Keurig axes Kold soda machine after 9 months
Keurig is discontinuing its Kold domestic soda maker that was intended to generate a new revenue stream for the company and capture a share of the enormous US cold beverage market. Keurig Green Mountain made the announcement just 9 months after launch, following a host of issues with the device, including high retail price and quality concerns. Retailing for $370, Kold was more expensive than main competitor SodaStream, as were the capsules supplied by large soft drink manufacturers such as Coca-Cola that was also a financial backer. Furthermore, the device suffered from reliability and usability issues, with many customers criticizing its large size, loud operating sound and difficulties to cool drinks quickly. The move will involve up to 130 layoffs at the company's Vermont facility.