Sipping: Hot RTD Summer

Spring’s heating up — and so are RTDs

What we’re seeing isn’t just growth. It’s a full-on segmentation surge. The category is stretching to meet the moment, with brands getting laser-focused on who they’re serving:

🔹 Spirits-based RTDs - Crisp vodka spritzes, bold bourbon cocktails, and hard teas made for the made for the social sippers, vibe-driven drinkers, and weekend crowd that’s all about good times and great flavors. Tequila + juicy fruit blends are pulling in multicultural audiences ready to celebrate the season.

🔹 RTDs with stories - from exciting brands, heritage distilleries to upstart flavor rebels - catching fire for more than just what’s in the cans or bottles.


🔹 Low-ABV, clean-label formats - light on the buzz but heavy on the lifestyle - tailored to health-conscious, active drinkers.

At HSP Brands, we’re watching this unfold live across thousands of in-store tastings. And here’s the takeaway:
👉 The more dialed-in the drink, the more magnetic the pull.

This summer, it’s not just about mass appeal. It’s about sharp targeting, killer flavor, and owning your audience.

☀️ The brands that get specific will own the shelf — and the cooler. ☀️

#HSPConnectswithConsumers #RTD #SpiritsBasedRTD #HotRTDSummer #AlcoholMarketing #HSPBrands #RetailTastings #BrandStrategy #FlavorForward #SpringDrinks #ConsumerInsights