Dr Pepper Snapple Group Increases Investment In Bodyarmor

PLANO, TX -- Dr Pepper Snapple Group Inc. said it has invested $6 million more in BA Sports Nutrition, makers of Bodyarmor sports drinks. The additional stake builds on the initial $20 million investment announced in August 2015 and raises DPS's ownership position from 11.7% to 15.5%.

DPS has carried Bodyarmor as an allied brand since 2013 and this year has expanded its distribution throughout its packaged beverages direct store delivery footprint, which serves 34 states, helping Bodyarmor to achieve national distribution. Bodyarmor has a growing roster of independent distributors in areas not served by DPS's network.

Bodyarmor is described as a premium sports drink with electrolytes, coconut water and vitamins. It contains natural sweeteners and flavors, with no artificial colors, and is available in eight flavors.

The brand was launched in 2012 and is led by chairman and cofounder Mike Repole. In 2013, basketball superstar Kobe Bryant became a significant investor in the company, and earlier this year, Bodyarmor launched its eighth flavor, Blackout Berry, inspired by Bryant.

Bodyarmor also has several superstar athletes who are investors in the brand, including Andrew Luck, Mike Trout, James Harden, Richard Sherman, Dez Bryant, Buster Posey and Skylar Diggins.

With its increased stake in the Bodyarmor business, DPS is the second-largest equity holder in the brand, behind Repole.