US: Jones Soda posts soaring 2006 profits

By just-drinks.com editorial team | 9 March 2007

Jones Soda Co. has seen annual earnings double last year on the back of rising sales of its soda and energy drink brands.

The Seattle-based company yesterday (8 March) posted operating income of US$4.6m for 2006, up 111% from US$1.3m a year earlier. Revenues rose 16.5% to US$39m.

President and CEO Peter van Stolk said he is looking to further grow the business in 2007. Van Stolk said Jones Soda's national distribution agreement with National Beverage Corp. had "set the stage" for the year ahead.

He said: "Over the past 12 months we have strengthened our foundation, increased our brand equity, and further evolved our strategy, as we continue our transformation from a small player in a niche market into the premium name in the beverage industry.

"We move forward with a powerful portfolio of branded products that we believe will allow us to deliver long-term growth and profitability and increased shareholder value."

Sectors: Soft drinks, Water