Bachans Japanese Sauces Bachans Japanese Sauces

CPG Industry News Roundup: August 23rd - August 29th

In this week’s roundup, we’re spotlighting the latest CPG industry trends, from new product innovations to bold business strategies. Check out some of the top stories from this week:

Bachans Japanese Sauces

Bachan’s Expands with Japanese Dipping Sauces

Bachan’s has launched a new line of Japanese dipping sauces, adding to their popular range of condiments. These sauces are designed to bring authentic Japanese flavors to everyday meals, targeting consumers who enjoy versatile and easy-to-use products in their kitchens. With flavors inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine, Bachan’s aims to elevate the at-home dining experience, positioning itself further in the premium sauce market. The move aligns with current trends favoring unique and culturally diverse food options, meeting consumer demand for globally inspired flavors.

Next Gen Pet Food

Big Idea Ventures Partners for Next-Gen Pet Food Innovation

Big Idea Ventures is collaborating with industry players to drive innovation in the pet food market. The program focuses on developing next-generation products featuring sustainable and alternative protein sources, reflecting a growing trend toward eco-friendly pet care solutions. This initiative not only aims to cater to conscious pet owners but also aligns with broader sustainability goals in the CPG sector. As consumer demand for transparency and sustainable practices rises, such partnerships highlight the industry’s commitment to advancing pet nutrition through innovation.

American Whiskey iStock 1320844782

Whiskey Dominates U.S. On-Trade Market

Whiskey continues to lead the U.S. on-trade sector, with growth driven by a surge in consumer interest in premium spirits. This trend reflects a broader shift towards quality over quantity, as consumers are increasingly seeking sophisticated drinking experiences. The rise in whiskey sales underscores a robust demand for classic and innovative whiskey brands alike, making it a key segment for future growth in the spirits industry. The ongoing popularity of whiskey cocktails and neat servings positions it as a staple in bars and restaurants nationwide.

Stuffed Puffs Lead

Mount Franklin Foods Acquires Marshmallow Manufacturer

Mount Franklin Foods has acquired a filled marshmallow manufacturer, marking its entry into the marshmallow category. This acquisition expands Mount Franklin’s confectionery portfolio, enabling the company to diversify its product offerings and enter new market segments. The move is part of a broader strategy to enhance its position in the sweets industry by tapping into growing consumer demand for unique and nostalgic treats. By integrating filled marshmallows into its lineup, Mount Franklin aims to capture a share of the lucrative and evolving confectionery market.

Avvika Energy

Avvika Unveils Caffeine-Free Energy Drink

Avvika has launched a new caffeine-free energy drink, setting itself apart in the crowded energy beverage market. This product features natural ingredients designed to provide a clean and sustained energy boost without the jitters associated with caffeine. Avvika’s innovation addresses a gap in the market for those seeking an energy drink alternative that aligns with a health-conscious lifestyle. By offering a unique approach to energy beverages, Avvika is positioned to attract consumers looking for novel, functional drinks that support wellness and vitality.

Broader Implications for the CPG Industry

Innovative Flavors and Cultural Integration

Bachan’s launch of Japanese dipping sauces highlights the growing consumer interest in diverse, globally-inspired flavors. As companies continue to introduce authentic international products, this trend signals an increasing demand for cultural integration in the food sector, pushing brands to innovate beyond traditional offerings.

Sustainability and Alternative Proteins in Pet Food

The partnership between Big Idea Ventures and industry players to innovate pet food underscores a broader shift towards sustainability and alternative proteins. This mirrors the human food market’s evolution, indicating that consumers’ values are extending to pet care, driving demand for eco-friendly options.

Premium Spirits Continue to Dominate

The sustained growth of whiskey in the U.S. on-trade market reflects a consumer shift towards premiumization and the appeal of sophisticated, higher-end products. This trend emphasizes the importance of quality and heritage in branding, as consumers increasingly seek luxury experiences even in their everyday choices.

Expanding Product Portfolios through Acquisitions

Mount Franklin Foods’ acquisition of a filled marshmallow manufacturer illustrates the ongoing strategy of diversifying product portfolios through acquisitions. This move enables companies to enter niche markets and capitalize on emerging consumer preferences for unique, indulgent treats, highlighting the role of M&A in shaping the competitive landscape.

Health-Conscious Innovations in Beverages

Avvika’s caffeine-free energy drink launch reflects the evolving consumer demand for health-conscious beverage options. This innovation caters to a growing segment of consumers seeking energy without the typical caffeine crash, signaling a broader trend towards functional, wellness-oriented drinks in the CPG sector.

The CPG industry continues to evolve with cultural integration, sustainability, premiumization, strategic acquisitions, and health-focused innovations driving growth. Brands that embrace these trends and adapt to changing consumer preferences will lead the next wave of industry evolution. Stay tuned for more updates in our next weekly news roundup!

Our Impact

In 1995, our founders embarked on a journey that would disrupt the status quo of the executive recruiting industry. We have been transforming companies and lives ever since.

Frame 1000004239-May-16-2024-12-16-32-9170-PM

9,395

First Round Interviews

Frame 1000004239-May-16-2024-12-17-23-0672-PM

3,000+

Total Placements

Frame 1000004239-May-16-2024-12-18-06-3937-PM

47%

Diversity Placements

Frame 1000004239-May-16-2024-12-18-38-1485-PM

$700M

Economic Impact

zz-logo

Brent Albertson

CEO, Zing Zang LLC

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“ Our experience with Protis Global has been very positive. They have strong multi-industry CPG experience and understand our business model and standards. They know the difference between an “A-player” and a “B-player” in several functions, and the honesty around that standard helps us move faster. Mike and team set up a great process, especially in early canvassing and vetting that helps our leaders engage at the right time and make decisions fast. ”

mark-anthony-brewing-1-1

Colin Nolan

Executive Vice President, Mark Anthony Brewing Inc.

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“Protis Global’s approach to talent acquisition is marked by diligence, transparency, and a genuine dedication to client satisfaction. Their strategic insights and personalized service have made a substantial impact on our organization, ensuring that we always have the best professionals driving our initiatives forward. The team at Protis Global demonstrates a keen ability to identify individuals who not only possess the requisite skills but also align seamlessly with our company culture.”

Glass_House_Brands_Inc__Glass_House_Brands_Reports_Record_Second

Hilal Tabsh

Chief Revenue Officer, Glass House Brands

Cannabis
Cannabis

“Over the last 10+ years my experience with Michael Bitar and the Protis Global team has been exceptional across multiple industries. Michael and his team work to get to the true needs of my hiring plan and partner with us throughout the process. They understand our business, company culture, what success looks like, and then propose candidates that will produce results while also fitting into our team dynamic. Overall it’s a great team and experience and I would recommend to anyone looking to hire top-notch quality candidates reach out to Protis Global and Michael Bitar.”

bespoke-logo

Peter Iglesias

Chief Executive Officer, Bespoken Spirits

Beer, Wine, & Spirits
Beer, Wine, & Spirits

“I highly recommend Protis Global as a top-notch recruiting agency. I have had the pleasure of working with them for the past 15 years, both as a candidate and employer in the Spirits and Wine industry. In my 25 years of experience, I have found Protis Global to be the most efficient and effective recruiting agency I have ever dealt with. Protis Global has consistently come through for me in the clutch, providing exceptional professionalism and execution in job searches and placements. Their dedication to finding the right fit for both candidates and employers sets them apart from other agencies. I have always been impressed by their ability to understand the needs of both parties and successfully connect them in a timely manner.”

Zevia new logo

Soley Van Lokeren

SVP, People

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“I have been in the field of human resources for over thirty years, in executive level roles both in-house and in outsourced positions. Michael Bitar is my favorite talent acquisition professional with which I have ever worked. He cares deeply about building a relationship with his clients, learning their business, culture, challenges, and truly understanding the needs of a role requisition. His approach is mirrored by the rest of the Protis team, who are courteous, thorough, and who make you feel like you are their only client. Protis successfully delivered hires for our Chief Commercial Officer role and for three key challenging roles (in both Marketing and Sales). They are simply – the best!”

vitamin_logo-4

Brian Kuz

Chief Sales Officer

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

“Protis is unique in their go-to-market strategy in that they not only find the right candidate for the role, but they find the right opportunity and company for the candidate. Protis Global looks for people who are ready to make a change...I will continue to recommend Protis Global as one of the best placement agencies in the World, as I have worked on every continent and have dealt with the big executive placement firms and the boutique ones. Protis shines above all, and as long as I am hiring, I will continue to go to Protis Global first, if not exclusively.”

poppi-testimonial

Chris Hall

CEO, poppi

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“Partnering with Protis Global has been a game-changer for poppi. They understood our vision and the unique challenges we faced as a rapidly growing brand. Their expertise in executive search helped us find the right leaders who not only fit our culture but also brought the skills and passion needed to drive accelerated growth. The Protis Global team actively took our feedback and adapted the search so that we could focus on what we do best – creating innovative, healthy beverages that our customers love. They’ve truly become an extension of our team, and we couldn’t imagine achieving our success without the team members they helped us to bring aboard.”

spindrift-logo

Chad Palma

President of Sales, Spindrift

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

“Michael Bitar and the Protis team have been such a pleasure to work with over the years. Not only do they do amazing work with recruiting but we have also developed a partnership between our two companies. Michael and his team provide a crucial role in reviewing my hiring needs at the beginning of each year. Once the review is complete, Michael begins searching for quality candidates that fit the role and culture for Spindrift. He and his team do an outstanding job of finding the right candidates for the position in need. I highly recommend Michael and the Protis team for your hiring needs.”

mark-anthony-brewing-1-1

John Sacksteder

President, Mark Anthony Brewing Inc

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“From the start, the relationship with Protis Global was different than other recruiting firms.  The team had a deeper level of commitment and desire to learn about our business than I had experienced with other firms. Our company was experiencing a time of exponential growth and our staffing needs were complex. We needed very experienced people across every possible function in the Operation and Supply Chain Teams and we needed them in a hurry. The Protis Global Team mobilized quickly and established a methodology to identify strong candidates and work them through the interview process in a professional and timely manner. Their grit, determination, understanding our needs and culture, sense of urgency and drive to exceed our expectations set them apart from the pack.”

arla-testimonial

Kathleen Hutchison

Senior National Account Manager at Arla Foods

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

Kayla was awesome and very thorough in her vetting of candidates. She understood our brief as we were looking for candidates and helped to weed through those who were not a good fit for the role. 

ijw-testimonial

Thomas Frisch

Chief People Officer at IJW Whiskey

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

“The team worked quickly and efficiently to find a unique position.”

lallemand-testimonial

Kim Nguyen

VP of Supply Chain at Lallemand

Beer, Wine & Spirits
Beer, Wine & Spirits

Everyone involved was extremely helpful - Gary, Michael, Ben - thank you!! The team didn't only search for candidates based on the job description, but also the qualities that I look for in candidates. 

poppi-testimonial

Shashank Gaur

VP of Product Technology & Innovation

Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages

The interview process was smooth and extremely professional. Ben and team represented me as much as they represented the company. 

arla-testimonial

Jeremy Schulman

Regional Business Manager - Foodservice

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

Consistent communication, updates, and detailed knowledge of the client. The whole experience was top notch!

coppali-testimonail

Blake T. Bermingham

Supply Chain Manager

Beer, Wine, & Spirits
Beer, Wine, & Spirits

Very simplistic process finding the right role for the right candidate...keep up the great work! 

arla-logo

Don Stohrer Jr.

CEO, Arla Foods USA

Food & Snacks
Food & Snacks

“We’ve been a Protis Global client for eight years, and during this time have always appreciated the thoroughness of the recruitment process, as the candidates brought to us have been well-vetted, not only from a competency perspective, but more importantly from a [cultural] fit dynamic. Mike and the team have always been highly engaged to ensure they bring us candidates that match our culture. That’s been critical to the success of the candidates that have landed here by way of our relationship with Protis.”

Need Top CPG Talent?

Whether you're hiring or job-seeking, we've got you covered.