GlobeNewswire Inc | Jan 12, 2021 08:30AM EST

January 12, 2021

SEATTLE, Jan. 12, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jones Soda (OTCQB: JSDA), the original craft soda known for its unconventional flavors and user-designed label artwork, today appointed Jamie Colbourne as the companys Chairman of the Board. Colbourne served as Jones interim CEO from April to December 2020, recruited current CEO Mark Murray as a consultant, and worked closely with Murray to plan and implement a growth strategy that has successfully increased the companys revenues and gross margins. He succeeds Michael Mick Fleming as board chairman.

In the last 10 months, Jones has significantly improved cost and management controls, reengaged consumers through creative marketing programs ranging from themed label collections to an RV campaign with Tony Hawk, and laid the groundwork for expanding into foodservice and club channels, said Jamie Colbourne, newly appointed chairman of the board for Jones Soda. The results clearly show that the brand has long-term growth potential, especially given the strength of the overall craft soda market. Ive had a front-row seat to these changes, and Im confident that we will be able to continue building on Jones unique brand assets to keep the company on a solid growth track.

Colbourne has more than three decades of experience in leading and growing multiple CPG and consumer businesses. Before joining Jones, he served as CEO and board member of JGC Foods and COO of Charlies Produce. He previously held chief leadership roles at 7Up Canada and Specialty Frozen Foods.

He also has served on the board of directors of numerous companies including Tullys Coffee, 7UP Canada and Litehouse Products, where he helped shape vision and strategy, drive M&A and identify growth opportunities. He is currently on the board of directors for Bargreen Ellingson, Harbor Wholesale and Ellenos Yogurt.

Jamies CPG expertise, in-depth understanding of the Jones brand, and pivotal role in driving last years improvements in the companys performance make him the ideal person to head the board of directors, Fleming said. The fact that board members Clive Sirkin and Paul Norman both recently purchased one million shares of Jones stock shows how strongly they believe in the ability of Jamie, Mark and the rest of the team to put the brand back on top of the craft soda segment.

Colbourne joined the Jones board of directors in December 2020 while still serving as interim CEO. Murray was named President in September and promoted to President and CEO on December 1, 2020.

About Jones Soda Co. Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Jones Soda Co. (OTCQB: JSDA) markets and distributes premium beverages under the Jones Soda and Lemoncocco brands. A leader in the premium soda category, Jones Soda is made with cane sugar and other high-quality ingredients, and is known for packaging that incorporates ever-changing photos sent in from its consumers. Jones diverse product line offers something for everyone cane sugar soda, zero-calorie soda and Lemoncocco non-carbonated premium refreshment. Jones is sold across North America in glass bottles, cans and on fountain through traditional beverage outlets, restaurants and alternative accounts. For more information, visit www.jonessoda.com or www.myjones.com or www.drinklemoncocco.com.

Investor Relations Contact Cody Slach or Cody Cree Gateway Investor Relations 1-949-574-3860 JSDA@gatewayir.com