PepsiCo Inc., Purchase, N.Y., and Celsius Holdings Inc., Boca Raton, Fla., maker of a global fitness energy drink CELSIUS, announced a definitive agreement forging a long-term strategic distribution arrangement. The distribution agreement initially transitions Celsius’ current U.S. distribution to PepsiCo’s best-in-class capabilities, the companies note. As part of the transaction, PepsiCo also will make an investment in Celsius in support of its growth agenda and will nominate a director to serve on Celsius’ Board of Directors.

The long-term U.S. distribution agreement is effective Aug. 1, and, subject to certain exceptions, includes retail and foodservice channels. PepsiCo also will become the preferred distribution partner globally for Celsius.

As part of the transaction, PepsiCo will make a net cash investment of $550 million to Celsius in exchange for convertible preferred stock. Shares underlying the transaction were priced at $75 a share, or approximately 7.33 million shares, which equates to an estimated 8.5% ownership in Celsius on an as-converted basis. The preferred shares are entitled to a 5% annual dividend.

“We are extremely pleased to partner with Celsius and excited about the opportunity for our two organizations to drive growth and innovation in the energy beverage category,” said Kirk Tanner, CEO of PepsiCo Beverages North America, in a statement. “The Celsius brand's growing momentum coupled with the strength of PepsiCo’s portfolio and go-to-market capabilities create a combination we believe will be very compelling and valuable to retailers and consumers. We are looking forward to seeing the impact these two outstanding organizations can make together to more fully capture energy occasions.”

Celsius President, Chairman and CEO, John Fieldly, commented: “I would first like to thank our employees and partners who have helped facilitate our rapid growth. We believe the opportunity to partner with a global best-in-class distributor provides Celsius with significant near-term additional shelf space in both existing retailers as well as new expansion within the independent retailers that represent a significant portion of the U.S. convenience and gas channel where approximately 70% of energy drinks are sold. It also provides a strategic partnership that is expected to accelerate growth for both companies globally. In addition, this partnership will drive efficiencies allowing our teams to consolidate sales, marketing, and distribution efforts with associated cost benefits, which we expect to recognize once the initial transition is completed. We look forward to partnering with PepsiCo and maximizing the opportunities we see ahead for Celsius and our shareholders.”