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The data shows that RTDs generated AU$2.5bn of spending in 2025 which is 12% up from 2024 and 35% more than in 2023, making it the fastest growing category in the country’s third largest category by value. Ryan Winslade, client associate director for Australia at NIQ, said: “The RTD category is one of the hottest parts of Australia’s on-premise at the moment. From price to convenience to refreshment and much more, RTDs tick a lot of boxes for consumers and we’re likely to see more growth throughout…

Franck Marilly, CEO of Rémy Cointreau, said: “After three years marked by a complex environment, it is time for Rémy Cointreau to stand out within its industry. The group has the privilege of relying on an exceptional portfolio of brands and on talented and committed teams. “RC Forward Plan aims to give us the means to generate our own value creation momentum and thus become…

Following speculation which broke yesterday, 26 March, both companies released statements to confirm the rumours. “We note the recent market rumours regarding a potential business combination involving Brown‑Forman and Pernod Ricard,” said a statement from Brown-Forman. “Brown‑Forman regularly explores and evaluates strategic opportunities, and can confirm it is engaged in discussions with Pernod Ricard. “If agreed and subject to customary approvals, this partnership would be…

Irish whiskey brand Waterford has been sold to Tennessee Distilling Group for a sum of around €6m. The brand was founded by industry veteran Mark Reynier and launched its first whiskey in 2020, but late last year, receivers were appointed following a period of financial strain. According to a report by the Irish Times, Tennessee Distilling Group, a major contract distiller in the US, plans to…

Ribera del Duero is one of Spain’s top regions when it comes to quality. It’s around a third of the size of Rioja by volume sales but recognised globally for its rich, full-bodied character. However, that’s not what the world is drinking. These styles have lost favour to fresher, fruit-forward whites and rosés, leaving Ribera with a difficult decision – stick with its recognised style,…

Chokalingam joined Amrut more than 20 years ago in the sales and marketing department before being promoted to head of distilling in 2019. “Amrut has never been a conventional company, and my journey here has been equally unconventional — from sales and international markets to the still house and maturation warehouses,” said Chokalingam. “That freedom to experiment, question norms, and bridge the gap between the…

In January the company announced the closure of its distilling arm however the company emphasised in a statement that its bars and operations will continue as normal. “Following a year of decisive action in 2025, which saw a focus on costs and operating efficiencies, we have appointed Alixpartners to support a structured and competitive process to evaluate the next phase of investment for the…

Since the pandemic small craft brands have driven the canned RTD market, but now the major players are stepping in, says Shay Waterworth.

It’s been a decade since standardised packaging was introduced for cigarettes across Europe. Instead of the red and white of Marlborough or the blue and yellow of Camel, all packaging became a murky khaki colour accompanied by graphic images of cancerous growths. The theory was it would deter consumers by reducing the appeal of cigarettes given the associated health risks, and it worked. The industry…

The EU and India have agreed a landmark trade deal which will see the 150% tariffs on European produce, including beer, wine and spirits, cut by half and followed by a gradual reduction. The deal means that tariffs will be cut to 20-30% on EU wine, 40% on spirits, and 50% on beer, with some estimates suggesting that European exports will double by 2032. Ursula…