UK-based premium tonic, mixer and soft drinks brand, Franklin & Sons, has significantly expanded its distribution across the US through a partnership with Empire Distributors.
The increased distribution will see Franklin & Sons listed across Tennessee, North Carolina, Georgia and Colorado, marking an important milestone for the British brand as it looks to grow its footprint across key states in the US.
With the US premium mixer market projected to register the fastest CAGR of 12.3% from 2021 to 20281, this partnership between Empire Distributors and Franklin & Sons will bring the brand’s range of pioneering flavours and quality to bars and homes in key cities like Atlanta, Denver, Charlotte, Nashville, Memphis, Asheville, Wilmington and Raleigh.
Founded in 1886, Franklin & Sons has built a legacy of producing exceptional soft drinks, tonics, sodas, and mixers, using only the finest ingredients and natural flavors. The brand was brought under the custodianship of leading drinks producer and distributor, Global Brands, in 2015, and was relaunched first in London and then internationally. Now, it continues to lead the premium tonic, mixer and soft drinks market.
Franklin & Sons offers a diverse range of flavorful and high-quality beverages that celebrate its rich history and commitment to excellence. Amongst the pioneering flavors being distributed in the US in 4-pack formats are its Original Ginger Ale, Brewed Ginger Beer, Sparkling Guava & Lime, Sparkling Pineapple & Almond, Sparkling Pink Grapefruit, Premium Indian Tonic, and Club Soda, with plans for further USA launches of its award- winning range.
Keith Beattie, International Sales Director at Global Brands, explained: “It’s our ambition to expand our international distribution for Franklin & Sons, bringing the brand to more homes and bars across the US, and our partnership with Empire Distributors marks a significant step forward for our global expansion as we look to establish ourselves in the US market.
“What started as a man with a vision when Steve Perez founded Global Brands has developed into global production and distribution of award-winning drinks. As two family-run businesses, it’s fantastic for Global Brands to be partnering with Empire Distributors to increase the distribution of Franklin & Sons stateside.
“When Global Brands was given its name, it was with a clear vision in mind; to enhance moments one drink at a time, no matter who you’re with, or where you are. We wanted to take Global Brands truly global, and it’s this vision which has driven the international expansion of the company to now export to over 67 countries and counting.”
Gary Wolfe, Chief Operating Officer of Empire Distributors, said: “We are excited to welcome the Franklin & Sons portfolio to the Empire family across all our markets. We recognize the growing demand in the non-alcoholic beverage category and are confident that Franklin & Sons’ premium product line will resonate with both our customers and consumers in the U.S.”
Franklin & Sons leverages the expertise of Cascadia Managing Brands to lead its sales strategy, brand consulting, and marketing initiatives.
ABOUT GLOBAL BRANDS
With an extensive portfolio of brands including VK, Hooch, Reef, Franklin & Sons and many more, Global Brands has a drink for every occasion.
Global Brands was founded by entrepreneur Steve Perez in 1997. Since then, the organization’s grown to become a global producer and distributor of many of the UK’s most iconic drinks brands, as well as emerging and innovative brands new to the UK market.
Global Brands aims to enhance moments one drinks at a time, no matter where you are or
who you’re with. For Global Brands, it’s more than just a drink.
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