Kingsport-based IPE launches new business unit
(EDITOR’S NOTE: The following release was issued by IPE, Inc.)
Kingsport, TN – IPE, Inc. announces today the launch of New River Naturals, its new business unit to lead the company’s growing efforts in bringing over-the-counter consumer products to market. DL-9, IPE’s first direct-to-consumer product released earlier this year, is an all-natural capsaicin salve for temporary relief of joint and muscle pain. Control of this product, along with the line of skincare and anti-aging products that IPE has been working on, will be transitioned to the New River Naturals division.
By creating this new department, with its own leadership team, IPE can remain focused on its core platform technologies and BCT303, its lead drug candidate to treat hypothyroidism which is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials.
“IPE has deep roots in pharmaceutical research and technology development, and we don’t want to stray from that. We are very excited with the progress and outlook of BCT303, but we also wanted a way to more aggressively fund our pipeline of development,” states Eric Latham, CEO of IPE. “We expect New River Naturals to be a significant contributor to that. It also provides an outlet for us to quickly respond to the opportunities we see for bringing high quality consumer products to market.”
One of New River Naturals’ immediate challenges includes the rebranding of its DL-9 capsaicin salve to Capsaicin Rub™ and establishing a stronger website, ecommerce system, and online marketing campaigns to drive awareness, sample requests, and sales volume from www.capsaicinrub.com. DL-9 is currently being sold online via IPE’s corporate site, as well as select natural health stores in region. The company also has plans to establish a stronger wholesale and retail channel by partnering with locally owned establishments.
The other major initiative underway is the launch of its new skincare line in the US, under the SKINTRA™ brand. This launch is expected to go live in early November, where consumers will be able to purchase directly at www.skintra.com. The products will also be carried by select retailers and doctors’ offices in the area. More details on the SKINTRA line will be announced in the coming weeks.
To learn more about the company, DL-9 Capsaicin Rub, and the SKINTRA Cosmeceuticals line, visit www.NewRiverNaturals.com. For inquiries on wholesale pricing or custom formulations, please fill out the form found on the “contact us” page of the site.
