In-Store Merchandise

f’real Unveils Protein Smoothie Line

Plus, C4 Energy debuted an ‘energy drink inspired by the crisp taste of light beer;’ and Red Bull launched its advent calendar.

Oct 02, 2026 | 3 min read

/getContentAsset/ce7ca928-4a7b-4a5b-a5c9-5ab119dfbf32/e566c176-df54-4c53-982d-4489d9f8132f/Story-2.png?language=en-US

f'real announced its new Protein Smoothie line this week, plus redesigned packaging and a first look at new blending technology within its Blend n' Sip platform. f’real said the announcement marks a new chapter for the brand as it expands its line of frozen beverages with new functional, better-for-you offerings and kicks off a broader brand refresh rolling out in 2027.

“In early 2027, f'real will reimagine its smoothie line with the introduction of new Protein Smoothies which combine the indulgent taste consumers love with the functional benefits they're increasingly seeking. Available in two new flavors: Tropical Mango and Peanut Butter Banana with Reese's Peanut Butter. Each Protein Smoothie is made with real fruit, delivers 20 grams of protein from real milk protein isolate and contains fewer than 250 calories, with no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners,” the brand said.

f'real is also introducing redesigned packaging, rolling out across the full portfolio beginning in January 2027, featuring a “bolder, vibrant color palette, modernized aura-like gradient take on its signature swirl, a more premium full-cup design and clearer distinction between milkshake and smoothie offerings.”

The brand is also rolling out its new B8 Blender, “which allows consumers to enjoy a freshly blended milkshake or smoothie at the push of a button in about a minute.”

The Blend n' Sip B8 Blender features a larger HD touchscreen that showcases promotions, videos and interactive content to capture consumers' attention and encourage interaction throughout the blending experience. The blender also recognizes each cup to deliver a more precise, consistent blend, the company said.

C4 Energy, part of the Nutrabolt portfolio of performance brands, recently launched All Hopped Up, a “first-of-its-kind energy drink inspired by the crisp taste of light beer with a splash of orange. Delivering the flavor of beer without the buzz, the unexpected launch marks a new direction for C4 as the brand stretches beyond its performance roots to meet consumers embracing the sober-curious movement without sacrificing functionality.”

The brand said that each can has 200mg of caffeine and vitamin B12, with zero sugar, zero fat and no artificial colors.

All Hopped Up is available in six-packs of 16 oz cans for $14.99 on TikTok Shop, Amazon and C4Energy.com.

Red Bull is rolling out its Red Bull Advent Calendar for 2026. “The Red Bull Advent Calendar brings together fan-favorite flavors, including Red Bull Apple Edition and a pack-exclusive Red Bull Festive Edition Arctic Berry, into one covetable holiday package. Consumers can also scan the QR code on the pack and access a holiday-themed mini-game on RedBull.com for a chance to win festive prizes,” it said.

The Red Bull Advent Calendar will be sold for a limited time at select retailers nationwide, including: 7-Eleven, Circle K, QuikTrip and more.

Over at Olipop, the brand has teamed up with Whirlpool to “support the launch of the Whirlpool 36-inch True Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator, featuring the industry's first in-door nugget ice maker.”

To celebrate the partnership, the brands are launching a social sweepstakes. Five winners will receive the Whirlpool refrigerator model and limited edition Olipop-branded in-door bins, along with ten cases of Olipop, including the newly launched Caramel Apple and Crisp Apple, custom merchandise and a $500 cash prize.

Plus, starting from late October until early 2027, any purchaser of the new Whirlpool in-door nugget ice refrigerators will receive a free case of Olipop.

Packaged beverages (non-alcoholic)

NACS serves the global convenience and fuel retailing industry by providing industry knowledge, connections and issues leadership to ensure the competitive viability of its members’ businesses.


© NACS ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Terms of Use | Privacy Policy