Varon Corp (OTCID:OZSC) CEO Benjamin Schubert talked with Proactive about two significant developments for the company's Ballislife Hydro sports drink brand: the addition of youth basketball standout Egypt Dean as a partner and owner in the brand, and the continued retail expansion of the product across Central Florida.
Schubert discussed how Egypt Dean, the son of Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz, developed an organic relationship with Ballislife Hydro before deciding to become involved as an investor and partner. According to Schubert, Dean's interest in the brand came after he personally used the product and conducted extensive research into the business opportunity.
The interview also covered Ballislife Hydro's retail growth, with the product now available in 95 retail locations across Central Florida. Schubert described the rollout as part of a broader strategic expansion plan and highlighted the importance of the Florida market for a hydration-focused product. He also noted the involvement of NBA player and equity partner Desmond Bane in supporting the brand's visibility as it enters the region.
Schubert explained that the Florida launch serves as an important foundation for gathering consumer insights, strengthening distributor relationships, and creating opportunities for further retail expansion in the future.
Proactive: Welcome back inside our Proactive newsroom. Joining me today is Benjamin Schubert, CEO of Varon Corp (OTCID:OZSC). A couple of pieces of news to discuss. First, Ballislife Hydro has attracted a notable young investor and partner. Tell us about that development.
Benjamin Schubert: We're very excited to announce that Egypt Dean is now a partner and owner in the Ballislife sports drink brand. He had an organic relationship with the brand from the beginning. We had followed him on our platforms as a rising youth basketball player, he got his hands on the product, became interested, and conversations developed from there. With support from his family, he decided to get involved with the brand.
Egypt Dean is the son of Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz. Despite being only 15 years old, he appears to be very focused on business and investments.
I met him a few months ago during one of our photo shoots and was genuinely surprised when I later learned he was only 15. He's very intelligent and conducts thorough due diligence. He has passed on other opportunities and chose to invest in the sports drink. He has a strong support system and a genuine connection to basketball. This opportunity allows him to stay involved with the sport while also exploring the business side.
He seems to fit perfectly within the target demographic for Ballislife Hydro.
That's exactly right. Staying connected to younger consumers is important for us. Because Ballislife Hydro focuses on hydration, health and wellness, we can market to younger demographics in a way that energy drink brands often cannot. Egypt understands youth culture, trends, language and consumer interests. His perspective gives us direct insight into the audience we're serving.
His family is very well known. How involved have they been in the process?
They've been supportive throughout. It's important to emphasize that this was Egypt's decision and his project. However, having the support and network that comes with his family background creates exciting opportunities. We've already seen the benefits of those connections and expect more opportunities moving forward.
Let's move to your second announcement. Ballislife Hydro is now available in 95 retail locations across Central Florida.
Yes, this is part of a carefully planned rollout strategy. This is one of several regions we've entered with this retailer. Florida is a very important market for a hydration product because of the climate. We're also leveraging our relationship with NBA equity partner Desmond Bane, who now plays for the Orlando Magic. His signature can is rolling out in stores, which we're very excited about.
The 95-store launch is a strong start. Is expansion expected from here?
Absolutely. This rollout provides valuable analytics about consumers, product preferences, flavours and packaging. It also creates opportunities for larger discussions with distributors and retailers. This is an anchor account that helps us establish a presence in the market. As we demonstrate success, it becomes much easier to expand into hundreds of additional locations.
Congratulations on both announcements. Thanks for your time today.
Thank you. I appreciate it.
Quotes have been lightly edited for style and clarity