Q&A: Ion Labs’ Desjardine discusses ProCharge launch

Acebo: ProCharge is a Proprietary blend of hydrolyzed collagen and whey protein isolate delivering over 20 g of protein per ounce in a palatable liquid base. The proprietary manufacturing process has resulted in a one-of-a-kind product, which can be taken straight, but it is also designed to be blended into water, or other beverages, as well as into food. The advantage of ProCharge is the versatility and ease of use, and the delivery of the highest amount of protein per dose on the market.  It also provides all of the branch chain amino acids, the critical building blocks for protein in the body.  ProCharge provides one of the highest bioavailability rates of protein on the market compared to other forms of protein.

 

DSN: ProCharge seems to be at the intersection of VMS, sports nutrition and weight management. How does this position the product in terms of a consumer base that it’s able to tap into?

 

Desjardine: The ready to drink (RTD) category has been a popular form for delivering a convenient protein for consumers. ProCharge not only emerges into the RTD category; but is also positioned to penetrate the water enhancer market; which continues to emerge at the retail level.

 

Now with ProCharge retailers can offer an innovative liquid protein enhancer delivering 20 g of protein per serving with the convenience and flexibility for consumers; not only can you add to water or your favorite beverage, you can even add it to food, or take it straight.  There are no water enhancers that offer 20 g of protein with complete branch chain amino acids. ProCharge is a proven category within an emerging market, as the media continues to highlight the benefits of protein — along with the wellness benefits.  

 

ProCharge is designed for people who want to enhance their wellness. Each bottle of ProCharge delivers 40 g of high quality great tasting protein, including Branch Chain Amino Acids (BCAA). It's also designed to increase lean muscle, control appetite, sustain energy and reduce body fat.

 

DSN: What opportunities does ProCharge offer retailers?

 

Desjardine: Protein remains the bedrock of the sports nutrition category, which 23% of this market is comprised of ready-to-drink (RTD), protein bars, and others (protein shots).  The water enhancer market sales continue to expand and combined with the RTD category, there is a tremendous retail opportunity. 

 

ProCharge is positioned to provide retailers with a value brand that can enhance consumer’s well-being and lives. The protein market segment exceeds $7.3 billion with a projected 15% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) forecasted in the RTD category alone. 

 

DSN: Now that the product has launched, how is the ProCharge team hoping to get it to consumers and grow its customer base?

 

Desjardine: ProCharge is committed to being the category leader of Protein Liquid Enhancers. We have five SKUs and are expanding our category reach with new and innovative SKUs. Our company continues to develop while expanding our reach giving us market penetration even further.

 

We are engaging with various retail outlets; knowing the importance of our success is only driven by the success of the consumer at the retail level.  

 

The retailer’s success will be driven by various digital media campaigns, as we have entered into various national/regional marketing campaigns with sports celebrities and charities, as well as a DRTV campaign with one of the original “Shark Tank” members Kevin Harrington. Stay tuned and watch as ProCharge becomes a household brand. 

 

For more information and details about ProCharge retail opportunities, contact [email protected] or call (877) 465-9611.