Welcome to Velocity This Week, where we dive into the world of retailer-owned brand news and provide you with insights and opinions. I’m Christopher Durham, the president of the Velocity Institute, and today, we’ll discuss some of the most significant trends in the industry. From collaborations between major retailers and brands to the changing preferences of consumers, there’s a lot to cover. So let’s get started.

Gopuff and Pure Green Collaboration: Redefining the Beverage Category

One of the most exciting collaborations in the retail industry is the partnership between Gopuff and Pure Green. Together, they have launched Gopuff X PureGreen Refreshers, a line of flavor-forward cold-pressed juice beverages made with functional ingredients. Jessica Glenn Denning, Director of Private Label at Gopuff, explains the motivation behind this collaboration:

“Over the past two years, we’ve leveraged consumer insights to develop several private brands that break from the mold to bring our customers more of what they love: bold flavors, high-quality ingredients, and affordable prices. We’re thrilled to partner with PureGreen, an authority in the cold-pressed juice space, to redefine yet another category with vibrant flavors, no added refined sugar, and functional ingredients.”

This collaboration highlights the growing demand for innovative and health-conscious products in the beverage industry. By combining their expertise, Gopuff and Pure Green are able to offer consumers a unique and refreshing experience.

Waitrose Food and Drink Report: The Changing Tastes of British Consumers

Waitrose, a leading UK retailer, recently released its annual Food and Drink Report, which provides insights into the eating and drinking habits of British consumers. The report reveals several key trends that have shaped the industry in 2023. One of the most notable trends is the resurgence of classic comfort foods. According to the report:

“A third of food and drink survey respondents, 32% to be precise, told Waitrose they have regularly eaten classic dishes such as shepherd’s pie and macaroni and cheese. They are particularly finding comfort in the humble spud, with sales of potato side dishes up 19%.”

This shift towards comfort foods reflects a desire for familiarity and nostalgia in uncertain times. Additionally, the report highlights the growing popularity of fermented foods and the increasing importance of protein in consumers’ diets. These trends demonstrate the evolving preferences of British consumers and the need for retailers to adapt to their changing tastes.

Aldi Australia and Brewdog Collaboration: Affordable Craft Beer for All

In Australia, discount grocer Aldi has partnered with the iconic Aussie bar Brewdog to launch a new beer collaboration. The collaboration aims to offer consumers a craft beer experience at an affordable price. Paul Hanley, Aldi Beer expert and buying director, explains the significance of this collaboration:

“Special Brews By Aldi and our new exclusive Aldi IPA with Brew Dog is a first for Aldi Australia, expanding our award-winning range of beers and showing Aussies that they can enjoy a craft experience without the hefty prices. We are so excited to welcome patrons to this new experience and for Aussies to crack open the new Aldi IPA.”

This collaboration not only provides consumers with access to high-quality craft beer at a lower price point but also supports a charitable cause. All proceeds from the pop-up event will be donated to the Australian children’s cancer charity Camp Quality. This collaboration showcases the power of partnerships in the retail industry and the potential for retailers to offer unique experiences to their customers.

Walmart’s Spark Shop: Celebrating the Holiday Season with Swag

Walmart, one of the largest retailers in the world, has quietly launched its Spark Shop, an online store offering a collection of swag and paraphernalia. The store features a holiday-themed line, including graphics from the Walmart tree lot and an illustration of Sam’s iconic pickup truck. Christopher Durham, the host of Velocity This Week, shares his excitement about the Spark Shop:

“If you haven’t seen it, it’s great. I’m going to order the shirt myself. There are T-shirts, mugs, hats, pop sockets, you name it. All sorts of cool Walmart paraphernalia. And don’t miss the spark on the tip of the tree as the star.”

The Spark Shop demonstrates Walmart’s commitment to engaging with its customers and creating a sense of community. By offering a range of branded merchandise, Walmart allows its customers to show their support and loyalty to the brand. This move also highlights the growing trend of retailers expanding their offerings beyond traditional products and services.

Implications and Future Outlook

These trends and collaborations in the retailer-owned brand space have significant implications for the industry. The Gopuff and Pure Green collaboration showcases the demand for innovative and health-conscious products, while the Waitrose Food and Drink Report highlights the changing preferences of British consumers. The Aldi Australia and Brewdog collaboration demonstrates the potential for retailers to offer unique experiences at an affordable price. Walmart’s Spark Shop reflects the growing trend of retailers leveraging their own brands to build loyalty.

Looking ahead, it is clear that retailers will need to continue innovating and adapting to meet consumers’ evolving needs and preferences. Collaborations with brands and introducing new products and experiences will be key to staying competitive in the market. Additionally, retailers must leverage technology and digital platforms to engage with customers and create a sense of community.

In conclusion, the retailer-owned brand space constantly evolves, driven by consumer demand and changing preferences. The collaborations and trends discussed in this article highlight the industry’s commitment to innovation and providing customers with unique and exciting experiences. As we move into the future, it will be fascinating to see how retailers continue to shape the industry and meet the ever-changing needs of consumers.