SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Medalla Light, Puerto Rico’s top-selling light beer, is now available in bars and retail locations across Florida for the first time. Cervecera de Puerto Rico, the award-winning beverage’s manufacturer, finalized distribution arrangements with Launch Beverage Companies, LBC, and Floridians and tourists can officially begin looking for the new taste this summer.
“This is an exciting time to bring our product to Florida,” said Cervecera President and CEO Camalia Valdés. “Not only is there a growing demand for Hispanic flavors across the country, but life in Florida embodies the spirit of celebration and relaxation that has become associated with Medalla Light.”
To ensure the success of the launch, Cervecera de Puerto Rico has committed more than $100 million to the infrastructure, packaging, design, promotion and launch of the nation’s flagship brand. The Company plans to invest an additional $3 million during the first 12 months of the exportation phase, with the goal of selling 175,000 cases through a variety of retailers including local restaurants, bars, liquor stores, and popular chains such as Publix Super Markets, Inc., Walmart, ABC Liquors, Walgreens, Sedano’s Supermarkets, and Sam’s Club.
Cervecera de Puerto Rico has contracted with The Bravo Group, a leading full-service, integrated Multi-cultural marketing communications network that has worked for consumer brands including AT&T, Wendy’s and Wrigley; and leading global public relations and communications firm Burson-Marsteller.
To help promote the brand, the Company also recently launched www.facebook.com/medallalightusa, a page specifically designed to accompany the expansion. The page allows users to post photos from various locations where they have found and enjoyed Medalla Light. It also features a “trophy shelf” for Medalla Light’s award wins and a store locator, which is set to go live June 22.
The product has been available in limited release since April throughout Central and South Florida which account for 66% of beer sales¹ in the state, and will be distributed broadly for the first time statewide this summer. Sales efforts are concentrated in Florida for the first 12 months, with the goal of expanding distribution throughout the United States in the future.
Medalla Light is available in 12-ounce bottle six packs and 12 packs, and has 98 calories, three carbohydrates, and 4.2% alcohol per volume. It is best known for its golden color, premium ingredients and a clean, refined taste. The beer pairs well with a wide variety of cuisines or as a standalone light adult beverage.
About Medalla Light and Cervecera de Puerto Rico
Medalla Light has won multiple global awards in major beer competitions, including Monde Selection in Brussels, the North American Beer Awards and the Australian International Beer Awards. Additional information on the brand is available at www.medallalight.com. Cervecera de Puerto Rico is a family-owned business founded in 1937. The company also owns and distributes Malta India, a non-alcoholic soft drink that has been growing in popularity throughout the United States over the past several years.
¹Source: Adams handbook
*Note to editors-Media assets available include:
- Packaging, product and production facility hi-res photographs
- Packaging, product and production facility b-roll
- Statewide distribution map
- Advertising materials
- List of awards won by Medalla Light
- Product samples
Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50316864&lang=en