Brazilian startup Liquidz, backed by coach Bernardo Rezende or Bernardinho, plans to triple its size by the end of 2026. The company sells electrolyte sachets that turn water into isotonic drinks with fewer artificial colors and calories. It now targets the general public and physical retail channels.
Liquidz received investment from Brazil's men's volleyball team coach Bernardo Rezende—known as Bernardinho—and Ricardo Dias, former Neve CEO, in a "family and friends" round led by founder Octavio Domit.
The company's sachets, added to water, create isotonic drinks positioned as having fewer artificial colors and calories than brands like Gatorade and Powerade. Initially targeting high-performance athletes like runners, it now has 500 digital influencers and over 1,300 on a waitlist. It recently partnered with Ironman for a neutral-flavor sachet.
To grow, Liquidz is expanding into premium physical channels like Track & Field, Centauro, and supplement stores, aiming for 3,000 outlets, though 70% of revenue comes from e-commerce via its site, Mercado Livre, and TikTok Shop. "LIQUIDZ is status," says Domit, stressing channel selection to avoid commoditization.
The firm argues two liters of daily water is insufficient, promoting electrolytes for everyone, including weight-loss protocols at São Paulo clinics. Domit cites 1,500 health professionals in its community and warns of a "dehydration epidemic." However, nutrrologist Carlos Alberto Werutsly, Abran director, counters that healthy adults don't need supplements and cautions on high sodium in isotonics, recommending them only for heavy-sweating athletes.
Competitors include Unilever's Liquid I.V. and Água na Caixa's + Eletrólitos, but Domit states: "We are the first 100% Brazilian company focused on hydration."
