News Briefs

A new permanent flavor addition is coming to the Dr Pepper family — strawberries and cream.

Featuring the original 23 signature flavors of the brand, this new addition is swirled with layers of strawberry and contains a smooth and creamy finish, the company said.

“Our expert team of flavor scientists are constantly innovating to bring to life new varieties that will surprise and delight treat seekers and our existing dedicated fans,” senior vice president of Dr Pepper brand marketing, John Alvarado said. “Dr Pepper strawberries and cream is an exciting evolution for our brand’s flavor portfolio as it joins our permanent lineup alongside popular varieties such as Dr Pepper and cream soda and Dr Pepper zero sugar. We can't wait for people to try this delicious new treat!”

Dr Pepper strawberries and cream will be available in 12-oz. cans and 20-oz. bottles. In addition, there also will be a zero sugar option for the new flavor available in the same formats.

Gatorade has officially entered the energy drink space.

The company has launched Fast Twitch, a line of beverages that contain 200 mg of caffeine. It was developed in consultation with the NFL and sports performance experts.

Containing electrolytes, including 160 mg of sodium and 50 mg of potassium, Fast Twitch is formulated with vitamins B6 and B12 and does not contain sugar, artificial flavors, or colors.

Available in cool blue, glacier freeze, strawberry watermelon, strawberry lemonade, orange and tropical mango flavors, Fast Twitch is currently available for purchase in a 12-pack that retails for $23.99 or a single 12-oz. bottle for $2.79.

GNC is adding a new Jolly Rancher-inspired flavor to its line of Beyond Raw Lit pre-workout products.

“We’re excited to launch our fifth new flavor with GNC and Beyond Raw,” said Ernie Savo, senior director of global licensing at The Hershey Company. “GNC shoppers and Jolly Rancher enthusiasts share a key product expectation: absurdly bold flavor that trigger the nostalgia of their youth. Jolly Rancher Cherry delivers at GNC and is a great addition to the portfolio.”

Cherry is available in a pre-workout powder and on-the-go pre-workout beverage

“The launch of our Jolly Rancher cherry flavor is our newest collaboration with The Hershey Company,” said Kevin Maloberti, vice president of merchandising at GNC. “Time and again, we’ve seen science-backed formulas with mouth-watering flavors yield both results and connection with our consumers. Our commitment to industry leading flavor innovation, especially when it comes to our anchor brands like Beyond Raw, is a priority and we’re confident Beyond Raw LIT pre-workout in Jolly Rancher Cherry will offer intense energy, endurance, and focus necessary for big training routines.”

Currently, Beyond Raw Lit Jolly Rancher Cherry is available for purchase at GNC locations nationwide and online.

Reese’s is debuting a twist on a classic snack cracker.

The Hershey, Pa.-based company debuted its new Reese’s Dipped Animal Crackers, which blend a nostalgic childhood snack with chocolate and peanut butter.

Featuring bite-sized animal crackers covered in peanut butter and dipped in milk chocolate, each pack contains 13 different animal shapes that range from lions to bears.

“Reese’s Dipped Animal Crackers are sweet and crunchy creating the ultimate snack. They're truly something to howl about,” said Nowell Kahle, manager of snacks and grocery at The Hershey Company.

Consumers can find Reese’s Dipped Animal Crackers available for purchase at retailers nationwide.

A new face is joining the Dark & Lovely family.

Actress Meagan Good has been named the brand’s newest brand ambassador. News of the partnership came on the heels of Dark & Lovely’s Making Bold Moves event, which supports its philanthropic Building Beautiful Futures initiative.

“In a world where Black women are often disregarded, Dark & Lovely has always celebrated us," the actress said. "I’m honored to be partnering with this legendary brand to help embolden Black women to authentically walk in their power, dream big and celebrate who they are.”

Dark & Lovely started Building Beautiful Futures in 2022 to help bring educational and career equity to Black female college students and young professionals. In 2023, the program looks to add additional masterclasses, scholarships, mentorship opportunities and networking events, the company said.

As a brand ambassador, Good will serve as the face of the Fade Resist collection and full product range, as well as spread awareness about Building Beautiful Futures.

Albertsons announced that the payment date for its previously announced $6.85 per common share special dividend, originally scheduled to be paid Nov. 7, 2022, is now going to be paid on Jan. 20, 2023 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on Oct. 24, 2022.

The payment of the special dividend follows the lifting of the temporary restraining order on Jan.17, 2023, by the Supreme Court of the State of Washington. The temporary restraining order had enjoined the company from paying the special dividend.