The Rise of Coldest

In a marketplace overflowing with lookalike bottles and tumblers, Coldest stands apart by keeping its promise: colder, longer. Founded by twin brothers David and Joe Stark, the Fort Myers–based company began with a simple observation that sparked a revolution in drinkware. “I had this stainless-steel bottle on my kitchen table,” David recalled. “It did not keep my water cold long enough. I thought, ‘What do most Americans want in a bottle?’ The answer was simple: cold water.” That clarity became their compass. From the start, Coldest’s identity was built around one mission: to create products that perform so well, they redefine expectations.

A Journey from Humble Beginnings

With no investors, no office, and just $14,000 in savings, Stark launched the company from a garage, turning early setbacks into lessons. “We started with one bottle and one color,” he said. “Every penny went into inventory.”

The brothers personally tested samples from more than a dozen factories before finding a partner that matched their quality standards. Today, that same dedication to performance continues as each new product undergoes continuous testing and refinement. From that scrappy start, Coldest has grown into a $30 million brand, launching new colors and sizes every week, powered by a loyal community of fans and ambassadors who believe in both the product and the people behind it.

Engineering Functionality and Performance

What sets Coldest apart is its relentless attention to design. Every lid, seam, and surface serves a purpose. Their tumblers feature fully insulated lids; a rare feature that keeps heat from escaping through the top and interchangeable tops that allow users to customize their experience. “We wanted to give people flexibility,” Stark said. “You can choose your lid based on what you are doing; coffee in the morning, gym in the afternoon, water on the go. It is all about functionality.” The company’s Limitless Series epitomizes this approach, with three lid options: sip, chug, and sports, and a detachable infuser that doubles as a blender. It is a blend of precision engineering and user empathy products designed by people who use them.

Lessons in Focus and Growth

Like many entrepreneurs, Stark learned hard lessons about focus. Early on, he tried to expand the brand into multiple “coldest” categories; pillows, bedding, dog bowls, even ice packs. “We wanted to be the coldest everything store,” he admitted. “But we realized spreading across five industries was diluting our message. It is easier and smarter to be great at one thing.” That course correction helped Coldest grow faster, leaner, and more intentionally. Today, the company is laser-focused on what it does best: innovating hydration.

Marketing in Motion

Coldest Water has built a massive following through social media storytelling and directto-consumer strategy. Leveraging TikTok Live and an expansive ambassador network, the brand reaches millions organically while maintaining a deep connection to its audience. Despite the growth of online platforms, Stark remains firm about the company’s foundation: “Our website is our biggest channel,” he said. “It is the one thing we control. Social platforms change their rules overnight, but our website and customers are ours.”

Resilience in Business and Leadership

The company’s growth has not come without risk. At one point, Stark borrowed $4 million to fund inventory expansion, a move that nearly derailed the business. “Debt can hide your mistakes until it’s time to pay it back,” he said. “We learned the hard way. But once we cleared that debt, I vowed never to take that path again.” Today, the company is completely debt-free, operating from a 52,000-square-foot warehouse in Fort Myers with around 40 employees, including an in-house production team handling all photography and media. “We scaled fast, but we learned to tread carefully,” he said. “You can grow quickly, but not at the expense of stability.” Florida Roots, Global Reach Though he was born in Connecticut, Stark calls Florida home. “Naples is beautiful, it’s like a resort town,” he said. “Our business grew here, and so did we.” Being named a GrowFL 2025 Florida Companies to Watch honoree holds special meaning for him. “It is not just about our success; it is about what Florida represents for entrepreneurs. It is a place where ideas can thrive.”

Advice for Entrepreneurs

When asked what guidance he would offer to other founders, Stark shared lessons shaped by both triumphs and missteps; lessons any entrepreneur can learn from:

•Grow slow and steady. “Do not chase explosive growth just for the sake of it. Sustainable growth builds endurance.”

• Take calculated risks. “Every risk you take should have a safety net; it should never be one that could end your company.”

• Avoid debt whenever possible. “Most entrepreneurs think they can manage debt, but it is one of the fastest ways to lose control. Debt hides mistakes until it is too late.”

• Protect ownership. “Do not give away too much equity too soon. You will want the flexibility to make long-term decisions without outside pressure.”

• Reinvest before you reward. “Avoid taking large distributions early. Every dollar you put back into your company compounds.”

• Find the right people. “Surround yourself with 10X players, people who see things you do not and take things off your plate. But make sure they share your values.”

• Focus relentlessly. “You cannot win every market. Stay disciplined about what you do best.”

• Be loud and stand out. “Every market is crowded. So how do you get noticed? Be bold enough to rise above the noise.” ”

For Stark, entrepreneurship is not just about making great products; it is about building something that lasts. “Take care of your customers, take care of your people, and do not let the pressure push you into shortcuts. The slow road usually wins.”

Looking Ahead

With steady growth, a clear mission, and a fiercely loyal community, Coldest is poised for its next chapter. Stark envisions a future driven by innovation and responsibility. “We just want to keep pushing the market forward,” he said. “If we can make better products and stay true to our principles, everything else will follow.

About GrowFL’s Programs

GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch (FLCTW)

The Florida Companies to Watch program, hosted annually by GrowFL, celebrates top second-stage companies across the state for their impressive growth and entrepreneurial success. This prestigious program recognizes 50 standout businesses each year, chosen from hundreds of nominees. Honorees are celebrated for their innovation, economic impact on Florida’s economy, and the ability to scale effectively. Through FLCTW, GrowFL not only acknowledges these companies’ achievements but also brings them into a spotlight that enhances their visibility in the marketplace. The event offers an extraordinary opportunity for networking, sharing best practices, and gaining exposure to potential investors and partners, making it a cornerstone for fostering business growth and recognition within Florida’s vibrant business community.