Innocent (the smoothie folks) have announced that Coca Cola are taking a minority stake in their company.  For those of us who still like to think of Innocent as a quirky, local(ish) brand that’s just done well in the world, this is a reality check.  Like all companies who get to a certain size, Innocent have had to make a call about how they fund their expansion plans.  Coke have the cash and will be more than happy to get a foot in the door at a much edgier, worthier, ultimately BETTER (in all senses) company than their own.

Of course, like all of us who try to be the defiant David to the overbearing Goliath, Innocent really hope that they can positively influence their new investors, and I really hope they can too.  The sad reality is often that these faceless, soulless giants often end up chipping away at what was once so special in the other, ultimately weaker, company.  Been there, done that, saw the destruction.

However, I guess they have a MINORITY stake, between 10-20% apparently, so here’s hoping it won’t change our friends at Innocent too much. Watch this space.