Welltodo Today: David Lloyd Eyes Expansion, The McPlant Burger Launches In UK, Femtech Frenzy Continues

Today’s key global wellness news articles from around the world, impacting the industry and influencing the business of wellness.

The cannabis beverage market is bubbling with brands

Two years ago, the internet declared 2019 “White Claw summer,” with consumers so obsessed that they caused a shortage. But now, spiked-seltzer sales are coming down from their highs, and there’s shelf space for a new buzz-inducing drink. Enter: cannabis beverages. According to Brightfield Group research agency, THC-infused beverages will account for $1 billion in US sales by 2025.

Flo raises millions as femtech frenzy continues | PitchBook

A new generation of startups have worked to launch affordable and sophisticated female-focused digital tools in recent years-attracting mainstream investors to the burgeoning femtech industry. The latest example in the space is Flo, creator of a period-tracking app, which announced Thursday that it has secured a $50 million Series B co-led by VNV Global and Target Global.

Theranos trial puts Silicon Valley investors in the spotlight: Where are they now? | PitchBook

Silicon Valley’s go-go venture capital system has gone on trial in a packed, fifth-floor courtroom in downtown San Jose. In federal court, lawyers for the US government have begun pressing fraud charges against Elizabeth Holmes, founder of Theranos, the failed blood-test startup that for many symbolizes the danger of funding bold dreams without proper due diligence and board oversight.

DLL goes on the acquisition trail – plans 40 new clubs in the UK

David Lloyd Leisure (DLL) has reorganised its top team in order to expand its estate through acquisition, after seeing a “remarkable” bounceback in membership levels since reopening its clubs earlier this year.

McDonald’s is launching its first-ever vegan burger

McDonald’s is launching its first plant-based burger in the UK after three years of research and development. The long-awaited McPlant burger features a plant-based patty developed in collaboration with Beyond Meat and promises customers a pea protein-based vegan cheese that “tastes just like McDonald’s iconic cheese slices”.

Profile | lululemon UK

Joe Wicks might need to change his name soon. Because what “The Body Coach” does, who he is, has changed. These days, he’s a mind coach. A life coach. And, of course-the nation’s PE teacher. A series of 115 YouTube workouts now viewed over 100 million times globally, PE with Joe raised heart rates and spirits during lockdown.