Zing Zang, LLC Company Profile

Background

Overview

Zing Zang, LLC, established in 1997 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is a leading producer of non-alcoholic cocktail mixers in the United States. The company is renowned for its premium-quality mixers, including the best-selling Bloody Mary Mix, Blazing Bloody Mary Mix, Dill Pickle Bloody Mary Mix, and Michelada Mix. Additionally, Zing Zang offers an "AMAZING" lineup of mixers such as Classic Margarita, Mango Margarita, Strawberry Margarita-Daiquiri, Sweet & Sour, and Piña Colada, all made with real fruit juices and naturally sweetened without high-fructose corn syrup.

Mission and Vision

Zing Zang's mission is to provide consumers with bold, flavorful, and convenient cocktail mixers that enhance the at-home and on-the-go drinking experience. The company's vision is to be the leading brand in the non-alcoholic cocktail mixer category, offering a diverse range of products that cater to various taste preferences and occasions.

Industry Significance

As America's #1 Bloody Mary brand, Zing Zang holds a significant position in the non-alcoholic beverage industry. Its commitment to quality and innovation has set industry standards for cocktail mixers, influencing consumer expectations and driving market trends.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Product Diversification: Expand the product portfolio to include a variety of cocktail mixers and ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages.

National Distribution: Increase product availability across the United States through strategic partnerships and distribution agreements.

Brand Innovation: Develop and introduce new flavors and packaging formats to meet evolving consumer preferences.

Areas of Specialization

Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Mixers: Crafting premium mixers for cocktails such as Bloody Marys, Margaritas, and Piña Coladas.

Ready-to-Drink Beverages: Producing canned cocktails that combine Zing Zang's mixers with premium spirits.

Key Technologies Utilized

Natural Ingredient Sourcing: Utilizing real fruit and vegetable juices to create authentic flavors.

Sustainable Packaging: Implementing eco-friendly packaging solutions to reduce environmental impact.

Primary Markets Targeted

Retail: Supermarkets, grocery stores, and specialty food retailers.

Foodservice: Bars, restaurants, and hospitality venues.

Online Retailers: E-commerce platforms offering direct-to-consumer sales.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

2016: Acquired by NexPhase Capital, a private equity firm, marking a significant investment in the company's growth and expansion.

Recent Funding Rounds

July 2025: Acquired by Mizkan America, Inc., a leading maker of condiments and sauces in the United States, for an undisclosed sum.

Notable Investors

NexPhase Capital: Provided strategic guidance and operational support during its ownership.

Mizkan America: Current owner, aiming to expand its presence in the cocktail-mixers category.

Utilization of Capital

Expansion of Product Line: Developing new mixers and RTD beverages.

Enhancement of Distribution Channels: Strengthening relationships with national distributors and retailers.

Brand Development: Investing in marketing and packaging redesigns to appeal to a broader audience.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

Michelada Mix: A new addition to the product line, catering to consumers seeking authentic Mexican cocktail experiences.

Ready-to-Drink Cocktails: Expanding the RTD portfolio with new flavors and formulations.

Stages of Development

Product Development: Ongoing research and development to refine existing products and create new offerings.

Market Testing: Conducting consumer taste tests and focus groups to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments.

Launch: Introducing new products to the market through strategic marketing campaigns and distribution partnerships.

Target Conditions

Consumer Preferences: Aligning product offerings with current trends in flavor profiles and health-conscious ingredients.

Market Demand: Addressing the growing popularity of RTD beverages and non-alcoholic cocktail mixers.

Anticipated Milestones

Product Launches: Scheduled releases of new products in the coming quarters.

Distribution Expansion: Increasing product availability in additional retail and foodservice locations.

Brand Recognition: Achieving industry awards and consumer accolades for product quality and innovation.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Flavor Extraction: Utilizing advanced techniques to extract and preserve the natural flavors of fruits and vegetables.

Natural Sweetening: Employing natural sweeteners to enhance taste without adding high-fructose corn syrup.

Significant Scientific Methods

Product Formulation: Developing recipes that balance taste, texture, and nutritional value.

Consumer Research: Analyzing market trends and consumer feedback to inform product development.

Leadership Team

Brent Albertson – Chief Executive Officer

Professional Background: Over 30 years in leadership roles at Diageo, bringing extensive experience in the beverage industry.

Contributions: Led the expansion of Zing Zang's product line and distribution network, significantly increasing market share.

E.G. Fishburne – Chief Marketing Officer

Professional Background: Expertise in brand development and marketing strategies within the food and beverage sector.

Contributions: Spearheaded the rebranding efforts, including the launch of the "AMAZING" product line and updated packaging design.

Catherine McClure – Chief Financial Officer

Professional Background: Background in financial management and strategic planning for consumer goods companies.

Contributions: Managed financial operations during the acquisition by Mizkan America, ensuring a smooth transition.

Jeremiah Sparrow – Chief Operations Officer

Professional Background: Experience in supply chain management and operational efficiency in the beverage industry.

Contributions: Optimized production processes and expanded distribution capabilities to meet growing demand.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

Market Size: The non-alcoholic cocktail mixer market is experiencing significant growth, driven by consumer demand for convenient and flavorful beverage options.

Growth Potential: Continued innovation and expansion into new product categories, such as RTD cocktails, present opportunities for market share expansion.

Industry Trends: A shift towards natural ingredients and health-conscious products is influencing consumer purchasing decisions.

Competitor Analysis

Major Competitors: Companies like Mr & Mrs T, Finest Call, and Master of Mixes offer similar product lines in the cocktail mixer category.

Competitive Landscape: Zing Zang differentiates itself through its commitment to natural ingredients, innovative product offerings, and strong brand recognition.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits

Partnership Details: Expanded distribution agreement effective April 1, 2023, to include new markets such as Texas, Louisiana, and Florida.

Johnson Brothers

Partnership Details: Extended relationship to include mixers and RTDs in Virginia, North Dakota, and South Dakota, effective April 1, 2023.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

Market Position: Zing Zang's strong brand equity and diverse product portfolio position it as a leader in the non-alcoholic cocktail mixer market.

Competitive Advantages: Use of natural ingredients, innovative product development, and strategic partnerships enhance operational efficiency and market reach.