Page 89 - BWA FEB 2013

February 2013 | Business World Magazine | 89
ing is credited to the
blending of flavors
and creation of the
new molecule. In the
last year, representa-
tives from some of the large soda companies
have approached Grattagliano and asked
for samples. He suspects there are efforts to
duplicate his formula, but he is not worried
about it. “It would be hard for anyone to copy
it… it might take years to crack the formula
because no one has access to the molecule
besides me and the scientists in Switzerland.
Our agreement is that I have sole rights to
use the molecule in all drinks we market.”
That molecule will now figure in other
products Arkay is bringing to market. He is
following his whisky-flavored success with a
new line of alcohol-free vodka, tequila, gin,
rums, brandy and Pina Colada mix. What
O’Doul’s did for beer, Grattagliano has done
with spirits, but to another degree, he has
essentially invented an entire new beverage
category of alcohol-free liquors. He has also
developed an expanding sales force, directly
employing some two dozen people, but as