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

Kenya-based African Originals raises $2m for expansion

The ciders and mixers manufacturer has raised roughly $10m to date.

Kenyan craft beverages producer African Originals has secured $2m in funding, as it looks to scale its local and global operations.

Founded in 2018, African Originals produces ten SKUs that include ciders, gins, mixers and iced teas.

The company’s $2m funding round was led by Phoenix Beverages, a brewer in Mauritius. African Originals said the capital will be used to “bolster” its production capabilities and grow its operation "in Kenya and internationally".

African Originals’ products are sold across the African continent in markets such as Kenya, Rwanda and Mauritius and will launch in Uganda later this year, the group told Just Drinks.

They are also available in the UK, sold through online outlets like Amazon UK and Value Africa. The company's full cider range and its Mara gin are currently sold there.

“The next phase of our journey is focused on building capacity while continuing to deliver high quality, locally-inspired beverages that celebrate Kenyan craftsmanship,” African Originals founder and CEO Alexandra Chappatte said.

“With this capital, we’re investing in the brand and setting the stage for even greater expansion.”

African Originals told Just Drinks that it has no majority shareholder owning over 50%. Its "significant” stakeholders include Phoenix Beverages, Amaya Capital and the company’s founder Chappatte.

The business reported that its gross sales were $3m in 2022 and $7m in 2023. It added that it expects to hit $10m this year.

In total, African Originals has raised roughly $10m to date. The company raised £700,000 ($936,736) in funds in the past via the UK crowdfunding platform Crowdcube.

“We were excited for our community to join us as shareholders. The crowdfunding aligned with our goal of deeper community engagement,” CEO Chappatte said.