beverages

Thanks for the Smoothie Business Boost, McDonald's

With McDonald's and Starbucks both trying to suck up Jamba Juice's smoothie business, some investors might have worried about how the smaller chain would compete. But as its latest positive profit report shows, the competition has turned out to be healthy for Jamba.

Coffee Still Reigns as U.S. Java King

Despite the specialty-coffee craze for lattes, cappuccinos and other blended and frozen drinks, most consumers still get their caffeine fix from a regular cup of coffee, according to a new survey by Technomic.

Specialty Foods Are Becoming a Regular Staple Again

Americans are returning to indulging in specialty foods the way they did before the recession, and they'll likely make big purchases of these affordable luxuries during the holidays. A recent survey showed 63% of American consumers purchased specialty food this year, up from 46% in 2009.

Starbucks Plans Major Expansion in China

Starbucks said Wednesday that it plans to grow its worldwide sales by expanding its 220 stores in mainland China to "at least" 1,500 by 2015. The world's largest coffee chain also is planning to add stores in Brazil, Russia and India.

Starbucks Customers May Pay More for Coffee Fix

Be prepared to pay more for your venti-sized extra-hot half-caff soy caramel macchiato at Starbucks starting soon. As the price of green Arabica coffee greens skyrockets, the company says it will raise prices for some of its more labor-intensive beverages.

Mexican Coca-Cola Is Finding Sweet Success in the U.S.

The Mexican version of Coke -- made with cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup and served in glass bottles rather than plastic -- is making great inroads in the U.S. market. And it's not just Hispanic consumers who are buying.

Coca-Cola Buys Russian Juice Maker

In a move to gain a larger share of the beverage market outside of North America, Coca-Cola (KO) has bought Russian juice maker Nidan Juices, The Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday

Coke CEO Tells How Beverage Giant Got Back on Track

The CEO of the Coca-Cola, the world's largest beverage company, still believes the U.S. is "a great market for growth." Says Muhtar Kent: "We believe that everything that we've done to course-correct in the U.S. in the last three years is working."

Beverage Makers Unveil Summer Lineup of Drinks

Each spring, industry giants like National Beverage and Starbucks announce their new slate of summer flavors to distributors, retailers and consumers in an effort to generate plenty of buzz well before you hit the beach.