Cott Corporation, a large beverage company, is introducing Fortifido (TM) brand fortified water for dogs so that Rover can enjoy vitamin-rich drinks just like his owner does...
Cott Corporation, a large retailer brand beverage company, is introducing Fortifido (TM) brand fortified water for dogs to capitalize on the growing trends in the $40 billion pet industry.
In the past 50 years, Cott has developed an extensive beverage business spanning 60 countries and reaching almost $2 billion in sales with most of the major retailers around the world. Cott endeavors to diversify its channels, markets and portfolio beyond carbonated soft drinks.
Entrance into the pet industry represents an important diversification move, which leverages existing core beverage production and distribution assets. Conceptualizing, developing and launching fortified dog water is an innovative step beyond traditional consumer age and demographic segmentation, and with research and development, the company was able to develop the first-ever fortified water for pets with real functional benefits.
“Dogs are more than just pets; they are part of the family, and owners want to make the same healthy choices for their pets as they make for their kids or other loved ones,” said Dave Vautrin, Vice President of Marketing and Innovation for Cott. “Cott expects to develop this new category together with current and new retail partners.” Vautrin added, “Our retail partners and our team at Cott are confident the concept has ‘legs.’”
After nearly 18 months of research and development with top veterinarians and food scientists, combined with extensive qualitative and quantitative testing with both dogs and owners, Cott has blended its beverage experience with new science and performance to create the first major entrant into this category.
Fortifido Water for Dogs comes in four functional varieties available in both 1-liter and 2-liter sizes. Each offering is scientifically formulated for a specific function:
HEALTHY BONES - Vitamin-enhanced water fortified with calcium
HEALTHY SKIN - Vitamin-enhanced water fortified with zinc
FRESH BREATH - Vitamin-enhanced water fortified with natural spearmint
HEALTHY JOINTS – Vitamin-enhanced water fortified with amino acids and minerals
Cott has developed its fortified water for dogs to ensure that all ingredients, claims and labeling are in complete compliance with national governing regulatory agencies.
Fortifido made its debut last week at the Global Pet Expo at the San Diego Convention Center in San Diego, California, which runs through Saturday.