The two Kens have formed Queensland-based Zag Beverages to develop a range of new, natural energy drinks.
“We’re trying to do to the energy drinks market what Nudie did to the juice market,” said Melia.
Oski ‘Little Clever Drinks’ are designed to provide a more natural alternative with almost no sugar and zero caffeine, but with natural ingredients such as Siberian Ginseng, Ginkgo Biloba and Schizandra, plus L-Theanine. Combined, these ingredients may help maintain and improve mental alertness and concentration, maintain physical performance and overcome fatigue.
Ken Melia believes consumers are crying out for a natural alternative: “Aussies are pretty stressed. You only have to pick up the papers every few weeks to hear about the latest study that’s highlighted how stressed we are. In fact, 60% of young Queenslanders are reaching for a sugar or caffeine hit three or more times a week. They’ve got to tackle a list a mile long, and they can’t afford to be tired and lack focus.
“They also don’t feel good about it. Three in four (76%) of those younger Aussies we spoke to who consume caffeine and/or sugar are concerned about the effects on their health. Up until now, the ‘lift’ in the day was achieved through caffeine and sugar. Through Oski Positive Energy Drinks, we’re giving them a natural choice that will help them make it through the day without feeling worried or guilty about what they’re consuming.”
The survey, conducted by Lonergan Research, confirmed that while 28% of young Australians consume energy drinks each week, young Australians are also reaching for coffee/tea (79%), soft drink (77%) or chocolates and confectionery (85%).
OskiPositive Energy Drinks are semi-sparkling, with less than 47 calories per 25cl bottle, and are available in two flavours: mango orange passion and superberry.
After an initial launch in stores across southeast Queensland, the company plans to distribute the drink nationally in the coming months.
And how did the product come to be called ‘Oski’?
“Ken Melia’s son is called Oscar, so we settled on the name Oski,” said Freer.
Source: Herald Sun/B&T/Australian Food News/Zag Beverages
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