Tractor Beverage's Haymaker Earns Finalist Status at 2026 NEXTY Awards
Tractor Beverage Company is buzzing with excitement as its product Haymaker captures attention at the Natural Products Expo West this year. The innovative beverage has been recognized as a finalist for the 2026 NEXTY Awards in two prestigious categories: Beverage and Product Design & Storytelling. With around 1,000 submissions, only 164 finalists were selected across 37 categories, placing Haymaker among an elite group of brands setting new standards in the natural products sector.
Inspired by traditional farm drinks that feature a refreshing blend of apple cider vinegar, citrus, ginger, and real fruit, Haymaker reinvents a classic tonic for modern consumers. Each can is unique, containing a full tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar, alongside natural flavors such as Apricot Peach, Citrus Ginger, Dragon Berry, and Passion Mango. With only 20 to 25 calories and 5 grams of sugar per can, they offer healthier alternatives to sugary sodas, making them a thoughtful choice for the health-conscious consumer.
Kevin Sherman, CEO of Tractor Beverage Company, shared his pride about Haymaker’s recognition, stating, "We’ve always believed that ‘Business as Unusual’ isn’t only a tagline; it's the foundation of how we operate. Being acknowledged for both the contents of the can and the story that drives our mission is significantly rewarding for our team."
Presented by New Hope Network, the NEXTY Awards are known for highlighting innovation, ingredient integrity, and sustainability in the natural products landscape. This acknowledgment comes as Haymaker gears up for its retail launch, which is set to expand its reach beyond food service and onto store shelves across the nation.
In December, Haymaker also achieved finalist status at Beverage Digest’s 2026 Best New Drink Concept Award, receiving substantial feedback from both natural and mainstream beverage influencers. Furthermore, it was nominated as a finalist for Best Organic Beverage Product by The Organic Center at the upcoming An Organic Night Out with Sprouts and Friends, which is slated for March 4, during Expo West.
Duke Stump, Chief Brand and Product Officer, emphasized the collaborative efforts of the team, mentioning that the development of Haymaker stemmed from an idea deeply rooted in agricultural history. He said, "The journey from formulation to branding has been a team effort, reflecting our commitment to quality and connection with nature. Feeling our work recognized alongside brands we respect is genuinely humbling."
The culmination of efforts from various sectors within the company has showcased the dedication of Tractor Beverage Company to innovating within the health beverage space. Tractor’s approach goes beyond product quality; they aim to foster a better food system that prioritizes land health and the people who cultivate it. They achieve this by ensuring that all their beverages are crafted with USDA Organic-certified ingredients and a dedicated goal to support sustainable farming practices.
In tandem with community outreach initiatives like the Farmhand Foundation, Tractor Beverage is focused on assisting growers in their transition to organic farming and enhancing domestic supply chains. They aim to ensure prosperity for farmers, promote thriving ecosystems, and bolster the regenerative organic market. Additionally, through their Organic Impact Tracker, consumers and partners can gain insights into the environmental benefits attached to organic sourcing, with a vision of contributing positively to the earth with every sip.
Award winners for the NEXTY Awards will be announced on March 5 during the Natural Products Expo West in Anaheim, California, where Tractor Beverage will prominently feature Haymaker and spotlight its impactful organic story. With this recognition, Haymaker sets a strong precedent in the natural beverages market and promises an exciting future for innovation in beverage choices.