Distribution Deals Announced

CORONA, Calif. and SEATTLE -- Hansen Natural Corp. reported Tuesday that it has transitioned a number of key territories to the Anheuser-Busch wholesaler network, according to the distribution arrangements announced May 9.

On the same day, Jones Soda Co. announced it signed an exclusive five-year distribution and manufacturing agreement with National Beverage Corp. of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. for 12-ounce cans of Jones Soda and 16-ounce Jones energy beverages for the entire U.S. market.

Hansen said the territories that have been transitioned to date include almost the entire state of Florida; southern Nevada, including Las Vegas; northern California; metro New York, including the five boroughs and Long Island; Hawaii; and a portion of Colorado, including Denver. A number of additional territories are due to be transitioned over the next few months. The transitioning of the Lost and Rumba brands has taken place on a more extensive basis thus far than the Monster brand, the company said.

Hansen Natural also noted that shareholders will be updated on the transition process during the third quarter conference call in early November.

Among the products that Hansen Natural markets and distributes are Hansen's Natural Sodas, Signature Sodas, Energade energy sports drinks, E20 Energy Water, Junior Juice, Blue Sky brand beverages, Monster Energy brand energy drinks, Lost Energy brand energy drinks, Joker Mad Energy and Unbound Energy brand energy drinks, Rumba brand energy juice, and Fizzit brand powdered drink mixes.

Meanwhile, Seattle-based Jones Soda said it will identify and secure retailers across the U.S. for its premium carbonated 12-ounce soft drinks and 16-ounce energy drink products. Using concentrate supplied by Jones, National Beverage will both manufacture and sell the products on an exclusive basis directly to retailers starting in 2007.

Jones President and CEO Peter van Stolk stated, "National Beverage is an industry leader in the development, production and distribution of beverages throughout the United States. They are known for their long tradition of distributing quality brands, including Shasta and Faygo soft drinks, LaCroix sparkling water, Everfresh juice and drinks, and RipIt energy products, through a hybrid distribution system utilizing 13 company-owned manufacturing plants strategically located across the country. With their infrastructure and our premium brand position, we will have the platform to provide retailers with a unique profitable offering in the CSD category starting early in 2007."
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