Samantha Adcock

SKU's mentor community has deep experience building brands and disrupting categories, whether that be Matthew OHayer, who upended the egg industry with Vital Farms, or Jeff Richards, who launched Mooala, which has created new innovations within the plant-based milk segment. SKU Fall '24 mentor Jill Talcott  is a passionate food and beverage lover and creator with a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. During her time as a leader in innovation, commercialization and development at Starbucks for over 16 years, working on CPG and food-service projects for the U.S. and International markets. She developed and launched coconut milk to over 15K stores, pioneered the development of alternative milks to replace traditional dairy bases and delivered a breakthrough beverage innovation through a new chocolate strategy. During her time as a leader in innovation and development at Starbucks, Jill is most proud of her work in taking the cold coffee experience to new levels through innovative thought leadership, passion, teamwork, and a devotion to finding solutions. She was the winner of Starbucks' “Trail Blazer” and “Courage” awards for Innovation (championing and driving big ideas to life). As a Food Tech Evangelist at Amazon, Jill developed and trained the team on the product development process and established trained panel to guide rapid product and packaging decision making .   In 2021 she started UpCup Creations, a beverage development consulting firm. She has helped small brands bring numerous products to market from coffee beverages to cocktails in can, and many things in between. Her specialties are beverage innovation, product development, including ingredient sourcing and Commercialization. If you would like to work with passionate founders and rocks stars like Jill, we have a small number of mentor spots left for talented CPG leaders. If you would like to learn more, fill out our Mentor Interest Form and we will schedule an interview. https://lnkd.in/grvpPD8e Michelle Breyer Buff Greebe Maddie S. Brooke Wilson #mentors #mentoring #mentorshipmatters #accelerator #cpgaccelerator #startups #cpgstartups #founders #cpgfounders #entrepreneurship #cpg #cpgs #consumerpackagedgoods #consumerproducts #foodandbeverage #innovation #commercialization #productcreation #productlaunch #coffee #coldbrew #coldcoffee #coffeeinnovation #productinnovation

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Beverage alcohol consumption has undergone significant changes in recent years, influenced heavily by the pandemic and evolving preferences of younger consumers aged 21 and older. I joined Joan Holleran Driggs for an episode of Circana’s Growth Insights podcast to explore these shifts and offer insights into what we can expect for 2024 and beyond. Here are the key takeaways: 🍺 Traditionally, adults aged 21+ started with beer or wine. Now, many young adults are beginning with ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages, particularly spirits-based options. 📉 Despite a plethora of choices, overall beverage alcohol consumption is softening across generations. However, premium beverages are still experiencing growth. 🥤 The appeal of RTD beverage alcohol among younger consumers is largely due to innovative packaging, including on-the-go options like ball form, slim cans, and aseptic packaging. 🥃 Whiskey, tequila, spirits-based RTDs, and imported beer from Mexico continue to drive the beverage alcohol market. Listen to the full episode here: https://lnkd.in/gqRdf9Xd #Circana #BeverageAlcohol #RTD #GenerationalTrends #PremiumBeverages #CircanaGrowthInsights

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Two hot topics within the current beverage alcohol industry are Gen-Z and Ready-to-Drink (RTD). According to Circana’s State of the CPG Beverage Alcohol Industry report, RTD reached $10.3 Billion in 2023. Part of that growth is due to Gen-Z members' strong preference for higher ABV offerings and unique packaging. But what are the top RTD cocktail brands among Gen-Zers according to Circana? 🔥 Buzzballz, LLC / Southern Champion 🎵 BeatBox 🍸 LIQS Cocktail Co. 👑 Crown Royal & Whiskey Cola 🍹 Monaco Cocktails 🥃 Jack Daniel’s & Coca-Cola Read more about the State of the Alcohol Industry here: https://hubs.li/Q02xggvP0 #ReadyToDrink #GenZ #BeverageAlcohol #Circana

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When is it too soon to refresh your brand? While Sweety has only been around in its current state since 2019, we saw how quickly start up brands in CPG have evolved and we wanted to do a better job of telling our family story on pack. Sweety's #rebrand has been in the works for well over a year - and has been a labor of love for me personally and professionally. For those who know me, my past jobs have been strategic, quantitative, analytical...but never creative or artistic. Stepping into #entrepreneurship has meant that I wear a lot of hats, and the one that has surprised me the most in how much I enjoy it is that of a creative leader. I wanted to make sure we had the right partner in place to guide us in this journey, and manifest our brand vision into reality. I researched brands I loved and which agency did their branding work. After many agency interviews, we found Chase Design Group. The team, comprised of Paula Hansanugrum, Annie Dodge, Ryan Doro, Elisabeth O'Brien, Narae Park and John Tanner is like family to us now. We loved loved loved working with them, and they were so respectful of our wants, desires, our family history, while bringing in such creative ideas and knowledge about how to highlight products in store to the table. They really did a phenomenal job of bringing the fun, joy, family, heritage and shelf appeal to our brand. Oh they may have done Haagen-Dazs rebrand recently - so we know we're in good company. And now the feather in our cap is a feature by Dieline....if you asked Stacey and I, a sure sign that we've done it right? It would be an article like this about the rebrand. So now the rebrand is in the world - and I can't wait to see it in the wild (along with that childhood picture of the 3 of us). #aapimonth #foodandbeverage #design #branding

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Today’s food & beverage market is as competitive as ever. More brands, with more ways to access those brands, equals more choices for consumers and more competition for producers. Contract manufacturing is a viable option for brands to flourish in this volatile market. Learn about some of the benefits of having an effective food contract manufacturer and what to consider when selecting a contract manufacturing company. https://lnkd.in/e9Ck5mUe

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Restaurants for months have said menu prices in California would rise as the state raised the minimum wage for fast-food workers. Now they are following through. Consumers picking up burgers, burritos and chicken sandwiches at chains in the Golden State are grappling with prices that for months have been rising at a faster clip than in other states, according to market-research firm Datassential.  Since September, when California moved to require large fast-food chains to bump up their minimum hourly pay to $20 in April, fast-food and fast-casual restaurants in California have increased prices by 10% overall, outpacing all other states, the firm found in an analysis of thousands of restaurants across 70 large chains. In Los Angeles on a recent April afternoon, Seth Amitin, a 39-year-old therapist, said his usual $16 meal that he picks up weekly at the Chick-fil-A in Hollywood, Calif., now costs $20. The price for a spicy chicken sandwich at that location had gone up to $7.09 from $6.29, or 13%, since mid-February, according to research by Gordon Haskett Research Advisors. Chick-fil-A’s prices increased 10.6% on average in California during that time period, Gordon Haskett found.  #inflation Heather Haddon Gordon Haskett Research Advisors Datassential

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Introducing the evolution of Quarter Proof: Reengineering traditional spirits for modern drinkers. We're thrilled to unveil our rebrand, marking a significant step in our mission to create a new model of alcohol consumption. At Quarter Proof, we're not just evolving our brand - we're ushering in a new era: Spirits 3.0. Let's take a moment to reflect on the journey of spirits: Spirits 1.0 dates back to c. 7000 B.C. in China with a fermented beverage made of wild grapes, hawthorn, rice, and honey. By the 18th century, distillation techniques had advanced significantly around the world, leading to the creation of iconic spirits like gin and bourbon. Spirits 2.0 emerged in the 21st century with the rise of non-alcoholic alternatives. The global non-alcoholic spirits market was valued at £227 million in 2021 and is projected to reach £503 million by 2031, reflecting a growing demand for alcohol-free options. Spirits 3.0, introduced by Quarter Proof. A revolution that combines the best of both worlds. Our innovative fractionation technology allows us to deliver the full flavour and experience of traditional spirits at only 15% ABV. So, between all-or-nothing, we’ve created a third way of drinking: an antidote to the idea that moderation is something to be endured, not enjoyed. Quarter Proof represents the convergence of luxury and functionality.  We're challenging the outdated norms of high-ABV spirits, offering a comprehensive range that includes our Blanco Agave  and London Dry, as well as two new spirits already in the works (first one dropping June 17th, mark your calendars!) Based on human fundamentals, as opposed to the rules around it, Quarter Proof provides the freedom to enjoy premium spirits on your own terms and without compromise. Join us in redefining the future of spirits. Quarter Proof: Same pleasure. More freedom. #FutureOfSpirits #MindfulDrinking #LuxuryWithPurpose

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Occasion based marketing for beverages is not a new phenominum. We just have to go back over the catalogue of historic Coca Cola ads to see how leveraging occasions has been used for decades to drive increased sales and margins for all members of the Coca Cola value chain.  “Refreshment on the Go”, “Stock Up for the holidays”, “makes food taste better”, “easy hospitality”, “Refreshing vacations” are just of few of Coca Cola’s occasion based propositions. It’s been the Coca Cola way for generations, and the basic principles from yesteryear, are still applied today. In fact, for the Coca Cola system, Occasions sit at the heart of their marketing DNA. They call it the OBPPC (Occasion, Brand, Pack, Price, Channel) process and it’s a critical element of their overall marketing. Coca Cola ensures that for each occasion, they clearly define the optimal brands to be sold, in the most appropriate packages, at the right prices, in the target channels to sell more products, at higher prices. They use occasions to pro-actively change the market dynamics in their favour by shifting the demand curve for beverages rather than simply moving along it to where the market takes them. DM me to learn more about how you can use Growth Scope to unlock your liquor market growth agenda by unlocking consumption occasions.

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We're witnessing the democratization of high-quality cocktails. Is this even a hot take?🔥 The surge in RTD cocktails and "Beyond Beer" beverages isn't just about convenience or flavor variety—it's a strategic response to a seismic shift in drinking culture. Younger consumers are redefining what it means to enjoy a drink, prioritizing premium experiences without the hassle. This trend pressures traditional beer and spirits brands to innovate or risk obsolescence. Brands must evolve rapidly or be left behind in a market that craves instant, yet sophisticated, gratification. Are you ready for the future of drinking? #Innovation #BeverageIndustry #RTDCocktails #GenZ #Millennials #MarketTrends

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Politics aside, I think we can all agree that WAY too many direct CPG brands are reeling right now 😥 And it’s truly sad as the founders have put their🩸, sweat and tears into these businesses, which now have: 🏪 Strong retail distribution 🥫 Unique products with true-ish differentiation 😋 Great flavor profile and hedonics 🌀 Relevant and well designed branding 💲 Price points that align with target audience So why are they failing? Three major reasons that I’m seeing: 1) Lack of investor commitment:  Previous standbys in the Food/Bev VC space have not secured new funding or now have alligator-arms when reaching for more funding as they have been ‘burned’ by this category.  So financing has to be more creative and linked to specific milestones.  2) MVPs don’t work in food:  Those who come into the industry hoping to create and launch a ‘minimally viable product’, and then upgrade regularly in the future like they do in tech, are quickly realizing that is not possible.  The regulatory environment, manufacturing, and retail make that much more difficult in this category.  And if you launch a brand that doesn’t do well, consumers and retailers won’t take another look when you upgrade it! 3) Supply chain costs are crazy:  Ingredient costs are increasing weekly for certain raws (e.g. organic cacao), strength of third-party manufacturers (who have full production schedules) and their ability to flex pricing and schedule are impacting businesses, and transportation costs have increased to get products to the end consumer. I’m sure in the future we’ll look back at this period as one of creative survival, innovation, and collaboration, but right now it just sucks 👎 for so many brands and businesses out there and I feel for you. If you are one of these brands or know of one, feel free to reach out 📲 to see if the folks here at Palm Venture Studios would want to take a look.

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This is an interesting article, although I don't think Kellanova and WK Kellogg are really on different paths as implied. The ban of Red 3 in California is a de-facto national ban since it is not possible for major food retailers to segregate what they sell in each State. Consumer Brands Association is right that the patchwork approach is going to lead to potential chaos. At Sensient, we are working brands who want to prepare for potential changes to other colors, while providing safe synthetic and natural colors. https://lnkd.in/gu-CHAKh

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🍦 Consumers are saying “yes, and” to dairy in all its forms. From the traditional options to plant-based, next-generation innovations, and beyond, today’s broader dairy category has something for everyone. ➡️ Download our latest dairy insights and get the scoop on what’s driving dairy and dairy alternative purchases: https://bit.ly/4dbeoPE

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I'm excited and honored to have joined Perceptual Advisors as Managing Director, CPG/Food & Beverage Practice. I'm leading our global efforts to support brands in these growth categories that are projected to surpass $11 trillion globally by 2030. Since the announcement was published, here are the top questions people have asked me: Who is Perceptual Advisors? We're a unique communications, marketing, and public affairs firm with a team of more than 50 professionals around the globe all of whom have served in senior roles with iconic companies, in government, and with leading marketing & comms agencies. Why did I drink the PA Kool-Aid?  In short, it's because of the people and the value proposition we offer our clients. Those of us (like me) that have ample experience both on the in-house/brand and agency side can appreciate how compelling it is. People: Our team includes former senior executives across the globe from eBay, Visa, Tesla, AT&T, Aston Martin, Crispin Porter Bogusky, Burson Marsteller, Rolex, Proctor & Gamble, the U.S. Congress, and many more. They've successfully managed campaigns for companies like Facebook, AT&T, IBM, Ferrari, FedEx, HP, Unilever, Metlife, Mondelez, Symantec, Burger King, Allergan, SoftBank, Ford, and the list goes on. Value proposition that sets Perceptual Advisors apart: - Unparalleled Access to talent & capabilities: C-suite level professionals across industries, geographies and marketing/comms disciplines - All-senior team: No hand-offs to inexperienced staffers handling your business. - Hands-on approach: From strategy to execution, our entire senior-level team actually does the work. - Deep experience: Our team has successfully dealt with nearly every type of issue, challenge and opportunity CPG, F&B and most industries are moving at breakneck speed and facing unprecedented changes. We have a lean, agile and smart team of experts that deliver a strong ROI and successful outcomes quickly, efficiently and cost-effectively. Sound good? Reach out to me to catch-up and chat about how Perceptual Advisors can help you tackle some of your pain points and/or opportunities. Talk soon. #problemsolvers #allseniorteamallthetime #perceptualadvisors #opentowork #Food&Beverage #CPG

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‘Retail media has changed completely’: The Mars Agency’s Katrina Smart on self-serve, off-site and what’s next >> Smart is Commerce Media Director, Europe, at The Mars Agency, and has a decade of experience in retail strategy and media planning. We caught up to get an insider’s view on just how much commerce media has changed in the last two years, and to get the lowdown on how advertisers should approach self-serve retail media platforms, off-site media, and rising complexity.

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We went to the #PlantedExpo2024 in Vancouver this past weekend and here's are some of my initial takeaways: 👉 Sampling is great, take home samples are even better. While I maneuvered my way from booth to booth, stuffing my face with free samples, I can barely remember any of the brand names. So if you're trying to get 'liquid to lips' or 'samples to mouths', people need to remember you. As a CPG owner, you're not there for fun. You're there to win customers. A takeaway sample allows a customer to have a better shot of remembering your name and logo, and more importantly, become a repeat customer. If they don't have a takeaway, there's a really good chance they've already forgotten about you the second they walk away. 👉 Have the right staff working the booths. If you are not outgoing and love people, maybe it would be best to have a more behind-the-scenes role. Friendly, social people work wonders for brand loyalty. We saw a lot of founders working the booth who seemed like they didn't want to be there. No smile, no chat, not asking questions about their product, not trying to build a relationship... I get it, when it's busy, it's not always possible, but there were many occasions when I was the only one there and they didn't seem to try to win me over. 👉 Customers are judging your entire presentation. Your booth, your packaging, your staff, your attire, your posters, your sample sizes... everything should be well thought-out and executed at a high level. I get it - margins are super slim with CPG and running an event is probably stretching your budget. If you can't afford to be there, then don't go. Large samples go a long way. Production value goes a long way. Professionalism goes a long way. 👉 Have an incentive to purchase People LOVE a deal. We noticed the prices were not visibly displayed nor deeply discounted. Have a discount structure that encourages people to increase their order value (e.g. 1 for 10, 2 for 15, 3 for 18). Is your goal to turn a profit, or to win loyal customers? I think it's better to have a great deal, have people fall in love with your product, and become repeat customers. 👉 Coupons are a cost-effective way to offer samples. You need a way for people to find your product after the expo. Driving DTC sales can be a great way to have brand recall and loyalty. If they don't need or want your sample, no worries, all it cost you was the price of printing a coupon. 👉 Have incentive to collect emails. This is related to the last two points. At this stage, your product is probably not that easy to find in stores. Emails and DTC are a way to build a relationship with your audience and to circumvent getting on store shelves and paying costly fees. We saw giveaways that encouraged visitors to provide their email address and thought that was smart. Did you go to the expo? If so, what were some of your takeaways? ##PlantedExpo #branding #marketing #vancouver

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Chipotle Mexican Grill - Anamoly in this economy even with continued price increases and hardly any innovation (they once showed a spicy chocolate shake in one of their documents a long long time ago). Stock is +30% YTD and +60% past year....... comps +5%, transactions +3% and avg check +2% "Chipotle has become the rare restaurant chain to report rising transactions despite higher menu prices. The company once again raised its prices in October, citing inflation. Others in the restaurant industry have turned to limited-time offers and deals to appeal to customers, particularly those with lower incomes." https://lnkd.in/gXuVhgUn

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As promised… Yuval Selik has treated me like royalty this week and I’m super appreciative. We spent about an hour together talking about so many things. I can’t thank him enough for his kindness, sincerity, and friendship. I hope you’ll give the show a listen…and not just my episode but all of them! Link in comments. #workwithwade #cpg #sales #retail #grocery #crawlwalkrun

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As orange juice prices remain record-high, consumers are turning to alternative options for their morning fruit intake 🍊I recently had the opportunity to discuss this trend with The Associated Press, exploring how producers can stand out and keep consumers engaged. Read the full article, “High Orange Juice Prices May Be On The Table For A While Due To Disease And Extreme Weather,” here: https://lnkd.in/gFxBDq56

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