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Danek spoke about how she grew into the role of CEO of Humm and the most important thing she learned along the way. She also explained why launching the brand during a recession actually worked, discussed the importance of Bend, Ore. to the company, and how relationships were key to its landmark deal with Target, one that made Humm just the second national kombucha brand.
Aloha, a brand of organic, plant-based protein bars and powders, was on the brink of saying goodbye to the market. In an interview, we spoke with Aloha CEO Brad Charron about how he developed and executed a turnaround for the brand after joining the company in 2017, and why addressing issues with company culture was critical to his mission. We also meet with Dean Eberhardt and Andrew Markley, the co-founders of HopTea, who were victorious in BevNET Live’s New Beverage Showdown 16.
Dawes joined Taste Radio for a conversation chronicling her entrepreneurial journey, from childhood to her decision to launch Late July Snacks to its eventual sale. She also explained why staying independent early on and maintaining voting control of her company saved it from potential downfall and told a remarkable story about her first sales call.
Exploring the evolving market for food and beverage in the U.K. from the perspective of two London-based entrepreneurs: Jarr Kombucha co-founder Adam Vanni and Moju Drinks co-founder Rich Goldsmith. Also in this episode: the hosts discussed notable moments and presentations from day one of BevNET Live Winter 2018
Adam Lowry explored the development of both Method and Ripple and how lessons from the former factored into the foundation for the latter. He also shared his perspective on how the funding environment for CPG brands has changed, why it was important to hire a CEO early into Method’s life cycle, discussed Ripple’s mission and its innovative technology, and why he believes that “raising money is not an indicator of success.”
Beanfields CEO Arnold Ventura explores the development of his professional life amid the rapidly evolving food and beverage industries and how lessons gleaned from each role have molded his perspective on business and his leadership style.
AriZona co-founder/chairman Don Vultaggio discussed how his experience as a beer distributor paved the way for the development and stunning rise of AriZona. He also explained how the company has maintained its iconic 99 cent pricing model for 26 years, why he views AriZona as “one big incubator,” and why running a business means handling all kinds of problems, even if it means mopping up blood.
How Barnana Co-Founder/CMO Nik Ingersöll makes ugly bananas look amazing; also featured: an exploration into the brain-boosting business of nootropic beverages and why CBD drink brands might find a friendly bill coming their way.
At the helm of a brand with nearly $180 million in annual retail sales, Essentia founder Ken Uptain explained why timing has been so critical to success. He also spoke about his leadership style, why all potential employees have to pass “Ken’s Good Guy Test,” and the one thing he’ll never share with his team.
Ugly Drinks co-founders Hugh Thomas and Joe Benn discussed growth planning for both the U.S. and U.K. markets, how the perspective of Ugly as a “digital brand” has shaped its overall business strategy, and how its loyal consumers -- aka the “Ugly Mob” -- have enabled the company to rapidly iterate and innovate.