DOYLESTOWN, PA (May 26, 2010) – The Healthy Beverage Company said today that sales of its Steaz brand of natural and organic RTD tea based beverages increased by 38% in the first quarter of 2010 compared to first quarter 2009. The company also announced the appointment of Jim DePietro as CEO and Steven Kessler as President. Eric Schnell, who started the company with Kessler in 2002, has departed the company.
"Steaz is extremely well positioned for solid and continued growth. Our brand is well defined and our products connect with consumer wants and needs on every level," said DePietro, who joined the company as COO in 2008 following a 20-year career with Unilever and the Pepsi Lipton Partnership.
According to DePietro, Steaz's growth is a result of increased consumer demand for the brand, distribution gains into strategic grocery accounts and successful targeted DSD expansion in Southern California with market leaders Haralambos Beverage Company (Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernadino counties), GBL Distributing Co. (Santa Barbara) and Markstein Beverage Company (San Diego). Steaz has also enjoyed continued success in the core natural foods channel, especially Whole Foods Markets, he said.
"We have a clear strategic direction that is being executed successfully,” added DePietro. “Sales are growing, distribution is expanding and more consumers are discovering Steaz and enjoying our better-for-you products."
Company President Steven Kessler added, "We have great partners, a very strong management team and an engaged Board of Directors. We are very excited about the future and opportunities ahead of us."
Separately, Steaz has also received additional funding from its current investment group led by Switzerland-based Inventages Venture Capital. The company declined to specify the amount of the investment.
About The Healthy Beverage Company
The Healthy Beverage Company markets the Steaz brand of Sparkling Green Tea, Zero Calorie Sparkling Green Tea, Steaz Iced Teaz, Steaz Energy drinks and Steaz Energy Shot. All of the company's products are made with the finest organic, fair trade and natural ingredients. Steaz subscribes to a triple-bottom-line business philosophy, committed to people, planet and ethical profits. Visit Steaz online at www.steaz.com.