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Soft drinks group Nichols is intensifying its expansion strategy within the functional beverage sector, announcing the launch of Vimto Energy Tropical Cooler.

The new SKU represents a calculated push to capture the growing consumer demand for "health-permissible" energy options. To drive initial trial and visibility, the product will launch with a seven-week exclusivity period at SPAR, before a wider rollout commences on 19 February 2026.

Formulation: Addressing the 'Enhance My Body & Mind' Trend

The product development aligns with the "Enhance My Body & Mind" consumer need state, balancing functionality with the brand's heritage of refreshment. Nichols has engineered the drink to offer a "cleaner" energy profile compared to traditional high-sugar stimulants.

Key Technical Specifications (500ml Can):

• Sugar Profile: Zero sugar.

• Caffeine Source: Made with natural caffeine.

• Fortification: High in Vitamins B6 and B12.

• Ingredients: Contains real fruit juice.

Channel Strategy: Convenience and Impulse

The launch is specifically targeted at the convenience and wholesale channels, where flavoured energy drinks and price-marked packs (PMPs) are currently outperforming the wider market.

Angela Reay, Marketing Director at Nichols, outlined the commercial logic:

Reay further commented on the sensory positioning of the product: "The Tropical Cooler flavour delivers a sense of escapism while staying true to Vimto Energy’s inclusive proposition, helping retailers attract new shoppers, drive repeat purchase and unlock incremental category growth."