Coca-Cola’s AHA sparkling water to hit shelves in 2020

The sparkling water category is one that continues to expand with each passing day.

Coca-Cola North America is the latest company to throw its hat in the ring by announcing that in 2020, consumers will be able to pick up AHA’s sparkling water.

“As the largest and fastest-growing part of the water business, mainstream flavored sparkling water is a segment we know we must double-down on,” Celina Li, the VP of water at Coca-Cola North America said. “AHA is our big-bet brand in this big-bet category.”

Consisting of eight flavors — lime + watermelon, strawberry + cucumber, citrus + green tea, black cherry + coffee, orange + grapefruit, apple + ginger, blueberry + pomegranate, and peach + honey — the calorie-free and sodium-free beverages will be available in 12-fl-oz. and 16-fl-oz. cans.

“There are unmet needs for consumers in the category today, both for those who don’t drink sparkling water regularly today and for those who do,” Julie Siwemuke, sparkling water director at Coca-Cola North America said. “When shoppers browse the sparkling water aisle, they’re looking for interesting and approachable flavors that offer a refreshing treat. They're also drawn to fun, colorful brands with personality.”

Perfect for a morning boost or afternoon pick me up, the citrus + green tea and black cherry + coffee offerings from the brand will contain 30 mg of added caffeine, the company said.

“As we started to create the essence of this new brand and what we wanted it to stand for, vitality and positive potential were at the top of the list,” Siwemuke added. “We knew we wanted the name and look to be expressive and full of life, and for our unique flavor pairings and sensory experiences to create an element of discovery, differentiation and delightful surprise.”

In addition, AHA will be the first major brand launch in a decade for Coca-Cola North America. It will replace Dasani Sparkling at retail, which has been on the market since 2014, the company said.

Those who simply can’t quit Dasani Sparkling will be able to get their fix via Dasani PureFill and Coca-Cola Freestyle.

“We’re constantly expanding our portfolio with new categories, flavors and packages,” Shane Grant, the president of the still beverages business Unit at Coca-Cola North America, said. “This vision is coming to life through the fastest-growing category in our largest market with innovations that meet evolving needs and preferences. Water is a primary example of how Coca-Cola North America is embracing a true total beverage company strategy with exciting new brands like AHA.”