EUROPE – Coca-Cola European Partners has launched a new line of canned Appletiser Spritzer drink, made with 50% real fruit juice and 50% sparkling water.
The new range will be available in three flavors namely Apple & Exotic Lime, Apple & Blood Orange and Apple & Passion Fruit starting from March.
According to the company, this is the biggest innovation in Appletiser in two years, which is in line the current global trends, as consumers lean towards healthier beverages.
The new range which Coca-Cola says offers a clean, crisp and refreshingly light taste, will be available in 250 ml can format with an artistic premium design highlighting the brand’s high fruit juice content.
The can packaging format helps to address the growing need for canned beverages for convenience especially among on-the-go consumers.
“Appletiser has achieved strong growth in 2018, up 30% in retail sales value and this is largely due to the rising demand for adult soft drinks, as consumers look for delicious, alcohol-free alternatives.
“Appletiser Spritzer is a natural, light tasting, sparkling, fruit drink that will attract younger consumers to the Appletiser brand by catering to a variety of drinking occasions.
The 250ml can format is designed to be enjoyed both on-the-go, or as a refreshing accompaniment to a meal, and demonstrates how we continue to energise our leading brands on our journey to becoming a Total Beverage Company,” said Simon Harrison, Vice President, Commercial Development at Coca-Cola European Partners GB.
The launch will be supported by a marketing campaign across digital, social media and out of home, as well as sampling activity.
The company recently launched two Monster Beverage Corp cold brew RTD coffees in the UK as it looks to attract a wider audience into the Monster energy drinks brand.
In the half year 2018 results, Coca-Cola European Partners reported 3.5% decline in volumes on a comparable basis, partly reflecting the impact of recent strategic portfolio and pricing decisions.
During the period, total revenue totalled US$6.19 million, while comparable operating profit was US$800 million, up 4.5% on a comparable basis.
