Hard Rock Energy drinks are making their debut in South Florida. This test market is the first step in rolling out the new product by the Seminole Tribe of Florida Inc., the Tribe’s business development arm. Three flavors of Hard Rock Energy drinks will soon be available for purchase on store shelves and be available at select restaurants and bars. The flavors are Original, Paradise Punch and Sugar Free.
The Seminole Tribe of Florida purchased Orlando-based Hard Rock International in 2007 and has supported its strategic expansion to include more cafes, hotels, casinos and other new business ventures. The Tribe’s business development arm has obtained a license to use the brand on Hard Rock Energy drinks.
A new venture, Enterprise Beverage Group LLC, has been established to produce, distribute and market the Hard Rock Energy drinks. The Seminole Tribe of Florida is the majority owner of Enterprise Beverage Group, which is headquartered in Hollywood, Fla.
Tony Sanchez Jr., president of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, says Hard Rock Energy drinks present the perfect opportunity to make the Hard Rock brand part of the growth of the Tribe’s business development program.
“Hard Rock Energy drinks are a logical extension of our growing line of beverage products, including citrus juices sold under the Seminole Pride brand,” said Sanchez.
Enterprise Beverage Group is headed by CEO David Drow, whose track record in the beverage industry includes launching Hair of the Dawg drink mixes. Drow’s background is in finance; he previously was a VP at GMAC. He says it is his love of music and appreciation of the Seminole Tribe of Florida that ignited his passion for the Hard Rock Energy project.
“The Hard Rock brand is perfect for a new energy drink,” said Drow. “Hard Rock is about high energy music and entertainment. It’s about fun.”
John Galloway, chief marketing officer and VP of marketing for Hard Rock International, said, “True to the Hard Rock brand, this energy drink has the power to help people rock harder. It’s a great product and we couldn’t be more excited to put our stamp on this market. It’s an exciting new step for Hard Rock.”
Hard Rock Energy drinks are sold in slim 16-oz. aluminum cans of two servings per can. Cans contain 100mg of caffeine per serving.
Hard Rock Energy Original flavor is aqua blue in color and comes in a black can. The Sugar Free version is clear and is packaged in a white can, while the Paradise Punch flavor is light red and comes in a red can. All of the cans are emblazoned with the Hard Rock brand and retro electric guitar graphics.
Hard Rock Energy drinks are on sale at all convenience stores operated by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, including the Hollywood Trading Post at 3103 N. State Rd. 7 in Hollywood. Distribution already is under way to additional retailers, restaurants, bars, hotels and other foodservice operators. The test market will expand to the Chicago area in 2014, with a potential national rollout slated for 2015.
