Though the new flavour was launched in April nationally, the distribution has been limited to select retail outlets in the upmarket areas of the four metros. Says Shyam Sundar, general manager, marketing, SBCH: ``It's a phased launch. We're still testing the waters.''

To ensure repeat orders and track consumer response, another freebie is being offered to the buyer alongwith the sachet: a Smart Savings Coupon valid till November 1999. This cut-and-post coupon printed on the sachet entitles the consumer Rs 5 off on the purchase of a Junior Horlicks Banana bottle. The retailer will retain the bottle seal.

Launched nationally in 1996, Junior Horlicks-an extension of the company's flagship product Horlicks-is targeted atchildren between the ages of 1 to 3 year old. At present, it is available in plain and chocolate flavours in 500-gm bottles. The brand has a market share of 5 per cent.