clusive Beverage, one of the largest independent distribution houses serving New York City, is considering a foray into the New England market. According to George Perfetto, Key Account Manager – Corporate Accounts, Exclusive, which carries over 30 beverage brands in its portfolio, would ship direct from its headquarters in Long Island, eschewing sub-distributors and the construction of a warehouse facility in the region.Exclusive, which had a significant role in the distribution growth of Vitaminwater and Vita Coco in New York City, distributes a variety of entrepreneurial beverage brands, including PowerCoco, Made Drinks, 989, Vivaloe and Balance Water.
Perfetto said that the company has for some time considered a foray into New England, but the idea “came to a head” at the recently held Summer Fancy Foods show. Perfetto explained that the specialty and gourmet foods expo pushed to the forefront an opportunity to bring its portfolio of brands, many of which are not represented in the New England market, to retailers in the region that are familiar with Exclusive’s reputation for high quality service and reliability.
Additionally, Exclusive’s recent acquisition of a minority stake in Teany Beverages, a line of all-natural, better-for-you iced teas, spurred an interest to move beyond its current distribution borders. Exclusive hopes to breathe new life into Teany brand, which was founded in 2002 by DJ/music producer Moby, but has suffered from weak volume and sales in recent years. Over the last three months, Exclusive has attempted to establish a larger retail presence for Teany, which is currently sold in several chains in New York City including Whole Foods, Fairway, Duane Reade and Walgreens.
Exclusive founder Steve Gress refused to confirm the plan, saying only that the company would “love to be in Boston.”
