A report by the beverage sector consulting firm IWRS, headed by Julie Harris, estimates that in 2022, the low-alcohol or non-alcoholic beverage segment will exceed 11 billion dollars, and by 2026 this value will grow by at least 30% to reach more than 14.3 billion pesos, opening up a growing business opportunity. In addition, in recent years, three trends related to the beverage segment in Mexico have grown: a greater global presence of tequila, despite last year’s stumble in exports, after 13 years of growth, a recovery is anticipated this year; the greater demand for non-alcoholic beverages, led by beer with an increase of more than 60% in the last decade, but with a still low representation; and a desire for authenticity.
And all this context was decisive in the acquisition announced by Pernod Ricard, which in Mexico is headed by Nicolas Payet, of a minority stake, without specifying percentage and amount, of Almave, a brand of Super Premium non-alcoholic spirits based on blue agave, founded a year ago by Lewis Hamilton, and Casa Lumbre, which has in its history a list of successful partnerships with artistic and sports celebrities such as Maluma; Lenny Kravitz; Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez; and Lewis Hamilton himself.
And as with other Casa Lumbre brands in which Pernod Ricard also participates, the share investment primarily allows the drinks to access a global platform with a presence in 160 countries, although in the financial aggregate the contribution is minimal for the company because its eyes are set on other markets and on more promising drinks in terms of volume, which it complements with a portfolio focused on the Super Premium category.
All aboard!
In the first quarter of the year, the Brazilian platform Rentcars reported a 20% annual increase in car reservations, and the dynamism was especially greater in March with the Easter holiday season, a period during which the trend of greater demand for SUVs was consolidated, which has become the most dynamic category in the country despite its price being higher than a standard car. Rentcars is a car rental platform with a presence in more than 160 countries and alliances with more than 300 car rental companies. It debuted in the Mexican market in 2019, and despite the test of fire that the pandemic represented in 2020, the platform is experiencing significant growth, driven by the reopening of tourism and the growing preference for international destinations among Mexican consumers.
Chinese strength
Dongfeng Motor Corporation, the leading Chinese automotive group with origins dating back to 1969, will showcase its line of heavy-duty trucks designed for the demanding Mexican market. Its expansion plan is moving forward with the opening of a new branch in Toluca. For nearly half a century, Dongfeng has established itself as a cornerstone of China’s commercial vehicle industry. Its reputation for reliability is the result of the combination of independent research and development centers, state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and a commitment to exceeding customer expectations.
From medium and heavy trucks to specialized vehicles, Dongfeng offers a full range of solutions to meet the diverse needs of Mexican companies. Its five core product platforms (KX, KL, VL, KR and VR) cover a full range of trucks over 8 tons, and meet all the needs of the domestic market.
Dongfeng is not only dedicated to manufacturing robust trucks; it is also focused on creating smarter vehicles by implementing advanced technology that drives a new era of intelligent logistics concept.
@robertoah