Coconut water is a $1B+ market in the US, and it was fiercely fought over back when it was still emerging. Vita Coco ultimately came out on top, beating out Zico (ultimately shuttered following its acquisition by Coca-Cola), and since then, has spread its reach to over 30 countries worldwide.
It’s made some savvy product decisions to keep hold of this top spot. The Vita Coco brand has diversified to accommodate evolving consumer priorities by adding additional health- and sustainability-focused beverages. It’s also riding the recent canned-cocktail craze through a partnership forged with Diageo’s Captain Morgan. And perhaps most importantly, it hasn’t changed its prices much despite the economic downturn.
Analysts predict this budget-friendly approach will see the top-tier company performing well in the event of a recession. Certainly, it will also give the company a boost in a market where coconut water is considered a premium beverage. There are whispers that Zico might be returning to the game, but this old rival will have a lot of catching up to do, especially off the back of a post-IPO secondary offering that has bolstered Coco's value.
Kirsty
Company Specialist at Welcome to the Jungle