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News Briefs
PepsiCo, Purchase, N.Y., received the 2007 Green Power Leadership award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which recognizes leading national green power purchasers for their commitment and contribution to advance the development of the nation’s green power market.
The National Beer
Wholesalers Association, Alexandria, Va., was
elected to a seat on the board of directors of the Responsible Hospitality
Institute. The institute is a non-profit organization that assists
businesses and communities in creating safe and vibrant places for people
to socialize. David Christman, NBWA’s senior manager of industry
affairs, will occupy the seat for a two-year term ending in 2009.
Pepsi Bottling Ventures LLC,
Raleigh, N.C., signed a letter of intent to purchase the assets of L.E. Farrell Co., the Pepsi-Cola
franchise bottler based in Burlington, Vt. The franchisee’s territory
includes 11 of Vermont’s 14 counties.
Specialty Wine Retailers Association, Sacramento, Calif., launched a new Web site and blog dedicated
to the issue of direct shipment of wine. The Web site,
specialtywineretailers.org, will store documents, news articles, legal
briefs and press releases concerning direct shipment of wine. Also located
on the site, a blog titled “Wine Without Borders” will address
the issue on a daily basis.
Bacardi has invested in
Brazilian spirit Leblon cachaca. The investment is part of the spirits
company’s development within the premium and super-premium segments,
said John Esposito, president and chief executive officer of Bacardi USA.
Numi Organic Tea, Oakland,
Calif., was recognized as one of the fastest growing private companies by San Francisco Business Times.
The company opened its Tea Garden in Oakland last month and ranked 34th on
the list.
The Patrón Spirits Co., Las Vegas, acquired the global distribution rights to the
Ultimat vodka portfolio from New York-based Adamba
Imports International.
United States Beverage,
Stamford, Conn., will begin importing the Les
Brasseurs de Gayant lineup of specialty beers,
including La Goudale, Amadeuas and La Divine brands from France.
Jetset Beverages Inc., San
Francisco, announced its energy drinks and Energy Mixers will be
distributed by Southern Wine & Spirits of
America Inc., Miami.