Ronald D. Wilson

Skinny Nutritional Corp., the marketer and distributor of Skinny Water, has appointed former Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Co. president and c.o.o. Ronald D. Wilson its president and c.e.o. A beverage industry veteran, Wilson has more than 38 years of experience in that field.

"In less than six months Skinny Water has been embraced by millions of customers who are searching for great-tasting flavored water that provides functional benefits, and most importantly zero calories and zero sugar," noted Wilson. "As we go forward, we'll expand our flavor offerings, and look to use the Skinny trademark in other beverage categories, such as ready-to-drink teas and coffees."

Wilson came to the soft drink industry in 1969 as route salesman for Pepsi-Cola, and rose through the ranks to the position of branch manager. He joined Coca-Cola 1977 as a financial analyst with Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of New York. Since that time Wilson has held various positions within Coca-Cola Bottling Co., rising from division manager to v.p./g.m. of the New Jersey division.

In 1985 he was named president and c.o.o. of the Philadelphia Coca-Cola Bottling Co., leading it to become the fourth-largest Coca-Cola bottler in the country.

In October 2008 Wilson was inducted into the Beverage World Soft Drink Hall of Fame.

"The appointment of Ron Wilson as the president and c.e.o. represents the transition of the company from the startup phase to a growth and operational phase," said Don McDonald, former president and c.e.o. of Skinny Nutritional Corp. "Ron's experience and leadership will be invaluable, and we know he'll take the company to new levels of profitability."

McDonald will remain with the company as c.f.o., where he will focus on investor relations to introduce the company to a range of institutional bankers.

Bala Cynwyd, Pa.-based Skinny Nutritional Corp. is the manufacturer of Skinny Water, which comes in Acai Grape Blueberry, Goji Fruit Punch, Peach Mango Mandarin, Raspberry Pomegranate, and Passionfruit Lemonade varieties. The company also expects to launch additional branded products, including Skinny Tea, Skinny Shakes, and Skinny Java.