup, and skin oil and grease; won’t scratch glass surfaces; and virtually are lint-free, Kimberly-Clark said. KimTech* wipes are available in two packs (10 wipes per pack) and three packs (with 20 wipes per pack) for a suggested retail price of $3 and $7.49, respectively.