MNG Brands Expands Wellness Portfolio with Acquisition of WellBeing Brewing Company

ST. LOUIS, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- MNG Brands, owned by MNG 2005 Inc., the parent company of CBD Kratom, has acquired WellBeing Brewing Company, a leader in the non-alcoholic beer market. This acquisition expands MNG Brands' wholesale offerings and strengthens its position in alternative wellness and functional beverage distribution.

WellBeing Brewing Company, known for its award-winning non-alcoholic beers, will retain its brand identity while benefiting from MNG's operational resources and expertise. The acquisition opens new wholesale opportunities and further positions MNG Brands in the rapidly growing $11 billion non-alcoholic beverage market. As part of this expansion, WellBeing, under MNG Brands, will launch a new line of infused beverages, including THC-infused beverages, leveraging MNG's expertise in alternative wellness. These products will complement WellBeing's portfolio, offering consumers more functional beverage options for relaxation and overall wellness. With demand for functional and alcohol-free beverages rising, this move strengthens MNG Brands' footprint in a high-growth market. "MNG Brands is driving the future of wellness with innovative, high-quality beverage alternatives," said Dafna Revah, VP of MNG 2005 Inc. "By integrating our wholesale networks and expertise, we're expanding access to diverse wellness solutions that meet evolving consumer demands." "WellBeing has always been about quality, flavor, and wellness," said Jeff Stevens, WellBeing's founder. "Joining MNG Brands gives us the resources to scale, fulfill more orders, and introduce new products to market." The Hawkeye Capital Markets team of Beech Hill Securities, Inc. acted as the financial advisor to MNG Brands for this transaction. About MNG 2005 Inc. and MNG Brands MNG 2005 Inc. is the parent company of MNG Brands, a leader in wellness-focused retail and product brands. Its flagship brand, CBD Kratom, is the largest privately owned CBD and Kratom retailer in the U.S., with over 50 locations across Chicago, Dallas, Houston, New York, Philadelphia, and St. Louis. CBD Kratom is also the official CBD and Kratom partner of the United Football League, reinforcing its industry leadership. Through MNG Brands, the company partners with wholesale distributors and retailers to bring high-quality functional wellness products to market. For more information, visit mngbrands.com. About WellBeing Brewing Company WellBeing Brewing Company is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand dedicated to quality, health, and happiness. By crafting delicious non-alcoholic beers, WellBeing supports consumers seeking balanced lifestyle choices without compromising taste. WellBeing is committed to expanding its presence and making great-tasting non-alcoholic beverages more accessible. For more information, visit wellbeingbrewing.com.

Maple from Canada Turns Trash Talk into Maple-Infused Beer to Toast Team Canada's Victory

TORONTO, Feb. 28, 2025 /CNW/ - Maple from Canada, an organization representing over 13,500 maple producers, and Steadfast Brewing Co., a craft brewery in the heart of Toronto, have collaborated to launch a new limited-edition maple-infused beer called "The Only Thing We're Good For." This partnership was formed following a viral trash-talking video in which it was claimed that Canadians are only good for "maple syrup and beer." Maple from Canada seized the opportunity to celebrate the nation's win over its southern rival in the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off by crafting the ultimate Canadian victory beer.

Canadian pride has never been stronger in recent months. In fact, a recent poll from Angus Reid uncovered that in less than two months (December 24, 2024 to February 25, 2025) there has been a 10% increase in Canadians having a "deep emotional attachment to Canada"1—and for many the 4 Nations Face-Off was bigger than a hockey game. Rogers surveyed Canadians before the game and uncovered that 75% of them stated that Canada's national pride is deeply intertwined with the sport.2 With ongoing tensions between the United States and Canada, this match became the ultimate moment to prove national pride.  This beer places itself as an emblem of this victory, proudly proclaiming the things Canada is good for: maple syrup, beer and now undoubtedly, hockey. While the rivalry keeps us on our toes, we raise a glass to our neighbors—because at the end of the day, good beer and good maple are worth sharing. "The Only Thing We're Good For" Beer "The Only Thing We're Good For" is a red ale with a rich caramel body, balanced by fruity ale notes and moderate bitterness from Canadian hops. Pure maple syrup added during fermentation gives this brew a buttery maple aroma and a light, lingering sweetness. Crafted with care by Steadfast's master brewers—the award-winning brewery—this special-edition maple-infused beer reflects the strong, proud spirit of Canadians and will leave you wanting more. Available in limited quantities in April 2025, making it a must-have for beer lovers and patriotic Canadians alike. You can get yours this spring—just in time for sugar shack season—at Steadfast Brewing Co. on Lansdowne Ave, Toronto, while supplies last. About Québec Maple Syrup Producers and the Maple from Canada brand Québec Maple Syrup Producers represents the interests of 13,500 maple producers and more than 8,400 maple enterprises. Québec accounts for 67% of the world's maple syrup production. Marketed under the Maple from Canada brand, maple syrup is now enjoyed in some 70 nations by people who appreciate its unique taste, authentic origins, and environmental responsibility. About Steadfast Steadfast Brewing Co. is an award-winning craft brewery in the heart of Toronto's West End. We are brewer-owned, and specialize in great traditional styles, with a side of fun, unexpected beer. With a big focus on community, we try our best to support our neighbours near and far.

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TEAMSTERS CHARGE SAMUEL ADAMS WITH UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICES

Brewery Workers Demand Fair Contract as Boston Beer Company Stalls Bargaining

CINCINNATI, Feb. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Teamsters Local 1199 has filed unfair labor practice (ULP) charges against Boston Beer Company — the parent company of Samuel Adams, Truly Hard Seltzer, Angry Orchard, and Twisted Tea — for refusing to bargain in good faith. "Boston Beer Company is dragging its feet, and Teamsters won't tolerate it," said Randy Verst, President of Local 1199. "These workers are responsible for the success of these brands. This company owes them the simple respect of meeting for contract negotiations." Most workers at the Cincinnati brewery have long been covered by a Teamsters contract. The newest Local 1199 members are fighting for their first collective bargaining agreement and demanding the same schedule of raises and working conditions that their co-workers already have. "Being asked to accept the employer's last offer, which included wage cuts for our most senior third of the department, was aggravating to say the least," said Brian Morris, a Blend Technician at the Cincinnati plant. "The fact that we unanimously rejected it shows just how united we are. The company needs to return to bargaining because this is far from over." Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on X @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

The K. Spoetzl Brewery Revives Texas Special, a Classic Crowd-Pleaser, and Introduces New Texas Special Light

This Quality, Accessible 'Good Drinkin' Beer' is Available Across Texas

SHINER, Texas, Feb. 24, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the independent, family-owned K. Spoetzl Brewery is proud to announce the revival of the historic Texas Special beer brand. Rooted in tradition and Texan spirit, Texas Special was first brewed in 1933 to celebrate the repeal of Prohibition. It remained a local staple into the 1960s, when large-scale domestic brewers began using aggressive pricing and tactics, effectively making the small-scale production of beers like Texas Special unsustainable. Now back and better than ever, this smooth, easy-drinking beer honors nearly a century of brewing excellence—all at a fair price. Texans can enjoy the beloved brew on draft now, with cans and packs rolling out statewide on March 2, just in time for Texas Independence Day. Alongside the revival of Texas Special with a revamped recipe, the brand introduces Texas Special Light, a lighter take on the classic Texas brew. Both beers are proudly brewed in Shiner, TX and made with quality ingredients like artesian well water and premium grains. Texas Special (4.4 % ABV | 12 IBU): This American-style lager offers a crisp, refreshing taste with a smooth, easy finish. The aroma features subtle malt sweetness with hints of grain and fresh bread, complemented by a delicate floral hop note. On the palate, it delivers a clean, bright experience with a lighter body and moderate carbonation. The finish is smooth with a slight lingering sweetness. Texas Special pairs best with Texas-style smoked brisket, ribs and sausage. Texas Special Light (4.0% ABV | 8.6 IBU): A refined, lighter take on Texas Special, this American-style light lager offers a delicate aroma of sweet malt and subtle hops. On the palate, it delivers a clean, crisp profile with soft malt undertones and a hint of hop bitterness for a smooth finish. Just 98 calories and refreshingly light, it's the perfect choice for beer lovers who prefer a lighter brew. Texas Special Light pairs best with Texas-style BBQ chicken and Texas Gulf Seafood. "We're proud to bring back this iconic beer, along with its lighter counterpart, for a new generation," says Nick Weiland, Director of Marketing at the K. Spoetzl Brewery. "Texas Special and Texas Special Light perfectly embody the spirit of Texas pride and craftsmanship. These beers are ideal for those who appreciate life's simple joys and good, honest drinking." In addition to updating the recipe, the brand refreshed and elevated the original typography of the cans. Subtle adjustments highlight the word "Texas" more prominently, while a star on the badge now marks the brewery's home town. Texas Special and Texas Special Light are available for $13.99 per 12-pack of 12 oz. cans, exclusively on shelves across Texas.

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New Partnership Brings Athletic Brewing Company's Non-Alcoholic Brews to 100+ Live Music Venues and Festivals

70% of concertgoers crave more non-alcoholic alternatives at live music events

MILFORD, Conn. and SAN DIEGO, Feb. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Athletic Brewing Company, America's largest dedicated non-alcoholic brewer, is bringing its award-winning brews to the heart of the live music scene with an exciting new multi-year partnership. Athletic is now the official non-alcoholic beer partner for more than 100 Live Nation concert venues across the U.S., including renowned locations such as Brooklyn Paramount, Shoreline Amphitheatre, and The Gorge Amphitheatre. Responding to growing consumer demand for non-alcoholic beverage options, with 70% of live music fans saying they want more beverage options at concerts2, the partnership also extends to four major music festivals: Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, BottleRock Napa Valley, Festival La Onda, and Two Step Inn. This partnership marks a pivotal step in Athletic's mission to make moderation more accessible by not only reimagining how non-alcoholic beer is made but also by leveling up the live music experience. By offering fans more NA choices, Athletic is broadening how audiences enjoy unforgettable moments at concerts and festivals. Legal drinking age music fans can now enjoy Athletic's most popular brews like Run Wild IPA, Upside Dawn Golden, Free Wave Hazy IPA, and Athletic Lite, with selections varying by venue. "We're thrilled to partner with Live Nation venues and bring Athletic's great-tasting brews to center stage at some of the most iconic venues and festivals across the country," said Andrew Katz, Chief Marketing Officer of Athletic. "This partnership strikes a chord with concertgoers seeking non-alcoholic options that harmonize with their lifestyle. Now fans can enjoy the magic of live music and keep the beat without a buzz." Beyond event concessions, fans of legal drinking age can look forward to unique Athletic tasting experiences at venues and festivals. These experiences will include opportunities to sample the company's award-winning brews, participate in giveaways, snag limited-edition merch, and more. The partnership also brings Athletic backstage, where artists and their teams can savor brews in green rooms, expanding the hospitality experience. "We're constantly finding new ways to give fans the best experience at our shows, and we're excited to expand our offerings to match their evolving tastes," said Maureen Ford, Live Nation's President of National and Festival Sales. "With Athletic now at more than 100 venues and festivals, fans will have even more choices during their most memorable moments." Demand for non-alcoholic beer is surging, with sales growing by double-digits in each of the last five years. Athletic is the number one brand in the NA beer category, with over 19% market share and over 50% growth in 20243. The partnership will enable Athletic to reach millions of new consumers and get cans directly into the hands of thirsty live music goers. This latest venture into live music builds on the company's mission to revolutionize how modern adults drink by providing inclusive options for all lifestyles and occasions. Fans can follow Athletic Brewing's live music journey on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, X, and YouTube for updates on new offerings and experiences. 🛑 👀 Looking to try Athletic? Check out my special Rod J BeerVentrues link here for all of my followers and subscribers: https://tr.ee/F3crM8.

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Celebrate the Visionaries Who Shaped Craft Beer

The American Craft Beer Hall of Fame is proud to announce its inaugural class of inductees—visionaries, advocates, and entrepreneurs who helped shape the craft beer movement into what it is today. Join us live on February 15 at 3PM ET for a special virtual induction ceremony, where we’ll reveal and celebrate the individuals and organizations whose dedication and innovations have left a lasting impact on the craft beer industry. This is your chance to witness history and raise a glass to the pioneers who paved the way.

Register Now for Event Details

Who will be inducted?  How have they influenced the industry?  What stories and legacies will be shared? Craft beer is more than just what’s in the glass—it’s about the people, the passion, and the impact they’ve made along the way. This is your chance to celebrate those who have helped shape the industry we all love. Be there to witness this special moment in craft beer history!

Craft Beer Professionals | P.O. Box 6304, Norfolk, Virginia 23508 | www.CraftBeerProfessionals.org Want to talk beer? Always up for a call. Schedule the time that works best for you here.

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