Member Article

Funding boost for Newcastle-based natural energy drink startup

Newcastle-based Point Blank Cold Brew has secured a £25,000 loan to scale up its business and start producing large quantities of natural energy drink.

Backed by the Finance for Business North East Microloan Fund, managed by Rivers Capital Partners, Point Blank is a natural energy drink that has no sugar, no fat, 1 calorie, no additives and no preservatives.

The process involves brewing specialty grade ground coffee in cold water for an extended period and filtering. The firm says that the result is a caffeinated product that is much smoother and less bitter than traditionally brewed coffee.

Headed up by founder and CEO Josh Thompson, the North East’s first Subway franchisee, the Microloan funding has helped to finance the early production runs and distribution of samples.

Colin Wilson, Finance Director for Point Blank, commented: “The team are very excited by the possibilities for Point Blank and the amazing response we have had from customers and distributors since the launch of our ready to drink product in July 2016.”

He added: “We believe we have an excellent product and brand that ticks all the boxes for a natural energy drink.”

The North East Microloan Fund provides small businesses in the region with loans from £1,000 up to £50,000. It is aimed at individuals who have a solid business plan, but are unable to secure mainstream funding.

James Holloway, Investment Executive for Rivers Capital, added: “Point Blank has a great product and a fantastic team in place, meaning they are ready to take on the energy drink market. It is great to see such an ambitious company in the North East, and we are proud to support them.”

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