The Beverage Buyer's Guide 2022

This

No Ordinary Ice Tea indeed.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

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copies are also available.

Beverage Sector Pushing the Boundaries

INNOVATIVE ALCOHOL FLAVOURS,

low and no non-alcoholic, including mocktails and mixes, are the trends to watch for 2023.

From hybrid beverages, which include indigenous flavours such as Kawakawa, to variations on coffee formats and flavours, the beverage sector is pushing the boundaries as we approach 2023. Plant-based and dairy-free alternatives, sugar reduction, low and no all have been trending this year, but affordability is forecast to be the biggest impact on sales during this economic change wave.

Internationally, experts are in agreement that the pandemic has shifted product desirability away from a diet narrative to a functional wellness narrative. Protein and immune-boosting products are trending, but like all trends, this could be a short-lived one and not stick at retail.

Parting the trend from the hype may well mean that

some brands will have a short lifespan, and it is these brands that need to keep a close watch on consumer behaviours as trends may fall from popularity quite quickly. After all, category competitiveness is not about getting on the shelf; it’s about staying on shelf in what pundits are saying will be a tough year ahead.

The value of data has been talked up for a few years now, and perhaps those who have held off buying should rethink. By analysing data related to production, consumption and supply chain, brands can reduce costs, streamline production and target their products to the right market at the right time.

Start-ups and NPD are likely to bear the brunt of 2023’s economic climate, as these may take a hit. Now is the time to make sure that you have the data and not just read it but take action.

Tania Walters tania@reviewmags.com

For more information, contact beverage@reviewmags.com. Our thanks to all contributing writers for sharing your thoughts on the status, trends and innovations in the Beverage Market.

PUBLISHER: Tania Walters

GENERAL MANAGER: Kieran Mitchell

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Sarah Mitchell

EDITOR: Caitlan Mitchell

Additional information and detailed graphs available online at:www.supermarketnews.co.nz,www.restaurantandcafe.co.nz, www.hotelmagazine.co.nz

ADVERTISING SALES: Caroline Boe

SENIOR EDITORIAL ASSOCIATE: Sophie Procter

DESIGNER: Raymund Sarmiento

DESIGNER: Debby Wei

Tania Walters Publisher

and distributors of a range of some of the most well known and leading brands from around the world.

fizzed

Calypso

Taste of the Islands

Calypso, the originator of the flavoured lemonade category. Made with real lemon or lime bits, real sugar, natural flavours and served in premium custom glass bottles.

the past eighteen years, Calypso’s range has evolved from four lemonade blends into over a dozen lemonade, limeade, and tea and lemonade combinations.

LaCroix

USA’s

range of 13 refreshing flavours, ranging from Passionfruit, Lime and Peach Pear. Each sip is flavoured with the natural

LaCroix’s

extracted from real fruit, provoking the senses with robust aromas, hints of flavour and a crisp effervescence. With so many flavours to choose from, LaCroix is the perfect guilt-free drink for every occasion with zero calories, zero sugar and zero sweetener. No wonder it’s number 1 all across the US.

IRN-BRU

Made in Scotland

Scotland’s ‘second’ national drink, always a top seller at home competing directly with global brands.

How would you describe the essence of a flavour that only two people in the world know? One that the unique combination of 32 flavours is such a closely guarded secret, that it is held under lock and key in a vault in Switzerland?

With no way to ever say for sure, let’s just agree IRN-BRU tastes magic.

US Canned Beverages

Iconic USA Flavours

Every famous flavour you’ve never had the chance to try, all in one place. Discover classic beverages that have been American favourites for decades such as Dr Pepper, Cherry Cola, A&W Root Beer, Welch’s Grape and more.

After just a sip, you’ll be asking why these aren’t world famous in New Zealand yet.

Freshpak Rooibos Tea

Original Rooibos from South Africa

Freshpak Rooibos grows in the clean mountain air on the slopes of the Cederberg in the Western Cape South Africa to produce a tea distinguished by its warm aromatic fragrance and strength of flavour. Freshpak Rooibos is naturally caffeine-free and contains beneficial antioxidant, polyphenols.

in touch to stock the best from around the world

It’ll be the Summer of Gin in 2022

ROBERT BREWER Deputy Chair, New Zealand Alcohol Beverage Council

The popularity of gin is also evidenced by the growth of our own local distilleries, most of whom rely on gin production as a way to quickly produce beautiful, profitable products while laying down the darker spirits that require slow barrel ageing. Ten years ago, you could count the number of commercial distilleries in New Zealand on two hands, and today there are over 100.

And at the last New Zealand Spirits Awards, out of the 466 entries, 235 were, you guessed it, gin.

The growth in gin, and spirits in general, highlights another consumer trend – more mindful drinking. Across beer, wine and spirits, overall consumption trends are down and have been falling for some time now. Yet, while people are drinking less,

they are being more mindful of what –and how – they drink.

For spirits, the growth in the cocktail culture has meant consumers are generally paying more but drinking less in a ‘sip and savour’ fashion. It’s a similar quality-driven trend for wine and beer, whose overall sales numbers have been falling in recent years, and there is a distinct growth in low- and no-alcohol products as consumers gravitate to these categories.

Research tells us that 62 percent of Kiwis say they had a premium drink in the past year, such as a craft beer, fine wine, cocktail or a premium spirit or liqueur. Nearly half said they consumed a premium drink at the same speed as a regular drink, but it was no surprise that 42 percent said they drank a premium drink slower. So, if we are choosing to drink full-strength beverages, we’re doing so more slowly and enjoying the flavours and the experience of the beverage in a relaxed way.

These trends show that our attitudes and behaviours are becoming more focused on moderation and being sociable. Social pressures to have that ‘big night out’ or ‘one for the road’ are becoming less acceptable. Research has shown that 91 percent of Kiwi males wouldn’t care if a friend chose not to drink alcohol on a night out, and 65% of Kiwis say they feel comfortable not drinking alcohol on a night out.

These are the social trends that have seen no- and low-alcohol drinks become the new normal, with the 47 percent of Kiwis who say they consumed lowalcohol beverages last year.

So, as summer rolls around, let’s stay safe and social when we drink – sip and savour that cocktail or spirit or go no and low with the range of zero-alcohol or lower-strength products out there. As a nation, we’re finding that moderation is key, and the key to moderation is having options – whether that summer gininspired cocktail, wine or beer is full-strength or alcohol-free. What is certain is whatever your choice, it will be lovingly crafted and bursting with flavour.

If there was one trend that will continue out of lockdowns, out of what seems like a very long winter and into summer, it is our love affair with gin. Gin sales in New Zealand have increased almost 20 percent over the past two years, and it is rare these days to go to a bar or restaurant worth visiting that does not have an impressive gin selection.

Beverage Trends for 2023

Belinda Milnes, Government Relations and Public Affairs Director, New Zealand Beverage Council

BELINDA MILNES NZBC Government Relations and Public Affairs Director

Reporting from my first month as Government Relations and Public Affairs Director for the New Zealand Beverage Council, I can see some strong green shoots of opportunity coming out of the post-Covid phase for the sector. There are also some challenges on the horizon, but the NZBC members are well-placed to face these and take advantage of emerging opportunities.

Quickly introducing myself, I join the NZBC from a background of many years working in Government and advising clients on strategic communications. My last Parliamentary role was deputy chief of staff to the Leader of the Opposition, and I’ve worked for Ministers in 14 portfolios, from Climate Change and Tourism to Employment and Finance. I’m excited to be working in the FMCG sector, and specifically with Beverages, as there

are so many innovative companies with such strong stories to tell.

So on to some of the trends emerging where, as in overseas markets, the NZBC can see New Zealand consumers strengthening their expectations around the wider sustainability story and looking to the beverage sector to show leadership around responsible marketing.

On these two fronts, we have a great story to tell.

As sustainability is increasingly at the forefront of consumers’ minds, the producer-led Container Deposit Scheme is nearing reality after several years of intensive work from the industry and the NZBC. You’ll be seeing a lot more from us on this as the legislation comes together and we start to build the infrastructure needed. There are still some details to be worked through, but we’ve made strong submissions throughout the process and are supportive of a well-run, not-for-profit scheme.

And when it comes to responsible marketing, NZBC members are taking the lead with our Healthy Kids Pledge, where

members support only selling water to Primary and Intermediate Schools.

This puts us in a good position with the Advertising Standards Authority currently reviewing the Children and Young People’s Code for marketing to under14-year-olds. The NZBC is proposing to increase this age to under-15-year old.

Finally, a few thoughts on some of the challenges the beverage sector is working through.

Many are common to a number of sectors in New Zealand. The cost of ingredients and supplies leads to reduced margins and production cost increases. Complex logistics and disrupted supply chains are impacting many producers.

In addition, with the closure of Marsden Point and the interrupted production at the Kapuni Gas Treatment plant, the industry is finding CO2 supplies unreliable. However, this is a problem impacting a number of sectors.

With the removal of the last Covid restrictions, it does feel like we’re getting back to our new normal. Here’s to a strong and productive year in 2023.

Juices and syrups

NEW 100% SUGAR FREE CORDIAL

Bickford’s have been serving up Australia’s favourite premium cordial range with some recipes barely changed in 143 years. Hand blended with up to 35% fruit juice and no artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners, these Australian made cordials can be crafted into contemporary cocktails and mocktails or enjoyed simply mixed with soda or still water. Recently added to the range are Bickford’s 100% Sugar Free Cordials in two delicious flavours, Tropical and Peach Iced Tea. These maintain the Bickford’s tradition of delivering a quality product with exceptional flavour, with a blend of sweeteners; Stevia and Erythritol. A great alternative for diabetics or those looking to cut back sugar in their diet, without compromising on flavour.

For more information contact chris.bhimy@bickfordsgroup.com

CHARLIE’S HONEST SQUEEZED JUICES

A Charlie’s not much has changed since they squeezed their very first orange back in 1999. With Charlie’s, what you see is what you get, because let’s face it - it’s juice not rocket science. It’s just a bottle filled to the brim with pickof-the-bunch, juicy, squeezed oranges – that’s pretty much it! Charlie’s never add concentrate, preservatives or sugar – there’s no room for it –it’s orange juice after all. Enjoy!

Available in orange juice, low pulp, extra pulp, with fibre, mandarin/mango/pineapple, and apple juice. 300ml, 500ml, 1l, 1.5l and 2l. For more information, contact office@betterdrinks.co.nz

BICKFORD’S 100%

PREMIUM JUICE

If you struggle with joint pain or even getting a good night’s sleep, Bickford’s 100% Premium Cherry Juice could be just what you need! Cherries are one of the few sources of melatonin – a hormone that may help to regulate your sleep cycles and can improve your overall sleep quality. Plant foods, like cherries, are also commonly known for their role in helping to combat obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Cherries are also a great source Vitamin A and C and are high in antioxidants, zinc, fibre, protein and good fats, great for your overall wellbeing. Bickford’s 100% Cherry Juice is made up of sweet cherries and tart cherries to deliver you a perfectly balanced cherry flavour you just can’t resist. All Bickford’s Premium Juices are made from 100% natural fruit juice and contain no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives and no added sugar. It’s only natural.

For more information, contact chris.bhimy@bickfordsgroup.com

MAMAKU BLUE

Delicious tasting 100% pure blueberry juice with no added sugar or additives. It›s not just a drink, it›s a healthy start to your day! Made from Mamaku blueberries, packed with antioxidants and phytoflavinoids. Blueberries can lower the risk of heart disease and cancer, they are also anti-inflammatory making Mamaku blueberry juice a great, natural addition in one’s daily health regime. Studies show that a bowl of blueberries eaten consistently every day can also help reduce the risk of diabetes and obesity. We have made the job even easier by squeezing 1,200 berries into a single bottle for Kiwis to get their daily intake. Just measure out a tot sized serving, you can enjoy it just like that or add to hot or cold water. Cold pressed and made by the Frost family with more than 30 years of experience.

311 Maraeroa Road, Mamaku, Rotorua 3072 NZ 07 332 5840 www.mamakublue.co.nz

THRILLER IN THE CHILLER

The

ZOE FORSYTH Account Manager, IRI New Zealand

has enjoyed substantial growth over the past year.

There’s no denying Kiwis love a refreshing chilled drink – and if great taste comes with a side of health benefits, so much the better. Over the past 12 months, New Zealanders have splashed out more than $1 billion on cold beverages in supermarkets, equating to ten drinks per second. The sector’s value is up 10.4 percent from a year ago, with unit growth more than double that of total prepackaged goods.1

The reasons behind this boom are multi-faceted but can largely be attributed to suppliers swiftly adapting to meet evolving consumer needs and developing drinks that go beyond hydration and deliciousness.

According to an IRI Health and Wellness Survey,1 one in five Kiwis actively looks to buy refreshments with added health benefits. While 64 percent of consumers view food and beverages as powerful as medicine.3

It’s therefore not surprising there has been a rise in innovative beverages which support gut, mental and physical health. Ārepa, designed by neuroscientists with the aim of boosting mental clarity, has grown 107.6 percent in a year. In comparison, products with immunity claims are up 19.1 percent, primarily driven by The Homegrown Juice Company and McCoy brands1. Kombucha is still booming, with sales dominated by Remedy Drinks, who are responsible for more than 40 percent of sales of this nutrient-rich tonic.

New Zealanders looking for a pick-meup – but without the sugar – have been turning to energy drinks in droves. Over the past year, the category has ballooned by a whopping $14.6 million, with the low and no sugar options leading the charge, growing 3.2 times faster than their regular counterparts. Top performers among these include V – who recently launched ‘Refresh’ zero sugar drinks – as well as Musashi, in a sign of the increased blending of energy and sports drink categories.

The popularity of low and no sugar is a trend across the board. Over the past year, sales have grown at double the rate of sugary drinks and now represent 31.7 percent of the entire cold beverage sector – up from 28.2 percent four years ago. These sugar-reduced options have been responsible for 50 percent of the growth of carbonated beverages over the past 12 months. With the likes of Coke committing to reduce sugar content 20 percent by 2025, it’s a trajectory set to continue.

It’s not just sugar that consumers are turning their backs on. Another shining light in the cold beverages space is the zero-alcohol option. Up to 29 percent of Kiwis claim to drink less alcohol compared to a year ago,3 a shift evident in grocery sales, with non-alcoholic alternatives growing by 129 percent over the past two years.1 AF Drinks is leading the way, with 143 percent growth compared to last year, 1 but many new products are coming through for those looking for a sophisticated alternative to an alcoholic drink.

What’s emerging is a clear opportunity for suppliers to explore the blurring of lines between functional drinks and nonalcoholic beverages; overseas, we see zero alcohol options with added vitamins or electrolytes.

Of course, it’s not all about being healthy. Even while staring down the barrel of inflationary pressures, we all need treats – and indeed, past experience shows indulgence categories can be recession-proof.

One of the rising stars cashing in on this is RTD coffee cans, growing at 69.7 percent. Led by Suntory Boss Coffee, iced

coffees are undoubtedly on the up, with distribution growing by 52 percent.

Little luxuries are even better when they’re easier on the wallet, which is perhaps why consumers seek larger, more economical pack formats. Multipacks have enjoyed 15.4 percent volume growth, which is three times greater than that of single serve. With the permanent shift to hybrid working and a sustained desire to reduce trips to the supermarket, this is expected to remain elevated.

There’s little doubt the pressures of the pandemic have brought significant disruption, but conversely, they have created opportunity – and this is particularly true in the dynamic area of cold beverages. Savvy brands will leverage that opportunity by gaining a deep understanding of factors driving shopper decisions and creating strategies to capitalise on them.

Those looking to remain relevant and drive continued excitement in this category should consider how to build on current growth trends of energy, functional benefits, sugar-free and non-alcoholic drinks. We can all raise a glass to that!

SOURCES:

1. IRI Market Edge Grocery, Total Key Accounts, MAT to 07/08/22

2. IRI NZ Health & Wellness Survey May 2021, Powered by Yabble

3. IRI State of the Industry Household Shopper Survey Oct 2021, Powered by Dynata

reveal the trends driving its dominance.

in New Zealand is helping Kiwis consume less sugar

Coca-Cola in New Zealand is always evolving its product portfolio to provide more of what people love.

In New Zealand, 1 in 2 Coca-Colas purchased have no sugar (1), which reflects a shift in customer tastes and preferences. To help Kiwis consume less sugar, the beverage company has made a commitment to reduce sugar by 20% across its portfolio by 2025 (2) .

The 13% reduction made since 2015 (2) has been achieved through a combination of measures, including the development of low and zero sugar drinks, reformulation to reduce sugar across Coca-Cola in New Zealand’s existing portfolio such as Fanta Orange which now has 35% less sugar, offering smaller pack sizes and focusing its marketing on reduced and zero sugar options.

Earlier this year, the company launched a new recipe into market, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. The new product replaced Coke Zero and Coke No Sugar and offers Kiwis a zero sugar option that Coca-Cola in New Zealand believes will be popular with its existing fan base.

Coca-Cola in New Zealand continues to roll

out the voluntary front-of-pack Health Star Rating system, transitioning earlier this year from the energy icon to stars on its packaging. This “at a glance” icon provides transparency on the nutritional profile of its products, helping consumers make informed decisions for themselves and their families.

Julie O’Toole, Director and Country Lead, Coca-Cola Oceania, says, “We know that eating and drinking less sugar is increasingly important to many New Zealanders, and we’re committed to helping Kiwis make informed beverage choices. But we know that this is not enough by itself and, as a leader in the beverage industry in New Zealand, we choose to do more – not just say more – when it comes to helping Kiwis consume less sugar.

“With this in mind, we have ambitious goals to reduce sugar by 20% across our portfolio of drinks by 2025, and we are on track to achieve this.”

Original, craft and sugar–free

PETE’S NATURAL

Pete’s Natural has a mission to prove that all-natural sodas can be delicious, healthy, and are good for the environment – a sustainable, family owned soda company. All Pete's Natural sodas are made from fruit grown right here in Aotearoa.

Pete will only use 100% spray-free, freshly squeezed fruit juice from local growers, 'it has to be the best'. By purchasing locally and paying a fair price, Pete not only gets the best fruit in the world, he

is also helping combat fruit waste around the country - he calls that - FairTrade@Home.Pete’s sodas are lightly sparkling, low in sugar and fresh with a real fruit kick in every bottle. So real in fact that you even see the fruit fibers floating in the bottle. The sodas are produced in our own solar powered factory in sunny Motueka, then packaged in a recycled glass bottle and dressed up with a bright and fun paper label. Pete's sodas look as good as they taste. We think Pete definitely has proven that natural and tasty can be a perfect combo.

Brewed in the solar powered factory in sunny Motueka and available nationwide at any good store or online at www.petesnatural.co.nz

BUNDABERG

Bundaberg Brewed Drinks is a family-owned business known for our iconic Bundaberg Ginger Beer and a range of 13 other Brews. For four generations, we’ve kept tradition at heart, using time-honoured brewing methods, and we are proud of the fact that we use real ginger, fruits, herbs, and spices in our Brews. And we take our sweet time too, we brew for up to seven days to achieve the best taste. We’ve always lived by one simple rule; If it’s worth brewing it’s worth brewing well. We have also expanded into convenient 200ml Mini Cans, perfect for all your adventures!

COCA-COLA ZERO SUGAR

Coca-Cola Zero Sugar is a sparkling soft drink and a great new choice for those who want to drink Coca-Cola without the sugar. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar soft drink is available in cans, mini cans, single serve and sharing size bottles as well as multipacks. It’s the perfect beverage for sharing with family and friends or the perfect companion with meals. Coke Zero Sugar, Real Coke Taste. For more information contact your local Coca-Cola Europacific Partners New Zealand representative or call 0800 505 123

LO BROS

Lo Bros proudly present Not Soda, well not soda like you know it. Lo Bros are on a mission to free our oceans of plastic bottles and hydrate soda lovers with damn tasty, better-for-us drinks that will leave taste buds tingling for more. For every can sold Lo Bros Not Soda along with their partners, Seven Clean Seas clean-up 2 x plastic bottles from our oceans and waterways (the equivalent weight of 2 x plastic bottles to be exact). Are they excited to be doin’ good within the soda industry? Fizz yeah! Available in four hit flavours Raspberry, Orange, Pink Grapefruit and Lemon.

Learn more about this sea-sational movement at www.lobros.co

TREAT YOURSELF

FOXTON FIZZ

craft and sugar–free

Foxton Fizz has been increasing distribution in the last 12 months, adding to the 103 year old brands’ footprint in the grocery and convenience channels. In addition to increased distribution, they’ve been working on their NPD and the recently introduced Foxton Fizz 1.5L bottles have proven to be a hit, with sales increasing strongly over the last six months. Creaming Soda leads in terms of sale rate, followed by Raspberry and Kola. While Foxton Fizz has been available in the 250ml bottles for over 100 years, the 1.5L PET bottles allow an affordable take home and share option, with their research indicating that consumption occasions often include events and gatherings of friends and family. The small town soda drinks brands, of which there used to be over 200, were strongly associated with family gatherings and holidays such as Christmas and Easter, and it seems this continues. Foxton Fizz is supplied to the grocery channel by DKSH New Zealand. Phone: +64 6 356 5323, Email: customerservice.nz@dksh.com

ORIGINAL, CRAFT AND SUGAR-FREE

After having been recognized as the iconic water of fine dining, S.Pellegrino introduced a real revolution where the sparkling bubbles of its mineral water encounter intriguing Mediterranean flavors. This is how S.Pellegrino ESSENZA was born: a range of sparkling flavored water that will accompany casual dining occasions, with a new and exciting taste experience.

S.Pellegrino ESSENZA is created with 100% natural ingredients, contains zero calories and no artificial flavors, and is thought for those informal and spontaneous dining moments with friends and family. Three different flavors characterize the range in New Zealand, offering a creative blend of Mediterranean fruits, specially mixed with the gentle sparkle of S.Pellegrino mineral water.

Lemon & Lemon Zest

With intense citrus aromas this flavour is fine and elegant, offering surprising freshness. Perfectly paired with lighter, more delicate dishes such as fish, salads, fresh greens and fruit.

Blood Orange & Black Raspberry

Delicate elements of red fruits, mellowed by notes of sweet citrus, conveying a subtle sweetness to enhance the sparkle while keeping the palate fresh and light. Pair with rich, complex foods from red meat dishes to cheesy pasta.

Tangerine & Wild Strawberry

Intense aromas and captivating flavour are balanced by the minerals of S.Pellegrino water with a slight tingling of bubbles. Matches with medium flavoured dishes such as cooked vegetables and white meat, tomato pasta and ice cream.

S.Pellegrino ESSENZA brings the essence of the brand’s elegance and touch of taste and style, whilst adding its own delightfully flavourful twist.

SANPELLEGRINO ITALIAN SPARKLING DRINKS NATURALI

Iconic, Italian, 100% natural. The premium range from Sanpellegrino Italian Sparkling Drinks made with the finest fruit, ripened under the Mediterranean sun.

Our favourite Italian Sparkling Drinks just got even more natural, more stylish, and more sustainable. Look out for the elegant design of the new bottles and sleek cans.

FLAVOURS INCLUDE:

Aranciata, Limonata, Clementina, Pompelmo, Aranciata Rossa, Melograno & Arancia

Vibe is Diabetes NZ’s Newest Champion Sponsor

VIBE, a company bringing delicious sugar-free drinks to schools and other outlets, has entered into an exciting partnership with Diabetes NZ.

that can develop later in life.

“We’re delighted to be working with Diabetes NZ. I have type two diabetes myself, so it’s important to me that all the ingredients used have been signed off by Diabetes NZ,” said Stefan Crooks, managing director of VIBE.

obese, with an over-representation in Māori and Pacific communities.

Heather Verry, Diabetes NZ CEO, has welcomed VIBE to the organisation’s elite group of Champion Sponsors. It’s a very positive move toward increasing awareness of the importance of reducing consumption of sugar in beverages. She noted that limiting sugar intake is pivotal to improving health outcomes in the community, reducing the risk of obesity, type two diabetes, and ultimately the longterm complications

VIBE was born from a conversation about improving the products their existing school food supply business offered. ‘VIBE was created to provide a great-tasting alternative to sugary drinks – one that allows kids to enjoy a carbonated drink full of flavour but with zero sugar.’

As VIBE is now available at schools across New Zealand, “it allows for strong opportunities to educate school principals on the importance of nutrition intervention, as they have the power to influence children’s knowledge and behaviour,” said Verry.

The New Zealand Health Survey 2018/2019 found that approximately one in nine children (aged two to 14) were

“Today’s consumers are looking for products like VIBE that support their emotional, indulgent, and physical health needs, ranging from relaxation to hydration. They want less sugar – no question. But they also don’t want to sacrifice taste,” said Crooks.

VIBE concentrates on the quality of its natural flavours, which are made from New Zealand ingredients.

“Consumers are not only demanding functional drinks that don’t compromise on taste, they’re also looking for companies that adhere to a sustainable ethos. “That’s why there’s no plastic used on VIBE products. Our clear can design and branding highlights the aluminium-can packaging and encourages recycling.”

Diabetes NZ is looking forward to extending the messaging about good nutrition in partnership with VIBE.

THE TEAM AT VIBE

Stefan Crooks

Water, fermented and superfood

ATUTAHI

Atutahi our star and named after our koro, Atutahi is a unique range of Native NZ leaf drinks. The natural ingredients of Atutahi is what sets us apart be it Kawakawa, Horopito or Kumarahou – every flavour is exceptional. Lightly carbonated and blended with premium NZ fruits and berries to create a quality that is hard to find.

Traditionally used by Māori for healing ailments, each leaf was used to assist lungs / kidneys / gut health and many more ailments. The rich berries and fruits also pack a bounty of goodness into Atutahi drinks – brain food –antioxidants – rich in vitamins – antiinflammatory properties to name a few and its refreshingly good!

We act as guardians to the Taonga diligently harvesting from our lands in the Marlborough Sounds and

Coromandel. Preparation of Atutahi is governed by Tikanga. it is very important to us that we follow Tikanga to care for the worlds within our people and throughout Aotearoa – and now in Australia. Atutahi our star is also part of the Matariki cluster – that’s another story.

Hua Mai te tipu Hua Mai te ora Atutahi te piata Atutahi ki te kanapa NAU mai kia inumia I te ngao ora o Atutahi.

Growth in sustenance Healthy nutrients

A sparkling quench of Atutahi

A shimmering glow in your body Come and drink Atutahi to experience a longevity of life.

Kiwi Kai Nelson Limited, 41 Halifax Street, Nelson 7010 Ph: 03 5468118 or email: info@kiwikainz.com

Good Sh*t is a world-first: the only soda to include both pre and probiotics. Every can contains 1 billion colony-forming Bacillus coagulans probiotics, and a third of your daily fibre. With at least 10 grams of soluble, prebiotic fibre, it helps keep you regular as part of a healthy varied diet. Good Sh*t is good for your insides! All

JOURNEY INTO THE WILD WITH KEFIR SODA

A premium probiotic water kefir from The Wild Fermentary - Supreme Winner of the NZ Food Awards 2021. Kefir Soda, available in four refreshing flavours, is a sparkling, low-sugar, health beverage alive with billions of gut-loving bacteria. Following the success of the 750ml, Kefir Soda is now available in a single-serve 330ml sizeperfect for retail, cafes, and hospitality. Kefir Soda is lovely on its own and a perfect low-sugar, gut-loving alternative mixer for summer cocktails. Fermented naturally in small batches with no sweeteners, additives, or preservatives.

The Range includes: Ginger Root, Berry Blush, Beet & Berry, and Coffee. Beverage category winner of the Outstanding NZ Food Producers 2020. For more information visit  www.thewildfermentary.co.nz or email us hello@thewildfermentary.co.nz

natural from Mother Earth with ingredients such as Acacia Gum, Prickly Pear Cactus, Artichoke Leaf and Marshmallow Root. Good Sh*t has less than 2.4 grams of sugar per 100mL. It’s all-natural, with no artificial colours or preservatives. It’s vegan, paleo, and coeliac-friendly too. The best part of all of this is Good Sh*t actually tastes like a real, sweet, satisfying soda. Good Sh*t comes in four delicious flavours – Cola, Citrus, Berry and Ginger. Finally, a great-tasting, lowsugar soda everyone can feel good about drinking.

Join the movement.and get on the Good Sh*t — available in Supermarkets, Grocery stores, cafes and restaurants around New Zealand order online from goodshitsoda.com

GOOD SH*T - THE WORLD’S FIRST PRE + PROBIOTIC SODA MADE RIGHT HERE IN NEW ZEALAND

Water,

THE HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVE TO SOFT DRINKS

Green is a sugar free, natural, Carbonated Soft Drink created to offer people the opportunity to enjoy the great taste of a soft drink, but without the guilt! Sweetened with Stevia, but containing no nasties… no aspartame, no preservatives and no phosphoric acid. We use natural flavours, real juice (in the Lemon and Orange) and in our Cola the caffeine is natural from green coffee beans. Very low in Calories and Carbs our Soft drinks are a guilt free alternative to a regular soft drink! Our delicious soft drinks come in Cola, Lemon-Lime, Lemon (made with real lemon juice) and Orange (made with real orange juice). Available now in selected The Warehouse, SuperValue, Fresh Choice, NW, Pak n Save stores.

Contact sarah@greenroombrands.com to get Green ranged in your stores, and offer your customers a healthier alternative to soft drink.

AQA LITE

The refreshing alternative, Full Flavoured Sparkling water without the sugar. Made right here in NZ with No Sugar and 100% recyclable packaging. Our new range includes Peach, Lemonade, Raspberry, Orange and Cola. Available in single serve and 12 packs

For enquires please contact the team at William Aitken & Co at wilait@wilait.com or www.aqalite.co.nz, www.simplygoodfoods.co.nz 09 370-0000

Water, fermented and superfood ALCHEMY & TONIC RANGE

Alchemy & Tonic has launched our very own ‘low sugar’ tonic water with only 2.5g sugar per 100ml and no artificial sweeteners. The Sonic – a portmanteau of ‘Soda and Tonic’ offers consumers a lower sugar option

without sacrificing on taste. Great with gin or on its own. Whatever tickles your fancy. The new addition compliments Alchemy & Tonic’s magical range of NZ made mixers with a focus on interesting and unexpected

ingredients. Best sellers include Hibiscus Pink Lemonade, Grapefruit & Thyme Tonic and Rhubarb & Smashed Mandarin Tonic. With a tipple for every occasion – the Magic is in the Mixer.

VOYAGE WATER

Premium New Zealand spring water Voyage is set to take the local gastro scene by storm after impressing internationally with a major award in its first year. Voyage is sourced directly from The Blue Spring, Te Waihou, in the Waikato. Shaped by its geographical journey, Voyage is 99.9% pure and this crystal-clear spring water is characterised by its passage through deep strata and bedrock. It is available in both Still and Sparkling. Voyage Sparkling received a coveted Gold Medal and the title ‘Best Sparkling Water 2020’ at the 20th annual Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting.

For more information contact your local Coca-Cola Europacific Partners New Zealand representative or call 0800 505 123

CH’I HERBAL REJUVINATION

CH’I Herbal Drinks Co. was founded in 1987 by Gary Furniss - a natural foods visionary who was on a mission to bring nature into what we ate and drank. 35 years later we are still a NZ owned business hand crafting the herbal blends into extracts that become the heart of our unique rejuvenation drinks. Serve our drinks in the moments you’re helping your guests put themselves first for a moment. Fantastic as non-alcoholic options and perfect as mixers. Our Original Herb Blend starts with a blend of herbs traditional herbal medicine believes encourages the free movement of “ch’i” - the essential life force that flows through everything

and everyone. Layered with a hint of honey and kiwifruit this is a New Zealand classic served as a treat since the late 1980’s. The Sugar Free Herbal is the same herb blend as the Original and is 100% free of sugar or synthetic sweeteners. Natural stevia leaf gives its refreshing sweetness. Possibly your “no carb” or keto diets new BFF! CH’I Spiced Ginger starts with real ginger root and whole cardamom pods. Spicy, warming and fresh flavoured. Possibly the best ginger drink you will ever taste.

For ideas on serving and to become a stockist visit www.chidrinks.com or www.upstock.app

For more information contact us at retail@naturalsugars.co.nz

Water, fermented and superfood

SOURCE BOTANICS

Pōhutukawa honey, select coastal ingredients, rich in naturally occurring organic acids and living cultures in a refreshing beverage Jun is often referred to as the champagne of kombucha, using New Zealand honey to aid the natural fermentation process rather than sugar. Our Jun range offers three unique flavours; organic blue spirulina & pōhutukawa and organic white tea & mānuka. Our most recent addition is Organic Pink: Ginger, Rose and Wildflower available in 750ml and 300ml bottles.

hello@sourcebotanics.co.nz

09 5537006

REJUVA ALOE DRINKS

With summer just around the corner, it’s time to stock up on Rejuva Aloe Drinks! Your customers will love Rejuva because of its delicious, refreshing flavour. For many fans, the biggest benefit is the huge 41% aloe vera content. Do you know Rejuva is also great when added to cocktails or smoothies, for a unique flavour profile? Rejuva is available in Original 1.5L/500ml PET bottles and Rejuva Light with 50% less sugar in 1.5L PET bottle. With Rejuva, it's easy to drink the stuff that's good for you, while enjoying the delicious, fresh, taste.

www.rejuva.co.nz

KEFIR COMPANY

For over 10 years every bottle of kefir is made in New Zealand by our hands in small batches to ensure you’re receiving the best possible product to enjoy in your morning or evening routine. Kefir fermented beverage which is bursting with gut loving bacteria. The name comes from the Turkish word Keyif, which means ‘feel good’. And that’s exactly how we want you to feel when you drink our is a dairy-free kefir. The Kefir Company uses coconut water with live cultures instead of sugary water or dairy for fermentation. We wanted to offer an alternative for people avoiding irritating milk proteins, like casein. The liquid of the young coconut also has an abundance of minerals and its natural sugars make it the perfect medium for the growth of beneficial microflora. The kefir eats the sugar in the coconut water to create a effervescent and tangy drink.

Email sales@thekefirco.com or call 09 5537006

www.thekefirco.com

BATCHWELL ORGANIC KOMBUCHA

We make kombucha traditionally, unlikemany others. Not all kombucha is created equal. At Batchwell, we make small batch organic kombucha in our Auckland brewery supplies kegs and bottles. Our unique organic tea blend is handcrafted by us, and steeped in twice-filtered water. Our juice is lovingly cold pressed in our brewery and we always use organic fruits and vegetables where possible. That’s why were voted best tasting kombucha in New Zealand by Metro Magazine.

Email orders@batchwell.com or call 09 553 7006

www.batchwell.com

realCOCO Coconut Water is sourced from the Mekong Delta in Vietnam in the Ben Tre province.

Ben Tre is the coconut capital of

Vietnam. It has the largest total coconut growing area in the country with 182,800 acres mostly grown in the two districts of Giong Tom and Mo Cay Nam. The region is known as ‘The Coconut Land’ for its great tasting coconut water! realCOCO Coconut Water has a fresh natural sweet taste and is available now in supermarkets nationwide.

Water,

and

SHINE+

Think. Feel. Do. Better. Shine with natural nootropics, age-old ingredients to help energise and awaken your mind.

For more information, visit www.shinedrink.rom. For sales and distribution inquiries, email sales@realfoods.co.nz

REMEDY SODALY

Remedy Drinks is proving healthy doesn't have to be boring this summer with their new refreshing

range called Remedy Sodaly, the 100% natural, guilt-free soft drink that's big on flavour and low in calories. Remedy Sodaly is truly better for you, made with a base of ACV, which contains gut-friendly prebiotics known to aid digestion and deliver other benefits like enhancing immunity and healthy skin. Remedy Sodaly comes in four popular, fruit-forward flavours, including Raspberry, Lemon Squash, Passionfruit and Orange–in 4-packs of 250ml cans. Find out more about Remedy Sodaly and order via sales@realfoods.co.nz

INTRODUCING REALCOCO REAL FOODS NEW COCONUT WATER RANGE.

Dairy and alternatives

NEW NUTRIBOOST FRUITY

FLAVOURED MILK

Nutriboost is the perfect blend of fun, delicious and nutritious the whole family will love.

The Fruity Flavoured Milk range contains added calcium and vitamin D with no added sugar.

Plus, a 4.5-star healthstar-rating. It’s available in three delicious flavours: Banana Breeze, Strawberry Storm & Choc-Orange Chiller. Serve chilled as the perfect lunchtime accompaniment or post-study snack. Nutriboost has got the goods!

For more information contact your local Coca-Cola Europacific Partners New Zealand representative or call 0800 505 123

BICKFORD’S ALMOND MILK

Bickford’s have been making liquid lusciousness for more than 100 years. Made with 100% Australian sourced Almonds delivering a smooth texture, raising the bar with a creamier, fuller mouthfeel, and bolstered with a generous hit of coffee and chocolate. Bickford’s dairy alternative RTD range contains no artificial colours or flavours, is GMO free, Gluten free and Vegan friendly. Available in two delicious flavours, Iced Coffee Almond, and Iced Chocolate Almond.

For more information contact chris.bhimy@bickfordsgroup.com

Abillion Announces World’s Ten Best Vegan Milks

Abillion released the results of its awards for the World’s Ten Best Vegan Milks for 2022. Using data from over two million consumer reviews of vegan products on the abillion app.

The top ten winners were determined by 26,000 reviews of 3,400 different plantbased milk products from 86 countries. Vegan milk consumption was highest for abillion members in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Spain, South Africa, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States of America. Interest for plant-based milk has increased 70 percent in the last two years.

“Whether they’re made from soy, almonds, oats, rice or coconuts, the demand for plantbased dairy products is significantly outpacing conventional dairy products around the world. We’re excited to drive consumer adoption in this category and many others through the continued expansion of consumer interest in the

space through the abillion app,” said Vikas Garg, founder and CEO of abillion.

WORLD’S TEN BEST VEGAN MILKS FOR 2022:

• Alpro Barista Soya (Alpro, Belgium)

• Oat Drink Barista Edition (Oatly, Sweden)

• Bevanda Vegetale Di Soia (OraSí, Italy)

• Bevanda Di Soia (Isolabio, Italy)

• Bevanda Vegerale Soia (Smart, Italy)

• Oatside Barista Blend (Oatside, Singapore)

• Bevanda Di Avena Integrale Bio (Bjorg, France)

• Pampa Vida Leche de Nuez Pecan (Pampa Vida, Argentina)

• Avena original (Heaven, Italy)

• Oat Milk (ButtaNutt, South Africa)

We’re pretty chuffed to be New Zealand’s second favourite oat milk. Who wouldn’t want to be number two? Nearly all of the perks, but with way less pressure. Plus nobody wants to watch Sylvester Stallone shadow boxing for ninety minutes. You need Apollo Creed, a little friendly competition.

It’s also great being the underdog with promise. Especially when we’re only a year old. We’re still putting in as many, if not more, squats and push ups during the off season. But we’re also happy doing what we do best: making delicious oat milk deliciouser, doing innovative things, serving up our best to customers and trade partners and doing more to encourage sustainable agribusiness in New Zealand.

Oh, and of course we’ll continue being the only oat milk in the world that’s made in New Zealand from New Zealand oats. We would play the Rocky theme here but the rights were too expensive. So, close your eyes and imagine a bottle of oat milk running up the stairs at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Wonderful.

A message from the second favourite oat milk in New Zealand

Not Just Coffee

Coffee is a natural product. It’s hard for consumers to connect the dots between that shiny packet on a supermarket shelf with a growing tree laden with cherries in a luscious mountainous farm in Brazil.

ROZ CATTELL President of the New Zealand Specialty Coffee Association

coffee? Why has the price remained stubbornly stable in cafes while wages, shipping, harvesting, processing, packaging, equipment, ad infinitum have risen threefold in the last three years?

It’s roasting by skilled professionals on equipment that is state of the art to tease out the taste of the terroir.

It’s

a seasonal, delicious beverage which is widely drunk and traded, embedded intoour lives as our go-to pick me up during the day. This social ceremony is hundreds of years old. Consumers may not know the connection between that ancient ritualistic roasting on the sandy plains in Ethiopia over hot coals to their crisp, clean-lined, minimalist, achingly hip café in Auckland.

You only have to walk to your local farmers market, toting your reusable, refillable bags, to know that prices can fluctuate. Freshness comes seasonally, and your tomatoes in winter are widely known to taste insipid and expensive. So why aren’t consumers the same with

Over the past year, the media have been very quick to print the price of a $7 flat white. Yet the people who complain about the cost of the cup of coffee are the ones who are paid more than anyone else in the chain.

There’s value in that cup.

It’s not just coffee.

It’s the advances in growing and processing the beans at the farm level.

It’s creating a livelihood for people that have farmed for generations brimming with opportunities in new cultivars and disease-resistant plants.

It’s processing this coffee sustainably, packing with sustainable options and sending it halfway around the world to be greeted with care by one of our 250 coffee roasters in New Zealand.

It’s the packaging and dispatch, the courier, the machinery needed to grind and extract your cup, the rent, the power, the additional products, the trainer, and the barista who are all skilfully focused on getting the best product into your cup. Even that ceramic cup costs money.

Every link in that chain costs.

And we ask you to respect the cost of the cup.

We ask consumers to go on a journey back to where that bean came from. Every cup has a story. Your café will undoubtedly be short-staffed, but we are hopeful that border openings and visa permits will help hospitality establishments tell the narration of where they source their coffee from. So you can appreciate the cost and story of the cup.

DILMAH

Dilmah is pleased to introduce a new flavour to our family of Green Teas, ‘Green Tea with Lemon & Lime’ - a beautiful blend of green tea with natural Lemon & Lime to give a refreshing citrus flavour Also, back by popular demand, ‘Green Tea with Jasmine’, now with real Jasmine Petals. This brings a fragrant aroma and a soft, floral flavour to the tea. The tea plant, Camellia Senensis, has an abundance of antioxidants, well known to boost immunity, also a good source of L-Theanine, which helps to boost cognitive function and relax the mind.

JED’S ROAST & GROUND RANGE

Jed’s has simplified the complex world of coffee so that whatever coffee you need, whenever you need it, wherever you are, you can find a brew that is right for you.

We’ve done all the complicated stuff, like quality sourcing, expert blending and skilled roasting, and we’ve welcomed more and more people into the world of coffee through clever ideas - like our numbering system.

The Jed’s fresh coffee range is made with 100% Arabica beans, and is available in whole beans, plunger and espresso grind. If you’re seeking a smooth, relaxed, medium roast – try a Jed’s #2! Or if you’re looking for something that packs more of a punch – Jed’s X will give you what you need.

We’re also very proud to support the soft plastics recycling program. Simply drop off your empty Jed's fresh packaging into recycling bins in selected stores.

Jed’s fresh coffee is available in leading supermarkets throughout NZ.

ICED COFFEE SYRUP

Award winning Iced Coffee Bickford’s has been producing award-winning Iced Coffee Syrups since 1919 which still hold contemporary relevance. Bickford’s Iced Coffee Syrup is a highly concentrated essence of coffee and chicory. Brewed from the highest quality freshly roasted coffee beans and flavour enhancing chicory, it delivers a truly authentic and traditional iced coffee taste. Simply mix with cold milk for a delicious, full flavoured iced coffee drink. Bickford’s Iced Coffee Syrup is preservative free, has no artificial colours or flavours, and the bottle is made form 100% recycled plastic. For more information, contact chris.bhimy@bickfordsgroup.com

L’OR ESPRESSO FLAVOURS

L’OR Espresso are coffee capsules compatible with Nespresso®* original coffee machines and have just launched their Flavours Collection –three subtle and aromatic nods to the indulgent flavours of the world: Chocolate – subtle, but distinct chocolate notes enhance the roastiness at the heart of this blend.

Caramel – an aromatic flavoured espresso that delivers a blend of delicate and dark caramel notes.

Vanilla – a thrilling yet delicate flavoured espresso. Magnificent vanilla scent like a freshly sliced vanilla pod.

Discover the L’OR Flavours Collection capsules at your supermarket!

* Trademark of a third party not connected to a JACOBS DOUWE EGBERTS company

HUMMINGBIRD’S NEW SPECIAL RESERVE RANGE

cherries grown at higher altitude, in cooler temperatures, tend to be higher quality, with more intense flavours as the beans grow slower and take longer to mature. In the cup, the effects of altitude translate into a lively, concentrated flavour with higher acidity and a smoother mouthfeel. Hand-picked from coffee shrubs grown above 1,100m altitude, Pinnacle blend comes from Ethiopia and Colombia. It has a bright, fruity, and sweet flavour. Elevate originates from Mexico and Ethiopia and has a light, crisp citrus edge. Both new Special

blends are light-to-

in beans or

grind.

Café Kickstarter Programme

Take Advantage of this Kickstart!

It was understanding the difficulties Kiwi hospitality businesses are facing that inspired Vitasoy to partner with Coffex Coffee Roasters to bring you the Vitasoy Café Kick-Starter Programme.

SUPER EASY!

Simply purchase an Espresso Ma chine from Coffex and you will receive the Barista Station Package which includes:

• A one-month supply of Vitasoy*

• Branded Vitasoy merchandise*

• A one-month supply of Vitasoy branded compostable take away cups*

• A one-month supply of Coffex coffee beans*

• The option to add on other Vitasoy merchandised products, branded counters etc.*

INSANE SAVINGS!

Let's just look at the savings on the coffee beans: You can get approxi mately 55 coffees for every kilo of beans, with Coffex supplying 40kg free for the first month, that's 2,200 coffees. If you're selling an average coffee at $6, that's $13,200 worth of coffees for the month!

When you compare that to the price of the machine and add on the supply of milk, cups, and merchandise, it's clear the Vitasoy Café Kick-Starter Programme is an opportunity that shouldn't be missed!

FRIENDLY FINANCE

Thanks to industry-leading and ded icated hospitality equipment financ er, SilverChef, finance is available for the purchase of Coffex Espresso Machines. For 35 years, SilverChef has helped put you in control of your commercial kitchen equipment, sav ing your working capital for the things you need it for the most, like running and growing your business.

Whether you're starting up a new coffee venue, or you're an established business who wants to replace your tired old coffee machine, the Vitasoy Café Kick-Starter Rewards Programme will help you save on the essentials for creating an amazing brew. *T&Cs apply

The global alcohol industry post-pandemic

The 2021 Global alcoholic drinks industry sat at 241 billion litres. Beer took up 188 billion, wine 26 billion, spirits 20 billion, RTDs six billion and cider two billion. In 2020 the industry faced an unprecedented collapse that could be considered worse than the 2008 great recession, with total volumes contracting 6 percent.

Theboom in off-trade sales during 2021 meant that during 2022, the drinking branks that went digital mid-pandemic have remained online. The category has historically been underrepresented within non-store retailing due to legislative concerns. But being online no longer means providing a digital shopping experience. Zoom tastings, online brand launches, headlinegrabbing acquisitions and investments are all examples of 2022 drinking in digital platforms.

The acceleration of mindful drinking habits has continued through 2022. Caused by the desire to lead a healthier life, changing attitudes of millennials and Gen Z consumers, avoidance of long-term health risks, the want to drink without impairment and social media influencers. Low and no alcohol drinks have seen a steady rise since early experimentations

more than a decade ago, but the industry needs to be wary of overextension and not get caught up in consumer irrational exuberance.

The themes that have shaped the post-pandemic world:

• Businesses are shifting from sustainability to holistic solutions as the global environmental crisis worsens. Community and individual wellbeing are being taken into consideration alongside environmental credentials and general social impact.

• Hometainment has been catapulted as the off-trade consumption shift continues. It is not a new concept, however, one that looks to remain key for future brand strategies.

• Innovation had to take a back seat during the pandemic. But embracing authenticity and supporting local

and nostalgia-inspired recipes or ingredients are the new focus of experimentation.

The five trends are now influencing the industry:

• Re-embracing hedonism, socialising, and high-energy occasions - living in the now

• Mindful drinking alternatives developing functionality and its counter indulgence trend

• Polarisation takes over from premiumisation

• E-commerce hits its coming of age time period

• The un-uniform return of brands as they navigate post-pandemic requirements in each market

Information from Euromonitor International

report

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

grain. Guidelines and criteria like these limit the ability of flavoured spirits or low-quality production methods, often armed with hefty marketing budgets, to tarnish the brand.

Distilled Spirits Aotearoa (DSA) exists to advocate for, encourage, and smooth the pathways to success for our members, both individually and collectively. One of the key elements of this is creating a national brand for New Zealand craft spirits to use when marketing ourselves overseas.

Establishing and maintaining the image of our sector in the overseas markets is complex, and while only a small percentage of our members are engaging in those markets now, the more attention we draw, the smoother those pathways will become.

New Zealand products are already synonymous with quality, so now our members want to know how to maintain and protect that level of quality. The integrity of our production processes is a huge factor in this, in part achieved by establishing standards across the sector.

For example, the New Zealand whisky guidelines introduced in early 2021 mean that for any producer to call their product a New Zealand whisky, it must be aged for two years in certain types of oak and made with certain types of

The DSA now has 97 distilling members, and while the scale of each of these members varies from micro to somewhat large, across the country, these businesses are maturing and have ambitions towards bigger audiences overseas. Our bigger distilleries are opening the export gates, and this is cementing our image worldwide.

Cardrona Distillery has solidified its place across Europe, Scapegrace has recently gained international media attention with its new Central Otago building site, and Pokeno Whisky Company is coming hot out of the gate with its whisky launching into the UK, France, Germany, the US, and Australia.

Meanwhile, some of the major difficulties smaller NZ distillers face when looking to export are making a connection with a market, reliable volume, and price competitiveness.

Finding the right buyer is a hurdle many stumble at, so when the leaders of the industry start to take up significant space, the buyers pop their heads up. However, that also leads to the other difficulty, which is pricing and the competitive nature of scale and the ability to produce large volumes is still key.

Our distillers and spirit brands are still enjoying high domestic demand and can comfortably claim a top-shelf price. For example, it’s not unusual to see New Zealand gins selling at a higher price than a 12-year-old rum or XO Armagnac. There are no fat margins loaded behind these prices, just economies of scale - or lack of - and tax. The majority of New Zealand’s small-scale distillers are realising very small profit margins with fewer than 10,000 units per year, costs per unit are going to be high, and when even domestic shipping costs are increasing steadily, it makes it difficult to explore exporting options.

This leaves bigger distilleries that have volume on their side to negotiate that last one percent margin remaining between cost and profit on the product to get it exported, which has downstream benefits for the smaller distillers, such as credible destination marketing (think Armagnac or Champagne).

The DSA is developing a framework of good practice which will strengthen our national brand and give our burgeoning industry confidence that their product will measure up against the best in the world.

My thanks to Ben Leggett from Elemental Distillers for his candid conversation, experience and insight.

RICHARD WILSON Distilled Spirits Aotearoa (DSA)

There’s a groundswell, a movement happening within. The innovation and quality of Aotearoa’s craft spirits industry have been advancing in leaps and bounds for the last few years. The competition is reaching all new highs, both among our own domestic products and those from the overseas craft markets that are finding space on our shelves.

Responsible Service of Alcohol Standards

Meanwhile, a similar number said that after lifting restrictions, they had a better appreciation for the sector’s contribution to their own social and mental well-being.

Nearly half of the participants agreed that socialising with friends and family outside the home significantly impacted their happiness after restrictions were lifted.

Hospitality New Zealand has launched the Responsible Service of Alcohol Standards course. An industry-led initiative in which everyone in licensed premises – operators, managers, and servers – has a part to play.

It is part of host responsibility, which is integral to manaakitanga – respect and care for guests and customers –and aims to minimise alcohol harm to help create safer drinking and work environments for communities and staff via the training and empowering of employees in responsible sale and supply.

For easy accessibility, the course is available online as a series of video lessons on Hospitality NZ’s e-learning platform Typsy, ensuring standardised training is delivered consistently when and where it is needed.

Having the course online also offers the advantage of digital record

keeping for operator compliance and the provision of digital certificates for employees.

Once completed, participants receive a certificate that will be recognised throughout the hospitality sector. It can be stored along with other training achievements on participants’ individual digital Knowledge Passport, which follows them as they progress through their careers.

Hospitality NZ firmly believes this course should be a recognised national minimum standard to achieve standardisation and intends to push for that.

Hospitality is vital to the New Zealand social fabric. Two-thirds of consumers surveyed said the social and mental well-being of the general population was negatively impacted as a direct result of the closure of hospitality venues during the COVID-19 lockdowns.

THE HUNTING LODGE

The Hunting Lodge HomeBlock Wild Ferment Sauvignon

Blanc 2020, Waimauku:

This is the Savvie for Chardonnay drinkers. The Hunting Lodge has taken the iconic NZ variety ripened on some of the oldest Sauv Blanc vines in the country and let it express itself. With no winemaker intervention during fermentation except for the provision of French oak barriques, the result is layers of complexity and a wild edge. Pungent and smoky with dried sage, tropical and citrus fruit aromas dominating the nose. The palate reveals grilled pineapple and green mango flavours with a generous helping of savoury, toasty oak. A thin line of pure minerality runs the length of this wine while chalky acidity delivers poise and tension to the palate.

The Hunting Lodge Expressions Rosé

2021, Hawkes Bay:

Just add sunshine for all the makings of an endless summer. Rose with both flair and generosity. A fragrant and refined, dry style of Rose displaying grace with a sense of vibrancy makes this wine the perfect summer aperitif. A selection of red grapes is grown in the Hawke’s Bay and picked slightly early to retain vibrancy and freshness. Syrah is chosen for aromatic expression. Merlot adds mouthfeel and core balance. Cabernet Sauvignon brings depth of flavour and vividness of colour. Melon, strawberries and candy floss with traces of white florals and dried thyme adorn the nose. Fresh acidity lines the seamless palate which offers up more red berry fruits and pink grapefruit with a touch of caramel sweetness to finish. A refreshing medley of fruits.

www.thehuntinglodge.com

Beer, wine and spirits

The Hunting Lodge Seasonal Collection Albariño 2021, Marlborough:

It’s been likened to Riesling’s sexier cousin, but Albariño has a unique charm and is certainly making some noise on the New Zealand wine scene. At home in Northwest Spain and Portugal, Albariño is an exciting alternative white variety that seems to possess the best parts of a Riesling and Viognier but with none of their hang-ups. From the cool climate of Marlborough’s Awatere Valley, this is a lively example of what the varietal can deliver with superb concentration and intensity. Bright acidity, structure and body meet a foray of citrus and fleshy stone fruit aromas intertwined with white florals, wild fennel and crushed seashells. A taut but generous palate delivers lemongrass, white peach, a touch of aniseed and a unique salty minerality. Bold, fresh and the perfect Spring weather companion.

ORDERING INFO: For more details or to place an order, please contact your local Federal Merchants & Co account manager. Alternatively, email clientservices@federalmerchants.co.nz or call them on +64 9 578 1823

ZEFFER

Zeffer is known for their innovation in craft beverages and they’re back with another juicy hit just in time for summer. Their brand new Hazy Alcoholic Lemonade is crafted with freshly squeezed Hawke’s Bay lemons and a special blend of apple and grape based spirits. They’ve left this one unfiltered for an extra burst of delicious and refreshing lip-smacking lemon flavour. It’s launching on 4 October in 25L kegs and 330ml cans, so order yours today. For trade pricing (including a special launch deal on kegs) and to order please visit the Lion portal or contact  orders@zeffer co.nz

REMARKABLE CREAM

Remarkable Cream is a family business that produces a New Zealand alternative to Irish Cream Liqueurs. Our recipe showcases the best of NZ’s dairy products: fresh cream and high-quality milk Vodka. Our recipe has more fresh cream and less sugar than other international liqueur brands. Inspired by New Zealand toffee, our Butterscotch Remarkable Cream is creamy, buttery and balanced with a rich caramel that we feel that does justice to the family’s original vision of a homegrown cream liqueur. Our Dark Chocolate is made with a world class Asian & African cocoa mix, all natural without any flavours or colours.Remarkable Creams versatility make it perfect for cocktails, adult desserts, or even as an addition to hot drinks or hard shakes. Both flavours are available in retail stores throughout New Zealand & direct online.”

Wills Cameron, Managing Director, Remarkable Cream Limited. Ph +64 20 4011 9170 or email wills@remarkablecream.nz   www.remarkablecream.nz

Not all Battles are Up Hill

DYLAN FIRTH Executive Director, Brewers Association New Zealand

Statistics New Zealand data for the first six months of 2022 shows that beer available for consumption in New Zealand has rebounded from the lows seen in 2020 due to the enforced lockdowns that closed hospitality businesses.

The 7.25 percent increase for the first six months of the year, compared with the same period in 2020, reflects the work businesses are doing to remain open and return to normal trading.

While it is encouraging to see the industry rebounding from an extremely difficult time, the road ahead is certainly not free from challenges. The increasing cost of doing business in the current environment is no stranger to most.

For brewers, the threat of increased regulation, materials costs, transportation, the restricted supply of CO2 for many smaller breweries and the annual CPI increase of excise tax are all hitting businesses’ bottom line.

In 2021 New Zealanders paid $1.22 billion in alcohol excise, set to increase to $1.3 billion in 2022. An increase of $84.4m for all beverages and $28.3 million for beer alone. This is likely to continue into 2023 with forecast inflation remaining high.

Not only are we seeing record levels of excise increase, the proposal from the government on a mandatory container

return scheme, where a final decision is yet to be announced, would mean beer producers will be hit with estimated costs of over $8 per 24 pack. Even before this possibility and a range of other costs already increasing, brewers have had little or no capacity to incur extra costs and we have seen many increase their prices as a result.

Fortunately, not all battles are up hill. With promising signs in consumption data leading into peak production for a summer that is predicted to be a warm one, the scene is set for the beer sector to see a period of growth after a number of years of general flat trade.

Areas of focus and growth continue in the low carb category, with this making up 11.4 percent of retail and supermarket beer sales up from 8.5 percent this time last year. The trends in zero percent beer still continue with consumers looking for more non-alcohol occasions but still enjoying a beer.

The most recent stats NZ data shows 4.5 percent Alcohol by volume and over products have increased nearly 30 percent in the last six months. These types of beers traditionally would represent craft and premium brands. Reflecting the trends that consumers are looking to focus on quality and premium brands when they choose to enjoy a beer.

In the run up to the end of 2022, the brewing sector in New Zealand is starting to see a return to post pandemic trade but in a time of increasing costs this doesn’t necessarily get reflected in profit.

REMARKABLE CREAM RUM & VANILLA

Remarkable Cream is a unique New Zealand offering. Challenging the Irish Cream market with a homegrown alternative. Available in Butterscotch & Dark Chocolate, it is best enjoyed chilled, in cocktails, or even over ice-cream. In celebration of the coming festive season Remarkable Cream is releasing a special edition ‘Rum Coffee Vanilla’, beautifully combining these ingredients with their classic Fresh Cream & NZ vodka recipe. This will be exclusively distributed to retail via The Premium Liquor Company. Butterscotch and Dark Chocolate are currently found in liquor stores nationwide. Keep a lookout for the new festive edition being released soon.

Brown Brothers 1889 Range Rebrands as Brown Brothers Origins Series

concentration and will cellar for up to seven years from vintage.

Suggested food matching:

This elegant red wine makes a delicious partner to a wide variety of meat dishes, such as a classic steak or an herb-crusted beef eye fillet with roasted vegetables, followed by aged cheddar.

2020 Origins Merlot –Inspired by sprawling old-world Estates

varietals, including a medium-bodied Shiraz, an elegant Cabernet Sauvignon, and a highly versatile Merlot, all of which have been grown in some of Victoria’s most premium vineyards. The range also includes a gorgeous Prosecco, which has been recently introduced to the range.

THE WINES WITHIN THE ORIGINS SERIES RANGE INCLUDE:

BrownBrothers, one of Australia’s best-loved family wine businesses, which has been making wine for over 130 years, is pleased to share that its 1889 range has undergone an exciting refresh, which includes a new name and a bold and eye-catching new design to appeal to wine lovers who are looking for premium wines that not only look great but taste fabulous, too.

While the award-winning wines within the bottle remain the same, the range is now known as Brown Brothers Origins Series. Each wine within the range celebrates the origins of different varietals, including the sense of place you get from each of the destinations it represents – from a Shiraz inspired by Australia’s farming heritage, to a Cabernet inspired by French winemaking traditions, to a Merlot inspired by magnificent oldworld estates, all of the wines within the range have been designed to help people to rediscover their taste for adventure.

New labels for the range evoke a sense of playfulness, while ensuring they standout. Caroline Brown, Corporate Communications Manager for Brown Family Wine Group said: “We are excited to share this bold new look with New Zealand consumers and we hope that the bright and modern new labels will entice them to try something new and create ‘wine wanderlust’ by sharing a glimpse into the fascinating origins which inspired them.”

In the NZ market, the Brown Brothers Origins Series includes a range of three red wines from popular traditional

2018 Origins Shiraz – Inspired by the Australian spirit

This medium-bodied, bright, brick-red Shiraz is inspired by Australia’s rich farming heritage. It has lifted aromas of dark berries and classic pepper notes of Heathcote Shiraz. These aromas follow through to the palate, which has generous juicy fruit and a fine tannin structure. This supple Shiraz drinks beautifully now but cellaring for 4-6 years from vintage will add complexity. Suggested food matching:

This juicy Shiraz would be perfect with beef carpaccio drizzled with olive oil and topped with cracked black pepper and shaved parmesan cheese. Or try it with a Szechwan pepper coated tuna steak cooked medium rare with a light green salad.

2020 Origins Cabernet Sauvignon – Inspired by artisanship

This elegant, deep crimson wine is inspired by French winemaking traditions, artisanship, and the purity of perseverance. It displays aromas of savoury blackcurrant and juicy dark fruits, with fine, supple tannins. The 2020 Cabernet’s depth of colour and intensity of flavour show tremendous

This highly versatile mediumbodied wine was inspired by magnificent old-world estates, charming chateaux, and blooming lavender fields. In the glass, this wine shows bright purple hues and lifted aromas of red berries, dried herbs, and spices with hints of liquorice. These aromas follow through to the palate where the berry fruit flavours balance the soft tannins. It can be enjoyed now or will reward cellaring up to four years from vintage.

Suggested food matching:

As a medium-bodied red, this wine is great to enjoy on its own, or alongside tasty grilled meats and a zesty radicchio salad. The Origins Series Merlot is a popular match for spice Chinese hot pots or an aged cheddar and nut bread.

2021 Origins Prosecco NV- Inspired by Italian Prosecco growing methods

Brown Brothers was one of the first winemakers to plant Prosecco in Victoria’s cool climate King Valley. The King Valley is climatically the closest region in Australia to northeast Italy and Brown Brothers’ Banksdale vineyard, which is 485 metres above sea level, is the perfect home for Australia’s premium Prosecco.

The Origins Series Prosecco is the perfect sparkling for the casual catch up with friends and family. Straw in colour with subtle green hues and a delicate nose, it displays delicious apple and pear characters. This wine retains the freshness and vibrancy that Prosecco is known for, and it has a beautiful savoury edge on the palate. This refreshing sparkling is made to drink now while it's light and fresh.

TIKI WINE & VINEYARDS

Based in Waipara, within the North Canterbury Wine Region, Tiki Wine & Vineyards is named in honour of owner Royce McKean’s great-greatgreat grandfather, Chief Tiki Tere Mihi. Also a handcrafted taonga of our country, when gifted, the Tiki bestows good fortune and love on others - it’s with that same spirit in mind that we craft our wines. The Tiki Wine & Vineyards’ portfolio includes Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Rosé and Riesling.

www.tikiwine.com

FINERY COCKTAILS

Leading the moderation movement with New Zealand’s cleanest No Alcohol premium ready to drink options. Finery blends are subtle and delicious boasting no added sugar or preservatives making them naturally a better choice for all consumers of spritz options. Recently reviewed by New Zealand’s own Master Sommelier, Cameron Douglas boasting favourable comments of light, fresh, fragrant and well made. As a small owner operated brand, Finery continues to shine with both International and local taste medals and can be found in a large selection of grocery outlets nationwide.

To find out how to best purchase for your location

email jane@finepeople.co.nz or phone +64 21 752 356

www.finerycocktails.co.nz

ALCOHOLIC

Beer, wine and spirits

FINERY COCKTAILS

Leading the moderation movement with New Zealand’s cleanest Low Alcohol premium ready to drink options. Finery blends are subtle and delicious boasting no added sugar or preservatives making them naturally a better choice for all consumers of spritz options. Recently reviewed by New Zealand’s own Master Sommelier, Cameron Douglas boasting favourable comments of light, fresh, fragrant and well made. As a small owner operated brand, Finery continues to shine with both International and local taste medals and can be found in a large selection of grocery outlets nationwide.

To find out how to best purchase for your location email jane@finepeople.co.nz or phone +64 21 752 356 www.finerycocktails.co.nz

ZERO ALCOHOL

Wine, beer, cider and spirits

PERONI NASTRO

AZZURRO 0.0%.

Introducing Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0%. A stylish new, non-alcoholic beer that tastes as good as full-strength namesake, Peroni Nastro Azzurro. The new Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% is crafted with Peroni›s superior Italian ingredients including the signature nostrano dell›isola maize, grown exclusively for the brewery in the north of Italy, to create the same refreshing Italian taste of Peroni Nastro Azzurro, now at 0.0% alcohol. The beer is fully fermented to develop the aroma and refreshing taste profile of Peroni Nastro Azzurro, and then alcohol is gently removed to deliver the same taste experience, with a crisp and delicate balance of bitterness and subtle citrus aromatic flavour. Available in both 12 pack and 6 pack 330mL bottles. For more information contact your Asahi Beverages NZ representative or for new customer enquiries call 0800 420 001.

Cheeky Raspberry

Each year, the raspberry plant grows back bigger, sweeter, and juicier. Like a raspberry, this mix gets better with every sip. Ditch the fizz and settle in for a deliciously refreshing experience. Vodka iced tea, lightly sweetened, with notes of juicy raspberry and a rich amber colour that can only be compared to liquid gold! Five percent ABV 330ml.

Juno Monica Gin

Inspired by Monica Brewster, whose estate saw the build of Taranaki’s iconic Govett-Brewster Gallery for Modern Art, this 700ml London Dry Gin features lemongrass and lemon verbena. A vibrant bright gin singing with herbaceous lemon notes, perfect alongside Asian-inspired dishes.

Coromandel Christmas

Spiced Gin

Long ago, spices were exotic, precious, and rare. Like gold, they were so valuable that only the fortunate could get their hands on them. With wild pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, grains of paradise, and no less than 19 others, a gin like this would’ve only been experienced by the lucky few. This elegant London Dry style gin honours tradition while being state-of-the-art.

Curiosity Gin Classic

A curious take on the classic London gin. Curiosity Classic is softly juniper-forward and exceptionally smooth, with gentle citrus playing off of light and bright spice and smooth, sweet floral highlights. An excellent Martini gin, Classic serves equally well as a Gin and Tonic or in whichever gin cocktail you prefer.

Seltz Drops

Six Barrell Soda has created Seltz Drops, the low-waste, sugar-free way to make delicious, naturally flavoured sparkling water. Each tiny bottle makes up to 50 drinks - that’s 50 aluminium cans being saved from the recycling bin. Available in four flavours; Cucumber & Mint, Peach & Passionfruit, Pink Grapefruit, and Strawberry & Lime. Adding a splash of flavour to fizzy water.

0% Alcohol Gin

Broken Heart 0% percent alcohol gin is reminiscent of the multiaward-winning Original Gin. Originating from the 11 natural ingredients, they have removed the alcohol without compromising on the perfectly balanced flavour. The citrus presence is strong, offering a level of fresh crispness whilst allowing the other botanicals to shine through.

Angel’s Share #6

Infused with basil creating savoury yet sweet notes on the palate, #6 has taken a unique flavour making it different from anything tasted before. Enjoy the lingering warmth and aromatic essence of this golden drop, along with a herbaceous aroma complemented by a citrus layer of botanicals.

Hector’s Gin

Named for the Hectors dolphins that swim off Akaroa, Hector’s Gin comes in flavour profiles foraged from Banks Peninsula. Every bottle is a taste of the place. Kelp from Wainui, pinot noir from French Peak, lemon verbena from Little River and blossoms from Little Akaloa are blended with classic botanicals to create gins that are a true evocation of the beautiful part of Aotearoa.

Lemon & Yuzu Sparkling Water

Lemon & Yuzu is Native’s most popular flavour. It’s a thirst quencher, like an up-market old-fashioned lemonade. Drink chilled or simply pour over ice with a selection of citrus peels. For an added kick, try adding gin and ruby red grapefruit as a G&T alternative.

What’s Yuzu? It is a Japanese citrus fruit - with characteristics of mandarin and grapefruit, presenting themselves with a sparkling zesty finish.

R-Line Electrolyte Drink is a New Zealand-made 10x concentrated sports drink syrup. R-Line was launched in 2011 and has grown to be a serious player in the domestic hydration market. Their grassroots community support comes from years of sponsoring New Zealand events and teams – from biggest to small. www.rline.co.nz

Cane Overproof Rum

Cane by 1919 Distilling has been fermented, distilled and bottled by 1919 distilling creating a bold yet creamy and soft 63 percent overproof rum. Distilled in a hand-built 1800L copper pot still, this rum has an oily, soft mouthfeel and is full of tropical fruit. With no additives, this is a pure New Zealand Rum.

Designed to elevate cocktail experiences at home.