AriZona Beverage Co.’s Post

Before heading out for a week in San Diego, I wanted to make sure to get out my #FridayFive: 1. Mike Kostyo and I have both posted recently on the importance of scent to consumers. Based on new product releases, it's clear others have definitely caught on. Consider Auntie Anne's new Knead fragrance (https://lnkd.in/eHxePWg7), the mayo-scent perfume from Hellman's (https://lnkd.in/ePmURm5F), and Dolce & Gabbana's perfume Fefe for your pampered pooch (https://lnkd.in/ex2p_BhB). Are you innovating against scent in a meaningful way for your consumers? 2. I haven't stopped thinking about some of the points brought up in Andrea Hernández's LinkedIn post about #nostalgia and #GenZ. Will Gen Z actually have nostalgia? A fair portion of their youth will have been spent in or after the pandemic, and everything else that went with it. And, if their lives are so inherently tied to technology, can nostalgia exist for them? If everything exists all at once, what will they be tied to nostalgically? (https://lnkd.in/eQKbdhSF) 3. Now that we're past the Paris Olympics, let's talk about how the Seine is apparently a treasure trove of unexpected finds. Likely a good thing the swimmers didn't have this rolling around in their head while they were braving the murky waters. Frankly, they had enough to worry about with the water. (https://lnkd.in/ecRq9XiY) 4. There have been a number of stories written about what happened to Red Lobster...how did it happen and who's to blame. This video on the #privateequity strategy of asset stripping is interesting (https://lnkd.in/eK7UW5Cd). But as the economy and markets have changed post pandemic, private equities may have to learn how to run companies, rather than running them into the ground. (https://lnkd.in/eZXd2547) 5. #Trend reports are following late-year holidays in that they are showing up months earlier than they used to. I've already seen about a dozen 2025 trend reports, and it's only August. If these reports are coming out in August 2024, what on earth will they have to talk about come March 2025? It's another symptom of the topic of "trends" slipping off the rails. If we keep focusing on trends as though they are the solution, we're not going to create solutions that are meaningful and resonant with consumers. See you at The Flavor Experience! #trends2024 #consumerinsights #consumerbehavior #foodandbeverageindustry #foodservice #restaurants #cpg #foodandbeverage

In the world of whiskey, there has long existed a perception that it’s a robust brew only for men, as if the nectar of barley and oak might turn delicate constitutions to moonshine vapor. Anna Axster and Wendelin von Schroder clearly have other plans in mind and more power to them for it. Picture this: the traditional whiskey club as a Medieval castle, with towering stone walls and an exclusively male garrison. Suddenly, Anna and Wendelin arrive in nothing short of fine armor tailored in modernity's slick lines—women unafraid to walk boldly through the heavy iron gates, reshaping history itself. Like the gust of wind that topples the whole house of cards, these visionary cousins are about to infuse the old whiskey world with a breath of fresh air. They’re saying, “Why suffer from this old-style indigestion when diversity can be the key ingredient?”—ah, the triumph of new age thinking! While some might mock this effort purely as a marketing ploy, a cynical grab for headlines, isn’t it always that the wolves in sheep's clothing reveal the last laugh as pure innovation and heart? Perhaps what Anna and Wendelin are crafting isn’t merely liquid in glass but a catalyst for a more inclusive community. Consider it a journey: each dram of whiskey no longer whispered amongst the shadows of stogie-saturated rooms but swirled in an environment that explores partnerships, creativity, and cultural appreciation. Now, ponder the intrigue of how a shared interest might seed a gardener's delight of camaraderie—who is to say what flowers will bloom? But beware, dear traditionalists, of embracing sullen thoughts. Predictions hold power, and I foresee a kaleidoscope of flavorful combinations pouring forth, pooling together, unifying fans from all genders and backgrounds. So, if anything, when you next hear the clink of whiskey glasses, listen closely. Anna and Wendelin aren’t tearing down your castle; they’re furnishing a majestic hall within it for all to partake. In the heart of progress—for the love of a good story and an even better drink—cheers to expanding the circle. #WhiskeyRevolution #WomenInWhiskey #BreakingBarriers https://lnkd.in/emdgfXDV

– In the DEI Maze: When Your Identity is a Cocktail – Mixing through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with Malaysian roots, Japanese blossoms, and American branches, I've become a unique cultural cocktail. This blend – stirred, not shaken, by my mixed heritage – makes me a protagonist in the DEI narrative. Yet, amidst this diversity celebration, I wonder if our rich mixes make us specialty drinks – admired from afar but seldom fully understood. DEI promotes shedding labels, yet here I am, feeling like a bar stocked with diverse name-tags. Each tag a distinct flavor of my story, but together, might they cloud the essence of the professional I aim to be? Picture being at a bar crossroads, signs pointing to different ingredients of your identity, yet none leading directly to the signature drink that is 'you'. The 4 Animal Personality Test at a recent team-building event revealed my preference for introspection over the spotlight, surprising colleagues who assumed I thrived in the center of the room. It wasn't about being inauthentic; it's adaptability, akin to choosing the right cocktail mood – quiet night in or the heart of the party. Brené Brown once said looking for evidence that you don't belong or you're not enough will always lead you to find it. Her words echo in the DEI space, where I mix my identity cocktail – hoping not to lose its distinct flavors in the quest for acceptance. But how do we ensure DEI doesn't just label us as exotic ingredients on a shelf, used for garnish rather than substance? And amidst our collective mixing, how do we identify who really needs that extra splash of support? This blending often muddies the waters between our individual essences and what we pour into our professional roles, challenging us to maintain our unique taste without diluting our contributions. In our pursuit of uniqueness, have we ended up with a bar full of similar cocktails, each claiming a distinct taste yet following the same recipe? My mentor’s reminder, “Being unique doesn’t inherently mean you’re useful,” is a nudge to remember that while our differences are valuable, it's how they mix together that creates a truly memorable drink. Embracing DEI’s mission to balance the bar, I reflect: Are we utilizing our diverse ingredients to their fullest potential, or are we losing ourselves in an ever-growing menu of labels and expectations? How do we ensure that DEI enhances our collective cocktail without watering down our individuality? As we navigate our evolving identities, how do we craft connections that go beyond the surface, like sharing stories over a well-made drink? And importantly, how do we find the right balance, ensuring our diverse flavors enrich the professional spaces we inhabit, without overwhelming the palate? #DiversityAndInclusion #DEI #CulturalDiversity #WorkplaceInclusion #ProfessionalGrowth #GlobalMindset #InclusiveLeadership #CareerDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #Leadership

Insightful Reflection: The Historical Significance of Clinking Glasses During Toasts As we welcome the New Year, we often find ourselves raising a glass in toasts during corporate events and celebrations. But have you ever pondered the origins of this widespread practice? Understanding the history behind our actions can enrich our appreciation and provide fascinating conversation starters. The Medieval Trust Pact: Historically, poisoning was a genuine concern, especially among the elite. It was believed that wine's sediment effectively concealed toxins. To demonstrate the wine's safety, a host would pour a portion of the guest's wine into his own glass and drink it first. If the guest trusted the host, a simple clinking of glasses would suffice. This gesture evolved into a symbol of mutual trust, honesty, and goodwill, essential values in any business relationship. The Sensory Experience: On a more sensory note, connoisseurs argue that clinking glasses fulfills the wine-drinking experience by engaging all five senses. The delicate touch of fine crystal, the visual appeal of the wine's color, the aromatic bouquet, the wine's exquisite taste, and the distinctive sound of glasses clinking together create a full sensory experience. This approach celebrates the meticulous journey of wine from grape to glass, much like the careful strategizing behind a successful business venture. As you raise your glass at the next gathering, consider the rich historical tapestry and sensory journey that accompanies this simple gesture. Whether it's a testament to trust or a sensory celebration, each clink carries a story. Which narrative resonates more with your perspective? Let's continue to celebrate our achievements and milestones with this time-honored tradition, always mindful of the heritage and meaning behind our actions. Cheers to a future of continued success and shared history! #DidYouKnow #CorporateTraditions #HistoricalInsights #BusinessAndPleasure

Stories Intoxicate Me. That's why I love stories. I love stories of products more than the products. Nothing catches my attention more than a well crafted story. And oftentimes, the quality of craft that went into the story of a product is a reflection of the quality of thoughts that went into crafting the product. That's why I love products with well crafted, free flowing, awe inspiring, jaw hanging stories. Craftsmen naturally draw their meticulousness from inspiration narrated in stories capturing the vision behind the products. There is something like a kindred spirit shared by minds that invent great works/products and minds that craft great stories to reflect the depth of the former. Stories are everything. Almost everything. Take for instance this cocktail of cognac. It is the Per Sempre Cocktail which in Italian means Forever. Hennessy describes it as a timeless drink for those looking to escape from the sweet or fruity. It is dry, bitter, and complexly aromatic, and the Hennessy V.S.O.P adds a hint of spice and rounds out the effect on the palate. When you read such descriptions you start exhibiting reflexes that stretch your Pavlovian instincts. That's what good stories do to the brain. That's why I love stories. But oftentimes, I love them more than their products. Stories are life giving. Ebenezar Okafor #storycare #smilewiththeebenezerinitiative #africanstorytelling #kelechideca

Lesson for today. (Col 3:9, 10) IMAGINE that you’re tasting a certain food for the very first time. How long does it take for you to figure out if you like it? One bite may be all that’s required to determine whether you’ll ever eat that food again—or even finish the portion that’s in front of you. Something similar happens when you meet another person for the very first time. In just a moment, you form an impression about that person. And here’s a sobering thought: In the same amount of time, that person forms an impression about you. I Your dress and grooming may, like an X-ray image, reveal what you are on the inside. Your speech reveals whether you are humble or conceited, easygoing or desperate. Keep that in mind if you’re trying to make a good first impression. Your words provide a window through which others can see what you’re truly like—so make sure that the view is a pleasant one! As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words, so determine the qualities you want to be known for and then cultivate them from the inside out. (Colossians 3:9, 10) As you do so, remember that you are the creator of your own reputation. By giving due attention to your appearance, speech, and actions and keeping them in harmony, you’ll make a good first impression—one that will last!

Champagne Confetti: The Meaning Behind a Pop Culture Phenomenon: In pop culture, certain phrases can take on their own life, becoming iconic and instantly recognizable. One such phrase is… Read More: Champagne Confetti: The Meaning Behind a Pop Culture Phenomenon via #TheCityCeleb

Lesson for today. (Col 3:9, 10) IMAGINE that you’re tasting a certain food for the very first time. How long does it take for you to figure out if you like it? One bite may be all that’s required to determine whether you’ll ever eat that food again—or even finish the portion that’s in front of you. Something similar happens when you meet another person for the very first time. In just a moment, you form an impression about that person. And here’s a sobering thought: In the same amount of time, that person forms an impression about you. I Your dress and grooming may, like an X-ray image, reveal what you are on the inside. Your speech reveals whether you are humble or conceited, easygoing or desperate. Keep that in mind if you’re trying to make a good first impression. Your words provide a window through which others can see what you’re truly like—so make sure that the view is a pleasant one! As the saying goes, actions speak louder than words, so determine the qualities you want to be known for and then cultivate them from the inside out. (Colossians 3:9, 10) As you do so, remember that you are the creator of your own reputation. By giving due attention to your appearance, speech, and actions and keeping them in harmony you’ll make a good first impression—one that will last!

🥃 On National Bourbon Day we should toast to something... Let’s raise a glass to thinking differently. Check out this “oldie but goodie” story of Cleveland Whiskey who turned the distilling industry on its head by asking “What if” Tom faced what he thought was an unsolvable problem and provoked his thinking. Ultimately leading him to solve that unsolvable problem. There is more to Tom’s story as he did not instantly come up with this idea and have it work flawlessly on the first shot. There was ideation, refinement, experimentation - including, probably a lot of blood, sweat, and tears. Regardless, every story like Tom’s starts with thinking differently and breaking your normal patterns of thinking. Think about what the equivalent of “putting the barrel in the whiskey” is to your challenge. Curious, have you ever tried Cleveland Whiskey? ------------------------- If you like 👆 then Klickthis —> 👍 🔄 Repost to your network If you found this helpful 🔔 Follow and ring the bell to keep seeing more