Jones Soda Co. Board Director Mark Murray Steps Down Effective July 13, 2026

Mark Murray’s Resignation from Jones Soda’s Board of Directors

Jones Soda Co. disclosed on July 14, 2026, that Mark Murray has resigned from his role as a Board Director, effective July 13, 2026. His tenure coincided with a notably active and transformational period for the company, as highlighted by Chairman Paul Norman.

The announcement did not specify the exact length of Murray’s service nor the personal or professional reasons behind his resignation. It was confirmed that his departure was voluntary and unrelated to any internal disagreements or governance issues, an important clarification under securities disclosure regulations in Canada and the U.S.

Chairman Paul Norman Recognizes Murray’s Role in Company’s Turnaround

Board Chairman Paul Norman issued a statement acknowledging Murray’s significant contributions during a pivotal turnaround phase for Jones Soda. Norman stated: "On behalf of the Board of Directors, I want to thank Mark Murray for his dedicated service and commitment to Jones Soda. Mark has been an important part of the Company's turnaround over the past several years, providing practical insight, sound judgment, and unwavering support during a transformational period. His down-to-earth approach and ability to provide candid, thoughtful guidance have been invaluable to both management and the Board. We are grateful for his many contributions, wish him continued success, and thank him for helping position Jones Soda for its next chapter of growth."

The emphasis on Murray’s role during the "turnaround" highlights the board’s view of recent years as a recovery and repositioning phase. His practical insights and candid guidance were seen as valuable to board deliberations, underscoring the loss of institutional knowledge with his departure.

Company Confirms No Disagreement Prompted Resignation

The July 14 announcement explicitly stated that Murray’s resignation was not due to any disagreement with Jones Soda regarding operations, policies, accounting principles, financial disclosures, or internal controls.

This disclosure aligns with North American securities regulations designed to provide transparency when directors depart. The absence of any disagreement suggests an amicable separation, which investors typically view as a neutral to positive governance signal.

Board Composition and Succession Planning After Murray’s Exit

Following Murray’s resignation, Jones Soda’s Board will continue with its current members. The company indicated it will "evaluate the timing and need for appointing an additional director as part of its ongoing corporate governance and succession-planning process." This suggests a thoughtful, measured approach rather than an immediate replacement.

The phrasing reflects standard governance practice, where boards assess existing expertise and strategic needs before recruiting new members. Investors may watch for future announcements regarding potential board appointments, though no specific timeline or commitment was provided.

Jones Soda’s Listings on CSE and OTCQB Markets

Jones Soda Co. is publicly traded on the Canadian Securities Exchange (CSE) under the ticker JSDA and on the OTCQB Venture Market in the U.S. under the same symbol. This dual listing reflects its cross-border operations, with products distributed throughout North America via beverage retailers, restaurants, and alternative channels.

Director change disclosures comply with both Canadian and U.S. securities laws, explaining the detailed nature of the announcement. The CSE included a standard disclaimer noting it does not verify the accuracy or adequacy of the press release content.

Company Overview and Position in the Craft Soda Market

Founded and headquartered in Seattle, Jones Soda Co. is recognized as a leading craft soda producer. Its product portfolio includes premium craft sodas sold in glass bottles, cans, and fountain formats. The brand differentiates itself from mainstream soft drinks through its craft positioning, consumer-submitted label photography, and limited-edition flavors.

The craft beverage sector has evolved significantly, with growing consumer demand for premium, artisan, and healthier options. Jones Soda’s North American distribution places it in a competitive yet expanding niche. Board and management changes are particularly relevant to investors considering the company’s strategic growth trajectory.

Investor Implications of Board-Level Changes at Consumer Brands

Director resignations at publicly traded companies often attract investor and analyst attention, even when non-contentious. Board members at consumer brands like Jones Soda typically contribute industry expertise, financial oversight, and strategic networks. Murray’s departure represents a loss of institutional knowledge that the company must address.

Given Murray’s acknowledged role in the company’s turnaround, the board’s composition during the next growth phase may evolve. Investors will likely observe how the board refreshes itself to align with the company’s new strategic direction.

Market Reaction and Share Price Impact Following Resignation Announcement

At the time of writing, no clear immediate impact on Jones Soda’s share price was evident. Non-contentious board resignations unrelated to operational or accounting disputes typically have limited market effect, though outcomes vary based on the departing member’s perceived importance and market conditions.

Jones Soda’s shares trade on both the CSE and OTCQB, so trading volumes and price movements may differ by market. Investors tracking the announcement’s impact should monitor both exchanges. The company provided no guidance on share price or valuation effects, and speculation is unwarranted.

Forward-Looking Statements and Regulatory Disclosures Included in Announcement

The July 14 release contains a standard forward-looking statements disclaimer addressing risks such as capital raising, industry competition, key personnel dependence, and economic and regulatory factors. These disclaimers are routine for Canadian and U.S. issuers and do not indicate specific concerns related to the board change.

The company also disclaims any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law and does not commit to commenting on third-party expectations. These provisions are standard in issuer filings on Canadian and U.S. exchanges. Investors should review the full forward-looking statements section when considering the release’s information on future expectations or strategy.