Leading soft drink manufacturer, Pepsi Jamaica, has been making the rounds as they introduce consumers to an exciting new cranberry-flavoured water. That is just one of the favourite Ocean Spray drinks that are now being officially distributed by Pesi Jamaica.

Since news of the partnership broke on September 19, Pepsi has embarked on an all-island tour to introduce the refreshing water to its customers and the verdict is in ... it is all that and then some - totally refreshing! But don't take our word for it.

The Gleaner spoke with John M. Kaczynski, business development manager for Pepsi, who is upbeat about the new deal and he said, "The partnership between Ocean Spray and Pepsi Jamaica is part of a strategic alliance between Ocean Spray International and PepsiCo Latin America Beverage to expand throughout Latin America, including Jamaica" - a wise decision, considering that Jamaica accounts for such large sales volumes.

Kaczynski also noted that Ocean Spray has aggressive marketing plans to maintain Jamaica's status as the country with the highest per capita consumption of Ocean Spray beverages, ahead of even the United States.

"There are plans to introduce new products in the near future. However, I cannot comment on specific details which are confidential information," he said when nudged.

positive feedback

Head of marketing for Pepsi, Carlo Redwood, is also feeling positive. He tells The Gleaner, "We have sampled the product in more than 60 locations and with more than 20,000 consumers over the last two weeks. We believe that once a consumer tastes Ocean Spray Flavour Splash Cranberry Water, they will reassess their expectation about what cranberry water should taste like."

He notes that so far feedback has been extremely positive, with consumers loving both the real ocean spray cranberry flavour and the recommended retail selling price of $60 per bottle.

"Sales, though early, are growing rapidly, as we now have full distribution of the product across the island," Redwood said.