Matt Merson Takes Over as President of Once Upon a Coconut

Once Upon a Coconut Elevates Matt Merson to President

Once Upon a Coconut (OUAC), a brand renowned for its premium coconut water and commitment to clean ingredients, has recently announced the promotion of Matt Merson as its new President. This decision underscores the company’s faith in Merson’s strategic vision and acknowledges his significant contributions in propelling the brand from a local competitor to a nationally recognized leader in the health-focused beverage sector.

Matt Merson's Journey to Leadership

Merson's tenure at Once Upon a Coconut began in 2024 when he joined as Chief Sales Strategy Officer. His impressive background includes pivotal roles at some of the most iconic brands in the beverage industry, such as Vitamin Water and Zico. Under his guidance, OUAC has achieved rapid retail growth, now appearing in over 6,000 locations nationwide, alongside a recent significant rollout at Costco warehouses throughout the Southeast and Texas.

By leveraging his extensive network and expertise in establishing strong partnerships with major retailers, Merson has been instrumental in expanding OUAC's footprint in the crowded beverage market.

Broader Responsibilities Ahead

As the new President, Merson will take on comprehensive responsibilities spanning the company’s commercial, operational, and strategic domains. This transition comes at a crucial time as Once Upon a Coconut plans to integrate Punch'd Energy, a newly acquired brand, into its expanding portfolio. CEO John Chiorando recognized Merson’s exceptional blend of experience and drive, stating, "He has been a powerful force since joining us, bringing both big-brand insights and an urgency that is vital to our ambitions."

A Vision for Growth

In expressing his excitement about this new role, Merson emphasized the brand's harmonious combination of product quality, mission, team spirit, and strategic relationships. He noted, "I am thrilled to take up this responsibility at a time when we are gaining significant momentum. We are positioning ourselves in the right retailers and fostering the right connections while pioneering our expansion into exciting new categories. The potential for growth is immense, and I am dedicated to ensuring our team is equipped for this journey."

The promotion reflects Once Upon a Coconut’s ongoing investment in leadership, particularly as it seeks to broaden its reach not just in physical retail spaces but also in the digital marketplace. As more consumers seek healthier beverage options, the company’s commitment to purposeful practices and sustainability will likely resonate well with its growing base of supporters.

About Once Upon a Coconut

Founded in 2020, Once Upon a Coconut crafts a premium coconut water that stands out in the hydration category with its variety of bold flavors and commitment to quality. Sourcing young green coconuts from Vietnam and utilizing eco-friendly aluminum cans for packaging, the brand also places a strong emphasis on corporate social responsibility by donating a portion of its profits to several nonprofit organizations, including the Down Syndrome Foundation of Florida and the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. With backing from prominent figures such as Shark Tank's Daymond John and NFL athletes Rob Gronkowski and Ronnie Stanley, Once Upon a Coconut is carving an impactful niche in the market.

Today, consumers can find Once Upon a Coconut products in over 6,000 retail stores across the country, as well as online on platforms like Amazon and through its website.

For more information, visit Once Upon a Coconut's official website and follow their journey on social media @onceuponacoconut.