Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/148134
PHOTO: TERESA LEE PHOTO: ROB BROWN style and I like to keep it easy—KRÜ and sweet tea or KRÜ and lemonade," says Holecz, adding, "It is extremely mixable for all types of cocktails, from the most complex mixology drinks to a simple classic Martini." If retailers were excited when KRÜ showed up in stainless steel, the glass bottling is giving them a re-energized kick, and that along with eye-catching KRÜ displays are making consumers stop and chat. Mikey Dixon, owner of Kenwood Liquors, a retail shop in Homer Glen, IL, just outside Chicago, says that the vodka keeps things "refreshing for us," because "loyal customers don't just notice the new KRÜ display, they stop and talk with us about the new glass bottling, and it serves as a great reminder that our customers are truly attentive shoppers." Dixon adds that really, "It's what's inside the bottle—a true quality, premium vodka at an amazing retail price." He likes it on the rocks. Jack Backman, the owner of Cheers Liquor Mart in Colorado Springs, CO says, "The stainless bottle was a hit with the younger crowd. Having the Owner of Cheers Liquor Mart in Colorado Springs, Jack Backman is excited about KRÜ Glass, because it will appeal to a broader range of clientele. "Adding glass to the sleek stainless packaging will help us create a bigger shelf presence and give consumers choices. It's now a 'pick your package option'—stainless or glass, or if you're like me, both—one for home, one for my active on-the-go lifestyle. It's all about taking the adventure with you." The new packaging comes at an especially good moment for bars and restaurants; with extended daylight hours in summer, consumers tend to linger longer, soaking in the dwindling light, thankful it isn't dark when the five o'clock whistle blows. Bartenders will be thrilled, because KRÜ's new glass bottle makes it easy to grab and pour. "I've switched into my summer sipping 58 / the tasting panel / august 2013 TP0813_034-65.indd 58 7/24/13 9:48 PM