The following notes, ordered chronologically, cover recent distribution news in the beverage industry. The collection shows that protein beverages (Protein2o, Mix1), probiotic offerings (Lifeway Kefir, Clearly Kombucha) and coconut water (Vita Coco, Minoku, Powercoco, Cocozia, Tongo) continue to draw interest from retailers and distributors. The news also indicates that a number of different beverage brands (Lifeway, Soyummi, True Drinks) are exploring the Canadian market.
- The Double Cola Company announced on Wednesday that it has expanded distribution for its latest beverage innovation: Minoku Coconut Water and Quad Energy Drink. The expansion includes 27 Bi-Lo stores, as well as other markets and convenience stores in Southeast Tennessee and West Georgia.
- Powercoco has joined the natural sets in Walmart Neighborhood Markets. Tyler Beuerlein, founder and managing partner of Powercoco, said: “The Walmart Neighborhood Market concept is rapidly expanding and we’re excited to be a part of their new natural sets.” Earlier in the month, the company announced that it has gained distribution in Kroger Southwest.
- Protein2o has kept plenty busy on the distribution front this past month, landing deals with Natural Wayz Wholesale, Vitamin World, Hy-Vee Stores and Mariano’s.
- Lifeway Foods announced on Tuesday that its kefir products have debuted in more than 1,000 stores across Canada. The news marks Lifeway’s second international expansion in the past 14 months, including its recent introduction in the United Kingdom.
- In partnership with rapper Flo Rida, Celsius has launched Flo Fusion with MetaPlus, a pre-workout powder, in GNC stores across the U.S.
- Mix1 announced Monday that it has entered a distribution and management agreement with Phoenix-based Shadow Beverages. George Martinez, Shadow’s president and co-founder, said he expects Mix1 to reach national distribution by early 2015.
- Dr Pepper Snapple Group and the San Francisco Giants announced on Monday a three-year sponsorship agreement that will bring Snapple teas and juices to AT&T Park. As part of the deal, Snapple will have in-stadium signage, in-store materials and Giants-related “Real Fact” bottle caps.
- KonaRed announced on July 24 that it will expand its footprint in New York City through a partnership with Preferred Beverage Distributors, which covers the five boroughs as well as Nassau, Suffolk and Westchester Counties.
- Epicurex LLC, which manufactures Cocozia, announced that its coconut water is available in Whole Foods stores in Florida.
- Soyummi Foods, the manufacturer of Cogo Coconut Milk Smoothies, announced that it has shipped product to Canada for the first time from its facility in Hardwick, Vt.
- ‘Tude Juice has signed a distribution agreement with Dora’s Naturals, which services the New York City and New Jersey markets. The brand recently entered Whole Foods stores across the U.S. and launched six new juice flavors: Marionberry Apple, Blueberry Apple, Cranberry Apple, Apple Ginger, Lemonade and Apple, and Apple, Ginger and Turmeric.
- Waiakea, which markets a Hawaiian volcanic water, announced on July 18 that it will be available at all 100 Albertsons locations in the Pacific Northwest.
- True Drinks, Inc., the parent company of AquaBall, a flavored water for kids, has signed a deal with Crossmark Canada, which will oversee sales, marketing and distribution of the brand.
- Sipp Eco Beverage Co., Inc., announced on July 16 that it has expanded in the Midwest, specifically the Chicagoland area, through a partnership with Chicago Coffees & Teas, a local distributor.
- Fresh & Easy Neighborhood Markets will begin carrying Minta Original and Minta Strawberry in new 10 oz. slim cans. The retailer operates 167 stores throughout California, Arizona and Nevada.
- Bebida Beverage Company, manufacturer of Koma Unwind Liquid Relaxation, announced on July 15 that it has partnered with Walton Beverage, a Washington-based PepsiCo distributor.
- Cytosport, the parent company of Muscle Milk, has launched Muscle Milk Organic in Target stores nationwide. The 8.25 oz. shakes contain 15 grams of USDA certified organic protein.
- All Market Inc., owner of category leader Vita Coco, announced on July 14 that as part of its equity sale to the Reignwood Group, the parent company of Red Bull China, the brand will be distributed throughout mainland China.
- Aquarain Drinks, the parent company of Gravity, an apple cider vinegar drink, has expanded in the Mid-Atlantic market by landing on shelves at David’s Natural Market, Santoni’s and Dawson’s Market.
- Tongo, a California-based coconut water brand, has revamped its packaging and signed a distribution agreement with Ralphs in Southern California.
