Pontus Protein appoints Mark Arathoon as Head of Product Development

VANCOUVER — Pontus Protein Ltd. announces that Mark Arathoon is the new Head of Product Development. In addition, the Company has secured Blue Ocean Tea Company, to advise on contract packing, production distribution and certifications.

Pontus announces it has agreed to terms with Mark Arathoon, to become Head of Product Development. Arathoon is an experienced tea professional who has built relationships with global suppliers and has developed ready to drink products for Numi Organic Tea, Starbucks, Revolution Tea, Justea Beverages, Wize and several other North American and International brands. Pontus entered into an LOI with Arathoon’s company Blue Ocean, in March 2021, and both companies have continued negotiations.

Concurrent with Arathoon’s appointment, Pontus has entered into a definitive agreement with Blue Ocean to advise on contract packing and production. Blue Ocean holds strategic food certifications, is Rainforest Alliance certified, and a Global Food Safety Initiative member. Blue Ocean will package sachets of Pontus Powder and produce added-value products to enable early access of Pontus into the market. The team will also support Pontus as it seeks to secure global product standards, which will hopefully support a premium price for the products and a broader distribution network.

Pontus will enter into a contract manufacturing agreement once production starts.

Mark Arathoon commented, “I reached out to Pontus when I saw what a novel technology they had developed. When I tasted the product and saw the nutritional profile, I knew this was something I wanted to be part of. I am very pleased to be heading up Product Development and using my experience and networks to get the widest distribution for the product.”

Connor Yuen, Pontus’ CEO, added, “I am so pleased that Mark has joined us as Head of Product Development. Our work together since the LOI has been very productive. His experience in global product development and distribution and his excitement around Pontus makes Mark and Blue Ocean the best partners as we launch our first products.”