Blog

Before the Show: What We’re Watching Heading into IDDBA 2026

Walking the show floor with intent matters more than ever. The perimeter is no longer a supporting cast to center-store CPG; it is where most of the category innovation, premiumization, and brand storytelling is happening. [...]

What We Saw at Naturally New York’s Spring Fling: Better-For-You Brands Are Entering Their Dopamine Era

There’s a certain energy that happens when emerging CPG founders, marketers, creatives, and operators all gather in the same room. At the Naturally New York Spring Fling, that energy felt especially clear: the better-for-you space is growing up, and its branding is getting bolder. [...]

Wrapped in Possibility: Our Experience at LUXE PACK New York

At Smith Design, staying at the forefront of packaging innovation is central to the work we do. Attending LUXE PACK New York provided us with the opportunity to stay at the forefront of luxury packaging. [...]

Turning Memory into Meaning: The Story of “Purple” as a Brand Moment

Some of the most powerful brand moments don’t start with something new; they start with a memory. SunnyD identified an innovation opportunity by tapping into a reference that had already been part of culture for decades and launched its long-anticipated “Purple” flavor. [...]

Expanding Palates: The Continued Rise of Globally Inspired Flavor Exploration

As Millennials and Gen Z continue expanding their palates, global flavors have become integral to their culinary experiences. Both generations grew up surrounded by diverse global cuisine, and for Gen Z, food is more than just about taste; it’s an immersive experience that combines authenticity, culture, and emotional connection. [...]

Brain + Beauty: Rethinking Drinkable Function

Functional beverages evolve with a new dual-focus trend supporting cognitive wellness and visible beauty. Consumers now seek drinks that enhance how they feel and show up in daily life. Expo West 2026 highlighted brands combining wellness, flavor, and lifestyle experiences to redefine drinkable function. [...]

From Core to Curious: When Brand Stretch Becomes Opportunity (and When It Becomes Polarizing)

Brand extension is no longer a cautious step into closely related categories. Today, brands are making bolder, more visible leaps, sometimes logically, sometimes provocatively, into new spaces in pursuit of relevance, growth, and cultural momentum. [...]

The Future of Functional Beverages: Blending Flavor, Function, and Education

Functional beverages are now staples for consumers seeking holistic wellness solutions. However, as the category becomes increasingly crowded, differentiation is no longer driven solely by ingredients. [...]

Unveil the Future: Captivating Visual/UX Web Trends You Can’t Miss

Trends are becoming increasingly brief, making it even more crucial to recognize what’s hot—while it’s still hot. [...]

Together, We Gather.

In honor of the holiday season, we're celebrating the connections between cultures, stories, and traditions that make our world richer and more flavorful. [...]