April 2024 Industry News

Bombay Sapphire Announce the 2024 Most Imaginative Bartender, Elise Hanson

Bombay Sapphire and Tales of the Cocktail Foundation have announced Elise Hanson, Bar Manager at Bar Raval, as the winner of the 2024 Most Imaginative Bartender competition. The competition, now in its 15th year, highlights creativity and innovation in the cocktail community, providing a platform for bartenders to showcase their originality. Elise's winning project, Higher Harvests, aims to transform rooftops into gardens for growing organic produce in Toronto, supported by a $20,000 grant, emphasizing sustainability and environmental benefits.

Top 10 sustainable spirits brands

To celebrate Earth Day here are 10 spirits brands committed to sustainability were highlighted. These brands employ various eco-friendly practices such as using renewable energy, partnering with local farmers, and reducing waste through innovative packaging solutions. From repurposing 'wonky' fruit to planting trees for every bottle sold, these companies demonstrate a dedication to environmental responsibility while offering quality spirits

Is aquavit about to go global?

Distillers worldwide are embracing aquavit, a traditional Scandinavian spirit, with both traditional and innovative approaches. While the category has seen growth in markets like the US and UK, it faces challenges such as an aging consumer base and a need to appeal to younger drinkers. Efforts to expand the category include exploring new flavor profiles, promoting aquavit in cocktails, and advocating for a global standard to enhance consumer understanding and appreciation of this versatile spirit.

Mary Jones Named High Spirits Awards Best Cannabis Soda for Second Consecutive Year

Jones Soda Co.'s cannabis brand, Mary Jones, has been awarded Best Cannabis Soda and a Platinum Medal in California's 2024 High Spirits Awards for its THC-infused 10mg Berry Lemonade, marking the second consecutive year of recognition. Leveraging over 25 years of beverage expertise, Mary Jones has seen significant popularity since its 2022 launch in California, becoming the top seller in its category and expanding into other cannabis-legal markets like Washington and Canada.

Clase Azul loses trademark case against Casa Azul

Clase Azul's trademark infringement case against Casa Azul has been dismissed by a US district judge, allowing both Tequilas to continue operating under their respective names. The judge cited differences in products, packaging, and target consumer audiences, ruling that Clase Azul failed to establish likelihood of confusion or trademark infringement.

How to boost spirits sales in pubs

Strategies for increasing spirits sales in pubs include offering a diverse range of spirits, creating appealing displays, and providing staff training on product knowledge and upselling techniques. Implementing these tactics, can enhance your spirits offerings and attract more customers.

TALES OF THE COCKTAIL FOUNDATION 2024 - Education

The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) emphasizes innovation and inclusivity in its educational programming for the annual conference. With seminar streams covering Business, Culture, and Beyond the Bar, TOTCF aims to offer valuable content tailored to bartenders, managers, and owners, accepting proposals for the 2024 conference until November 28, 2023.

TOTCF x Hendrick's Gin Expedition Cocktail, Event Serie

Hendrick’s Gin partners with Tales of the Cocktail Foundation for Expedition Cocktail 2024, a whimsical journey across the United States featuring interactive cocktail classes, quirky competitions, and four featured cocktails per event. Winners from each stop will earn a sponsored trip to Hendrick’s Gin Palace and London Cocktail Week, celebrating creativity and the adventurous spirit of the cocktail industry.

Celebrate the Winning Bottles of the 2024 L.A. Spirits Awards

The L.A. Spirits Awards provides a crucial platform for spirits to gain recognition and stand out in a crowded market, with expert judges ensuring the integrity of the accolades. Winning a medal not only boosts marketing efforts but also signifies quality assurance to consumers, particularly beneficial for smaller distillers seeking distribution and name recognition in the industry.

Understanding the 4 Main Types of Gin, According to Experts

Dive into the diverse world of gin with the four main types: London Dry, Old Tom, Plymouth, and New Western/Contemporary. Each style offers distinct flavor profiles and production methods, providing bartenders and enthusiasts with a wide range of options for crafting unique cocktails to suit different tastes and preferences.

Is 2024 the year rum explodes in GTR?

Rum is poised for a breakthrough in global travel retail (GTR) in 2024, fueled by growing interest and investment in the category's premium offerings. With major acquisitions, increasing brand diversity, and a focus on immersive experiences, rum's trajectory in GTR is set to challenge traditional brown spirits and capture the attention of luxury consumers.

Move over booze: Asahi ups alcohol-free production share

Asahi aims to boost its sales of alcohol-free drinks, with plans to have them account for 50% of its beverage sales by 2040, driven by increasing demand in Japan and globally. The company sees an opportunity in the growing trend towards health-conscious drinking, capitalizing on higher margins of alcohol-free beverages while avoiding alcohol tax, and plans to expand its alcohol-free lineup in the US through investments and partnerships