Chicago-based Euromonitor International reports that global soft drink, also referred to as non-alcohol, volumes grew by just more than 3 percent in 2014, while value sales grew by more than 6 percent to reach $867.4 billion. 

Purchase, N.Y.-based PepsiCo Inc.’s Pepsi brand crowned Rochester, N.Y., the most hyped hometown in America as part of its Hyped for Halftime campaign. 

In celebration of National Hot Tea Month, Starbucks Coffee Co. brand Teavana released its newest handcrafted variety: Winterberry Green Tea Blend. Available in all Teavana stores, Winterberry is a blend of green tea infused with hints of strawberry and citrus, the Seattle-based company says.

Dos Equis, a premium Mexican beer brand of White Plains, N.Y.-based Heineken USA Inc., introduced a new, fully integrated digital retail and on-premise promotion aimed at driving sales during a period when beer sales typically hit a lull, the brand says. Dos Equis Marks the Spot will run from Feb. 1 through the end of March, with targeted digital platforms and in-store elements inviting consumers to participate in a daily virtual treasure hunt to locate the brand’s famous XXs for the chance to win the “most interesting” winter experiences.

Following the season five premiere of “Downton Abbey” on PBS, New York-based Downton Abbey Wines expanded its portfolio with the Countess of Grantham Collection.

New products scheduled for fall 2015 release

St. Louis-based Anheuser-Busch (AB) announced that it will feature three ads spotlighting its Budweiser and Bud Light brands during the NBC broadcast of Super Bowl XLIX on Feb. 1.

New variety developed through consumer feedback

Old Bridge Cellars (OBC), Napa, Calif., announced the expansion of its Oregon portfolio with Chapter 24 Vineyards, a joint venture between Dundee, Ore.-based Evening Land founder Mark Tarlov and French winemaker Louis-Michel Liger-Belair of Vosne-Romanee, Burgundy, France.

Cullen Agricultural Holding Corp., Waynesboro, Ga., and Long Island Brand Beverages LLC (LIBB), Hicksville, N.Y., jointly announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to merge their respective companies.