Kyle Sandilands' Radio Career in Jeopardy as H2Coco Investment Shines
Australian radio personality Kyle Sandilands, 54, may be on the verge of losing his lucrative $100 million broadcasting contract, but the shock jock's financial future remains secure thanks to his astute business investments. Through his King Kyle Group, Sandilands has diversified his portfolio, with his most profitable venture being a substantial 23 per cent shareholder stake in the thriving coconut water company H2Coco.
H2Coco: A Beverage Empire in the Making
Founded in 2010 by Australian CEO David Freeman, H2Coco has grown into a successful brand offering coconut water, coconut oil, and related products. Sandilands backed the company in 2014, acquiring his stake through King Kyle Investments. Current ASIC records confirm he remains a major shareholder, holding 250,000 of the company's 1.58 million shares.
Each share carries an approximate paid value of $162,000, though their actual market worth is not publicly disclosed. In 2022, H2Coco was estimated to be valued at $76 million. However, a strategic collaboration with Pinnacle Drinks' seltzer brand Rainbird is projected to triple the company's value by 2029.
The Rainbird x H2Coco Vodka and Coconut Water range, which blends premium vodka with H2Coco's coconut water and fruit juices like pineapple or passionfruit, aims to capitalise on Australia's rapidly expanding coconut water market. Reflecting on his involvement in 2013, Sandilands told News Corp, "I wanted to be a beverage king, the king of drinks." He added whimsically, "I am like a cartoon character that just floats around. I know that sounds ridiculous but it's true."
Diverse Business Ventures Beyond Broadcasting
Sandilands' entrepreneurial spirit extends well beyond H2Coco. In partnership with the Barbagallo Group, he ventured into the finance sector with 13KYLE, a service designed to assist clients in securing their first loans, though this operation reportedly ceased in 2016. Earlier, in 2010, he invested in Sydney's nightlife scene, acquiring stakes in venues like Piano Room and Trademark in Kings Cross, both linked to nightclub identity John Ibrahim. He later sold these interests to focus more intently on his H2Coco endeavours.
Radio Turmoil and Reconciliation Efforts
Amidst the business success, Sandilands' radio career faces uncertainty. Recent reports indicate that he and co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson, 51, have resumed "regular contact" after a period of estrangement. Speculation suggests both desire a return to The Kyle & Jackie O Show, following an on-air dispute that led to Sandilands' suspension and Henderson's contract termination by employer ARN.
According to sources, Henderson reached out to Sandilands last week after learning he felt "betrayed" by ARN. The reunion revealed that ARN had allegedly told each separately that the other did not wish to communicate. "They both realised, like, 'Why aren't we allowed to talk to each other?'" an insider disclosed. This meeting preceded Henderson's public statement last Friday, in which she clarified she had not quit or resigned from the show.
Sandilands reportedly blames ARN for "exploiting a very emotional Jackie," with both feeling they have been mistreated by their employer. As of Monday, sources suggest the duo are discussing a potential joint return to radio, with "the ball in ARN's court" regarding future negotiations. Despite the professional upheaval, Sandilands' strategic investments, particularly in H2Coco, ensure he remains financially robust, underscoring his transition from shock jock to savvy businessman.
