SZENT is a beverage startup that seeks to add a unique twist to the flavored water industry. According to the company, “it’s all in the ring. Secured to the neck of the bottle, this deceptively simple addition is infused with natural oils, unlocking a sensorial experience that’s been right under your nose this whole time.”
Currently, SZENT offers its unique beverage product in the following flavors: passionfruit, tropical, pineapple, and mint. Furthermore, the company says it plans to release a line of sparking flavored water line later this year.
The beverage startup recently announced that it has closed its latest round of funding with financing of $2.2 million. The funding was led by ex-FirstMark Capital co-chairman, Gerald Poch and will allow the startup to ramp operations as it enters its first full year. The company previously raised $1.5 million in a seed funding round in 2017. Here is the full press release detailing of the financing:
SZENT Press Release:
LOS ANGELES, CA (February 13, 2019) – SZENT, the breakthrough beverage startup innovating the water category, announced today the closing of a $2.2 million round of financing as the brand ramps into its first full year in market.
Launched in October 2018, SZENT addresses the increasing need for greater product transparency by reinventing what it means to be a flavored beverage. With nothing more than water in the bottle, the brand’s patented scent ring, infused with all-natural oils, channels the flavor experience through your sense of smell, avoiding the use of sweeteners or additives.
In 2017, SZENT raised $1.5MM in seed financing with the support of a syndicate of independent investors, led by former FirstMark Capital co-chairman, Gerald Poch. This January, that same investor group reaffirmed their commitment to SZENT, contributing an additional $2.2MM.
“Given the brand’s significant progress in launching its initial line of products and strong market response, we’re pleased to provide additional capital to support the company’s growth,” said Mr. Poch.
“We’ve invented a beverage experience like no other. And this new influx of capital will allow us to expand our footprint into traditional retail, continue to bring awareness to the brand and invest in the next generation of SZENT products,” said CEO, Shawn Griffis.
Bottled by Unix Packaging in Los Angeles, SZENT uses a reverse osmosis purification process.
The brand’s core still flavors include Passionfruit, Tangerine, Tropical, Pineapple and Mint, with plans to introduce a sparkling line later this year. Currently available only on Amazon, a forthcoming national retail presence will debut individual bottles priced at $2.25 each.
About SZENT
Pure water innovated, SZENT reinvents the flavor experience through your sense of smell. It’s all in the ring. Secured to the neck of the bottle, this deceptively simple addition is infused with natural oils, unlocking a sensorial experience that’s been right under your nose this whole time. To learn more, visit drinkszent.com and @drinkszent on Instagram.
