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It has taken Cason Thorsby about 2 1/2 years to concoct what he describes as a natural, sparkling beverage with zero sugar, a "clean alternative to soft drinks."
Thorsby, who lives and works in downtown Detroit, launched his new business, Cason beverages, on Oct. 28 with two flavors -- natural ginger and lemon lime. In a month's time, he says, he's already in about 80 restaurants, bars and grocery stores in Michigan. The goal is to add more flavors, including blood orange, and eventually distribute globally.
A native of the Flint area, Thorsby, 30, has a degree from Central Michigan University in entrepreneurship. He says he has a great love for food and drink. Several years ago, he tried to launch a wild game soup company, but unfortunately it never got off the ground.
His beverage company, which has local investors, is being produced in Wisconsin. He says there are no companies in Michigan that have facilities to produce the narrow, 12 ounce cans.
Deadline Detroit sat down with him this week at his office in the Broderick Tower at Woodward and Grand Circus Park to talk about his venture.
