On Friday, Jones Soda Co. announced the launch of a new 16 ounce can size category for their soda line. The size is intended to be sold at convenience stores, where Jones’ market research has concluded that customers are typically looking for beverages larger than the 12 ounce can size.
Located in Seattle, Washington, Jones Soda markets and distributes the Jones family of beverages, which include Jones Soda, Jones Pure Cane Soda, and WhoopAss Energy Drink. The sodas, which are primarily sold in North American markets, feature a wide variety of flavors, as well as novelty holiday flavors such as Candy Corn and Turkey & Gravy. Along with these novelty flavors, Jones is known for labels that change frequently, using consumer-submitted photos.
The varieties available in the new 16 ounce size will be drawn from the most popular Pure Cane Soda flavors: Berry Lemonade, Green Apple and Strawberry Lime. These flavors have the highest sell-through rate among single glass bottles. AC Nielsen data shows that as of September 3, sales of these flavors were up 26% over the previous year. Jones’ product distribution has increased 25% during the first half of the year, and the new 16 ounce can is expected to grow the Jones brand further through availability at convenience stores. The sodas will be available starting in late October, at a suggested price of $1.29.
Bill Meissner, CEO of Jones, said, “We just unveiled the new tall cans at the National Association of Convenience Stores Show this past weekend, and the response was excellent. This is an important segue for Jones, as the convenience store channel allows us to reach more consumers in general, and to reach more people who will try the product and ultimately convert to grocery store purchases. This will make both channels an even stronger sales opportunity for Jones. While Jones has previously ventured into the can category, this is the first time we’ve launched not only a 16 oz. can, but most importantly, a can with packaging that sticks to the characteristics of the Jones brand of mixing bold black and white photos with bright color accents – this is what stands out to consumers.”
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