CARY, N.C. -- The Pantry Inc. has executed an agreement with KroniCo LLC., maker of Kronik Energy Drinks, which authorizes Kronik to retail three of its new formulas in more than 1,100 Kangaroo Express stores in eight states.
With full distribution across the western United States, the company said that it is setting its sights eastward.
"We are so honored to be welcomed into the Kangaroo Express family; this is such a big win for us, and some major validation for the brand," said Chris Wickson, executive vice president od sales and marketing. "This gives us a solid [image-nocss] foothold in the Southeast, as well as a stepping stone into other area retailers."
Initially, three flavors will be available (Blue Citrus, Blue Citrus Low-Carb and Vengence) with room for expansion if the brand does well.
"We continually hear from people that they cannot easily find our products," said James Gabriele Kronik's vice president of operations. "The Kangaroo Express deal gives us a major retailer in the southeastern U.S. and greatly expands our distribution footprint."
Under the agreement, Kronik has been given five cooler shelf facings as well as custom in-store point-of-sales (POS) materials and promotional pricing. Management said it believes that this agreement strongly positions the Kronik Energy brand in a market with millions of potential new consumers.
To help ensure a successful launch of their products, KroniCo will be hosting sampling events at various Kangaroo Express locations throughout the summer. Dates and times will be announced via social media outlets including Facebook and Twitter.
All four Kronik flavors are available in both regular and low-carb varieties; all low-carb formulas include a proprietary blend of additional supplements designed to help curb appetite and boost metabolism. Chain and independent retailers throughout the western United States sell the Kronik Energy brand including Stater Bros., ampm, Smart n Final, Albertson's and Terrible Herbst.
Headquartered in Cary, N.C., The Pantry is the leading independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States and one of the largest independently operated convenience store chains in the country. As of May 9, 2011, it operated 1,659 stores in 13 states under select banners, including Kangaroo Express, its primary operating banner.
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