The Calmer Co. Taps Beverage Guru Tonkin to Lead U.S. Expansion
The Calmer Co. International Limited announces a leadership change with James S. Tonkin appointed Chairman as the company accelerates its U.S. market growth in natural kava products.
- John Homewood steps down as Chairman after one year
- James S. Tonkin appointed as new Chairman, bringing 48 years of beverage industry expertise
- Strategic focus on expanding high-potency kava products in the U.S. market
- Growing U.S. consumer interest with over 10.7% of adults having tried kava recently
- Company poised for sustainable growth with strengthened management and board
Leadership Transition Marks New Chapter
The Calmer Co. International Limited (ASX – CCO), a specialist in natural relaxation and sleep-support products, has announced a significant leadership change. John Homewood, who has served as Chairman for the past year, has stepped down, with James S. Tonkin stepping into the role effective immediately. This transition comes at a pivotal moment as the company intensifies its push into the lucrative U.S. market.
Homewood’s tenure was marked by stabilizing the company and setting a foundation for growth. The Board expressed gratitude for his leadership during this turnaround phase, which saw The Calmer Co. position itself closer to breakeven and sustainable expansion.
Tonkin’s Expertise Aligns with Growth Ambitions
James Tonkin brings nearly five decades of experience in the food and beverage sector, with a particular focus on brand marketing and beverage development. Known in industry circles as “the beverage guru,” Tonkin has a track record of guiding major brands through complex markets, including his leadership roles with 7-Up bottling and consultancy work for global clients like Essentia Water and Anheuser-Busch.
His longstanding relationship with The Calmer Co., dating back to its inception and pre-IPO days, positions him uniquely to steer the company through its next growth phase. Tonkin’s appointment signals a strategic emphasis on leveraging his deep U.S. market knowledge and functional wellness expertise to capitalize on rising consumer demand.
Capitalizing on U.S. Kava Market Momentum
The timing of this leadership change coincides with promising market data. Recent research reveals that over 10.7% of U.S. adults have consumed kava in the past year, underscoring a growing appetite for natural, alcohol-alternative relaxation products. The Calmer Co. is actively expanding its portfolio of high-potency kava ingredients and wholesale products across North America, building on momentum from its recent participation at SupplySide Global 2025 in Las Vegas.
With increasing consumer awareness and partnerships in the health and wellness sector, the company is well-positioned to deepen its footprint in a market that values functional beverages and natural wellness solutions.
Looking Ahead
Both outgoing and incoming Chairmen expressed optimism about the company’s trajectory. Homewood remains a shareholder and supporter, confident in Tonkin’s ability to lead. Tonkin himself emphasized his commitment to driving growth and innovation, leveraging his extensive network and industry insights to unlock new opportunities.
The Calmer Co.’s evolution reflects broader trends in consumer preferences toward natural health products and functional beverages, with kava emerging as a compelling alternative in the relaxation and sleep support category.
Bottom Line?
With Tonkin at the helm, The Calmer Co. is set to deepen its U.S. presence and accelerate growth in the natural wellness space.
Questions in the middle?
- How quickly will Tonkin’s leadership translate into measurable U.S. market share gains?
- What are the near-term financial impacts expected from the U.S. expansion?
- Will the company pursue additional product innovation or partnerships to sustain momentum?
