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Zevia Appoints Suzanne Ginestro to Board of Directors
Businesswire· 2026-01-07 21:30
Core Insights - Zevia PBC has appointed Suzanne Ginestro, Chief Marketing Officer of Califia Farms, to its Board of Directors, effective immediately, enhancing the board's diversity and expertise in marketing within the food and beverage sectors [1][2] Group 1: Board Appointment - Suzanne Ginestro brings over 25 years of marketing experience across food, beverage, and wellness industries, which will be crucial for Zevia's long-term growth strategies [1][2] - Justin Shaw, Operating Partner at La Caisse, will resign from the Board effective February 24, 2026, marking a transition in board membership [1] Group 2: Executive Background - Ginestro has a proven track record in brand building and product portfolio strategy, having led Califia Farms to significant growth in the dairy alternatives category [2] - Prior to Califia Farms, Ginestro was CMO at Quest Nutrition, where she oversaw brand management and digital commerce, contributing to multi-year double-digit growth [2] - Her experience includes leadership roles at Campbell Fresh, Pinkberry, Red Bull North America, and Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream, showcasing her extensive influence in the industry [2] Group 3: Company Overview - Zevia PBC is a Delaware public benefit corporation and a Certified B Corporation, focused on providing zero sugar, zero calorie beverages made from simple, plant-based ingredients [4] - The company’s products are Non-GMO Project verified, gluten-free, Kosher, and vegan, addressing health challenges related to sugar consumption [4] - Zevia's beverages are available in over 39,000 retail locations across the U.S. and Canada, distributed through various major retail channels [4]
Zevia PBC (ZVIA) Conference Transcript
2025-05-13 18:10
Summary of Zevia PBC (ZVIA) Conference Call - May 13, 2025 Company Overview - Zevia is an emerging nonalcoholic beverage company that went public about four years ago, offering a variety of zero sugar, zero calorie beverages sweetened with stevia, including soda, energy drinks, and organic tea [1][2] Key Industry Insights - The beverage industry is shifting towards "better for you" options, with Zevia positioned as a leader in this segment [8][32] - The company has expanded its distribution significantly, particularly with Walmart, moving from 800 to 4,300 stores, which is part of a broader trend in grocery towards healthier beverage options [8][9] Financial Performance - Q1 results showed top line growth that was down but better than market expectations, with guidance for FY 2025 maintained at modest growth of 2% to 5% [6][7] - The company expects a healthy acceleration in the second half of the year, projecting growth of about 7% [13] Growth Drivers - Key growth drivers include expanded distribution, increased shelf space, and new distribution channels such as Walgreens [12][13] - The introduction of new flavors, including Strawberry Lemon Burst, is expected to support growth [11][28] - The company is optimistic about achieving growth targets despite macroeconomic uncertainties [19] Risks and Challenges - The primary risk to guidance is macroeconomic conditions, including potential recessionary impacts [19] - The company has lost some club distribution but is working to regain it, which represents an upside opportunity [21][22] Strategic Initiatives - Zevia is focused on profitable growth, with a goal to become EBITDA profitable by the end of 2026 [29][30] - The company is investing in brand marketing, doubling its marketing spend in 2025 compared to 2023 [56][60] - A strong innovation pipeline is in place, with a focus on bringing new products to market more rapidly [40][41] Market Positioning - Zevia is positioned as an affordable option within the "better for you" beverage category, appealing to health-conscious consumers [33][34] - The company emphasizes its clean label and simple ingredient profile, which aligns with current consumer trends [31][32] Financial Metrics - Q1 gross margins reached a record 50.1%, with expectations for high 40s margins for the rest of the year, impacted by aluminum tariffs [68][70] - The company has achieved $15 million in annualized cost savings through productivity initiatives, ahead of initial expectations [74][76] Consumer Behavior - There is an expectation of resilience among health-conscious consumers, who view Zevia products as essential rather than discretionary [85][86] - The company anticipates benefiting from trade-down behavior within the "better for you" category [86] Investor Insights - Zevia's household penetration is currently in the single digits, indicating significant growth potential as consumer preferences shift towards healthier options [88] - The company believes it is well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for clean label products, supported by its distribution and innovation strategies [89][90] Conclusion - Zevia is at a critical juncture with strong growth potential driven by strategic distribution expansion, innovative product offerings, and a commitment to brand marketing, all while navigating macroeconomic challenges [35][36][89]