Nestlé USA, part of Nestlé, S.A., the world’s largest food and beverage company, and Jamba, Inc. (NASDAQ: JMBA ; NASDAQ: JMBAU; NASDAQ: JMBAW ), the leading blender of fruit and other naturally healthy ingredients, today announced that they are voluntarily suspending production and shipments of the Jamba Ready-to-Drink beverages introduced earlier this year due to production issues.
“We have made the difficult decision to suspend production and shipments of our Jamba Ready-to-Drink Smoothies and Juicies,” said Rob Case, president, Nestlé USA Beverage Division. “We have faced challenges recently with manufacturing on a consistent basis, resulting in inventory and out-of-stock issues. This is particularly disappointing given the strong reception we have received from consumers and customers alike. We at Nestlé are fully committed to re-assessing our Jamba Ready-to-Drink beverage proposition so that we can come back stronger and positioned for success in the future.”
“Since the launch of Ready-to-Drink six months ago, Jamba carved out a firm foothold in the super-premium juice category, said James White, president and Chief Executive Officer, Jamba, Inc. “Customer sell-in and feedback exceeded expectations, and the six SKUs all rank among the top in the category for consumption. While this is an unfortunate event, this suspension will provide the opportunity to evaluate new manufacturing solutions which could enable the Jamba brand to secure an even stronger position in ready-to-drink beverages.”
Jamba Smoothies and Jamba Juicies have been available in grocery and convenience stores throughout California, Oregon, Utah, Nevada, Arizona, Idaho, Washington and Colorado.
About Nestlé USA
Named one of “America’s Most Admired Food Companies” in Fortune magazine for the eleventh consecutive year, Nestlé USA provides quality brands and products that bring flavor to life every day. From nutritious meals with LEAN CUISINE®to baking traditions with NESTLÉ®TOLL HOUSE®, Nestlé USA makes delicious, convenient, and nutritious food and beverage products that enrich the very experience of life itself. That’s what “Nestlé. Good Food, Good Life” is all about. Nestlé USA, with 2007 sales of $8.25 billion,is part of Nestlé S.A. in Vevey, Switzerland – the world’s largest food company – with sales of $90 billion. For product news and information, visit Nestléusa.com or NestléNewsroom.com .
About Jamba, Inc.
Jamba, Inc. (NASDAQ:JMBA; NASDAQ:JMBAU; NASDAQ:JMBAW) is a holding company and through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Jamba Juice Company, owns and franchises JAMBA JUICE®stores. JAMBA JUICE is the leading blender of fruit and other naturally healthy ingredients. Founded in 1990, Jamba strives to inspire and simplify healthy living for its customers and employees. As of October 7, 2008, JAMBA JUICE had 749 stores, of which 520 were company-owned and operated. For the nearest location or a complete menu including our breakfast smoothies with organic granola, please call: 1-866-4R-FRUIT or visit the JAMBA JUICE website at www.jamba.com .