Spirits’ struggles mean more cautious majors – and harder task for startups

With trading tough, major distillers have become more cautious and are narrowing their focus – and the challenges facing startups are only mounting.

Richard Woodard March 13 2026

Credit: Arthur_Shevtsov/Shutterstock.com

US functional soda business Olipop has named Christian Patiño Webb to replace co-founder Ben Goodwin as the company’s new CEO.

Subscribe to Just Drinks for just £1 for 1 month

Stay ahead with unbiased news, expert commentary, and in-depth features on global topics.

As a trusted provider of data and insights, Just Drinks collaborates closely with industry leaders and professionals to offer unique thought leadership and analysis. Gain a deeper understanding of the drinks industry’s trajectory and the priorities shaping the profession.

What’s included in your subscription:

Personalized Access: Secure login to Just Drinks
Industry News & Expert Commentary: Timely updates and exclusive C-level interviews.
Case Studies & Deep Dives: Real-world applications and in-depth analyses.
Exclusive Subscriber Newsletter: Weekly top features, plus a new thematic report and webinar.

Ready to stay informed?

Subscribe to unlock exclusive content.

Already a subscriber? Sign in to access your account.

Pleasecomplete this form to request more information, and a representative will be in touch shortly.

Latest news

Heineken CFO “cautious” on Europe volumes recovery

“We believe that Europe is a potential [market] for stability and growth in pockets... but I don’t want to be too optimistic too soon,” CFO Harold van den Broek said.

13 March 2026

Newsletter_img

Wine groups AdVini, Cordier by Invivo strike assets-and-shares deal

As part of the agreement, AdVini will receive the Café de Paris sparkling wine brand and its production site, along with the Cordier brand.

13 March 2026

Newsletter_img

Mercer Wine Estates to acquire Washington wine brands

The group is snapping up the Matthews, Tenor, Jaine and Single Barrel brands from local winemaker Avallé.

13 March 2026

Newsletter_img

Löfbergs CEO to leave coffee group for Humble hot seat

Fredriksson, who has been at the helm of family-owned Löfbergs since 2021, will join Humble in September.

13 March 2026

Newsletter_img

Gen Z alcohol consumption habits are “cyclical”, Brown-Forman CEO says

Whiting also reflected on the possible impact on the beverage alcohol sector from cannabis consumption and the increasing use of GLP-1 drugs.

13 March 2026

Newsletter_img

Ex-Campari CEO forms low-and-no “venture builder”

Engine Gin founder Paolo Dalla Mora and Luca Gargano, owner of the Italian importer Velier, have set up Liquid Ventures alongside Bob Kunze-Concewitz.

13 March 2026

Newsletter_img

Rémy Cointreau creates Prestige division

The new business unit will look after the Louis XIII Cognac and Champagne Telmont brands.

13 March 2026

Newsletter_img

Newsletters by sectors

View more newsletters

Sign up to the newsletter

Just Drinks In Brief

Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Sign up to the newsletter: In Brief

I would also like to subscribe to:

Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Thank you for subscribing

View all newsletters from across the GlobalData Media network.

close