Earlier this year, Automatic Merchandiser explored how operators should respond to the growing trend of CBD-infused food and beverages. While regulations are still developing — and differ by region — it's worth noting that many food and beverage companies are offering CBD products, particularly CBD coffee.
NxGen Brands has partnered with boutique coffee producer JoeCool to jointly develop CBD-infused coffee based products throughout the Northeast. Noting that this region will be used as a test market, the companies plan to offer a JoeCool 2-ounce espresso shot infused with CBD in 100 stores in the area with plans for expansion.
Understanding that CBD preferences are not one-size-fits all, Alabama-based Serda's Coffee recently announced that the company is offering custom infused-CBD coffee bags, giving customers the ability to adjust the amount of CBD to suit their preferences.
"If you want our Ethiopian Gera Estate with 150mg or our Costa Rican Ateneo with 300mg, no problem. Our new method gives customers the selection they have been looking for which has been lacking in the market. Other coffee roasters that provide CBD infused coffees only offer one varietal of coffee, where we can offer 20 and more," said John Serda, Owner of Serda's Coffee Co.
CBD upstart Serenity Mountain Foods recently launched Hot Cocoa Mixes with CBD in three flavors: Classic Blend, Madagascar Vanilla and Spicy Aztec. Each individually-portioned pouch has 40 mg of CBD per serving.
Showing a growing acceptance in retail, Supermarket News reported that Kansas City's Ball's Price Chopper joined forces with CBD manufacturer American Shaman to launch the first CBD retail location within a grocery franchise with multiple stores. The CBD store features an inviting seating area where customers can sample and learn about CBD products including American Shaman's offerings.
