Grape Expectations & SOZO Beverages refresh distribution agreement
Mr. Dilip Bhambhwani, Partner Grape Expectations Pvt. Ltd (left) and Mr. Gayen Ratnayake, Senior Operations Manager, SOZO Beverages (right).
Grape Expectations (a member of the Favourite Group) has been in the import and distribution business for over a decade, in which time it has developed an island-wide reach having forged strong relationships with stockists across the modern trade, HORECA (Hospitality Industry) and general trade sectors. The Grape Expectations mantra of being tenacious in approach and agile in delivery has enabled it to build a strong portfolio of successful brands from both home and overseas.
SOZO Beverages began its journey in 2016 by two like-minded and passionate entrepreneurs, Gianee and Dushyantha De Silva, who wanted to create a truly Sri Lankan product which not only tastes great but is 100% natural with zero preservatives. They spotted a gap in the market for locally-made, sustainably sourced and responsibly-created drinks which focused on quality and consumer experience. Thus the SOZO brand was born, which sprouted exotic Sri Lankan flavors like Pani Dodang (Green Orange) & Sea Salt, Passion & Mango Iced Tea and Ginger Lime Tonic, all of which have taken the local market by storm, and is now on its way to global markets.
Having been SOZO’s distribution partner from inception, Grape Expectations has ensured nurturing and correct positioning of the brand across all sales channels and outlets. “Our distribution partnership with Grape Expectations has been a key factor to the success of our brand and we look forward to working together to further expand SOZO’s reach in Sri Lanka,” said Gayen Ratnayake, Senior Operations Manager, SOZO Beverages.
Dilip Bhambhwani, Director at Grape Expectations commented, “SOZO and Grape Expectations have come a long way since inception and we have always had confidence in SOZO range of beverages. We especially saw the passion of Gianee and Dushyantha De Silva for their brand. They worked tirelessly on research and development of the recipes and finding the right ingredients for the range of beverages they wanted to kick off the brand with. We as Distributors have been on their journey from day one and we have witnessed growth, satisfaction and great positive feedback from our customers. We are sure that our partnership can reach even greater heights.”
SOZO is available to purchase at all leading supermarkets as well as selected pharmacies and stores across the country. SOZO can also be bought direct online at SOZOiced.com and zipsip.lk.