This new partnership will enable Molson Coors to expand availability of La Colombe's RTD coffee products in various channels.
CHICAGO (October 1, 2020) – Coffee lovers will soon find their favorite ready-to-drink (RTD), single-serve coffee products at more retail locations throughout the country. Through an exclusive partnership, Molson Coors Beverage Company will begin distributing La Colombe Coffee Roasters’ RTD coffee products in the drug and convenience channels via its vast distribution network in 2021. La Colombe and Molson Coors plan to fully transition distribution for all channels to the Molson Coors network over time.
The deal is the latest in a string of moves Molson Coors has made to expand its business beyond the beer aisle since redefining itself as Molson Coors Beverage Company in late 2019. “This is one more way we’re innovating beyond our traditional product lines to deliver what consumers want,” said Pete Marino, President of Emerging Growth at Molson Coors. “It’s a mutually beneficial partnership for all; La Colombe will enhance its reach through our established distribution network, our distributors will benefit from access to another fast-growing, high-demand product they can offer their retailer customers, and Molson Coors adds an above-premium offering to the top of our non-alcohol roster of brands.”
Consumer demand for specialty and RTD coffee products continues to grow. The U.S. market for RTD coffee worth $4.6 billion, and it is expected to grow by two-thirds over the next five years, according to an analysis based on IRI and Spins data along with blended data from investor, Mintel, and Euromonitor reports. La Colombe’s approach to quality and innovation, as well as its emphasis on clean ingredients and crafted café-quality beverages, reflect Molson Coors’ own priorities.
"When two great companies come together, something really special can come out of it,” said Todd Carmichael, CEO and Co-Founder of La Colombe Coffee Roasters. “This partnership has been years in the making. We will combine our product innovation and growing brand with the strength and breadth of Molson Coors' extensive distribution network and powerful retailer relationships. For us, this is an exciting recipe to deliver beautiful coffees to more people across the country." The partnership with Molson Coors will more than double La Colombe’s retail footprint in drug and convenience stores, the latter of which ranks as the top channel for ready-to-drink coffee, accounting for some 41% of total retail sales, per Nielsen data.
The full press release may be read here.
