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Nº 129

ShineWater

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Rod Hildebrant, Owner of ShineWater in Bay City, Michigan

August 13, 2025

“This is our home and we’re proud to grow ShineWater with the community behind us.”

ShineWater is a nutrient-enhanced water with bold, delicious flavors and absolutely no sugar.”

That’s how Rod Hildebrant describes the better-for-you beverage he brought to life and brought home to Bay City. Built on a foundation of wellness, ShineWater goes beyond hydration by infusing every bottle with meaningful nutrients.

“About 42 percent of the population is deficient in vitamin D, which plays a critical role in bone health, heart health, and immunity,” Rod explains. “We made that a core part of ShineWater’s identity because we believe health should be accessible and enjoyable.”

With no added sugar and essential electrolytes like magnesium, potassium, and zinc, ShineWater is redefining what it means to drink well. And with the launch of Shine Kids, they’re helping the next generation stay refreshed too with zero compromise on taste.

It’s all part of a bigger mission to create something healthy that still feels like a treat. And it’s all happening right here in Bay City.

Two ShineWater drinks

“We’re always listening to our customers especially when we’re out sampling.”

For ShineWater, flavor innovation is a hands-on, community-driven process. Rod Hildebrant and his team believe the best ideas come directly from the people drinking their product.

“Our team of ten seasoned beverage professionals uses that feedback to brainstorm new flavor ideas,” Rod says. “From there, our flavor house develops initial batches, which we tweak and refine until we find the one that really stands out.”

That standout is what makes it to store shelves, like their newest release Tropical Lemonade. But the process doesn’t stop there. The ShineWater team is already testing ideas for summer 2026, inspired by conversations happening right here at home.

At ShineWater, innovation starts with connection and every sip reflects it.

Rod Hildebrant, Owner of ShineWater in Bay City, Michigan

“This is our home and we’re proud to grow ShineWater with the community behind us.”

Rod Hildebrant doesn’t just lead a national beverage brand. He leads with hometown pride. ShineWater may be stocked on shelves across the country, but its heart is right here in Bay City.

“Most of our team lives and works right here in Bay City. We’re proud members of the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, and we love how surprised people are when they learn ShineWater is based right here,” Rod shares.

Their investment in Bay City shows up in big and small ways. They sponsor events like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, support local nonprofits, and collaborate with businesses throughout the region.

“These partnerships not only celebrate Bay City’s culture but also support local businesses and attract visitors downtown,” Rod explains.

Looking ahead, ShineWater hopes to keep growing right alongside the city it calls home.

“We want ShineWater to be Bay City’s hometown drink and a brand the community is proud of.”

ShineWater is located at 916 Washington Ave., Bay City.

Rod Hildebrant, Owner of ShineWater in Bay City, Michigan

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