NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores s
Post# of 75561
(Total Views: 86)
Posted On: 10/17/2025 11:15:01 AM
NACS (National Association of Convenience Stores show)
key points from Goldman Sachs:
1-It remains all about energy drinks again this year with MNST, CELH, Red Bull and several others stepping up their game (especially MNST) with even more innovation, LTOs and flavors as well as an increased focus on female consumers with MNST rolling out FLRT;
2-Energy drink category demand remains very robust with many players suggesting retailers will continue to add incremental space to the category next year (this is consistent with what we've heard from our retailer contacts);
3-MNST remains on track with a selective price adjustment (i.e. increase) in the US by packaging type and channel later this year and while not announced, both CELH and Red Bull seemed open to the possibility of pricing and highlighted pricing is warranted;
4-Many companies (esp the brewers) are leaning in on special product/package innovation and marketing around the World Cup, the United States' 250th anniversary and the Olympics next year;
5-Companies continue to focus on functionality with many highlighting new innovation including ingredients with probiotics, protein and fiber;
6-Most companies' booths were well-attended (esp MNST, CELH, KO, PEP, MO & ABI) and showcased stepped-up innovation (esp PEP) with a continued focus on flavors (both food & beverage);
7-Many companies are focused on value during a time when the consumer is under increased pressure - with a focus on driving volume & improved traffic trends;
8-Package innovation was front and center again this year from singles in alc/beer, variety packs to smaller/mini sizes - providing greater affordability options & catering to younger demographics;
9-Consumers continue to gravitate toward healthier beverage/food options – with zero sugar a big area of emphasis again this year; and
10-In alcohol, the big focus was on flavors and even higher ABV beverage innovation from many, with TAP pushing past their self-imposed 8% ABV cap and rolling out a new 12% ABV 7.5oz can. Lastly, we were pleasantly surprised to see how active PM & MO's booths were this year - as they both showcased their smoke-free products & technology. It's clear that the competitive environment for nicotine pouches has intensified with stepped up promos, more innovation and greater spend behind the category as all the players fight for share.
key points from Goldman Sachs:
1-It remains all about energy drinks again this year with MNST, CELH, Red Bull and several others stepping up their game (especially MNST) with even more innovation, LTOs and flavors as well as an increased focus on female consumers with MNST rolling out FLRT;
2-Energy drink category demand remains very robust with many players suggesting retailers will continue to add incremental space to the category next year (this is consistent with what we've heard from our retailer contacts);
3-MNST remains on track with a selective price adjustment (i.e. increase) in the US by packaging type and channel later this year and while not announced, both CELH and Red Bull seemed open to the possibility of pricing and highlighted pricing is warranted;
4-Many companies (esp the brewers) are leaning in on special product/package innovation and marketing around the World Cup, the United States' 250th anniversary and the Olympics next year;
5-Companies continue to focus on functionality with many highlighting new innovation including ingredients with probiotics, protein and fiber;
6-Most companies' booths were well-attended (esp MNST, CELH, KO, PEP, MO & ABI) and showcased stepped-up innovation (esp PEP) with a continued focus on flavors (both food & beverage);
7-Many companies are focused on value during a time when the consumer is under increased pressure - with a focus on driving volume & improved traffic trends;
8-Package innovation was front and center again this year from singles in alc/beer, variety packs to smaller/mini sizes - providing greater affordability options & catering to younger demographics;
9-Consumers continue to gravitate toward healthier beverage/food options – with zero sugar a big area of emphasis again this year; and
10-In alcohol, the big focus was on flavors and even higher ABV beverage innovation from many, with TAP pushing past their self-imposed 8% ABV cap and rolling out a new 12% ABV 7.5oz can. Lastly, we were pleasantly surprised to see how active PM & MO's booths were this year - as they both showcased their smoke-free products & technology. It's clear that the competitive environment for nicotine pouches has intensified with stepped up promos, more innovation and greater spend behind the category as all the players fight for share.
(3)
(0)