PRESTON, Wash. -- Sparkling ICE sparkling spring water, part of the TalkingRain portfolio of beverages, announced the completion of its U.S. direct-store-delivery (DSD) distribution network. Comprised of over 252 distributors, this DSD network is now bringing Sparkling ICE beverages to grocery stores, drug stores, convenience-stores and other retail and non-traditional outlets in all 50 states.
This unique system, comprised of leading distributors is the first of its kind for a private beverage company since the sale of vitaminwater. It will serve as the foundation for continuing the explosive growth of Sparkling ICE beverages in the United States, according to the company. The completed network includes a combination of Anheuser-Busch, MillerCoors and independent distributors specializing in building brands.
"Our DSD network is the result of an extensive and well-coordinated effort by our sales team. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with some of the best distributors in the country as we amplify our distribution efforts for Sparkling ICE and continue to grow the brand," said Kevin Klock, CEO of TalkingRain Beverage Co., Preston, Wash. "This hand-picked group of distributors lays the groundwork for Sparkling ICE beverages to reach every county in the United States."
TalkingRain, founded in 1987, attributes the company's recent and unprecedented growth to an increased focus on its Sparkling ICE brand. Sparkling ICE products were recognized in both the 2011 and 2012 IRI New Product Pacesetters reports, an industry-recognized benchmark analysis of exceptional CPG sales success. The brand also received recognition in Nielsen's "Breakthrough Innovation Awards" for 2013. TalkingRain was named Beverage Forum's "Company of the Year" for 2013 and was also recognized by Beverage World with an honorable mention in its "Liquid Refreshment Company of the Year" and "Breakout Brand" features for 2013. Most recently, CEO Kevin Klock was named "Person of the Year" in the BevNet "Best of 2013" Awards.
Sparkling ICE combines naturally flavored mountain spring water, fruit juice, vitamins and antioxidants into a bold, flavored, lightly carbonated beverage. Sparkling ICE is available in 11 flavors: Black Raspberry, Orange Mango, Pink Grapefruit, Kiwi Strawberry, Coconut Pineapple, Pomegranate Blueberry, Peach Nectarine, Lemon Lime, Crisp Apple and new in 2014 Cherry Limeade and Strawberry Watermelon. Sparkling ICE Lemonades, launched in 2013, are available in six flavors: Classic Lemonade, Strawberry Lemonade, Raspberry Lemonade, Lemonade with Tea and new in 2014, Peach Lemonade and Mango Lemonade.
Sparkling ICE retails for $1.19-$1.29.
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