Most sparkling water brands sound the same, look the same, and talk to the same consumer but Mike Pilkington, Co-founder & CEO of Key Sparkling Water, saw an opportunity to do things differently.

In this episode, we discuss how Key Sparkling Water is challenging the status quo with real ingredients, crafted carbonation, and a bold new approach to branding.

Mike shares insights on building a brand that stands out in a crowded market, the shifting culture around alcohol, and why knowing your core consumer is key to long-term success.

Key Moments in This Episode:

✅ Why the Sparkling Water Market Needed a Shake-Up – The story behind Key’s unique positioning.

✅ The Power of Real Ingredients – Why Key chose real fruit over "natural flavors" and why it matters.

✅ The Decline of Alcohol & the Rise of Better Alternatives – The cultural shift that’s changing drinking habits.

✅ Building a Brand with Intention – Why understanding your consumer on a deep level is the secret to success.

✅ Lessons from Sysco & Death Wish Coffee – What Mike learned from his corporate career and how he applied it to entrepreneurship.

Join me, Ramon Vela, in listening to this insightful and energizing conversation with Mike Pilkington as we explore the future of better-for-you beverages and category disruption!

For more on Key Sparkling Water, visit: https://keysparklingwater.com/

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave The Story of a Brand Show a rating and review.

Plus, don’t forget to follow us on Apple and Spotify.

Your support helps us bring you more content like this!

*

Today’s Sponsors:

Compass Rose Ventures - Advisor for CPG Brands: https://compassroseventures.com/contact/

Compass Rose Ventures can help your CPG brand increase customer lifetime value, expand into the US market, create an omnipresent omnichannel footprint, optimize customer journeys, build brand communities, and more. Visit the link above to learn more.

Saral - The Influencer OS: https://www.getsaral.com/demo

SARAL is the all-in-one influencer platform that finds brand-aligned creators, automates outreach, and manages everything in one place. Request a live demo today. Let the SARAL team know you're a The Story of a Brand Show podcast listener to get an extended free trial! Visit the link above.

Key Sparkling Water - Crafted Carbonation: Changing How You Enjoy Sparkling Water

The Story of a Brand Show

Key Sparkling Water - Crafted Carbonation: Changing How You Enjoy Sparkling Water