Industry Issues

ProMat to host 1,100 exhibits, nearly 200 sessions

ProMat, an even powered by MHI, returns March 17-20 at McCormick Place in Chicago, featuring more than 1,100 exhibits from leading solution providers and a comprehensive Educational Conference of nearly 200 sessions focusing on best-in-class solutions for manufacturing and supply chain operations.

ProMat exhibits will represent all segments of the material handling, logistics and transportation industry, from traditional, manual equipment to automated systems and smart, connected supply chain technologies.

“ProMat offers manufacturing and supply chain professionals the unique opportunity to witness in person, in action the vast array of technology and innovations impacting this industry,” said John Paxton, CEO at MHI, in a statement. “We are thrilled to offer the supply chain community this chance to come together and experience all that ProMat has to offer.”

Daniel McKinnon, chief exhibitions officer at MHI, added: “From hands-on demonstrations to unparalleled education experiences, attending ProMat is your best opportunity in 2025 to gain the tools you need to innovate your supply chain operations for the next level of success. If it’s your job to innovate your manufacturing and supply chain operations, you can't afford to miss ProMat.”

In addition to the exhibits, the ProMat Conference will include four keynotes and nearly 200 educational seminars covering leading trends, best practices and state-of-the-art equipment and technology solutions that can make manufacturing and the entire supply chain work more resiliently, efficiently and profitably.

The March 17 Keynote, “The Data Effect: The Price of Not Knowing,” will welcome Paul Zikopoulos, vice president of technology unit skills and enablement at IBM. On March 18 the Keynote will be “The AI Opportunity for Supply Chains” with Azeem Azhar, host of Bloomberg’s “Exponentially.” On March 19 the Keynote session “From Prime Time to Coach Prime” with include a conversation with Dion Sanders. Additionally, on March 19 will be the Keynote Panel, “Preview of MHI 2025 Annual Industry Report,” with the expertise of MHI’s Paxton and Wanda Johnson with Deloitte Consulting LLP.

ProMat also will feature the announcement of the 2025 MHI Innovation Award winners during an evening of food, drinks and entertainment from comedian Jay Pharoah on March 19. Tickets to this event are $50. The door prize for this event will be a trip of a lifetime vacation.

Additional marquee events include the Women in the Supply Chain Industry Forum on March 17 at ProMat, MHI Young Professionals Network Reception on March 17 at ProMat, and ProMat Student Day on March 19.

OLIPOP valuation reaches $1.85 billion

OLIPOP, Oakland, Calif., announced the successful closing of its Series C funding round, anchored by a $50 million investment from J.P. Morgan Private Capital’s Growth Equity Partners. Spearheaded by J.P. Morgan, this final anticipated round of equity financing for OLIPOP catapults the brand’s valuation to $1.85 billion. After achieving profitability in early 2024, OLIPOP is focused on sustaining its growth while continuing to redefine what soda can be, the company says.

This Series C funding will drive product development, expand marketing efforts, and diversify distribution channels, enabling OLIPOP to reach even more consumers nationwide. The brand plans to expand its retail presence, add to its lineup of nostalgic classic flavors and increase availability in spaces traditionally dominated by legacy sodas. OLIPOP is sold in almost 50,000 doors across the U.S. in notable retailers such as Walmart, Target, Wawa, Whole Foods Market, Kroger, Costco, Starbucks and more.

This Series C financing was anchored by J.P. Morgan Private Capital’s Growth Equity Partners, the $1 billion growth equity arm of the largest bank in the U.S. This raise helps to validate OLIPOP’s widespread adoption with consumers and also the institutional awareness of the success and profitability of the brand.

“It’s staggering and thrilling to have achieved a $1.85 billion valuation after just five to six short years in market; a testament to the innovation breakthroughs and momentum we have demonstrated as the founders of the modern soda category,” said Ben Goodwin, CEO, co-founder and formulator of OLIPOP, in a statement. “It’s an honor to work with J.P. Morgan Private Capital’s Growth Equity Partners on this next phase of our adventure as we expand our reach across the U.S. and advance our mission of getting healthier soda to as many consumers as possible.”

Christopher Dawe, Managing Partner of J.P. Morgan Growth Equity Partners, who will join the Board of Directors as part of the transaction, added: “OLIPOP is one of the fastest growing beverage companies to reach this scale and is redefining the category by offering a premium alternative that resonates with today's health-conscious consumer. The brand's authenticity, mission-driven team and enormous market opportunity resonated with us. We look forward to supporting OLIPOP through its next phase of growth.”

Talking Rain Beverage Co., makers of sparkling water Sparkling Ice, hired Chelsea Sobran as vice president of convenience channel. Sobran brings a deep understanding of the consumer landscape, spearheading the company’s strategic growth in the convenience store market, the company says. “As with other Talking Rain distribution channels, the convenience store channel strategy revolves around meeting our consumers where they are,” Sobran said in a statement. “When our consumers are on the go, they find the convenience store cold vault a great place to pick out and try new products. Given the pent-up demand for better-for-you (BFY) beverages, and Talking Rain’s wide range of offerings, we expect to see Talking Rain more than double its c-store sales over the next three years.” In this new role, Sobran will work on growing the Talking Rain’s sales footprint by developing and maintaining relationships with the largest and most complex retailers in the convenience channel and ensuring the company’s products look irresistible on the shelf, the company notes.

The Boca Raton, Fla.-based Celsius Holdings Inc. announced two promotions to its North American and global sales teams. Tyler Bohannon was promoted to executive vice president of North American sales, while Lex Shankle has been promoted to executive vice president of global sales. Bohannon will lead the company’s direct-store-delivery (DSD) network, field sales and U.S. regional key accounts, and Shankle will lead the company’s global sales team across EMEA and APAC, it shares. The two will continue reporting to Celsius’ Chief Commercial Officer, Tony Guilfoyle. “Tyler is instrumental in leading our DSD network and North American retailer and distribution partnerships,” Guilfoyle said in a statement. “Lex will be a key part of our global growth, bringing CELSIUS to retailers across the U.K., Ireland, France, Australia, New Zealand, Benelux and beyond. Both men are experienced leaders dedicated to creating customer value, developing teams and contributing to the overall growth of the functional beverage category.”

Gorilla Energy, New York, appointed Oliver Holzmann as chief marketing officer. He brings more than two decades of expertise in global marketing and brand leadership, the company says, including a 20-year tenure at Red Bull and recent executive leadership at Black Diamond Equipment. Holzmann has a proven track record of driving cultural relevance and building iconic brands, making him a natural fit to spearhead the company’s marketing initiatives. “I’m honored to join Gorilla Energy and build on its great success,” Holzmann said in a statement. “Together, we’ll drive the brand forward to inspire growth and connect with our audience in meaningful ways.” The announcement comes as Gorilla continues to grow its presence in the United States, solidifying its mission to expand the brand’s distribution footprint and push boundaries across the globe. Holzmann is expected to bring innovative campaigns and disruptive strategies that connect authenticity with the next generation of consumers, Gorilla adds.

Kiki Milk, the first organic plant-based milk made specifically for kids, revealed the nationwide rollout of its 32-ounce Original, Chocolate and Unsweetened flavors at all 440 Sprouts Farmers Market locations. The expansion meets the growing demand from shoppers who are seeking clean-label, nutrient-rich and non-dairy options in larger, family-friendly sizes. “Expanding into Sprouts Farmers Market is a pivotal moment for Kiki Milk,” said Alex and Lauren Abelin, co-founders of PlantBaby, makers of Kiki Milk, in a statement. “This partnership allows us to bring our nutritious and organic plant-based milk to even more families prioritizing clean-label and sustainable choices. We’re proud to align with Sprouts’ commitment to health and wellness, and we look forward to becoming a staple in household across the nation.” The new size is designed for everyday versatility and convenience, the brand shares. It features a resealable spout to ensure freshness and is ideal for coffee, baking, cereal, smoothies and more.

The New Orleans-based Urban South Brewery recently expanded its distribution into Arkansas, bringing a lineup of beers and groundbreaking THC beverages to the market. The move marks a significant milestone for the craft brewer as it continues to grow its presence across the South, it shares. Initially launched in November, Urban South has garnered tremendous feedback, with praise for its innovative flavors and signature brews, the company says. The brewery “aims to brings a fresh take Arkansas’s beer scene, offering a diverse lineup of products.” Urban South also introduced a 10 mg THC seltzer. “We’re thrilled to bring Urban South to Arkansas,” said Jacob Landry, founder of Urban South, in a statement. “Arkansas has an emerging craft beer culture, and we’re excited to contribute our unique brews and bold flavors to the community. The feedback we’ve received since our launch has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re looking forward to growing our presence in Little Rock and beyond.”