As 2025 unfolds, the CPG industry continues to see groundbreaking innovations and strategic moves aimed at capturing consumer interest. This week’s stories spotlight new product launches, market expansions, and key trends driving the sector forward. Here’s the latest roundup of impactful developments.
Slice Launches in Select Retailers Nationwide, Ushering in a New Era of Healthy Soda
Slice, a reimagined healthy soda brand, is now available in select retailers across the U.S. The brand’s positioning centers on providing a cleaner alternative to traditional sodas, boasting real fruit juice and lower sugar content. Slice aims to redefine consumer perceptions of soda, targeting health-conscious shoppers with its innovative formula. Slice’s nationwide launch signals growing consumer demand for better-for-you beverage options.
Once Upon a Farm Continues to Innovate With Launch of Kids’ Refrigerated Protein Bar
Known for its fresh and organic offerings, Once Upon a Farm has unveiled a new kids’ refrigerated protein bar. The product is designed to deliver balanced nutrition in a convenient, portable format, reflecting the brand’s mission to support healthier snacking for children. Once Upon a Farm’s protein bar launch highlights the increasing consumer interest in nutrient-rich, kid-friendly snacks.
Throne Sport Coffee Adds New Flavor to Its Functional Cold Brew Lineup
Throne Sport Coffee has expanded its cold brew portfolio with a new flavor, catering to consumers seeking functional benefits in their beverages. The new addition combines enhanced taste with performance-driven ingredients, aligning with the rising demand for beverages that offer both flavor and functionality. Throne’s latest innovation illustrates the continued growth of functional beverages in the CPG market.
Jeni’s Ice Cream Founder Uses Food Waste to Create High-Fiber Snacks
Jeni Britton, founder of Jeni’s Ice Cream, is pioneering a sustainable initiative to tackle food waste. Her new venture involves transforming food byproducts into high-fiber snacks, blending environmental consciousness with culinary creativity. Jeni’s innovative approach represents a growing focus on sustainability within the food and beverage industry.
RECOVER 180° Kicks Off 2025 With Two Mouth-Watering New Flavors
RECOVER 180°, a hydration beverage brand, has started the year with two new flavors aimed at broadening its consumer appeal. These additions build on the brand’s reputation for functional hydration solutions, offering more variety to its loyal customer base. RECOVER 180°’s new flavor launch aligns with the ongoing trend of expanding product lines to meet diverse consumer preferences.
CleanCo US Sales Soar 38% in 2024
CleanCo, a leading non-alcoholic spirits brand, reported a remarkable 38% growth in U.S. sales last year. The surge reflects the rising popularity of low- and no-alcohol beverages, as more consumers prioritize mindful drinking habits. CleanCo’s sales growth highlights the accelerating momentum of this category in the beverage industry.
Implications for the CPG Industry in 2025
The stories from this week reflect a CPG industry prioritizing innovation, sustainability, and health-conscious offerings to stay ahead of shifting consumer demands. Slice’s launch in major retailers and Once Upon a Farm’s kids’ protein bars demonstrate a clear focus on functional and better-for-you products, as brands aim to capture the loyalty of health-conscious families.
Functional beverages continue to lead the charge, with Throne Sport Coffee and RECOVER 180° tapping into consumer interest in multi-purpose drinks. These moves illustrate the broader trend of delivering beverages that not only taste great but also provide tangible health benefits. CleanCo’s impressive sales growth further underscores the growing demand for low- and no-alcohol options, reflecting a shift in drinking habits toward moderation and mindfulness.
Meanwhile, Jeni Britton’s focus on food waste innovation highlights the increasing importance of sustainability as both a business strategy and a value proposition. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, brands that align their products with these priorities will likely see stronger engagement.
Conclusion
Looking ahead, the balance between sustainability, functionality, and health will remain critical for brands striving to thrive in the competitive CPG landscape. These developments are paving the way for a transformative year in consumer goods, with opportunities for companies to innovate and differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace.
