Tropicana is continuing its trailblazing in the soft drinks category with the launch of Tropicana Spirit - an innovative carbonated soft drink.

Just last month saw the press launch of Tropicana Smoothie - a range of fruit smoothies to tap into the 70% of consumers who have yet to buy into the category. Now the UK's No.4 best-selling soft drink[1] and No. 1 juice brand[2] is set to spearhead further sales growth and 'refresh' the category with Tropicana Spirit - a blend of juice and lightly sparkling mineral water - a more natural, healthier alternative to a traditional carbonated soft drink (CSD).

Bursting with natural flavour this exciting new product will broaden the Tropicana portfolio, building on its reputation for premium juices by introducing its loyal customers to a new CSD proposition, while also attracting new shoppers and further growing the category.

Tropicana Spirit is set to bring refreshment to the soft drinks category. A naturally tasty blend of 70% juice and 30% lightly sparkling mineral water[3], it even provides one of the recommended five-a-day fruit and vegetable portions.

A unique offering promising to reinvigorate the soft drinks category, Tropicana Spirit will meet the need of consumers for a refreshing, sparkling drink that also delivers a portion of fruit in every bottle.

Tropicana Spirit will be available in three great flavours; 'Orange & Mango', 'Blueberry & Blackberry' and 'Lemon & Grapefruit' targeted predominantly at the impulse sector. The ideal solution for consumers who are on the go and want a naturally refreshing drink, Tropicana Spirit will add value to retailers 'drinks to go' offer.

Tropicana Spirit will benefit from a £5 million market investment. This will include; press and outdoor advertising, sampling, direct mail, promotions and PR support

Mary Barnard, Managing Director, Tropicana says: "Consumers are increasingly looking to soft drinks with healthier, better-for-you credentials, but they also expect to find refreshing drinks when they're thirsty. Tropicana Spirit taps into both these consumer needs, offering retailers the opportunity to capitalise on the better-for-you trend while also offering consumers true product choice. The launch also further consolidates Tropicana's position as a leading, innovative soft drinks brand.

Tropicana Spirit is priced at £1.29 for a 400ml bottle packed 12 bottles to a case.

Product will be available to grocery, independent and convenience channels from mid-February.

1All data: AC Nielsen latest 52 weeks to 29.12.07

[2] AC Nielsen value sales MAT to 29.12.07

[3] Lemon & Grapefruit Spirit has 80% fruit juice and 20% sparkling mineral water>