RTD

Sipping: RTDs Gone Wild

The Sip Says - We’re calling it: "Hot RTD Summer" is evolving into “RTDs Gone Wild”. These cocktails-in-a-can have officially outgrown their beach-only identity and are now a year-round category.

HSP Brands

11 Jul 2025 — 2 min read

Hot RTD Summer Was Just the Beginning - Here’s What’s Next

Summer 2025 is showing us one thing loud and clear: RTDs aren’t slowing down. From vibrant party balls to botanical spritzes, coolers everywhere were stacked high with grab-and-go cocktails.

Shoppers can’t get enough.

But now, as the season shifts and the buzz evolves, we’re asking: What’s the next chapter for RTDs?

Here’s what we’re seeing on Alc Bev shelves (and in shopping carts) right now:

Big & Bold Formats Are in the Game
Shoppers aren’t just grabbing singles anymore - they’re reaching for “party-sized” RTDs. More RTS than RTD but still riding the trend of easy. BuzzBallz Biggies (1.75L); BeatBox Party Box variety packs and multi-can packs designed for tailgates, parties, and game nights. Takeaway: Retailers are leaning into these larger formats for back-to-school, football season, and holiday hosting.

Packaging & Promos = The New Shelf Wars
It’s not just what’s inside - it’s how it looks. Bright colors, bold typography, and fun shapes (hello, spheres) are still key. Expect to see seasonal redesigns to drive impulse buys: Halloween, holiday metallics, cozy autumn palettes. QR codes that unlock playlists or cocktail hacks? QR Codes for cash back? QR Codes for special drink recipes? Totally done!

The First Sip Seals the Deal
RTDs may catch a shopper’s eye, but it’s that first taste that really locks them in. That’s why retail sampling has become the secret weapon for this category. Shoppers want to know: Why is this Hard Tea better than others? What does this canned margarita taste like?

Enter HSP Brands. Our boots on the ground are out there sampling and helping shoppers discover their next go-to can. It’s not just about filling coolers - it’s about building fans one sip at a time.

The Sip Says: We’re calling it: "Hot RTD Summer" is evolving into “RTDs Gone Wild”.

These cocktails-in-a-can have officially outgrown their beach-only identity and are now a year-round category. For brands and retailers, the move is clear. Keep innovating flavors (seasonal is smart). Offer a mix of formats from single-serve to shareable sizes. Don’t forget the fun…this is a thing.

Hot RTD Summer was a moment, but this is a movement. From fall tailgates to holiday parties, these cocktails-in-a-can are officially a year-round staple.

RTDs are ready when you are - let’s make every sip count. Because when the cooler’s stocked right, an RTD moment is all year around.

Sipping All Day Long - we are HSP Brands. 🍸

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