Convenience stores are on the radar of natural, zero-sugar beverage brand Zevia.
The Los Angeles-based company is considering getting a new distribution partner to expand its base business of selling multi-packs in grocery stores to selling single-serve cold beverages in c-stores, CEO Amy Taylor told Axios.
Zevia currently can be found in 90% of grocery stores, Target and online, the news outlet said.
To get into c-stores, Zevia must evolve its route to market to compete in this store channel, a move that probably requires a partner, said the report.
“The beverage maker is exploring hybrid models, in which it may use a combination of brokers and partnerships depending on geography, category or channel,” Axios said.
Possibilities are big beverage companies and snack food and beer businesses, Taylor told Axios. Another consideration is Zevia partnering with a big c-store chain that would not require direct-store delivery (DSD).
“We are doing our homework right now, which includes having some exchanges with potential partners,” Taylor said, adding that a decision might take place within 12 months.
Zevia’s shoppers also purchase products such as Oreos and Doritos, “underscoring the brand’s mainstream appeal,” Axios said.
Zevia has a $260 million market capitalization, and net sales increased 13.8% year over year to $43.3 million, according to the report.
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