How is AI transforming the drinks industry?

AI is revolutionising the drinks industry by improving supply chain efficiency, enhancing product development, and enabling data-driven marketing strategies. It uses predictive analytics to optimise production processes, reduce waste, and forecast consumer demand. AI also helps in personalising product offerings based on consumer preferences and automating repetitive tasks, leading to increased productivity and operational efficiency.

What are common AI applications in the drinks sector?

Common applications include demand forecasting, inventory management, quality control, and product innovation. AI is used to analyse large datasets to identify trends, optimise production schedules, and develop new products that align with changing consumer tastes. In marketing, AI tools help craft personalised campaigns and predict consumer behaviour.

How can AI support sustainability in the drinks industry?

AI supports sustainability by optimising resource usage, reducing waste, and enhancing supply chain transparency. Through data analysis, AI can help companies monitor energy consumption, improve packaging design, and implement waste-reduction strategies. AI’s ability to streamline operations also minimises the environmental impact of production and logistics.

What are the challenges of AI adoption in the drinks industry?

Challenges include high implementation costs, the need for skilled personnel, and data privacy concerns. Integrating AI with existing systems can be complex, and maintaining data accuracy is crucial for effective AI outputs. Companies must also address ethical considerations related to automated decision-making.

What is the future of AI in the drinks industry?

The future of AI in the drinks industry involves more advanced applications like digital tasting, real-time consumer feedback analysis, and automated quality control. AI will continue to evolve, driving innovations in product development, personalised consumer experiences, and operational efficiency. As technology advances, AI will play a key role in helping brands remain competitive in an increasingly data-driven market.

Just Drinks

Full Glass Wine buys Splash Wines and Scout & Cellar

Full Glass Wine’s D2C portfolio includes Winc and Wine Insiders.

Full Glass Wine Co. has bought fellow US direct-to-consumer operators Splash Wines and Scout & Cellar.

California-based Full Glass Wine said Splash Wines and Scout & Cellar will be grown using the company’s “centralised resources” and warehousing infrastructure.

Splash Wines is a DTC wine marketer that provides consumers with discounted pricing and wine offers. Scout & Cellar, based in Dallas, partners with US vintners to make brands such as Bookbinder and Bernhard. It also operates a DTC platform.

“We recognised that both Splash Wines and Scout & Cellar have strong, passionate followings and bring unique offerings to the market,” Full Glass Wine co-founder Neha Kumar said.

“These beloved brands have the potential to reach even greater heights, and we are excited to provide them with the resources and support they need to succeed. Our DTC approach allows us to directly connect with consumers, offering curated selections and tailored recommendations that enhance the wine-buying experience.”

In April, Full Glass Wine added to its direct-to-consumer wine operations with the acquisition of US peer Bright Cellars.

Full Glass Wine announced the deal alongside news it had closed a Series A funding round worth $14m.

The Series A funding round was led by Shea Ventures, the corporate venture arm of J.F. Shea Company.

Full Glass Wine said it is aiming to surpass $125m in revenue by 2024 and is forecasting annual sales of $185m by 2025.

Its portfolio also includes two US businesses – Winc and Wine Insiders.