US-based protein and energy shakes provider E-hydrate has signed a deal with Walgreens to stock its products.

This deal has added E-hydrate's two flagship stock keeping units (SKUs) in Walgreens. The move is part of E-hydrate's plan to expand distribution in convenience and drug stores.

E-hydrate chief sales officer Jim Kayser said: "Customers are now actively on the lookout for healthier choices when they're on-the-go. Walgreens is right in line with our philosophy, and we're excited about the new focus on healthy food choices at Walgreens."

"Walgreens is right in line with our philosophy, and we're excited about the new focus on healthy food choices at Walgreens."

To attract customers, E-hydrate plans to run country-wide promotions in Walgreens, including an upcoming buy one, get one (BOGO) deal for the entire month of January.

E-hydrate also intends to focus on unique marketing initiatives to drive awareness as the line scales up for national distribution.

As part of its effort to establish a larger presence in the C-store market, E-hydrate has secured deals with Kum & Go, TA TravelCenters and APlus at Sunoco.

Kayser said: "There is a surging demand in these channels for natural protein snacks. It makes sense for us, and I think it's a perfect fit."

E-hydrate's natural protein line is also available at high-end retailers, including GNC and Gelson's.