The Growth And Sweet Success Of Caribe and WTRMLN WTR

Caribe Juice, a Union Kitchen Accelerator Member, is a vibrant and socially conscious brand founded by Luis Solis during his final year as an MBA student at the University of Virginia. Inspired by the fresh and invigorating juices of his childhood in the Dominican Republic, Luis embarked on a mission to bring a taste of the Caribbean to the American market while supporting local farmers. Through their partnership with Union Kitchen Accelerator, Caribe Juice experienced exponential growth, made evident by their acquisition of WTRMLN WTR, and the opening of multiple manufacturing facilities! Caribe and WTRMLN WTR can now be found in more than 10,000 major retailers, including Whole Foods, Target, Costco, and Walmart. 

Through his work with the Union Kitchen Accelerator, Luis gained access to a network of resources in the food space as well as guidance around launching a market ready product, sales and distribution, growing regionally, scaling nationally, and owning manufacturing. This collaboration allowed Caribe Juice to leverage the expertise and support of a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs, propelling their brand forward. They also worked closely with the Union Kitchen Accelerator team on their mission, strategy, and products to find clear direction. Leveraging these resources allowed Luis to build his company to last, providing the solid foundation on which Caribe has grown and already seen great success.

In a significant move that expanded their product portfolio and customer base, Caribe Juice acquired WTRMLN WTR, a successful cold-pressed watermelon juice company. WTRMLN WTR is known for their star studded backers including Beyonce Knowles, Chris Paul, and Kevin Durant. This strategic acquisition not only complemented Caribe Juice's existing lineup but also brought together two brands with a shared commitment to quality and authenticity.

By incorporating WTRMLN WTR into their family of products, Caribe Juice tapped into the brand recognition and customer loyalty that WTRMLN WTR had established. The a acquisition created a dynamic synergy, allowing Caribe Juice to capture a wider market share and satisfy a broader range of consumer preferences in the hydration space.

The acquisition of WTRMLN WTR also opened doors to new opportunities and expanded distribution channels for Caribe Juice. They were able to leverage the existing relationships and partnerships of WTRMLN WTR to reach a larger audience, including prominent retailers and food service providers. This strategic move not only accelerated Caribe Juice's growth but also solidified their position as a key player in the beverage industry.

Building upon their commitment to quality and authenticity, Caribe Juice took another significant step in their journey by opening their own manufacturing facility. This allowed them to maintain control over the entire production process, ensuring the highest standards for their beverages. By owning their manufacturing facility, Caribe Juice also created job opportunities within the local community, aligning with their mission of empowering and supporting local farmers and workers. Caribe Juice is an example of how owning manufacturing and following a phased approach to growth allows companies to have stronger margins and in turn achieve profitability fast and more consistently than their peers.

Looking to the future, Caribe Juice aims to expand their reach and introduce their refreshing beverages to new markets. They plan to leverage their Union Kitchen Accelerator experience, acquired WTRMLN WTR resources, and their own manufacturing capabilities to achieve their ambitious goals. Caribe Juice remains committed to providing delicious tropical flavors while maintaining their focus on sustainability, fair sourcing practices, and community empowerment.

Caribe Juice has established itself as a brand that not only quenches thirst but also supports local farmers and uplifts communities. Through their leveraging of Union Kitchen resources and guidance Luis has grown Caribe in a sustainable way that will act as a launching pad for the brand. With an unwavering commitment to quality and an eye towards expansion, Caribe Juice continues to spread the vibrant tastes of the Caribbean while making a meaningful difference in the world of beverages!